10 Reasons Why Renting a Yacht in Puerto Vallarta is an Absolute MUST!
Renting a private boat in Puerto Vallarta is undoubtedly one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have. I say this with confidence because it inspired the creation of our business— we wanted others to witness the magic of Vallarta from a unique perspective. From the water, you can truly appreciate Puerto Vallarta’s breathtaking beauty in all its glory. Why Rent a Private Boat in Puerto Vallarta? I’ve been living in Vallarta for quite some time, and let me assure you, you’re in for an incredible experience exploring the city’s sights and the expansive mountainous landscapes. Puerto Vallarta is genuinely special, with a charm that sets it apart from many other places. However, I have to say, the level of fun I’ve had on the water aboard various boats is truly unmatched. One of the main reasons Palmara Charters was we just couldn’t get enough of the amazing times we had on the beautiful Mexican waters There’s just something about it that warms my heart, and has me aching to come back and set sail again as soon as I can. It took me some time to narrow it down and dissect why I (along with so many others) have fallen in love with the Bay of Banderas. Why most things experienced on a yacht (or most boats for that matter), is a better experience than on land. If you’re pondering the question, “Is it truly worth it?” Well, the straightforward answer is a resounding YES, and here’s why: Today, we’re contemplating the age-old question – “To yacht or not to yacht?” Exploring why being on a boat might just outshine doing the same on land. So, let’s dive into my top 10 reasons why you should set sail. 1. Exclusive Privacy: A boat provides a more intimate and private setting, allowing you to enjoy the warm waters away from crowded beaches. This one may sound obvious, but privacy in a touristic destination is not always easy to come by. Even when you embark on a lot of the tours here in Vallarta, you’ll be packed on a boat with 100+ other people sitting on a hard bench and hanging onto a cold chrome railing. It’s not the most idealistic environment if you’re looking to enjoy sailing those warm waters exclusively with your friends and family. Allowing you to be yourself and let loose (especially if you’re drinking). And who doesn’t want to be able to fully act themselves right? For numerous individuals, privacy stands out as the paramount consideration when opting to rent a personal boat. It guarantees that you share the boat exclusively with the individuals you choose. Being on a boat with unfamiliar faces in an environment where quick departures aren’t always feasible can alter the entire experience. This isn’t to imply that meeting new people and potentially forming friendships is undesirable. However, especially when traveling to Mexico with your family or celebrating a wedding, for instance, the time spent on board is markedly more enjoyable when you are at ease and acquainted with everyone around you. 2. 360-Degree Views: Indulge in breathtaking panoramic vistas of the coastline, sunsets, and marine wonders as you navigate the open waters, setting the stage for a truly picturesque celebration. Unlike being on land, where the beauty of the mountains and sea is viewed separately, the water offers a unique vantage point for enjoying both simultaneously. Experiencing that full 360-degree panorama inherently evokes a sense of freedom for the soul. The expansiveness surrounding you from every angle is genuinely extraordinary—a feeling that truly manifests itself when you’re out at sea. It’s this distinctive sensation that inspires our slogan, “freedom realized.” There’s nothing quite like being on the water, feeling the gentle warmth of the breeze, and marveling at your surroundings. This sensation encapsulates a profound sense of freedom, and if I could bottle and sell that feeling, well, I’d be quite a wealthy individual. 3. Beach Hopping: Explore nearby beaches and secluded coves that are only accessible by boat, adding an element of discovery to your experience. Similar to being on other tours as mentioned earlier, you have no say in where the boat goes. If everyone is having a wonderful time in a specific location – these bigger tours are on a predetermined schedule and itinerary. Which for some people is exactly what they want. While for others, if they had it their way, they would have liked to explore different locations – like the many secluded beaches along the coast for example. Well the beautiful part of renting your own yacht is you have the ability to go anywhere you’d like. Additionally, a considerable number of our yachts, as well as others in our fleet, boast a more modest size compared to the larger tour boats. This size advantage enables you to anchor in closer proximity to the shore, providing the flexibility to either swim directly to the beach or take a dinghy (small shuttle boat) comfortably to the shore. The significance of this size difference becomes apparent when you wish to explore specific locations around the bay. The smaller yachts offer superior maneuverability compared to the larger double-decker catamarans, ensuring a more agile and personalized experience. To learn about some of Vallarta’s beaches within the Bay of Banderas, have a quick read of article about Puerto Vallarta’s top beaches. Many people love to explore Majahuitas Beach Club for its exclusivity and grandeur – with serene ocean views while surrounded by lush jungle. 4. Water Activities: Immerse yourself in the inviting waters for an interactive and exhilarating celebration with opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and water sports. Our fleet includes boats equipped with kayaks, paddle boards, snorkel gear, lily pads, sea scooters, and sometimes even jet skis. These engaging activities are exclusive to the aquatic realm and are integral to the yacht rental experience here in Vallarta. Whether you’re yearning for the thrill of a jet ski ride or seeking a closer connection to the ocean, these activities offer
Top 5 Best Free Things to-do In Puerto Vallarta (part 2)
The best things to do in Puerto Vallarta for free are: Palo Maria and Nogalito waterfall hike, Cathedral visiting, exploring the outdoor markets, Art Gallery night walk, and watching turtle hatchings. Let’s talk about each one in more detail. Hiking Around Puerto Vallarta For this list I made sure to only include hikes that are easy to intermediate, nothing to strenuous or outlandish so most people can try each of these hikes out. a) Palo Maria Get ready for an epic hike that’s the talk of the town – seriously, it’s a must, especially when the weather’s cooled down a bit after the rainy season. The trail is short, just around 20 minutes, but it’s a blast, taking you over boulders and through streams (yep, your shoes might get a little wet, so wear the grippy ones, not flip flops). Start your adventure right off the main road near Garza Blanca in the Conchas Chinas area – super easy to get to from downtown Puerto Vallarta. Once you hit the waterfall, it’s like nature’s reward ceremony. The water is clear as day, a bit chillier than the ocean, and guess what? You can swim with the local fish! Feeling brave? There are spots deep enough to jump off the rocks, but hold up – you’ll need a rope to get back up the wet, rocky slope. Now, here’s the deal – no facilities at the waterfall, so pack your water, sunscreen, and a picnic. And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, there are more waterfalls waiting if you trek up the left side of the cliff face – just be cautious, okay? It’s all about embracing the thrill and making your own wild discoveries! ?? #EpicHike #VallartaAdventures #NatureThrills Directions: Palo Maria b) Nogalito Important notice: **This hike is only suitable for dry conditions. During rainy season this place is inaccessible** This is a wonderful hike with a spectacular final destination. But first the slightly tricky part will be finding the hike. To locate the starting point of the hike, keep your eyes open while driving towards Mismaloya – it will be on the left side before you reach Mismaloya and right across the street from Playa Punta Negra. Google map”El Nogalito” to be directed to the restaurant. Once you make the turn off of the main highway road, the dirt road is really only accessible with an SUV with clearance, so taking a small car is not advisable. Once you park your car in the parking lot, head up the inclined driveway towards the restaurant. You can eat and drink here before or after your hike – whatever your heart/stomach desires. As you navigate the restaurant grounds, a path will guide you towards the hike itself. The journey spans approximately 1-2 hours, contingent on your pace, and winds through rocky terrain. Along the way, you’ll encounter a petite freshwater pool. However, the true spectacle awaits just beyond this modest oasis—a breathtaking waterfall. To enhance your experience, we often bring hammocks and snacks to relax by the pool’s side and savor the cool, invigorating waters. Though the water may be notably brisk, it’s always exceptionally refreshing after your hike. The opening of the rock once you reach the waterfall itself is a wondrous sight to behold. Nature never disappoints! ??? #Mismaloya #Vallartahike #Mexicohike Directions: Nogalito c) Monkey Mountain Explore the renowned Monkey Mountain, locally known as “Cerro del Mono,” a sought-after hiking spot near Punta de Mita, Nayarit. This trail promises a picturesque journey through vibrant tropical jungle terrain and rewards hikers with a breathtaking 360-degree view from the summit. Conveniently located about 10 minutes by car from Punta de Mita or a 20-minute drive south from Sayulita, it caters to all adventure enthusiasts. Trail Challenge: The hike presents varying difficulty levels, with some moderately challenging sections. It’s ideal for those with a moderate fitness level and some hiking experience, featuring steep segments and uneven terrain. Time Commitment: Plan for a 2 to 3-hour trek to reach the summit, depending on your pace and break preferences. The return journey is typically quicker. Scenic Splendor: As you ascend, immerse yourself in the lush jungle surroundings, benefitting from shaded trail sections for sun relief. For an optimal experience, kickstart your hike early to avoid crowds and intense midday sun, especially before 10 am. Best Timing: Busy periods, like Christmas and Semana Santa in April, attract more hikers, so consider exploring Monkey Mountain on mid-week days for a more tranquil outing. Natural Beauty: The trail is adorned with rich greenery and tropical flora, enhancing the overall beauty of the expedition. Arm yourself with mosquito repellent and stay vigilant for scorpions to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike. Also sadly, there’s no actually monkeys on this hike – it’s simply a name. ?? #Monkeymountain #Puntademita #hikingvallarta Directions: Monkey Mountain 2. Visiting Puerto Vallarta’s Cathedrals a) Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe (Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe) One of the most remarkable landmarks in Puerto Vallarta is the Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Towering as the tallest in the city, it captures attention nestled in downtown, particularly dazzling at night with its illuminated grandeur. Recognized for its distinctive crown design, the cathedral stands as an architectural beacon. Constructed in the early 20th century and completed in 1951, the Cathedral is dedicated to Our Lady of Guadalupe, the patroness of Mexico. It serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Puerto Vallarta and hosts the famous “Noche de Reyes” every January 5th, drawing thousands for carol singing and the blessing of the Three Wise Men. Open daily to the public, the Cathedral is a must-visit for tourists, showcasing not only architectural beauty but also deep historical and cultural significance. Directions: Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe b) Iglesia Bíblica Cristiana Other noteworthy cathedrals include Iglesia Bíblica Cristiana in Cinco de Diciembre, walking distance from Our Lady of Guadalupe. This used to be the tallest building in all of Vallarta for many years, and holds a
What is Puerto Vallarta Known For?
Puerto Vallarta is renowned for its charming coastal setting, nestled among mountains, and boasts a rich history along with a unique blend of Mexican traditions and modern amenities. Not only that, but the city is known for its golden sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and lush greenery, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. Boasting luxury accommodations and an array of high-end dining establishments, Puerto Vallarta has garnered recognition as a premier luxury travel destination in recent years. Surprisingly to many, Vallarta also boasts a collection of world-class golf courses, masterfully designed by renowned architects like Greg Norman and Jack Nicklaus, among others. For surf enthusiasts, Puerto Vallarta, with its neighboring areas like Sayulita and Punta de Mita, has emerged as a global hotspot, drawing surfers from all corners of the world. There’s a fantastic article about surfing in Puerto Vallarta if you’re interested to learn more, and where the best spots are. What was once a quaint fishing village has rapidly evolved into a significant player in Mexico’s flourishing tourism industry, attracting cruise ships and beachgoers alike, all lured by the region’s numerous and breathtakingly beautiful beaches. Where is Puerto Vallarta Located? Puerto Vallarta is located in the western region of Mexico, nestled on the Pacific coast. It is part of the state of Jalisco, and it’s positioned on the Bay of Banderas, one of the largest and most picturesque bays in the country. Its location along the Bay of Banderas provides stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding Sierra Madre Mountains. Its location is unique, in that Vallarta and the surrounding area of the Riviera Nayarit have ocean on one side, and mountains on the other. Not just any mountains either, but lush green mountains filled with dense tropical vegetation of thousands of species of flowers and dozens of palm tree species. An absolutely stunning sight, particularly in the Fall after the rainy season has commenced. We’re frequently asked whether Puerto Vallarta is in proximity to Cancun. Our response is a straightforward, “It’s on the complete opposite side of the country.” Located to the south of Mazatlan and east of Cabo, most people have a general sense of its geographical orientation. However, these inquiries have become less frequent in recent times. Puerto Vallarta is enjoying increasing recognition, with tourism consistently on the rise. It’s not just tourists; people are increasingly choosing to make Puerto Vallarta their permanent or part-time home, year-round. This Mexican coastal paradise has been attracting people from all over the world because of the wide variety of things to do in Puerto Vallarta. With tons of free things to keep you busy and entertained, Vallarta has no shortage of ways to occupy your days under the warm sun. Where is Riviera Nayarit located? Situated in the neighboring state of Nayarit, just a 15-minute drive north up the coast from the airport in the opposite direction of downtown Vallarta, it has emerged as a prominent and attractive destination. Here you can find beautiful high end resorts like Vidanta, the Four Seasons, St Regis, and all inclusives like Paradise Village, Hard Rock, Grand Velas Nayarit, and many more. This area is part of the state of Nayarit and is renowned for its pristine beaches, luxurious resorts, and serene atmosphere. Riviera Nayarit offers a more relaxed and tranquil experience compared to the bustling streets of Puerto Vallarta. It’s often considered a haven for those seeking a quieter and less crowded beachfront escape. The region is also known for its beautiful coastal towns and villages, each with its own unique character and charm. Popular destinations in Riviera Nayarit include Punta Mita, Sayulita, San Pancho (San Francisco), and more. Together, Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit create a diverse and enchanting destination on Mexico’s Pacific coast. While Puerto Vallarta is celebrated for its lively atmosphere and vibrant culture, Riviera Nayarit offers a peaceful and idyllic escape, making the entire region an appealing choice for traveller’s looking to experience the beauty and warmth of Mexico’s west coast. What Does Puerto Vallarta Mean? The name “Puerto Vallarta” is a combination of two parts: Puerto: In Spanish, “puerto” means “port” or “harbor.” This part of the name signifies its coastal location along Banderas Bay, a natural harbor on the Pacific coast of Mexico. Vallarta: The second part of the name is in honor of Ignacio L. Vallarta, a notable Mexican jurist and former Governor of the State of Jalisco in the early 20th century. Before it was named Puerto Vallarta, the area was known as “Las Peñas.” The name change from “Las Peñas” to “Puerto Vallarta” occurred on May 31, 1918, when the Mexican government invested in the development of the area as a tourist destination. This development led to its name change in honor of Ignacio L. Vallarta and its emergence as a popular tourist destination. However the name of the bay in Vallarta has a much older name and history behind it. The name “Bahía de Banderas” translates to “Bay of Flags” in English. It is a reference to an event that took place during the early exploration of the region by Spanish conquistadors. The name dates back to the early 16th century when the Spanish explorer and conquistador Hernán Cortés arrived in the area. According to historical accounts, when Cortés and his expedition landed in the bay in 1524, they found the indigenous people of the region, likely the Cora and Huichol tribes, lining the shores with colorful flags and banners as a sign of welcome and hospitality. In response to this warm reception, Cortés named the bay “Bahía de Banderas” in reference to the flags. Bahia de Banderas Bahía de Banderas (Bay of Flags) is a bay on the Pacific coast of Mexico, located between the states of Jalisco and Nayarit. It is the second largest bay in Mexico, with an area of approximately 1,700 square kilometers. The name Bahía de Banderas was given to the bay when conquistador Hernán Cortés arrived in the