If you have just one day in Puerto Vallarta, the must-see spots include the Malecon, Isla Rio Cuale, Los Muertos Pier, Mirador de la Cruz for breathtaking views, and renting a private boat to experience the stunning coastline and the best views of Vallarta from the water.
Let’s dive into each one in more detail.
If time is your main constraint, but you want to experience as much of Vallarta as possible – here are the main attractions I would make sure to visit. Let’s not waste any time and get right into it!
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The Malecón in downtown Puerto Vallarta
The Malecón (meaning “boardwalk” in English) is a popular promenade located downtown, sitting steps away from the ocean. It was first built in the 1930s as a seawall to protect the city from flooding. However, it quickly became a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to gather, stroll, and enjoy the views. Over the years, the Malecón has been extended and improved, and is now one of the most iconic features of Puerto Vallarta. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a wide range of quality restaurants and shops – and is often one of the first places anyone visiting the city explores.
The Malecón, a vibrant waterfront promenade, boasts an array of captivating metal sculptures and dynamic public art installations. Notably, the iconic Los Arcos archway stands as a focal point, complemented by ever-evolving sand sculptures crafted by local artists. This area particularly comes alive during Dia de los Muertos, Christmas, Semana Santa, and other festive occasions, making it a cherished locale for celebrations in the heart of Puerto Vallarta.
If you have the chance, it’s nighttime when the Malecon is at its most charming. The sound of the ocean waves crashing against the shore, the warmly lit walkway, views of Catedral de Guadalupe lit up, and hundreds of families enjoying the warm evenings together. This area has something for everyone, which is why we believe it’s a must-visit on your trip to Vallarta.
In addition to its shops and restaurants, the Malecón is also home to a number of interesting attractions such as the Puerto Vallarta Naval Museum and Huichol art stores, which showcases the history and culture of the region. The Malecon is where the most visitors come on their first day in Vallarta, so just be aware of your belongings as you walk through the crowds. For some tips while in Puerto Vallarta, have a quick read of our article “5 Things NOT To-Do in Vallarta.”
Fun Facts:
- In the 2011 film “Limitless” starring Bradley Cooper, there’s a scene where he races a Maserati down Puerto Vallarta’s Malecón. At that time, cars could access the Malecón. However, the city has since converted it into a wider pedestrian-only boardwalk, transforming its character.
- The Malecón was originally called the Paseo de la Revolución, but was renamed the Malecón in the 1960s.
- The Malecón is home to a number of public art installations, including the famous “Boy on the Seahorse” sculpture by Rafael Zamarripa.
Directions: Malecón
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Isla Rio Cuale
Isla Rio Cuale is a small island located along the Rio Cuale river, which runs through the center of Puerto Vallarta. The island is accessible via a footbridge from the Old Town Zona Romantica), Gringo Gulch (Centro), and from the Malecón boardwalk itself. The island is a peaceful and tranquil oasis, with lush vegetation, colorful birds, and several attractions/restaurants to keep you entertained. Take a leisurely walk and explore the island’s lush forests and gardens which are home to a number of interesting plants and a variety of feline cats that roam the island.
In addition to its natural beauty, Isla Rio Cuale is also home to a small cultural center which showcases the history and culture of Vallarta. The island is home to a sizable artisan flea market, offering a variety of crafts, souvenirs, and jewelry made by local artists (usually at the best prices too). Come here during the day, as they close up their stalls around sundown. I
f you’re looking for a bit to eat, restaurants like Las Brazzas, River Cafe, Rico (Indian), and Oscars (which offers homemade tequila tasting as well) are fantastic options. But if you’re looking for a top tier gastronomic experience that has been rated a top 120 restaurant in all of Mexico, Tintoque is a wonderful choice (open in the evenings).
Fun Facts:
- The island is approximately 100 meters long and 50 meters wide.
- The island was originally inhabited by the indigenous Huichol people.
- In the 19th century, the island was used as a quarantine station for immigrants.
Directions: Isla Rio Cuale
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Los Muertos Pier
The Los Muertos Pier is a 330 foot long pier completed in 2013, and has since become a popular tourist attraction in Vallarta, and a symbol for the city. Located in the heart of the city’s Old Town district, the pier stretches out into the Bay of Banderas, offering stunning views of the water and the surrounding mountains.
The Los Muertos Pier is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, and it is a great place to take a leisurely stroll, enjoy the views, and people-watch. The pier is in a prime location, within close proximity to a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars, offering a range of dining and entertainment options.
One of the highlights of the Los Muertos Pier is its beautiful sunsets. The pier offers a perfect spot to watch the sun go down over the bay, and it is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to gather and enjoy the evening. The pier is also a popular spot for fishing, where you can often see people casting their lines off the pier in search of a catch around sunset.
Fun Facts:
- As legend has it, the pier is named either after Playa de los Muertos (Beach of the Dead), which is believed to have gotten its name from a shipwreck that occurred off the coast of the beach in the 16th century OR the beach earned its name because it was a burial ground during the time of the Spanish conquest. No one really knows.
- The pier was designed by Mexican architect José de Jesús Torres Vega and is meant to look like a ship’s sail.
Directions: Los Muertos Pier
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Mirador de la Cruz Hike
Located on the hill beside Gringo Gulch (in Centro), is the famous El Mirador de La Cruz (Cross Hill Viewpoint translated to English). This short hike up the hill is something we believe everyone who has the time to do so, must visit! Once at the summit, you can climb the tower and view Puerto Vallarta from its highest point, allowing you to see for miles in every direction. It’s a popular spot for tourists and locals alike to take in the panoramic views of the city and the Bay of Banderas throughout the entire day.
This is one of the best ways to view whale breaches in the migration season (Dec-Mar), so if you have binoculars – definitely bring them here. The vantage point at the top allows you to really take in the scale of Vallarta and see all its neighborhoods you wouldn’t normally see. We recommend sturdy shoes for comfort and support, and bringing water so you have something to drink along the way. There is a small store at the top, so if you’re thirsty, that’ll be the place to get something nice and cold.
Fun Facts:
- The lookout point is located approximately 200 meters above sea level.
- The hike to the lookout point takes approximately 15-20 minutes or less depending on your speed, and there is NO entry fee at the top.
Directions: Mirador de la Cruz
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Rent a Private Boat or Take a Public Tour in Puerto Vallarta’s beautiful Banderas Bay
Renting a boat or joining a tour in Puerto Vallarta is arguably the best way to experience the natural beauty of the area. The bay is known for its clear waters, lush tropical landscapes, and diverse marine life.
For the private boats, there are plenty of options for many different group sizes, such as sailboats, motorboats, or luxury yachts, depending on your preferences and budget.
Every boat comes with a captain, and yachts come with additional deckhand staff as well as chefs, bartenders, and massage therapists depending on the boat you choose – so all you need to do is show up, and enjoy the ride.
This is the best way to explore the many inaccessible/hidden beaches, coves, and islands in the bay. Truly one of the most fun days you’ll have on the water, swimming, snorkeling, and simply enjoying the scenery while aboard a luxurious vessel. A perfect way to see the mountains and Vallarta as a whole from a unique vantage point out on the water.
Many people take advantage of their charter and enjoy visiting private uninhabited beaches only accessible by boat – and with the added thrill of a high likelihood of encountering whales and dolphins up close, you have the freedom to pause and appreciate marine life at your leisure. This stands in stark contrast to organized commercial charters with rigid itineraries, where time constraints limit the flexibility of your exploration.
For a more in depth look into renting a boat in Vallarta and how to do it, click the link to the article below.
Rent A Boat In Puerto Vallarta
Vallarta has countless tours that provide basic food/snacks while you traverse the sea. No matter how you do it, as long as you get out on the water – it’s well worth it.
From sea turtles or a ballet (group) of manta rays swimming alongside your boat, you never know what you’ll encounter. It’s not uncommon for dolphins to actually swim with the boat too, using the wake of the boat to catch fish and play in the water. If you’re here from December to March, you’ll have a high chance of seeing humpback whales up close, as they breach and play in the water. If you want to read more about the whales in Vallarta, click the link below to redirect you to a more in depth article.
Puerto Vallarta Whale Watching
They migrate every year to give birth in the protected Banderas Bay. It’s always a special sight when you get to see them – no matter how close or far you happen to be from the action.
If you want to plan ahead and arrange a booking, click the link below for more information. Palmara Charters.
BONUS:
Cathedral Visiting in Puerto Vallarta
Undoubtedly one of most notable landmarks in all of Puerto Vallarta is the Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe (Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe).
Standing as the tallest of its kind in Puerto Vallarta, this cathedral commands unparalleled attention. Nestled in the heart of downtown, it captivates with its illuminated splendor at night. Renowned for its distinctive crown design adorning its peak, this cathedral is a beacon of architectural distinction in the city.
The Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe was constructed in the early 20th century and completed in 1951. The Cathedral is dedicated to Our Lady of Guadalupe, the patroness of Mexico, and it is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Puerto Vallarta. The church is also famous for hosting the famous “Noche de Reyes” (Night of the Kings) celebrated every January 5th when thousands of people come to the church to sing carols and to witness the blessing of the Kings of the Reyes Magos (Three Wise Men) who bring gifts to the baby Jesus.
The Cathedral is open to the public and can be visited daily, it is a must-see attraction for tourists visiting Puerto Vallarta, not only for its architectural beauty, but also for its historical and cultural significance.
There are other places to explore and restaurant’s to try, so if you’re interested in other options than the one’s listed above, download our “100 Things to-do in Puerto Vallarta.”
For ALL things Puerto Vallarta, download our eBook, “100 Things to-do: Puerto Vallarta.”
