Puerto Vallarta Mexico for First Time Visitors

Situated on the gorgeous Mexican coastline between the Pacific Ocean and the Sierra Madre mountains, Puerto Vallarta is a stunning resort town, popular for its gorgeous golden beaches, lively center, and fun-filled nightlife.

A fun hub for those who enjoy a relaxed beach lifestyle and adventure lovers alike, this stunning town is one of Mexico’s most bustling spots for tourists seeking a relaxing overseas vacation.

If it's your first time here though, there's plenty to add to your bucket list. From luxurious hotels to some of the best restaurants in town, to all the best things to see and do, here's the perfect trip for first timers in Puerto Vallarta.

Best Hotels in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is a dream destination for many, and there’s a great selection of iconic hotels spread across the area, no matter what kind of getaway you’re looking to enjoy. From iconic adults-only boutique resorts, to spacious all-inclusive spots with child-friendly entertainment that are fit for the whole family, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect stay for your first Puerto Vallarta getaway here.

Whether you’re looking for somewhere with a kids club, a spot on the beach, or simply a luxurious retreat to spend a couple of weeks relaxing at, let’s take a look at some of Purto Vallarta’s best hotel options.

Hotel Mio Vallarta, Puerto Vallarta

Situated on the front of Puerto Vallarta, with stunning views across the sea, is the gorgeous five-star Hotel Mio Vallarta. This unique, adults-only property sits just a 3-minute walk from the golden sands of the Villa del Mar Beach, where guests can enjoy a stroll along the sands.

This gorgeous hotel is modern in design and in its amenities, boasting everything on-site that one could dream of for the perfect adults-only getaway or honeymoon. There’s a spacious outdoor swimming pool complete with a selection of relaxing cabana rentals, free private parking for guests who plan on renting a car, a terrace, a 24-hour front desk, free Wi-Fi, a snack bar, an in-house bar, a business area, a fitness center, and even a fabulous restaurant.

Each of the modern rooms at this hotel is designed with a timeless, yet minimalist aesthetic, and boasts modern amenities including air-conditioning, a desk, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, a balcony, and a private bathroom with a shower.

Grand Miramar Luxury Suites, Puerto Vallarta

Situated on the hills of the exclusive and opulent Conchas Chinas area, this beautiful, high-end hotel is nothing short of magical. As the only property that boasts a stunning view of the full bay, you best believe that the views from here are next level! It’s a 7-minute drive from the famous boardwalk of Puerto Vallarta, making this hotel a great choice for anyone who prefers a more exclusive retreat, rather than a fun-filled beach getaway or bustling escape in the heart of the city.

There’s plenty to enjoy on-site at this gorgeous resort, including a selection of three different pools, an activity space, a hot tub, and even an adults-only terrace for when you need a break from the little ones (where you can find two hot tubs and a heated pool to relax in). There’s a huge range of other great amenities here too, including a snack bar (open from 9:30 am to 18:30 pm), complimentary round-trip transportation to guests, and plenty of event space to accommodate professional business meetings, events, and weddings. Guests can also enjoy a range of treatments at the on-site spa.

Visitors are treated like royalty at this stunning hilltop resort, thanks to a delectable menu curated by the property’s very own private chef. Want to enjoy dining at a fabulous restaurant? Grand Miramar has you covered, with two on-site specialty restaurants. Guests can also enjoy 24-hour suite service and poolside snacks, as well as a breakfast buffet, and a wine and spirit selection exclusively for adults.

This all-suite hotel pulls out all the stops when it comes to its accommodations. With a gorgeous modern decor style and flawless execution, you can expect a great range of in-room design touches and great amenities, including a flat-screen TV, and possibly even your very own exclusive, outdoor hot tub.

Casa Maria Hotel, Puerto Vallarta

Situated in the gorgeous resort area of Puerto Vallarta, is this beautiful adults-only boutique hotel and gallery. It’s a short distance from the likes of Los Muertos Beach, Amapas Beach, Conchas Chinas Beach, and even Puerto Vallarta International Convention Center and Aquaventuras Park.

Aside from the many neighboring attractions and landmarks, there’s plenty on offer on-site. Despite its small size, Casa Maria boasts concierge services, an outdoor swimming pool, a gorgeous terrace, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property.

Each of the guest rooms provides visitors with a colorful and relaxing spot to retreat to, with plenty of great amenities, including air-conditioning, a desk, a coffee machine, a fridge, an oven, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, a balcony, and even gorgeous views of the communal outdoor pool.

Riu Jalisco, Puerto Vallarta

Located facing the beachfront in the beautiful area of Nuevo Vallarta (just north of Puerto Vallarta’s main area) is this stunning, family-friendly, five-star resort. This all-inclusive resort hotel boasts plenty of unmissable things to do, right on the doorstep, including Nuevo Vallarta’s North Beach, Bucerias Bay, and even some great activities such as windsurfing and snorkeling.

There’s plenty to enjoy on-site for all the family too, including a spacious garden, a shared lounge, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, a kids club, a hot tub, and evening entertainment suitable for the whole family! There are also plenty of convenient amenities, such as a 24-hour front desk, an ATM, free Wi-Fi throughout, and a buffet breakfast served daily at the on-site restaurant.

Guests can enjoy contemporary rooms, each fitted with air-conditioning, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and even a balcony that boasts great views.

Secrets Vallarta Bay Resort, Puerto Vallarta

Another fabulous adults-only hotel is the gorgeous and luxurious Secrets Vallarta resort, which sits on the golden sands of the Pacific Coast, and is within walking distance of some of Puerto Vallarta’s most outstanding attractions, including the infamous ‘El Malecon’ boardwalk, and Puerto Vallarta’s center, where you can enjoy a day out sightseeing and shopping.

Despite its close proximity to nearby attractions, there’s plenty to enjoy on-site at this award-winning Resort & Spa. With a world-class spa, an outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, and a concierge to book excursions with, there’s always something exciting to enjoy here.

When it comes to drinking and dining, there’s also a great selection of reservation-free on-site restaurants, with cuisines ranging from Pan-Asian to elegant French dining. There are also in-room Secrets Boxes for your private room service delivery, and three lively on-site bars, where you can indulge in a great range of domestic and international brands. 

Each of the elegant and upscale luxurious guest rooms at this resort boasts beautiful contemporary decor, marble floors, stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, a turn-down service, a daily-refreshed mini-bar, and a private bathroom with its very own hot tub, for ultimate relaxation.

Best Restaurants in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

When visiting Puerto Vallarta for the first time, many visitors choose to only dine on-site at their resort. Sadly, this means they often miss out on some of the great restaurants here, that keep people coming back time and time again.

From delicious, upscale Italian dining with sweeping views of the ocean, to upbeat and fun-filled grills where you can indulge in bottomless free chips and a wide range of hand-crafted cocktails, there’s something for everyone to enjoy across Puerto Vallarta’s dining scene!

La Cappella Restaurante, Puerto Vallarta

When finding the perfect restaurant to visit for your first stay in the Mexican resort town of Puerto Vallarta, an Italian spot may not be first on your list. Take a visit to La Cappella Restaurante though, and all of that should change.

With a romantic and elegant atmosphere, with an open-air setting, this stunning restaurant is the place to be if you’re looking for a high-quality dining experience with panoramic views across both the city and Banderas Bay. Not only does it have a more than picturesque backdrop, and authentic and dreamy interior design, but the food here is next level! Previous diners highly recommend the rack of lamb and the salmon.

Casa Prime, Puerto Vallarta

Casa Prime, previously known as Sonora Prime is one of the area’s most beloved classic grill houses, where guests can expect a vibrant ambiance and truly outstanding service. A popular spot for tourists and locals alike, this outstanding grill spot boasts a varied and extensive menu that caters well to both meat-lovers and vegetarians alike! - Making it the perfect place to visit with the whole family.

Whether you’re looking for a great choice of restaurant to celebrate a special occasion, or are just on the hunt for a casual spot to grab a great meal and a few drinks, Casa Prime is a truly fantastic choice.

Restaurante Barcelona Tapas , Puerto Vallarta

If you’re looking for the best place in town for a Tapas menu, then look no further than Restaurante Barcelona Tapas, where you can indulge in a delectable Sunday Brunch, and a variety of mouthwatering, Spanish-style small plates. Eat on a covered terrace, and enjoy a sangria over stunning views of the surrounding city and sea.

Previous guests have praised this restaurant for its attentive and friendly staff, stunning views, and delicious food. The seafood paella is highly recommended, and diners also recommend sampling the fresh cheese plate if you’re looking for a good sharing option.

De Cantaro Mexican Grill, Puerto Vallarta

Another highly recommended spot for meat lovers is the outstanding De Cantaro Mexican Grill. Located in the heart of Puerto Vallarta’s Old Town, guests can indulge in a concoction of steaks, burgers, and cocktails in a lively, open-air atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to dine al fresco, or in the air-conditioned dining room, there’s a relaxed, modern vibe, that ensures the perfect evening out.

Refreshing cocktails are crafted by skilled bartenders and mixologists, with many unique creations made directly to order based on guests preferences, so whether you’re on the hunt for a delicious meal or just fancy stopping by for a couple of great drinks, De Cantaro is the place to be!

Margarita Grill, Puerto Vallarta

Situated in the heart of the Romantic Zone in Puerto Vallarta, this fun-filled Grill and Bar is the place to be for mouth-watering regional cuisine and a vibrant cultural experience. With delightful, hand-crafted margaritas, complimentary chips and salsa, and a variety of delicious and authentic dishes, it’s a great place for those on the hunt for a relaxing evening out.

Whether you’re in the mood for customized guacamole, garlic shrimp, breaded skirt steak, or even a simple fish fillet, there’s something for everyone to enjoy here.

Best Things to do in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

If you’re planning on a fun-filled stay in Puerto Vallarta, and want to experience as much as you possibly can during your stay in this little slice of Mexican paradise, then you’re in luck! Whether it’s a pre-Hispanic show that celebrates various Aztec traditions, or an exhilarating ride on a zipline - This gorgeous destination has you covered!

No matter what you’d like to spend your time doing during your first-ever visit to Puerto Vallarta, let’s take a look at some of the top attractions and activities on offer.

Go Whale and Dolphin Watching

If you’re looking for a truly unique way to spend your first-ever Puerto Vallarta getaway, why not experience the true magic of the Pacific Ocean with an excursion that takes you out on the water to see beautiful dolphins and majestic humpback whales in Banderas Bay? See these stunning animals as they play, jump, and swim through their natural habitat.

No matter when you choose to take this excursion, every day will present a different experience, with the animals taking the lead on the itinerary. Tour operators can’t always predict where they will be found, so they simply allow the animals to guide you along their preferred route for the day.

Guests can also enjoy an open bar, and food on-board to enjoy during the trip.

Go Ziplining

When on any vacation, it’s the perfect time to try out a new and exciting, adrenaline-pumping activity! At this great zipline facility in Puerto Vallarta, guests can enjoy sailing along through the trees on some of the city’s newest, highest, and safest ziplines.

Once you’ve experienced a thrilling ride, there are also plenty of other great things to enjoy at this facility, including an authentic Mexican restaurant, and even a tequila-tasting experience for the adults to enjoy!

See the Mayahuel Live Show

Located at the Teatro Vallarta Centro Cultural in Puerto Vallarta, this traditional live show takes you on a journey to uncover the life of a mythical figure from Mexican and Nahuatl mythology. Both educational and exciting, this thrilling performance combines colorful outfits, fun live music, and traditional dance numbers to immerse visitors in the rich culture and ancient traditions of Mexico.

This captivating pre-Hispanic spectacle showcases ancient Aztec dances, and traditional musical instruments such as clay flutes and drums, allowing you to experience a unique display of history like nothing you have ever seen before.

Visit the Nearby Beaches & Towns of San Pancho and Sayulita

If it’s your first time in Puerto Vallarta, one way to truly make the most of your time in this vibrant slice of Mexico is to visit the neighboring towns and beaches. On this tour, guests will have the opportunity to visit San Pancho, where they can uncover streets lined with Huichol crafts, and the quaint little surfer town of Sayulita, with it’s breath-taking beach.

This full-day tour allows guests the opportunity to uncover more than just Puerto Vallarta during their getaway and provides a unique insight into a part of Mexican culture that you may otherwise not be able to experience.

Tour the City!

One of the best ways of exploring Puerto Vallarta is with a tour of the center! Through this tour, guests can experience a picture-perfect walk through the central area of Malecon, and stop at some of Mexico’s signature spots for tours and tastings! Whether you’re an avid coffee drinker, or simply can’t wait to taste the tequila, this tour has it all. With a tour of a distillery, a tour of a local organic coffee factory, and tastings of both, there’s little left to want from this exciting day out in the city.