Puerto Vallarta Fun

A Lighthearted Guide to Sun, Sea and Senior-Friendly Adventures

Puerto Vallarta fun is not just a phrase—it’s practically a promise. Nestled along Mexico’s gorgeous Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta (or PV, as the cool kids and locals say) is a vibrant destination filled with art, history, nightlife, and more sandy bliss than you can shake a beach towel at. Whether you’re a snowbird with a suitcase full of SPF 50, a family with energetic kids, or a solo LGBTQ senior traveller looking to unwind and connect, this paradise has you covered.

This post has all the essentials: the best beaches around Puerto Vallarta, Puerto Vallarta Mexico attractions, Puerto Vallarta recreation, and our favourite tips on what to do in Puerto Vallarta with family. Let’s dive in, amigos!

Must See Puerto Vallarta Mexico Attractions

The Malecón

This legendary boardwalk is part art gallery, part street festival, and all-around must-see. Sculptures line the oceanfront path, and street performers dazzle during the golden hour. Seniors love the flat terrain and festive air. Expect spontaneous dancing, mariachi music, and someone selling the best mango on a stick you’ll ever eat.

Tip: Go around 6 p.m. for that perfect sunset selfie—no filter needed.

Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish

If architecture had a queen, this crown-topped church would wear it proudly. Wander inside for a serene break and peek at some old-school Mexican religious art.

Caution: The steps are steep. Consider it a mini workout, or just pause halfway and say it’s for the view.

Pro Tip: Visit in early December for the Feast of Our Lady. It’s like Mardi Gras but holier and with more tamales.

Explore the Neighbourhoods

Zona Romántica

This LGBTQ-friendly haven is bursting with colour and charm. Boutique stores, quirky cafes, and Los Muertos Beach—this is where Puerto Vallarta fun truly thrives. Grab a margarita, rent a lounger, and watch the pelicans dive bomb like tiny, feathered daredevils.

Marina Vallarta

Upscale and tranquil, Marina Vallarta has yachts that will make you say, “I could live on that.” Enjoy fine dining, stroll along the marina, or climb El Faro Lighthouse for panoramic views.

Golf Fans: Marina Vallarta Golf Club offers scenic fairways and a chance to work on your swing, without working too hard.

Puerto Vallarta Fun: Get Around Like a Local

Puerto Vallarta is walkable—if you’re part mountain goat. The cobblestone streets are picturesque but treacherous. Seniors, pack grippy shoes. Also, beware of the high curbs. They seem to have been designed for NBA players.

• Walking: Great for downtown and Zona Romántica.
• Bus: Cheap, cheerful, and sometimes comes with a live accordionist. Like with any transit system, be sure to know where you are going first. This is especially true if your spanish is no bueno.
• Taxi: No meters, so agree on a fare first. I say this because you can quickly get taken to undesirable places.
• Uber: Reliable, affordable, and air-conditioned. Bless it.

Airport Arrival Tip: Ignore the Time Share Gauntlet right after customs. Smile, say “No gracias,” and head outside for your real taxi or Uber. Another tip on a lesson I learned the hard way, these “marketers” will lie to you and pretend to be associated with your ride share if you’ve prearranged. Although they didn’t know how much tequila I could drink before moving on!

Puerto Vallarta Cultural Attractions

Puerto Vallarta fun isn’t all beach and booze. Culture lives here too, and it’s waiting to surprise you.

Cuale Cultural Center

Located on peaceful Isla Cuale, this artsy nook has rotating exhibitions, classes, and community charm. Bonus: It’s shaded, quiet, and near the iguana reserve. Yes, iguanas. Big ones.

Los Arcos Marine Park

The underwater rock arches are just off the coast, perfect for snorkeling, scuba, or kayaking. You’ll see tropical fish, coral, and maybe even a turtle with a better tan than you.

Galleria Dante

The largest fine art gallery in PV, Galleria Dante is filled with paintings, sculptures, and works from over 60 artists. Seniors love the tranquil courtyard. Bonus: There’s a wine bar next door.

Naval Historical Museum

A treasure trove of naval artifacts, maps, and model ships. Kids love the cannons. Adults love the air conditioning.

Best Beaches Around Puerto Vallarta

You came for sun and sand? We got it. Here’s where Puerto Vallarta fun hits peak relaxation.

Playa de los Muertos

Yes, “Beach of the Dead” sounds dramatic, but it’s lively, colorful, and central to PV’s beach life. Great for families, accessible for seniors, and ideal for sipping something fruity while judging other people’s volleyball skills.

Conchas Chinas

Quiet, elegant, and slightly off-the-beaten-path, this beach features tide pools and stunning photo ops. Wear water shoes and bring a book. This is paradise, not spring break.

Punta de Mita

About 45 minutes north, Punta de Mita is a calm-water escape perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and long naps under palapas.

Puerto Vallarta Recreation

Let’s talk action. Or at least some mild activity between margaritas.

Whale Watching

From December to March, Banderas Bay becomes a whale playground. Companies like Ecotours de México and Vallarta Adventures offer boat tours ranging from zippy zodiacs to comfy catamarans. Expect 3-4 hours of spouting whales, playful dolphins, and plenty of “Did you see that?!”

Review: “I cried. A whale breached right next to the boat. Best day ever.” – Karen, 68, Edmonton.

Bonus: Many tours also include snacks, drinks, and onboard naturalists who make marine biology sound sexy.

Cooking Classes

Learn to cook like abuela! Many classes begin with a visit to the local mercado to pick out fresh ingredients. You’ll leave with a belly full of enchiladas and a new respect for masa.

Public Tennis Courts in Puerto Vallarta:

1. Parque Parota: Located in the Hotel Zone, Parque Parota offers three well-maintained outdoor hard courts. It’s also the official venue for the Puerto Vallarta Open ATP Challenger. The facility includes a tennis shop and is popular among both tennis and pickleball players. (primaltennis.com)
2. Canchas de Tenis at the Sheraton: Situated near Centro and Zona Romántica, this facility has four hard courts that are open to the public for a fee. They also offer tennis lessons and have a small shop for equipment. (primaltennis.com)
3. Canto del Sol Tennis Club: This club features two outdoor red clay courts and four covered hard courts, providing options for different playing preferences. The courts are available to the public for a fee, and the club offers tennis instruction as well. (primaltennis.com)

Bike Rentals in Puerto Vallarta:

1. Bici Bucerias: Located in Marina Vallarta, Bici Bucerias offers a wide selection of road, gravel, mountain, and cruiser bikes for rent. They also provide guided cycling tours ranging from 10 to 100 kilometers. (Bici Bucerias)
2. Vallarta Bikes: Situated in Nuevo Vallarta, Vallarta Bikes rents urban bikes suitable for city exploration. They offer affordable rates and are open Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 2 pm. (vallartabikes)
3. Vallarta Food Tours: In addition to their popular food tours, they offer Specialized Roll bike rentals. Rentals include a lock and helmet, and baby seats are available free of charge. (Puerto Vallarta Food Tours)
4. PVBikes: Located in Marina Vallarta next to El Faro Lighthouse, PVBikes offers a fleet of brand-new bikes for rent, catering to various cycling needs. (Tripadvisor)

These options should provide you with ample opportunities to enjoy tennis and cycling during your stay in Puerto Vallarta.

Golf Courses:

1. Vista Vallarta Golf Club – Nicklaus Course

• Designer: Jack Nicklaus
• Overview: Perched atop the property’s highest elevation, this course offers breathtaking views of Puerto Vallarta, the Marina, and Banderas Bay. The layout features rolling fairways, deep bunkers, and elevated greens, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience for golfers.
• Website: Vista Vallarta Golf Club – Nicklaus Coursevisitpuertovallarta.com+4Invited+4Invited+4

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2. Vista Vallarta Golf Club – Weiskopf Course

• Designer: Tom Weiskopf
• Overview: Contrasting the Nicklaus Course, the Weiskopf Course is set amidst dense jungles, deep ravines, and swift creeks. Its design offers a dramatic and challenging play, making it a favorite among golfers seeking a unique experience.
• Website: Vista Vallarta Golf Club – Weiskopf CourseInvitedInvited

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3. Marina Vallarta Golf Club

• Designer: Joe Finger
• Overview: Located in the heart of Marina Vallarta, this 18-hole course combines tropical ambiance with views of the Sierra Madre and Banderas Bay. Its proximity to major hotels and the airport makes it a convenient choice for tourists. The course features a hacienda-style clubhouse and hosts the annual International Pro AM tournament.
• Website: Marina Vallarta Golf ClubGolf Mexico Tee Times+2Invited+2golfscape+2

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Each of these courses offers public access with options to book tee times online. Whether you’re seeking challenging terrains or picturesque views, these courses provide memorable golfing experiences in Puerto Vallarta.

Day Trips: Extend your Fun Beyond Puerto Vallarta

San Sebastián del Oeste

A mountain town frozen in time. Formerly a bustling silver mining village, now a peaceful escape with coffee farms, artisan shops, and cobbled lanes. It’s like going to Colonial Williamsburg but with tequila.

Yelapa

Only reachable by boat, Yelapa feels like a secret you’re lucky to know. Hike to the waterfall, eat pie from a beach vendor, and pretend you’re in a movie. No roads, no rush.

Marieta Islands

Home to the “Hidden Beach,” this protected area is a biosphere reserve. Snorkelling, bird watching, and boat rides abound. Requires advanced booking and sometimes permits.

What to Do in Puerto Vallarta With Family

Traveling with kids or grandkids? Puerto Vallarta’s got family fun galore.

Vallarta Zoo

This hands-on zoo lets you feed giraffes, zebras, and camels. It’s like a petting zoo on steroids. Bring bug spray and your inner child.

Vallarta Adventures

Ziplining, horseback riding, snorkelling—they do it all. Very safety-conscious and English-speaking guides make it ideal for cautious seniors or nervous parents.

Dolphin Encounters

At Aquaventuras Park, you can swim, interact, or just wave at the dolphins. Ethical considerations? The facility focuses on conservation and education.

Tips for Senior Travellers

Puerto Vallarta is wonderfully senior-friendly but keep a few things in mind.

• Mobility: High curbs and cobblestones can be tricky. Use walking sticks or travel with a buddy.
• Airport Arrival: Vendors may try to sell you time-shares disguised as tour offers. Smile, nod, walk away.
• Healthcare: Excellent clinics and pharmacies nearby. Bring your prescription list.
• Solo Traveller? Bird-watching tours and painting classes are great ways to meet people without Tinder.
• Group Trip? Book a dinner cruise. Sunset, seafood, and salsa dancing under the stars.

Puerto Vallarta Nightlife for Every Vibe

Whether you’re a night owl or asleep by 9 p.m., PV offers options.

• La Vaquita: Dance until your knees hurt. Age range: 20-30.
• El Solar: Chill bar on the sand. Great for couples and seniors.
• Mandala: Classy nightclub with a strict dress code and better lighting than your bathroom.
• Bar Morelos Mezcaleria: Sophisticated cocktails and people who say “notes of smoke” unironically.
• Zoo Bar: Jungle-themed, tourist-heavy, unforgettable. You might dance with someone dressed as a lemur.

Your Puerto Vallarta Fun Starts Now!

Puerto Vallarta is more than a vacation—it’s a vibe. With activities for seniors, families, LGBTQ travelers, and everyone in between, the fun here is as endless as the ocean horizon.

Book your adventure today through Al Murray Travel and unlock the Puerto Vallarta fun you didn’t know you needed.

Please note: the opinions expressed in this post should never be construed as advice. The thoughts are based on my experiences and those of my friends and family. Whether traveling, exercising or other activity it is always a matter of personal preference.  Find what you like and enjoy and share if you want with us all!
Also: If considering a change in diet, exercise, nutrition and or supplements, you must consult your medical practitioner to make sure that what you are about to embark upon doesn’t interfere with your current treatments.