Discovering Puerto Vallarta: 5 Must-Do Excursions and Day Trips

Nestled on the picturesque Pacific coast of Mexico, lies Puerto Vallarta, a city bursting with life that caters to all types of travelers.

As an experienced destination wedding travel advisor, I can wholeheartedly recommend Puerto Vallarta as a must-visit destination. I’ve been here multiple times and have always left with unforgettable memories.

Whether you’re planning a destination wedding or simply looking for an incredible getaway, I’ve put together a list of the top five excursions and day trips that will make your stay in Puerto Vallarta even more memorable!

1. Isla Marietas and Playa Del Amor (Hidden Beach)

If you’re looking for a magical experience in Puerto Vallarta, the Marietas Islands (or Isla Marietas) is the place to go. It’s a collection of small islands just off the coast boasting crystal-clear waters and stunning natural rock formations.

The easiest way to get there is to book a tour, which will take you to the islands by speedboat. There are also a variety of tours to choose from, with options to snorkel, dive, see wildlife, and more!

But what really sets the Marietas Islands apart is the hidden beach known as Playa del Amor. This secluded paradise is located inside a cave and can only be accessed by swimming from a boat. The beach was formed by a bomb that hit the island during military training, creating a hole that never grew back. Today, it’s a must-visit stop that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.

Whether you visit Playa del Amor or simply explore the other natural wonders of the Marietas Islands, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience.

2. Tequila tasting

If there’s one spirit Mexico is known for, it’s tequila! But did you know that some of the BEST tequila tours and distilleries are in Puerto Vallarta? 

If you’re a tequila aficionado, you may have heard of the town of Tequila. It’s an amazing place to visit if you have the time, but it’s a bit far from Puerto Vallarta (3.5 to 6.5 hours, depending on your transportation method).

If you can’t squeeze it in, you’ll still have a great experience checking out the tequila and mezcal you’ll find while staying in Puerto Vallarta.

There are a variety of tequila tours you can choose from, most offering transportation to a distillery and lessons about different types of tequila and how they’re made. These tours are not only a great way to sample some of the best tequilas in the world, but they also give you a deeper appreciation of the rich history behind this iconic Mexican spirit.

3. Street taco walking tour

It’s no secret that tacos are a staple of Mexican cuisine, and there’s no better way to explore the diverse and delicious world of tacos than by hitting the streets with a local guide!

These tours will take you to some of the best taquerias and street vendors in Puerto Vallarta, where you’ll sample a wide variety of mouth-watering tacos. Some can even be customized if you’re vegetarian!

No matter which tour you choose, you’re sure to leave with a full belly and a deeper appreciation for the vibrant food culture of Puerto Vallarta.

4. Sayulita

Sayulita is a charming coastal town just a short one-ish hour drive from Puerto Vallarta. Known for its vibrant surf culture, colorful streets, and laid-back vibe, it’s a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Sayulita is also a Pueblo Magico, an initiative led by Mexico’s Secretariat of Tourism to promote towns with unique experiences due to their cultural richness, traditions, and natural beauty!

There’s something for everyone in Sayulita — whether you’re into surfing, yoga, shopping, or simply lounging on the beach. The town is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops.

Overall, Sayulita is the perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway from Puerto Vallarta. With its lively energy, natural beauty, and endless activities, it’s a must-visit for anyone traveling to the region.

5. Playa Colomitos

Located south of Puerto Vallarta is Playa Colomitos, a hidden gem that’s a bit of a trek to reach but also 100% worth the journey. To get there, take a water taxi from Boca de Tomatlán or hike the trail that starts from the same point.

Once there, you’ll be welcomed by a picturesque, secluded beach with crystal-clear waters and a small waterfall. The beach is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing in the sun — but there are no restaurants or shops, so bring your own food and drinks!

If you’re feeling extra adventurous, I recommend this Airbnb Experience where you can hike from Playa Colomitos to Playa Las Animas. While absolutely breathtaking and a fantastic way to visit several iconic, tranquil Puerto Vallarta beaches, it’s not for the faint of heart. So make sure you’re prepared with comfy shoes, sunscreen, and lots of water!

Ready to explore Puerto Vallarta?

Puerto Vallarta truly offers something for everyone, from indulging in tequila tastings to exploring hidden beaches to taking street taco walking tours. The possibilities are endless in this vibrant city, and I have no doubt that you’ll fall in love with its charm and beauty, just like I did!

If you’re planning a wedding, anniversary, or any other celebration and dream of doing it in Puerto Vallarta, I’m here to help make it a reality. As a destination wedding travel advisor, my goal is to make your travels stress-free and memorable. Click here to get started!