Overview
Puerto Vallarta is a classy, friendly, exotic destination known for its beaches, jungles and waterfalls. It’s set on the mouth of one of the largest and deepest bays in the world. Encompassed by tropical hills of lush vegetation, the focal point of Banderas Bay is golden-sand beaches, specifically a section called The Blue Chairs. These beaches continue to the north, making way for plantations of mango and papaya and small river villages. Scuba divers, snorkelers, fishermen and boaters take the bay west to catch glimpses of humpback whale, dolphins, manta rays, schools of tropical fish and sea turtles. East, visitors scaling the Sierra Madre Mountains discover an even more diverse jungle environment. From orchids to watermelon and iguana to jaguar, a trip here certainly trumps a visit to the zoo.
To experience the Sierra Madre in a controlled environment, visit the Vallarta Botanical Gardens. Photograph thousands species of plants in gardens such as Tree Fern Grotto, the Carnivorous Plant Collection and Agave Gardens. Arrive in your bathing suit and cool off in the crystal clear Rio Los Horcones or head to the Hacienda de Oro Visitor's Center for the best views of the towering mountains these gardens call home. Walk up an appetite and sit down to order a brick oven pizza or Mexican specialty from Hacienda de Oro Restaurant.
Speaking of food, Puerto Vallarta has a menu of late night eateries and award-winning restaurants to choose from. Mole Negro, chicken breast soaked in a chocolate chili sauce, is a favorite dish. Come in November to witness new culinary masterpieces at the Festival Gourmet. Think tequila tastings, cooking classes, art expos and gala dinners. If you’re hoping to bring a piece of Mexico back home or to your resort, find reasonably priced tequila at La Playa, bead-art handicrafts at Arte Mágico Huichol, contemporized traditional Mexican clothing at Manta Maya and real Cuban cigars at La Casa del Habano. Whether you’re whale watching, golfing, shopping, horseback riding, sunbathing or hiking, Puerto Vallarta is bound to leave you with a smile.