Puerto Vallarta Excursions

Puerto Vallarta is known for its breathtaking beauty—lush mountains hugging a sparkling coastline, sunsets that rival paintings, and a culture rich with flavor, tradition, and warmth. But beyond the beaches and margaritas, this Pacific paradise is also a hub for unforgettable excursions. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, nature lover, foodie, or romantic at heart, Puerto Vallarta offers day trips and experiences that can elevate your vacation from great to extraordinary.

Here’s a look at some of the most memorable excursions to consider while visiting Puerto Vallarta:

Bioluminescence Sunset Boat Tour to Los Arcos Sanctuary

One of the most magical experiences you can have in Puerto Vallarta is the Bioluminescence Sunset Boat Tour to Los Arcos Marine Park. Departing just before dusk, this tour takes you by boat to the iconic granite islets of Los Arcos, a sanctuary for marine life and birds. As the sun sinks below the horizon, casting fiery colors across the water, the real magic begins. When the conditions are right, microscopic plankton in the water emit a blue-green glow when disturbed, creating a sparkling underwater light show. Guests are often encouraged to snorkel or swim to see the bioluminescence up close—an ethereal, bucket-list-worthy experience that blends science, nature, and wonder.

Butterfly Sanctuary Guided Tour

For a quieter, more contemplative excursion, the Butterfly Sanctuary Guided Tour offers a unique opportunity to witness the beauty and fragility of nature. Located just outside Puerto Vallarta, the sanctuary is home to dozens of native butterfly species fluttering freely in a lush, tropical setting. Guided by knowledgeable naturalists, visitors learn about the lifecycle of butterflies, their ecological importance, and the conservation efforts underway to protect them. This tour is ideal for families, nature photographers, or anyone seeking a peaceful break from the bustle of town.

Combo UTV, Rappelling, and Rainforest Zipline Adventure

Adrenaline junkies, rejoice. The Combo UTV, Rappelling, and Rainforest Zipline Adventure is a high-octane excursion designed to get your heart racing and your clothes dirty. This half-day adventure kicks off with a rugged UTV ride through jungle terrain, followed by rappelling down a waterfall and soaring through the rainforest canopy on a series of zip lines. The views of the Sierra Madre Mountains and hidden jungle pools are breathtaking, and the guides make sure safety and fun go hand in hand. It’s a thrilling way to experience Vallarta’s wilder side.

Bean to Bar Chocolate Workshop

Foodies and sweet-toothed travelers should not miss the Bean to Bar Chocolate Workshop. Hosted by local artisans, this hands-on experience walks you through the entire process of chocolate-making, from roasting cacao beans to grinding them by hand and creating your own chocolate bar. Along the way, you’ll learn about the history of cacao in Mexico, its role in indigenous culture, and why artisanal methods make such a difference. It’s educational, delicious, and a great way to support local craft producers.

Sayulita & San Pancho Tour

Just north of Puerto Vallarta lie two of the Riviera Nayarit’s most charming coastal towns: Sayulita and San Pancho. The Sayulita & San Pancho Tour is a relaxing day trip that lets you explore both. Sayulita is known for its surf-friendly beaches, boho boutiques, and lively vibe, while San Pancho offers a quieter, artsier atmosphere with a strong sense of community. A good tour will give you time to browse artisan markets, enjoy local cuisine, and soak up the coastal charm at your own pace.

Mexican Cooking Class and Tequila Tasting

No trip to Mexico is complete without diving into its rich culinary heritage. A Mexican Cooking Class and Tequila Tasting lets you do just that, with a hands-on class guided by a local chef. You’ll visit a traditional market, learn how to make salsas, tortillas, tamales, or mole from scratch, and, of course, taste a curated selection of tequilas. It’s more than just a meal—it’s an immersion into flavors, stories, and techniques that have been passed down for generations.

Rhythms of the Night: Cruise, Open Bar, Dinner, and Show

If you’re looking for something romantic, theatrical, and utterly unique, Rhythms of the Night is a must. This evening excursion begins with a scenic sunset cruise across Banderas Bay to the secluded cove of Las Caletas. Upon arrival, tiki torches and candles light your path through the jungle to an open-air amphitheater, where an acrobatic, Cirque-style show inspired by Aztec mythology awaits. After the performance, guests enjoy a candlelit buffet dinner under the stars. With an open bar and impeccable ambiance, it’s no wonder this is one of Puerto Vallarta’s most celebrated experiences.

A World of Experiences Awaits

Whether you’re marveling at glowing plankton beneath the sea, tasting the complexity of artisanal chocolate, zipping through the jungle, or dancing the night away under the stars, Puerto Vallarta has an excursion to match every interest and energy level. These experiences go beyond sightseeing—they offer connection: to nature, to culture, and to the spirit of exploration.

So, the next time you find yourself in Puerto Vallarta, don’t just stick to the beach. Step off the beaten path and into an adventure. You might just discover your favorite memory waiting for you on the other side of town—or out at sea. And if you’re looking for ideas, Vallarta Calendar is your go-to source for all the experiences, events, and things to do.

Check out these upcoming excursions you might enjoy. Many of these adventures are available on multiple days throughout the week.