Puerto Vallarta must-sees
Tower cranes have become a common sight in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, where the ever-changing skyline reflects the resort’s increasing popularity and subsequent building boom as hotels expand, renovate and create new lodgings.
Vallarta has long been a popular destination for tourists, with millions from around the world visiting annually. But the numbers soared in 2014, according to Mexico’s Ministry of Tourism, which says there was an increase in travelers, new hotels, flights and cruise ships.
Consequently, the report continues, 2014 was “one of the best years for tourism in Puerto Vallarta on record.”
Vallarta is an easy destination to reach from Los Angeles, with several flights a day into its easy-to-navigate international airport, Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz (PVR).
If you’re planning to explore the beaches and smaller cities of Riviera Nayarit, Puerto Vallarta makes a good jumping-off point. Spend a couple of days getting a resort fix at one of its all-inclusive hotels, then continue north for some tranquillity.
Here are a few must-sees while you’re in Puerto Vallarta:
Downtown: If you have time for only one stop, make it downtown, home to the city’s most historic landmarks such as El Malecón, the famous coastal boardwalk. In addition, visit Plaza Principal, the city’s top tourist attraction, where you can see concerts, art exhibitions and food markets, and Playa de los Muertos, the best-known beach. See it at sunset, if possible.
Old Town: Some Mexican resort cities, such as Cancún, have no historic core. Not so with Puerto Vallarta. Its picturesque Old Town, known as the zona romantica , has landmarks, galleries, cafes and night life.
Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe: This city icon can be seen in almost any photo of Puerto Vallarta’s skyline. Visit it for photo opportunities and to learn more about Mexican culture.
Marina Vallarta: Golfers and boaters will appreciate this large complex on a Banderas Bay beach. But there are also restaurants and shops. The marina has 500 slips.