Puerto Vallarta is one of those places that makes immediate sense once you arrive. It’s relaxed but lively, affordable but luxurious when you want it to be, and deeply rooted in tourism WITHOUT feeling soulless.
After spending time here, I completely understand why so many “digital nomads” choose to stay.
Puerto Vallarta offers something rare:
- Beach access
- Walkable and safe neighborhoods
- Reliable Wi-Fi
- Affordable living
- Endless day trips and activities
A Brief History of Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta began as a small fishing village. That changed in the 1960s, when Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton filmed The Night of the Iguana nearby. Their presence brought international attention and since then, Puerto Vallarta has evolved into a well-established resort town, but unlike many resort cities, it attracts a large number of Mexican tourists, which keeps prices reasonable and culture intact.
LGBTQ+ Legacy
Puerto Vallarta is also historically one of the most LGBTQ-friendly cities in Mexico. The Zona Romántica became a hub decades ago, particularly for visitors from Los Angeles. There’s an entire street that looks like West Hollywood, flags, people and all.
Cost of Housing
We stayed one block from the beach in an Airbnb for about $40 per night, while beachfront resorts easily run $200+ per night. For me, the tradeoff was completely worth it, same ocean, major savings.
Best Restaurants & Food Spots
I ate out every single day for 14 days because it was affordable, and good, but here are the places I loved.
Le Kliff
One of the most memorable meals OF MY LIFE happened in Puerto Vallarta, not just because of the food (bone marrow, shrimp and steak, YUM), but because of the view. The restaurant is molded into the cliffside, it’s gorgeous, and going at sunset is unbelievable.
Pair this with a visit to Boca de Tomatlán, the nearby fishing village where many tour boats depart, and spend the day at Las Animas Beach like we did.
Tacon de Marlin
I went multiple times. Local, affordable, and consistently good.
Pancho’s Takos
Both locals and tourists line up here, waiting 30-60 minutes for tacos. It actually lives up to the hype.
Julio’s Churros
A legendary churro stand that’s been around for decades. Fresh churros for about $0.50 each.
Azul Celeste
This is the favorite rooftop brunch. It’s local, good and not overly touristy.
Day Trips From Puerto Vallarta
One of the best things about Puerto Vallarta is how many options you have for activities.
Yelapa Waterfall
This is a very popular option: there were about 75 other people on our boat. You take a boat from Puerto Vallarta, about an hour south, to a beach town only accessible by boat, Yelapa. Once there, you can take an ATV to go see the waterfall and be back by the time the boat leaves you.
Yelapa Waterfall Tour: ~$60 per person
Boca de Tomatlán → Las Ánimas
A perfect low-key beach day:
- Take an uber to the fishing village – Boca de Tomatlán
- This is the hub for travel to reach all the other beaches that are only accessible by boat, it’s a whole thing. Just arrive, say the beach you want to visit, and a man will let you know when you’re leaving. We waited 15 minutes. I have no idea the schedule, but it would be fun to just take the next available boat and see where you end up (lol)
- Some other options are Mismaloya Beach, Quimixto Beach, or going directly to a restaurant Ocean Grill Vallarta, also only accessible by boat, something I would try next time.
- Lunch and lounging at Las Ánimas Beach, I liked it because it was chill. Nothing to do but beach and lounge.
- There were mostly Mexican tourists at Las Animas, some Westerners but not many. Speaking Spanish would be helpful but not required.
ATV & Jorullo Bridge
Puerto Vallarta has the longest vehicular suspension bridge in the world, so of course I had to go. I booked an experience in person ($55/PP), not through Viator or GetYourGuide, which I find saves money. That included about a 30 minute drive from the city, an ATV ride across the bridge, and a swim stop at a nearby waterfall. Go hungry, the day ended at a hotel with one of the best, most fun buffets I’ve ever experienced, complete with a tequila tasting and a live band. I didn’t want to leave! Such a fun day.
Full-Day Boat Trip & Sea Caves
One of the highlights of the trip, a full day trip to “Playa La Nopalera” near the famous hidden beach of love. We stopped at multiple islands and swam through caves, jumped out of boats and snorkeled. I have no pictures because my phone isn’t waterproof and I don’t have a GoPro. Really fun day with great tour guides, all meals were provided. It was $109 USD.
Raicilla: Puerto Vallarta’s Local Agave Spirit
Raicilla is the region’s traditional agave liquor, often compared to mezcal but with its own identity.
Do a tasting at El Tasting Room to learn its history, how it differs from mezcal, and why it’s having a modern revival. If you like agave spirits, this is essential.
Hike to Mirador La Cruz
A short but steep hike that rewards you with panoramic views over the city and Banderas Bay.
Final Thoughts on Puerto Vallarta
I love it, I was there for 2 weeks and would have happily stayed 6. Puerto Vallarta is easy to love.
You can:
- Live affordably near the beach
- Splurge on luxury when you want
- Take unforgettable day trips
- Feel connected without feeling overwhelmed
More Mexico Travel Guides
- Oaxaca Travel Guide: The Perfect Girls Trip
- Cabo San Lucas Travel Guide
- Mexico City Travel Guide
- Guadalajara Weekend Guide
- All my Mexico guides