Beyond the water

Things to do in Puerto Vallarta.

Puerto Vallarta is a working town wrapped in jungle, not just a strip of beach. Behind it the Sierra Madre runs straight up from the coast, cut by rivers and waterfalls. In front of it is the bay. These are the ways to spend a day that do not involve a boat — plus the two evenings that do, because they are worth it.

Majahuitas beach at dusk with string lights strung between the palms above the sand

Shows, nightlife & beach clubs

The evenings worth planning around — open-air theatre in the jungle, Saturday beach clubs reachable only by boat, and dinner shows across the bay.

6+ experiences

Quad bikes crossing the Jorullo suspension bridge above the jungle near Puerto Vallarta

ATV & off-road

Jungle trails, river crossings and the Jorullo Bridge, on quads, buggies and 4x4s.

8+ experiences

A margarita being finished with lime and salt on a bar in Puerto Vallarta

Tequila, food & drink

Distillery visits, taco walks through the old town, mezcal tastings and mixology classes.

8+ experiences

A zipline run through the Sierra Madre canopy above the Jorullo bridge near Puerto Vallarta

Zipline, canopy & canyoning

Zip runs through the Sierra Madre canopy, rappels down waterfalls, and the suspension bridges above the Cuale river.

6+ experiences

A swimmer in a jungle waterfall pool in the Sierra Madre behind Puerto Vallarta

Nature & wildlife

Horseback rides into the hills, jungle hikes, waterfalls and birdlife.

8+ experiences

The Malecon seafront promenade in Puerto Vallarta with its sculptures and walkers

City & culture

The Malecón, the old town, markets, art and the stories behind them.

8+ experiences