Top Puerto Vallarta Day Trips

Los Arcos National Marine Park in Banderas Bay has some of the best snorkeling spots in Mexico—if you’re able to reach them. This small-group tour begins in Puerto Vallarta's old center, includes a public bus ride to Mismaloya, and visits the park’s five islands, famed for sea caves and natural bird sanctuaries. Before returning, you stop at a historic site in the city, enhancing your experience.

Spend a full day exploring the Bay of Banderas aboard a catamaran cruise to the secluded village of Quimixto. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and an open bar onboard before choosing between a hike to Quimixto Falls or relaxing on the village’s white-sand beach. Snorkeling gear, kayaks, and paddleboards are available, giving you plenty of ways to enjoy the water throughout the day.

Imagine a pristine private beach on Banderas Bay, reachable only by boat, far from the crowds. That's Playa Chica Locca — and your all-inclusive day pass is your ticket in. Open daily 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM, your day begins with a free boat ride to paradise. Truly All-Inclusive — No Fine Print A full premium open bar stocked with Bacardi, Jack Daniel's, Smirnoff, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Malibu, sparkling wine, craft cocktails, fresh juices, and more. Start your morning with a fresh fruit breakfast, then feast on traditional chicken and beef fajitas, guacamole with blue corn chips, and vegetarian options — all prepared right there on the beach. Adventure Meets Relaxation Dive into the turquoise water with unlimited use of snorkel, kayak, paddle board, or float in our oceanfront infinity pool with a swim-up bar. Add an optional waterfall hike by ATV or horseback. Luxury Where You Least Expect It Live MC, shaded daybeds, air-conditioned bathrooms & Wi-Fi included.

Enjoy an intimate cruise capped at only 40 travelers during this luxurious half-day snorkeling adventure along the Bay of Banderas. Head onboard a deluxe Leopard catamaran as you cruise toward stunning Majahuitas beach. Snorkeling and paddleboard gear are provided, plus a tasty Mexican lunch, including guacamole and fresh fruit. Even better, this crew-staffed VIP experience includes an unlimited open bar.

Get to Marietas Islands for a full day group trip out on the boat, including lunch, and make some new friends who are also out for a good time today. There are lots of options on the boat, from sunny or shady decks, waterslides, and a full open bar to enjoy. You’ll have it all here, with lots of active water sports to choose from, and also a delicious lunch.

Discover the enchanting Marieta Islands on this snorkeling adventure from Puerto Vallarta. This tour has a 97% chance of visiting Hidden Beach—accessible only through a water tunnel—than other tours. Encounter diverse marine life including dolphins, turtles, and vibrant tropical fish, while underwater you can check out a colorful array of tropical fish.

Immerse yourself in the magical mysticism of Las Caletas by night with an enchanting evening excursion from Puerto Vallarta. Watch the sun sink into the shimmering sea as you sail to a secluded beach surrounded by rugged rock formations. Dine upon a gourmet buffet dinner by candlelight before watching the renowned Rhythms of the Night show, a stunning spectacle that transports viewers to a spiritual land that time forgot.

Reach secluded beaches that most visitors never see on a guided adventure combining hiking, snorkeling, and coastal scenery. Follow trails to Colomitos Beach and other hidden coves, swim in clear waters, and end at Playa Las Ánimas before returning across the bay by boat. Combining land and sea travel reveals a quieter side of Puerto Vallarta.

San Pancho & Sayulita – Private Experience for up to 4 Guests Enjoy an unforgettable day discovering two of Nayarit’s most charming coastal towns! This private experience is for up to 4 guests, perfect for couples, friends, or families. Just one ticket covers your group for an exclusive day full of culture, authentic flavors, and stunning beaches. We’ll start with San Pancho, a colorful town full of life, art, and culture. Wander through its vibrant streets filled with galleries and murals that tell the story of our culture, the surrounding nature, and the essence of our indigenous communities. In Sayulita, you’ll visit its famous artisan market, where talented local craftsmen create incredible pieces right before your eyes. We’ll share our top recommendations for the best places to eat in town, from hidden gems to local favorites. You’ll also have the chance to learn about and connect with the Wixarika people, residents of this region for more than 5,000 years, whose traditions and artistry continue to shape the cultural identity of Sayulita today. We offer convenient meeting points throughout Puerto Vallarta and Banderas Bay. Whenever possible, we provide direct hotel pick-up; if not, we’ll guide you to the nearest and most convenient meeting point so your adventure starts stress-free. At the end of the day, you’ll return to your hotel relaxed, with unforgettable memories and amazing photos.

Create your own personalized itinerary for sightseeing in Puerto Vallarta on a hop-on hop-off bus tour. You'll enjoy privileged views of the seaside city on the top deck, as well as the freedom to descend whenever an attraction catches your eye. Plus, your ticket includes tequila tasting, a lounger on Mangos Beach, and entry to a chocolate factory.

Discover the secluded and sublime Las Caletas nature reserve on a full-day tour from Puerto Vallarta or Nuevo Vallarta. Cruise along the Bay of Banderas, then enjoy a wealth of activities, from kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming to jungle hikes and a cooking class. This family-friendly adventure includes a fulfilling and flavorsome buffet lunch in addition to an open bar. Bring Mexican cash to pay the small port fee on check-in.

During this half-day, adventure-filled excursion, you’ll have a chance to whip down Jorullo Bridge—the longest suspension bridge in Latin America—on your own rugged ATV or RZR vehicle. Choose to go in groups of four, pairs, or alone as you enjoy panoramic views over the Sierra Madre. Shared tours include round-trip transfers from Puerto Vallarta and an optional tequila tasting.

Experience Puerto Vallarta's delicious food scene on this half-day food-focused walking tour. With an expert foodie leading the way, sample the city’s diverse array of edible delights, from tacos to sweets, on a culinary adventure. Stop at several spots to sample the food and learn more about Puerto Vallarta’s history. This small-group tour ensures plenty of personalized attention, and the chance to ask questions.

Join us on a fascinating journey to the charming coastal towns of Sayulita and San Pancho from Puerto Vallarta. In Sayulita, immerse yourself in its bohemian atmosphere as you explore its cobblestone streets full of craft shops and charming cafes. Then, in San Pancho, relax on its golden sand beaches and crystal clear waters, perfect for surfing or simply enjoying the sun. Feast on delicious local cuisine and immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of these picturesque coastal towns. A day full of adventures and discoveries awaits you on our Sayulita and San Pancho tour! At the end of the day, we return to Puerto Vallarta with our hearts full of unforgettable memories and the promise of visiting these charming coastal towns again in the future. Join us on this exciting tour and discover the magic of Sayulita and San Pancho in Puerto Vallarta!

If you have never visited downtown Vallarta, it is likely that when you see them you will not believe that a place like this existed in Mexico. We will observe hundreds of beautiful places within the city that will truly surprise you. A professional guide will guide you to explore the best of Puerto Vallarta on our captivating city tour. We begin on the lively Malecón de Vallarta, where the sea breeze mixes with the cultural bustle. Then, we headed to the imposing Municipal Palace, a witness to history and local government. The majestic Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe awaits us with its emblematic architecture and its rich spirituality. And for a unique sensory experience, we visit the Tequila Factory, where you will discover the secrets of this national drink. From the energy of the boardwalk to the serenity of the church, each stop immerses you in the vibrant essence of Puerto Vallarta. A cultural adventure that will leave a lasting impression on your heart!

Soar over the treetop canopy during a zipline tour in Puerto Vallarta. Designed with adventure seekers in mind, this tour guides you through 8 different ziplines that vary in length, speed, and scenery, to give you the best birds-eye views of the sprawling rainforest. Plus, you can choose from several start times to suit your schedule.

This whale-watching tour provides the opportunity to give back on your Puerto Vallarta vacation. In the company of a biologist guide, you'll see humpback whales up close, as well as dolphins, turtles, and giant mantas in their natural environment and participate in a research project that helps to protect them. The tour lasts approximately 4 hours.

The Bahia de Banderas is best explored on the water. This private boat tour from Puerto Vallarta takes travelers to some of the best snorkeling and swimming spots in the area in about five to six hours. Visit Los Arcos National Marine Park, Yelapa Waterfall, and the secluded Las Animas beach—reachable only by boat or on foot. Along the way, you’ll swim and snorkel and stop for lunch in Yelapa (own expense).

Experience the natural beauty of the Sierra Madre on a horseback riding tour from Puerto Vallarta—a great choice for nature lovers and first-time visitors. Enjoy the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation as you travel through the countryside with ease and go on horseback to a cascading waterfall in the jungle. Your tour includes lunch, domestic open bar, and round-trip transportation from Puerto Vallarta.

Let a foodie guide lead you through the streets of Old Town Puerto Vallarta on a food and cocktail tour of the resort town. This walking tour includes food tastings of tacos and desserts along with six Mexican cocktails served by expert mixologists. Learn about the cultural roots of spirits such as mezcal, tequila, pulque, and raicilla. Numbers are limited to ensure an intimate, sociable small-group experience.

This isn’t just a tour — it’s a curated experience designed exclusively for your group. We combine the lively surf-town spirit of Sayulita with the relaxed elegance of San Pancho, offering a seamless journey that blends culture, beach vibes, shopping, and laid-back charm — all on your own terms. From door-to-door pickup at your hotel, villa, or Airbnb to private air-conditioned transportation with a certified local guide, everything is tailored for your comfort. In San Pancho, a quieter coastal gem with uncrowded beaches, boutique galleries, and a peaceful energy that offers a true escape. Then unwind Sayulita, stroll the colorful streets, discover artisan shops, sip a cold drink in the vibrant plaza, and soak in the town’s surf culture. We include complimentary refreshments, insider tips, and an attentive host who treats you like family — not just a passenger.

For anyone interested in butterflies, a trip to Mariposario del Drago is a must—but many excursions are geared toward families with children. Enjoy a quieter experience on this adults-only day trip, which includes round-trip transfers from Puerto Vallarta, an hour-long stop at the secluded, gold-sand Playa Mismaloya, and a tasting of local tequila.

Embark on an unforgettable tropical adventure to two of the most beautiful hidden gems in Banderas Bay: Majahuitas and Yelapa. This tour combines the best of snorkeling, beach time, village exploration, and delicious onboard dining for a day full of fun, relaxation, and stunning views. Kick off the journey with a tasty breakfast onboard, followed by water activities like snorkeling, paddle boarding, kayaking, and playing on an inflatable floating island. Then head to the secluded beach of Yelapa, where you can sunbathe, enjoy a delicious lunch, or explore the charming local village and nearby waterfall (optional). Wind down with an open bar on the way back as you cruise the Pacific under the sun.