There are few destinations that offer the stunning natural beauty, friendly locals, and deluxe amenities like Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. A vacation here means different things to different people. Some choose to spend the day sunbathing and sipping margaritas on the pristine white sand beaches. Others may choose to stroll the winding cobblestone streets, popping into quirky boutiques and charming cafes. And still others may choose to nap all day so they can dance the night away at one of the many lively nightclubs. No matter how you choose to spend your vacation here, we highly recommend you save some time for swimming with dolphins in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
We also highly recommend a trip to the Vallarta Botanical Gardens, which are located about 20 minutes from the city center. The gardens feature an array of vibrant wild flowers and insect life that is sure to inspire the young and young at heart. This is a great day trip for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Vallarta’s downtown.There is also a plethora of fine hotels in the area. Some of the ones we recommend are:
Located between the Sierra Madre Mountains and beautiful Banderas Bay, CasaMagna Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa is the perfect place to unwind after a thrilling day of sightseeing.Ranked as one of the top 10 Pacific Riviera hotels by Condé Nast Traveler, CasaMagna Marriott offers deluxe accommodations, high-tech amenities and easy access to golf courses, shopping and nightlife.
The resort offers multiple renowned restaurants, and a popular spa where you can be pampered with a massage or facial. The resort is perfect for families and those looking for a romantic getaway.
Located in the Marina Vallarta, the resort boasts a 10-acre stretch of golden beach and sweeping views of the Sierra Madre Mountains in the distance. Guests can enjoy the lush tropical courtyard garden with three swimming pools and a cascading waterfall. Oh, and the swim-up bar, which is cool in and of itself, has a resident iguana!
The resort’s restaurants offer both upscale and casual oceanfront settings and cuisine that ranges from gourmet Italian and Mexican to delectable seafood. Best of all, shops, art galleries,cafes and Puerto Vallarta’s famed nightlife are just a short taxi or bus ride away.
If your perfect vacation includes a secluded beach, look no further than the Hyatt Ziva. This luxury all-inclusive resort is truly an oasis that must be experienced to be believed. Between the relaxing spa and the lively nightlife offered to guests, you’re sure to find whatever it is that will make your time in Puerto Vallarta special.
The celebrity chef inspired restaurants… the infinity pools and hot tubs… sipping cocktails on the perfect, sugary beaches… time spent at Hyatt Ziva will be time remembered.
There are many amazing shore excursions once your cruise ship docks in Puerto Vallarta. Here are some of our favorites:
Our top shore excursion has got to be swimming with dolphins near Puerto Vallarta. You will never forget time spent with these amazing creatures. The best thing about this excursion is the small group size, which allows each individual plenty of time to interact with the dolphins and make a new best friend. This program is a close taxi ride away. Once you book your ticket, you will get ticket and directions by email. You can not get lost.
If you come to Puerto Vallarta for a port of call with your Cruise Ship, it would be a shame to come here and not go to Dolphin World where you can swim with some of the coolest animals on the planet. Dolphin World offers a few different swim with dolphin programs that are great for people of all ages and swim abilities.
There are two dolphin swim programs that offer a deep water experience where you can feed and train the dolphins before getting the opportunity to enjoy a dorsal fin ride and foot push.You’ll feel like you’re flying! These programs also include admittance to the Sea Lion show. The dolphin encounter program is a shallow water experience, perfect for those younger visitors or those who can’t swim. Here you’ll have the chance to touch and hug and kiss the dolphins and make a new best friend. The dolphin encounter also comes with admission into the
Aquaventuras Park, a thrilling water park where you and your family can enjoy hours of fun splashing around.
If one of the first things that comes to your mind when you hear Mexico is tequila, then you’ll definitely want to experience this excursion. A pretty drive through the countryside brings you to the hacienda which has been converted into a tequila factory. You’ll learn all about the old-time production methods and then get to sample the different tequilas made.
This eco safari is quite unique and will get you off the beaten path. Explore the countryside and learn what life is like away from the big tourist city. You’ll meet locals who call these small villages home and be able to learn more about their culture. You’ll also get to stop for a
delicious lunch on a working ranch. This excursion also includes a stop at the tequila factory, as well as a cheese factory and the botanical gardens. Talk about an exciting, full day!
When it comes to getting around Puerto Vallarta, you have a few different options: rental car,bus, and taxi. In our experience, bus is the way to go, hands down. The fare is cheap and you’re offered plenty of stops to get you to your desired locations. Taxis are also pretty cheap, but you need to know where you’re going and how you want to get there or you are apt to go the long way and pay a heftier fare. Rental cars will offer you freedom, but be forewarned the rates can be expensive and driving through the city’s steep streets can be a bit scary for tourists. If you’relooking for safe, no-hassle travel during your vacation, we recommend getting around by bus.
No matter what you choose to do, where you stay, or how you decide to get around, your time in Puerto Vallarta is sure to be magical and memorable.
