Puerto Vallarta is one the most sought-after tourist destinations for those traveling to the Pacific Coast of Mexico. Its colorful buildings, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife are a few reasons for its popularity. And trust me, those alone are worth the visit!
But as incredible as the city’s attractions are, it has an even greater draw. It’s conveniently located in the state of Jalisco and faces the Bay of Banderas, making Puerto Vallarta a perfect starting point for exploring this part of Mexico.
The area surrounding Puerto Vallarta brims with stunning towns, surfing beaches, and glorious islands, all of which can be visited in a day.
I would recommend spending 3 days in the city to make the most of everything it offers, and adding extra days for excursions. That’s what we did – we stayed in Puerto Vallarta for a couple of weeks and went on a few day trips while there.
Take a look at all these fun day trips from Puerto Vallarta, and plan your itinerary with your favorite ones in it!
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Sayulita
Sayulita is a surfer town located 25 miles (40 km) north of Puerto Vallarta. Its beaches are backed by the Sierra Madre mountains, and they’re a dream destination for wave catchers.
This is a tranquil town with colorful streets and fabulous restaurants that’s been designated a Pueblo Magico.
Among the things to enjoy in Sayulita are strolling along Slap Street, browsing local markets, and taking surf lessons. You should also check out the Iguana Tree, and join a yoga class!
Tip: Sayulita is a lovely, peaceful town, but it can get busy during the high season due to its popularity. If you’re not a fan of the crowds but still want to enjoy good weather, aim to visit between April and June.
How To Get To Sayulita
Sayulita is an easy day trip from Puerto Vallarta, located in the neighboring state of Nayarit. Buses depart from Plaza Las Glorias every 20 minutes from as early as 6 AM. The journey takes around 1 hour if you get a direct bus, or closer to 1.5 hours if there’s a change.
If you’re driving, the journey will take you 50 minutes.
Best Tours to Sayulita from Puerto Vallarta
Sayulita is one of the best day trips from Puerto Vallarta, so there’s no shortage of tours to join. Check out these below:
➤ This Sayulita: Guided Tour, Cacao Tasting, and Food Tour is a 6-hour trip. You’ll enjoy comfortable transfers, and a guided tour around town. Sample street food, go shopping, and cap off the day with some beach time. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ The San Pancho and Sayulita Tour from Puerto Vallarta takes you to 2 hotspots on Riviera Nayarit. Spend a few hours in San Pancho, a colorful and crafty town, before heading to Sayulita. There you’ll catch some waves, and explore its charming center. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Yelapa
Yelapa is a small beach town in the southern section of Banderas Bay. It’s a perfect place to relax, nestled in the Sierra Madre mountains’ foothills.
A popular activity is to hike through the jungle to the Yelapa waterfall. You can also ride a horse on the seashore, pick up some souvenirs, and enjoy watersports.
Yelapa is one of the best places to enjoy fresh seafood at the restaurants on the beach, and in my opinion one of the best excursions from Puerto Vallarta you can join.
How To Get To Yelapa
The only way to access this fishing village is from the sea. You can take a water taxi from the port in Puerto Vallarta, and reach Yelapa in 45 minutes.
Best Tours to Yelapa from Puerto Vallarta
Another great way to get there is by booking an excursion.
➤ The Yelapa Waterfall, BBQ at Exclusive Majahuitas Beach & Open Bar grants you time to explore Yelapa and its beaches, and then hike to its popular waterfall. You’ll then head to Majahuitas Beach for some kayaking, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. Lunch is included. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ Check out the Mega Yacht All-Inclusive Yelapa Waterfall & Snorkeling Adventure. Sail from Puerto Vallarta in a luxury vessel with an open bar, lunch, and a massage. Explore Yelapa at your leisure, and enjoy plenty of watersports on the sea. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
San Pancho
San Pancho is the colorful, crafty town that will make you fall (even more) in love with Mexico’s Pacific Coast. The town is full of artisan workshops and craft shops, and it boasts beautiful beaches. It also has an incredibly environment-conscious and artist community.
Don’t miss the artisanal market on the main square, or watching sunset on the beach: it’s glorious!
How To Get To San Pancho
You can take the Pacifico Bus Line from Puerto Vallarta, which departs from the bus terminal every 20 minutes approx. The ride takes between 1.5 and 2 hours, and tickets cost as little as $6.
Driving? You’ll reach San Pancho in less than an hour on the Puerto Vallarta – Tepic route.
Best Tours to San Pancho from Puerto Vallarta
Tours to San Pancho usually combine a visit to Sayulita, as they’re very close. These excursions will help you tackle both attractions in a single day.
➤ The Sayulita & San Pancho trip starts with a foodie excursion around Sayulita. You’ll explore its streets, and sample snacks and beer. Then head to San Pancho, where you’ll have time to browse the shops and stroll around. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ Traveling with a group? Consider this Private Tour to Sayulita & San Pancho. You’ll explore both charming towns, and learn about them from your guide. Stop for a tequila tasting, browse through a craft market, and spend time at the beach. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Marietas Islands
The Marietas Islands are a group of uninhabited islands boasting pristine shorelines, rich marine life, and even a secret beach.
Plenty of water-related things can be enjoyed in the Marietas Islands. Kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and diving are a few of them. If you’re in Puerto Vallarta during the high season, from November to March, you can go whale watching!
How To Get To Marietas Islands
The islands are approximately 23 miles from Puerto Vallarta. You can only reach them by boat, and the only way to get there is with a tour or private boat.
Best Tours to Marietas Islands from Puerto Vallarta
➤ The Marietas Islands Snorkel Tour & Hidden Beach is a half-day adventure. You’ll get to snorkel with rays, turtles, and dolphins. Make your way to the famous hidden beach, and marvel at the impressive cave it’s in. Breakfast and snacks are included. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ This Islas Marietas Eco Discovery with Open Bar and Lunch takes you snorkeling in the underwater wonderland of the islands. You’ll also have time to kayak, bird watch, and paddleboard. Lunch and an open bar are included! ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Punta Mita
Punta Mita is a private peninsula on the northern side of Bahia de Banderas. It’s home to high-end hotel chains, residential communities, and glorious views.
This is where the rich and famous come to vacation, so you can expect high prices and all kinds of luxurious boutique shops and restaurants.
Plenty of adventures can be enjoyed here, including kayaking, surfing, mountain biking, golfing, and horseback riding. Have a meal at one of the seafront restaurants for delicious cuisine with panoramic vistas. Better yet if it’s at sunset!
How To Get To Punta Mita
Buses to Punta Mita depart every 20 minutes from Puerto Vallarta bus terminal. The ride takes around 1.5 hours, and tickets cost around $6.
If you’re driving, you’ll get there in a little over an hour via Puerto Vallarta – Tepic and Carretera Federal.
Best Tours to Punta Mita from Puerto Vallarta
➤ This Private Surf Lesson Experience at Puerto Vallarta takes place in Punta Mita. You’ll enjoy transfers from PV, and a private class, tailored to your level. Learn all the tricks to become a pro in the sea, catching waves like it’s second nature. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ You can join this Monkey Mountain Jungle Hike Adventure in Punta Mita. It doesn’t include transfers, so you’d have to get there first. A guide takes you hiking through the jungle on your way up to Monkey Mountain. Once at the top, take in the 360-degree views and refuel with snacks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Las Caletas
Las Caletas is a paradisiac beach hideaway. Located 45 minutes south of Puerto Vallarta, this secluded haven is the perfect setting for water adventures. Kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling, hiking, and sunbathing are among the favorite things to do here.
Unlike most beaches in Puerto Vallarta, like Los Muertos and El Malecon, you won’t be accosted by sellers, getting to properly relax.
How To Get To Las Caletas
Las Caletas is nestled between the sea and jungle-covered mountains, and it’s only accessible by boat. The secluded beach near PV is private, so you’ll need to book your visit with Vallarta Adventures or join a tour.
Best Tours to Las Caletas from Puerto Vallarta
➤ Take a day trip to Las Caletas Beach & Adventure Park with Buffet Lunch and Open Bar, and go hiking in the jungle, relax on a hammock, or enjoy a cooking class. Breakfast and a buffet lunch are included, along with an open bar. Watersports and a kids’ zone are also part of the deal. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ Another way to enjoy Las Caletas is with Rhythms of the Night Buffet & Show. You’ll sail toward Las Caletas at sunset, and enjoy a scrumptious candlelit dinner on the beach. Then, visit the open-air amphitheater for a mesmerizing show based on Mexican legends. ➥ BOOK I THERE
Bucerias
The small town of Bucerias is a charming, family-friendly destination, offering a great number of attractions. The beach is one of its major landmarks, along with vibrant markets and artisan shops. It’s very popular for its Art Walk from November to April!
In Bucerias you’ll also fin great eateries, bike rental shops, and jungle trails for ATVing.
How To Get To Bucerias
There are both local and regional buses that depart from the city’s bus terminal. The journey to Bucerias takes around 1 hour from Puerto Vallarta, the difference between them being price and comfort.
If you’re renting a car, the drive takes slightly over 30 minutes from Puerto Vallarta.
Best Tours to Bucerias from Puerto Vallarta
➤ This Private Tour to Bucerías, San Pancho and Sayulita from Puerto Vallarta takes you to visit three enchanting towns near PV. Start with Bucerias, where you’ll explore its beaches and streets. Then, head to the colorful San Pancho. Enjoy free time and relax by the beach, before visiting the surfing town of Sayulita. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Majahuitas Beach
The Pacific Coast of Mexico has an abundance of paradisiacal beaches, and Majahuitas is no exception. Picture vivid turquoise waters, a golden stretch of coastline, and green palm trees and vegetation: that’s Majahuitas Beach.
Once there, relax on the sand, go for a swim, and snorkel. You can also hike in the jungle, and indulge in Mexican cuisine at one of the beachside eateries.
How To Get To Majahuitas Beach
Its remote location makes it only accessible by boat, but the hassle is well worth it. You can take a water taxi from the port in Puerto Vallarta, or join a tour.
Best Tours to Majahuitas Beach from Puerto Vallarta
➤ This Yelapa Waterfall & Majahuitas Snorkel Adventure is a full-day trip. Snorkel with colorful fish, hike to a waterfall, kayak, paddleboard, and take in the beautiful scenery as you chill on the sand in both locations. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ A fun alternative is the Isla Majahuitas: Pirate Ship Tour with Kayaking and Lunch. Sail in a pirate vessel with breakfast and lunch served. You’ll visit Majahuitas Beach to snorkel, kayak, and take part in a treasure hunt. Enjoy a pirate show, and get unlimited drinks from the open bar. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Los Arcos National Park
One of the most striking natural attractions near Puerto Vallarta is Los Arcos National Park. Granite rock formations rise from the water, with the magnificent natural arches that gave it its name.
Los Arcos is a protected marine zone, offering a pristine setting for watersports such as kayaking and paddleboarding. It also boasts one of the best snorkeling spots around Puerto Vallarta, so it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a snorkeling tour in the area.
How To Get To Los Arcos National Park
This Mexican landmark is in the Bay of Banderas, and can only be reached by boat. The easiest way to visit is to take a boat tour from Puerto Vallarta, as there are no water taxis to get there.
Best Tours to Los Arcos from Puerto Vallarta
➤ The Boat and Snorkel Tour to 5 Islands of Los Arcos is a half-day trip that takes you snorkeling on various islands within the National Park. You’ll learn about the local marine wildlife, and sail around the rock formations. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ For an exclusive trip, join Los Arcos Snorkel & Beach Private Boat Tour. You’ll have the opportunity to cruise the National Park, and stop in splendid locations to snorkel. Visit pristine beaches, have lunch (own expense), and learn about the area from your guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Tequila
No, I’m not talking about the drink, but the town where it originated. Tequila, in the state of Jalisco, is home to agave plantations, tequila distilleries, and enchanting cobblestone streets. The town of Tequila is a designated Pueblo Magico, and the Tequila Valley a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
If you’re looking for a break from the coast, this is the perfect place to head to! One of the best things to do there is tequila tasting (duh!) but you can also hike to a waterfall, indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine, and visit the tequila museum.
How To Get To Tequila
Tequila is 170 miles away from Puerto Vallarta, so it’s not exactly close. The best way to head there is by car, on a drive that takes approximately 4 hours.
There is no direct bus to Tequila from Puerto Vallarta. If you wanted to travel by public transportation, you’d have to take the bus to Guadalajara, and from there another one to Tequila.
Sierra Madre
The Sierra Madre is just the setting you need for adventurous activities. If you’re looking for horseback riding near Puerto Vallarta, ziplining or ATVing…everything adrenaline-pumping can be enjoyed in the mountains!
If you’re a nature lover, this might be one of the most fun day trips. There are multiple hiking trails, fantastic birdwatching, and Jorullo Bridge – the world’s longest suspension bridge!
How To Get To Sierra Madre
Puerto Vallarta is surrounded by the lush hills of the Sierra Madre region. A short drive will take you away from the city and into nature. One of the most popular ways to visit is by joining an adventure tour.
Best Tours to Sierra Madre from Puerto Vallarta
➤ The Horseback Riding Tour in Sierra Madre from Puerto Vallarta takes you along jungle trails, surrounded by natural beauty. Make your way to a waterfall for a swim, and ride across hanging bridges. A Mexican lunch will be served at the end. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ An alternative is this Sierra Madre ATV Adventure from Puerto Vallarta. You’ll ride an ATV through trails and rivers, and pass by villages, getting a glimpse of the authentic Jalisco. Photos and videos are included. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
