PLAY
Puerto Vallarta’s location in the coastal plain of the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains makes it a perfect destination for just about everyone. It has beaches, tropical jungle excursions, a historic downtown, and a booming LGBTQ scene. Playa de Los Muertos, with its calm swimming waters, is the largest beach and one of the most popular. Expect crowds, plenty of dining options, and all-night fiestas. Don’t forget to take a walk on the famous circular pier. If you’re wanting a more secluded beach, Conchas Chinas offers fewer crowds and lots of marine life. Driving an ATV or RZR across the Jorullo Bridge, the longest suspension bridge in Latin America, shouldn’t be missed, and the views of the lush mountains alone are worth the experience. Be sure to leave time for exploring Zona Romántica, the charming historic district of Puerto Vallarta where boutiques, bars, and restaurants line cobblestone streets. And no visit is complete without touring the Our Lady of Guadalupe Church.
Stay up-to-date with the local arts scene
Subscribe to the weekly St. Louis Arts+Culture newsletter to discover must-attend art exhibits, performances, festivals, and more.
EAT
A Page in the Sun is a quaint bookstore and a great place to grab coffee and a bite to eat in the morning. The menu includes French toast, omelets, avocado toast, and chilaquiles with red or green sauce. Or head to Café Oro Verde for a great cup of coffee made from locally grown ingredients in Jalisco. Ocean Grill, perched over the water at the edge of a hidden cliff, is a must-try dining experience, with unparalleled views. The restaurant is only accessible by boat, which is included in your reservation. Expect such dishes as ceviche, filet mignon, salmon, pulled pork, and al pastor octopus. With three seatings per day, you’ll want to plan ahead. La Lupee blends Mediterranean cuisine with Mexican flavors and is open for lunch and dinner; the menu includes pastas and seafood options, including calamari, escargot, shrimp, and octopus dishes.
STAY
Puerto Vallarta has a range of accommodations, including all-inclusive resorts along the beach and hotels in historic buildings. Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort and Spa is an oasis on the Banderas Bay. The 433 rooms are designed in calming blues and neutral shades and have private ocean-view balconies. The large infinity pool is the real showstopper with 360-views of the Sierra Madre Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Grab a mezcalita at the swim-up bar or take your lunch at a lounge chair next to the pool. Don’t miss the ceviche and tequila bar. Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is an all-inclusive property with all of the amenities. There are a range of suites with terraces and some with separate dining and living rooms. Stepping into Hacienda San Angel feels like walking onto a movie set, with colonial architecture, fountains, and beautiful gardens. There are 12 unique suites with ornate details and outdoor spaces. From the Hacienda San Angel Gourmet Restaurant, guests can watch the twinkling lights of the city against the changing hues of a sunset. Live mariachi music adds to the ambiance during weekends.
