Adventure in Puerto Vallarta!

Banderas Bay (Bahia de Banderas)

Why Visit?

Welcome to Banderas Bay, the crown jewel of Mexico"s Pacific Coast, where adventure awaits around every corner. This stunning bay, stretching from Puerto Vallarta in the north to Punta de Mita in the south, offers an exhilarating mix of tropical beauty and thrilling activities.

Day 1: Arrival in Puerto Vallarta

Fly into Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport, conveniently located just minutes from downtown Puerto Vallarta. Kick off your adventure with a stroll along the Malecón, a seaside promenade lined with contemporary sculptures and bustling with street performers. As the sun sets, savor local flavors at a beachside restaurant, featuring freshly caught seafood and traditional Mexican dishes.

Day 2: Yelapa and Majahuitas Day Trip

Embark on a boat trip from Puerto Vallarta"s marina to the remote beaches of Yelapa and Majahuitas. Accessible only by sea, these hidden gems offer pristine sands and clear waters. In Yelapa, hike to a spectacular waterfall and dive into its refreshing pool. Majahuitas, meanwhile, is a snorkeling paradise, with vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.

Day 3: Snorkeling and Scuba Diving at Los Arcos Marine Park

Just south of Puerto Vallarta, board a guided tour to Los Arcos, a group of granite islands protruding from the sea, declaring itself a national marine park. These waters are perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving, boasting a rich biodiversity, including tropical fish, manta rays, and occasional dolphins. The underwater visibility and warm temperatures make it an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced divers.

Day 4: Surfing in Sayulita

Travel by bus or car to the quaint surf town of Sayulita, about an hour"s drive north of Puerto Vallarta. Renowned for its consistent waves, Sayulita offers surf lessons for all levels. After riding the waves, explore the vibrant streets adorned with colorful murals and handicraft shops.

Day 5: Departure

As your adventure in Banderas Bay comes to a close, take one last morning walk along the beach, soaking in the serene views and reflecting on an unforgettable journey filled with natural beauty and thrilling exploits.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Marina Vallarta

Why Visit?

Epic Adventure Itinerary in Marina Vallarta

Day 1: Arrival and Marina Exploration

Begin your adventure in the vibrant Marina Vallarta. Arrive at Puerto Vallarta International Airport, just 5 minutes away. Check into a waterfront hotel to drop off your bags. Head out for a stroll along the Marina"s boardwalk; here, you"ll find luxury yachts bobbing on the waves and an impressive lighthouse offering panoramic views. Dinner at one of the marina’s acclaimed seafood restaurants provides a perfect end to your evening.

Day 2: Yachting and Snorkeling

Rise early and charter a yacht from Marina Vallarta for a day on the Pacific. Sail around the Bay of Banderas; your captain can guide you to the best snorkeling spots near Los Arcos Marine Park. Dive into the crystal-clear waters to discover vibrant marine life. Enjoy lunch aboard with fresh ceviche and chilled beverages while basking in the sun.

Day 3: Zip-lining and Jungle Adventure

Book a tour with one of the adventure companies located at the marina. A short drive transports you into the lush Sierra Madre jungles. Experience the thrill of zip-lining through treetops, rappelling down waterfalls, and crossing hanging bridges. Learn about the rich biodiversity from your guide.

Day 4: Golfing and Spa

Challenge yourself with a round of golf at the Marina Vallarta Golf Club, designed by Joe Finger. The course features tropical landscapes and strategic water hazards. After golf, unwind with a soothing spa treatment back at your hotel, utilizing indigenous techniques and ingredients.

Day 5: Departure

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the marina, soaking up the last views before heading to the airport. Leave Marina Vallarta with memories of thrilling adventures and promises to return.

Interesting Fact: Marina Vallarta was developed in the late 1980s and features a 500-slip marina, making it one of Mexico’s premier boating destinations.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Nuevo Vallarta

Why Visit?

Adventure Awaits in Nuevo Vallarta: An Itinerary for Thrill Seekers

Day 1: Arrival and Marietas Islands Exploration

Kickstart your journey in Nuevo Vallarta by diving into the azure waters of the Pacific. Head to the marina and join a guided tour to the Marietas Islands, a small archipelago renowned for its hidden beach, Playa del Amor. Tours usually depart in the morning and include snorkeling where you can swim among hundreds of tropical fish. Remember, access to the hidden beach is limited to protect its fragile ecosystem, so booking in advance is crucial.

Day 2: Zip-lining and ATV Adventure

Gear up for a day filled with adrenaline-pumping action. Join a zip-lining tour through the verdant Sierra Madre Mountains. Tours typically offer pickups from major hotels and last about 4 hours. Post zip-lining, rev up for an ATV ride through rugged terrains and alongside beautiful rivers. These tours not only quench your thirst for adventure but also provide a glimpse into the lush flora and fauna of the region.

Day 3: Sayulita Surfing Safari

A 25-minute drive north will take you to the vibrant town of Sayulita, a surfers’ paradise. Surf rental shops are abundant; grab a board and hit the waves, or book a lesson if you’re a novice. After surfing, stroll through the town’s colorful streets, dotted with local art shops and cozy cafes, perfect for a relaxed afternoon.

Day 4: Hiking the Monkey Mountain

Cap off your adventure with a hike up Cerro del Mono (Monkey Mountain) for breathtaking views of the bay. Tours usually start early to avoid the heat and are led by knowledgeable local guides who explain the area’s biodiversity.

Departure

As your journey ends, reflect on the thrills and spills of Nuevo Vallarta, a hidden gem for adventure enthusiasts. Each experience here is designed to leave you with lasting memories and stories to tell.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Los Arcos National Marine Park

Why Visit?

Adventure Itinerary at Los Arcos National Marine Park

Day 1: Dive into Discovery

Start your adventure in the vibrant town of Puerto Vallarta, where colorful streets and friendly locals set the stage. Head to the bustling Marina Vallarta and board a traditional panga boat, an exciting 30-minute ride that will take you directly to the heart of Los Arcos National Marine Park. As your boat slices through the azure waters, keep an eye out for playful dolphins accompanying your journey.

Upon arrival at Los Arcos, a dramatic series of granite islands jutting out of the sea, gear up for an unforgettable snorkeling experience. The waters here are crystal clear, offering visibility up to 30 feet deep in some areas. Explore underwater tunnels and caves that house a bustling marine life, from vibrant parrotfish to elusive giant manta rays. It"s a marine biodiversity hotspot, with the arches acting as a magnet for sea birds and aquatic creatures.

Day 2: Kayaking and Bird Watching

Kick off your morning by kayaking around the islands. The calm waters at dawn make for a serene paddle. Glide past the towering rock formations and discover secluded coves only accessible by kayak. As you paddle, look up to spot some of the park’s avian residents, including Blue-footed Boobies and Red-billed Tropicbirds.

Post-kayaking, strap on your hiking boots for a guided trek on the islands. The rocky terrain offers not just a physical challenge but also rewards you with panoramic views of the surrounding ocean and a closer look at the unique flora that thrives in this salty, wind-swept environment.

Day 3: Deep-sea Fishing and Sunset Cruise

Conclude your adventure with a thrilling deep-sea fishing trip. The waters around Los Arcos are teeming with marlin, sailfish, and yellowfin tuna. After an exhilarating day, unwind with a sunset cruise around the bay. As the sun dips below the horizon, reflect on the unforgettable experiences at Los Arcos National Marine Park, a true paradise for adventure lovers.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Zona Romantica

Why Visit?

Welcome to Zona Romántica, Puerto Vallarta"s vibrant heart, where cobblestone streets meet the shimmering waters of Banderas Bay. This itinerary will immerse adventure seekers into the cultural and natural splendor of one of Mexico’s most picturesque neighborhoods.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Start your adventure by flying into Puerto Vallarta International Airport. From there, grab a taxi or an Uber and head straight to Zona Romántica, about a 30-minute drive. Check into one of the charming boutique hotels nestled amongst the vibrant facades. Spend your first evening strolling the Malecón, a beachside promenade lined with contemporary sculptures and street performers, pulsating with the energy of local life and culture.

Day 2: Playa Los Muertos and Water Sports

Head to Playa Los Muertos, the most famous beach in Puerto Vallarta. Rent a paddleboard or kayak and explore the coastline at your pace. Dive shops offer snorkeling and diving trips to Los Arcos marine park, where the underwater caves and reefs teem with sea life. After your aquatic adventure, enjoy fresh seafood at one of the beachfront restaurants.

Day 3: Hiking and History

Embark on a guided hike to Colomitos Beach or the Palo Maria Waterfalls, where lush jungle trails open up to stunning ocean views. Learn about the region"s rich biodiversity from your guide. In the afternoon, visit the Olas Altas Farmers Market to sample local delicacies and artisan crafts.

Day 4: Sierra Madre ATV Adventure

For a pulse-pounding day, join an ATV tour into the Sierra Madre Mountains. This off-road adventure offers breathtaking vistas, remote villages, and a taste of the rugged terrain that defines this region. Return to Zona Romántica for a sunset dinner at a rooftop bar, celebrating the end of an unforgettable journey.

Each step in Zona Romántica offers a blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for thrill-seekers and culture enthusiasts alike.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.