Puerto Vallarta attractions

The jungle-clad Sierra Madre mountains stretch along Mexico’s western coast from Santa Cruz to Arizona. In this wilderness escape you can trek through the forest, discover off-the-beaten-path villages, and experience outdoor adventures such as ziplining and rappelling.

Though it’s not necessarily recommended, you could spend your entire Puerto Vallarta vacation in the Centro Histórico (Centro for short), the town’s cobblestoned historic center. From here, you’re a stone’s throw from the Malecón boardwalk and Zona Romántica—and can while away the time exploring art galleries and eateries that seem a world away from the modernized port area.

Often considered one of the best and most beautiful golf destinations in Mexico, the Vista Vallarta Golf Club features two high-elevation courses designed by renowned golfers Jack Nicklaus and Tom Weiskopf respectively. Here, members and non-members can play a leisurely 18 holes surrounded by views of both Banderas Bay and Sierra Madre mountains before retiring to the on-site clubhouse, bar, or restaurant.

Once home to director John Huston, Las Caletas Beach and Nature Reserve is a secluded stretch of Bay of Banderas shoreline, which has since become a dream day-trip destination for vacationers in Puerto Vallarta. Here, you can escape the hustle and bustle of busy central beaches and while away the hours swaying in a hammock, snorkeling, or enjoying a soothing massage on the shores of Las Caletas.