13 Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a mesmerizing destination renowned for its vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and myriad of activities. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on sun-kissed beaches, adventure in lush jungles, enjoying a show from one of Puerto Vallarta’s talented entertainers, or cultural immersion in historical sites, Puerto Vallarta offers something for every traveler. Let’s delve into an exploration of 13 things to do in this captivating coastal city.

1. Nightlife and Entertainment: Discover the vibrant nightlife of Puerto Vallarta, where a variety of bars, nightclubs, and live music venues offer something for everyone. Top spots including Act2PV Theater, The Palm Cabaret & Bar, Coco Cabaret, and La Catrina Cantina showcase exceptional talent, each adding its own unique energy to the scene. Puerto Vallarta comes alive after dark, offering endless entertainment options and unforgettable experiences fueled by the incredible artistry of its performers.

Things Happening Today:

May 2025

May 19 2025

All Day

Restaurant Week (Special Menus and Pricing)

• Details: Experience Puerto Vallarta' Restaurant Week 2025 from May 15 to June 10. Enjoy special three-course menus at top restaurants for a limited-time, fixed price.

HAPPENING NOW!

May 19 2025

10:30 AM

Butterfly Sanctuary Guided Tour

• Details: A small-group guided tour to explore lush subtropical habitats, learn about butterfly life cycles, and release newly hatched butterflies in Banderas Bay.

HAPPENING NOW!

Mariposario Jardin Magico

May 19 2025

6:00 PM

Vallarta Pride: MET-A Ball 🏳️‍🌈

• Details: Don't miss one of the most anticipated event of the season! Celebrate love, diversity and freedom with us in a unique Pride atmosphere!

HAPPENING NOW!

Industry

May 19 2025

10:00 PM

Pink: ‘Get the Party Started!’ Concert Experience

• Details: A high-energy tribute celebrating Pink's empowering anthems, dynamic performances, and unforgettable hits in Puerto Vallarta.

HAPPENING NOW!

Coco Cabaret

May 20 2025

All Day

Restaurant Week (Special Menus and Pricing)

• Details: Experience Puerto Vallarta' Restaurant Week 2025 from May 15 to June 10. Enjoy special three-course menus at top restaurants for a limited-time, fixed price.

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Click Here to View a Full List of Things to Do

2. Banderas Bay Beaches: Begin your Puerto Vallarta adventure by exploring its iconic beaches along Banderas Bay. Playa Los Muertos is a popular spot, offering soft sands and a lively atmosphere with beachside bars and water activities. For a quieter experience, head to Conchas Chinas Beach, known for its scenic beauty and tranquil waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

3. Water Sports: The warm waters of Puerto Vallarta beckon travelers to indulge in various water sports. Try your hand at snorkeling or scuba diving to discover the vibrant marine life and colorful coral reefs. Surfing enthusiasts can catch waves at Sayulita or Punta Mita, renowned surfing destinations near Puerto Vallarta.

4. Puerto Vallarta Malecon: Stroll along the iconic Puerto Vallarta Malecon, a bustling boardwalk lined with sculptures, street performers, art galleries, and vibrant restaurants. Admire the stunning sunset views over the Pacific Ocean while savoring local street food like freshly grilled seafood and traditional snacks.

5. Ziplining and Canopy Tours: For adrenaline seekers, Puerto Vallarta offers exhilarating ziplining and canopy tours through lush jungles. Feel the rush as you zip past treetops, enjoying panoramic views of cascading waterfalls and verdant landscapes. Popular zipline parks include Canopy River and Los Veranos Canopy Tour.

6. Vallarta Botanical Garden: Escape to nature at the Vallarta Botanical Garden, a verdant oasis showcasing diverse plant species native to Mexico. Wander through themed gardens featuring orchids, agave plants, and tropical flora, while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and rivers.

7. Day Trips to Nearby Towns: Explore the charm of nearby towns like Sayulita and San Sebastián del Oeste on day trips from Puerto Vallarta. Sayulita, a bohemian surf town, offers colorful streets, artisan shops, and a laid-back vibe perfect for relaxation. San Sebastián del Oeste, a colonial-era town nestled in the Sierra Madre mountains, boasts cobblestone streets, historic haciendas, and traditional Mexican cuisine.

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19th

All Day

Restaurant Week (Special Menus and Pricing)

• Details: Experience Puerto Vallarta' Restaurant Week 2025 from May 15 to June 10. Enjoy special three-course menus at top restaurants for a limited-time, fixed price.

HAPPENING NOW!

10:30 AM

Butterfly Sanctuary Guided Tour

• Details: A small-group guided tour to explore lush subtropical habitats, learn about butterfly life cycles, and release newly hatched butterflies in Banderas Bay.

HAPPENING NOW!

Mariposario Jardin Magico

6:00 PM

Vallarta Pride: MET-A Ball 🏳️‍🌈

• Details: Don't miss one of the most anticipated event of the season! Celebrate love, diversity and freedom with us in a unique Pride atmosphere!

HAPPENING NOW!

Industry

10:00 PM

Pink: ‘Get the Party Started!’ Concert Experience

• Details: A high-energy tribute celebrating Pink's empowering anthems, dynamic performances, and unforgettable hits in Puerto Vallarta.

HAPPENING NOW!

Coco Cabaret

Events for May

20th

All Day

Restaurant Week (Special Menus and Pricing)

• Details: Experience Puerto Vallarta' Restaurant Week 2025 from May 15 to June 10. Enjoy special three-course menus at top restaurants for a limited-time, fixed price.

10:00 AM

Introduction to Drawing

• Details: The drawing classes is designed with the beginner in mind and take you step by step to develop your skills with personalized attention

ART VallARTa

12:00 PM

ATV and RZR Jorullo Bridge Experience

• Details: Whip down Jorullo Bridge, the longest suspension bridge in Latin America, on your own rugged ATV or RZR vehicle during this half-day excursion.

1:00 PM

Freestyle Acrylic Painting Class

• Details: Freestyle Acrylic Painting is a class where you get to do whatever theme of a painting you would like while learning.

ART VallARTa

Events for May

21st

8:00 AM

Yelapa Waterfall, BBQ at Majahuitas Beach, Open Bar

• Details: Explore Yelapa and Majahuitas on a relaxing day trip with beach time, snorkeling, and a buffet lunch aboard the boat.

All Day

Restaurant Week (Special Menus and Pricing)

• Details: Experience Puerto Vallarta' Restaurant Week 2025 from May 15 to June 10. Enjoy special three-course menus at top restaurants for a limited-time, fixed price.

8:00 AM

Luxury Yacht & Snorkel (Open Bar, Lunch)

• Details: Experience a luxurious half-day snorkeling cruise on a deluxe catamaran. Enjoy snorkeling, paddleboarding, a delicious Mexican lunch, open bar, and VIP service.

10:00 AM

Oil Painting Class

• Details: We will learn about oil, its main characteristics and ways of use, the student will level up at their own pace and with the teacher's support.

ART VallARTa

Events for May

22nd

All Day

Restaurant Week (Special Menus and Pricing)

• Details: Experience Puerto Vallarta' Restaurant Week 2025 from May 15 to June 10. Enjoy special three-course menus at top restaurants for a limited-time, fixed price.

9:00 AM

Watch and Swim with Dolphins in the Wild

• Details: Swim with wild dolphins in Puerto Vallarta on a guided eco-tour led by a biologist. Spot marine life, use a hydrophone, and support ocean conservation.

10:00 AM

Vallarta Pride: Red Circle (Free HIV/STI Testing) 🏳️‍🌈

• Details: We offer free testing for HIV and other STIs, as well as vaccinations, doctors, counselors, and medications available to ensure your health and well-being.

Spartacus Sauna

10:00 AM

Pet Adoption Event

• Details: Enjoy great coffee, tasty food, a beautiful courtyard, and meet adorable dogs and cats looking for loving homes.

Café con Cielo

Events for May

23rd

8:00 AM

Sayulita & San Pancho Tour

• Details: Enjoy a relaxing excursion to two picturesque local villages (Sayulita and San Pancho). Experience a foodie paradise and indulge your senses.

All Day

Restaurant Week (Special Menus and Pricing)

• Details: Experience Puerto Vallarta' Restaurant Week 2025 from May 15 to June 10. Enjoy special three-course menus at top restaurants for a limited-time, fixed price.

9:00 AM

Islands of Los Arcos Boat and Snorkel Tour

• Details: Your guide takes you to the best places for snorkeling in the marine park and the park’s five islands, famed for sea caves a natural bird sanctuaries.

11:00 AM

Conversational Spanish Class

• Details: A conversational Spanish class focused on improving practical speaking and listening skills for everyday communication.

ART VallARTa

Events for May

24th

All Day

Restaurant Week (Special Menus and Pricing)

• Details: Experience Puerto Vallarta' Restaurant Week 2025 from May 15 to June 10. Enjoy special three-course menus at top restaurants for a limited-time, fixed price.

9:30 AM

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

• Details: Create your own personalized itinerary for sightseeing on a hop-on hop-off bus tour. Includes tequila tasting, a lounger on Mangos Beach, and entry to a chocolate factory.

9:30 AM

Vallarta Pride: LGBTQ+ Calisthenics Tournament 🏳️‍🌈

• Details: Prizes, exhibitions, and a great atmosphere. Categories for all levels. Safe and discrimination-free space. Limited capacity.

Municipal Stadium

10:00 AM

Weekend Artisan Market

• Details: Over a dozen local artisans showcase the handcrafted products they make available for sale each Saturday on Isla Cuale.

Weekend Artisan Market

Events for May

25th

8:00 AM

Vallarta Pride: Rainbow Race 2025 🏳️‍🌈

• Details: Join the Rainbow Race 2025 in Puerto Vallarta during Pride! This inclusive 3K & 6K run/walk promotes health, visibility, and equality.

Puerto Vallarta Malecon

All Day

Restaurant Week (Special Menus and Pricing)

• Details: Experience Puerto Vallarta' Restaurant Week 2025 from May 15 to June 10. Enjoy special three-course menus at top restaurants for a limited-time, fixed price.

10:00 AM

Combo UTV, Rappelling and Rainforest Zipline Adventure

• Details: Experience thrilling zip lines, rappelling, a jeep ride, and a waterslide in the Sierra Madre jungle on this family-friendly, small-group Puerto Vallarta adventure.

10:00 AM

Vallarta Pride: Drag Brunch & Pool Party 🏳️‍🌈

• Details: A surprise appearance by global drag superstars followed by a spectacular rooftop pool party with a DJ and The Tryst’s iconic go-go dancers.

The Tryst

Events for May

26th

All Day

Restaurant Week (Special Menus and Pricing)

• Details: Experience Puerto Vallarta' Restaurant Week 2025 from May 15 to June 10. Enjoy special three-course menus at top restaurants for a limited-time, fixed price.

10:30 AM

Mexican Cooking Class, Tequila Tasting, Unlimited Margaritas

• Details: Discover the flavors of local cooking while learning about traditional ways of life. Learn how to cook salsa de molcajete, guacamole, enchiladas, tostada and more.

FEATURED

10:30 AM

Butterfly Sanctuary Guided Tour

• Details: A small-group guided tour to explore lush subtropical habitats, learn about butterfly life cycles, and release newly hatched butterflies in Banderas Bay.

Mariposario Jardin Magico

11:00 AM

Conversational Spanish Class

• Details: A conversational Spanish class focused on improving practical speaking and listening skills for everyday communication.

ART VallARTa

Events for May

27th

All Day

Restaurant Week (Special Menus and Pricing)

• Details: Experience Puerto Vallarta' Restaurant Week 2025 from May 15 to June 10. Enjoy special three-course menus at top restaurants for a limited-time, fixed price.

10:00 AM

Introduction to Drawing

• Details: The drawing classes is designed with the beginner in mind and take you step by step to develop your skills with personalized attention

ART VallARTa

12:00 PM

ATV and RZR Jorullo Bridge Experience

• Details: Whip down Jorullo Bridge, the longest suspension bridge in Latin America, on your own rugged ATV or RZR vehicle during this half-day excursion.

1:00 PM

Freestyle Acrylic Painting Class

• Details: Freestyle Acrylic Painting is a class where you get to do whatever theme of a painting you would like while learning.

ART VallARTa

Events for May

28th

8:00 AM

Yelapa Waterfall, BBQ at Majahuitas Beach, Open Bar

• Details: Explore Yelapa and Majahuitas on a relaxing day trip with beach time, snorkeling, and a buffet lunch aboard the boat.

All Day

Restaurant Week (Special Menus and Pricing)

• Details: Experience Puerto Vallarta' Restaurant Week 2025 from May 15 to June 10. Enjoy special three-course menus at top restaurants for a limited-time, fixed price.

8:00 AM

Luxury Yacht & Snorkel (Open Bar, Lunch)

• Details: Experience a luxurious half-day snorkeling cruise on a deluxe catamaran. Enjoy snorkeling, paddleboarding, a delicious Mexican lunch, open bar, and VIP service.

10:00 AM

Oil Painting Class

• Details: We will learn about oil, its main characteristics and ways of use, the student will level up at their own pace and with the teacher's support.

ART VallARTa

Events for May

29th

All Day

Restaurant Week (Special Menus and Pricing)

• Details: Experience Puerto Vallarta' Restaurant Week 2025 from May 15 to June 10. Enjoy special three-course menus at top restaurants for a limited-time, fixed price.

9:00 AM

Watch and Swim with Dolphins in the Wild

• Details: Swim with wild dolphins in Puerto Vallarta on a guided eco-tour led by a biologist. Spot marine life, use a hydrophone, and support ocean conservation.

10:30 AM

Butterfly Sanctuary Guided Tour

• Details: A small-group guided tour to explore lush subtropical habitats, learn about butterfly life cycles, and release newly hatched butterflies in Banderas Bay.

Mariposario Jardin Magico

11:30 AM

Canopy Zipline Adventure

• Details: This tour guides you through 11 different ziplines that vary in length, speed, and scenery, to give you the best birds-eye views of the sprawling rainforest.

Events for May

30th

8:00 AM

Sayulita & San Pancho Tour

• Details: Enjoy a relaxing excursion to two picturesque local villages (Sayulita and San Pancho). Experience a foodie paradise and indulge your senses.

All Day

Restaurant Week (Special Menus and Pricing)

• Details: Experience Puerto Vallarta' Restaurant Week 2025 from May 15 to June 10. Enjoy special three-course menus at top restaurants for a limited-time, fixed price.

9:00 AM

Islands of Los Arcos Boat and Snorkel Tour

• Details: Your guide takes you to the best places for snorkeling in the marine park and the park’s five islands, famed for sea caves a natural bird sanctuaries.

11:00 AM

Conversational Spanish Class

• Details: A conversational Spanish class focused on improving practical speaking and listening skills for everyday communication.

ART VallARTa

Events for May

31st

All Day

Restaurant Week (Special Menus and Pricing)

• Details: Experience Puerto Vallarta' Restaurant Week 2025 from May 15 to June 10. Enjoy special three-course menus at top restaurants for a limited-time, fixed price.

9:30 AM

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

• Details: Create your own personalized itinerary for sightseeing on a hop-on hop-off bus tour. Includes tequila tasting, a lounger on Mangos Beach, and entry to a chocolate factory.

10:00 AM

Weekend Artisan Market

• Details: Over a dozen local artisans showcase the handcrafted products they make available for sale each Saturday on Isla Cuale.

Weekend Artisan Market

10:00 AM

Free Yoga Classes

• Details: Yoga for beginners and intermediate yogis at the beautiful community center space right by the cuale river!

Vallarta Gay+ Community Center

Click Here to View a Complete Calendar of Things to Do

8. Whale Watching (Seasonal): From December to March, Puerto Vallarta becomes a prime destination for whale watching as humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Banderas Bay. Join a guided whale-watching tour to witness these majestic creatures breaching and playing in their natural habitat, creating unforgettable memories.

9. Culinary Delights: Indulge in Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant culinary scene, offering a fusion of traditional Mexican flavors and international cuisine. Sample fresh seafood dishes like ceviche and grilled fish at beachfront restaurants, or explore local markets for authentic street food experiences such as tacos, tamales, and churros.

10. Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in Puerto Vallarta’s rich cultural heritage by visiting historical sites like the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe and the Naval Museum. Attend traditional Mexican performances such as folkloric ballet and mariachi music concerts, showcasing the region’s artistic talents and traditions.

11 Sunset Cruises: End your day in Puerto Vallarta with a romantic sunset cruise along Banderas Bay. Sail aboard a traditional wooden boat or a luxurious yacht, sipping cocktails and enjoying live music as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in vibrant hues.

12. Eco-Tours and Wildlife Encounters: Discover Puerto Vallarta’s biodiversity through eco-tours and wildlife encounters in nearby natural reserves. Spot exotic birds, monkeys, and reptiles during guided jungle hikes or boat tours through mangrove ecosystems, offering insights into the region’s diverse flora and fauna.

13. Spa and Wellness Retreats: Unwind and rejuvenate at Puerto Vallarta’s world-class spas and wellness retreats, offering a range of holistic treatments and therapies. From oceanfront massages to yoga sessions overlooking picturesque landscapes, pamper yourself amidst tranquil surroundings for ultimate relaxation.

Puerto Vallarta is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty, cultural richness, and recreational activities, making it a perfect getaway for travelers seeking diverse experiences. Whether you’re drawn to its sun-drenched beaches, adventurous excursions, or culinary delights, Puerto Vallarta promises an unforgettable vacation filled with exploration and relaxation.