Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico’s most beloved destinations, and its appeal is easy to understand. Nestled between the Sierra Madre mountains and the sparkling waters of Banderas Bay on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta combines natural beauty, colonial architecture, world-class dining, and a vibrant arts scene in a way that few Mexican destinations can match. The cobblestone streets of the historic Zona Romantica, the famous Malecon boardwalk, the jungle-backed beaches of the Hotel Zone, and the quieter coves of the Riviera Nayarit to the north all contribute to a destination with real depth and character. Puerto Vallarta also offers excellent whale watching from December through March, sportfishing, zip-lining through the jungle canopy, and day trips to the traditional town of Sayulita. The resort scene ranges from intimate boutique properties to sprawling all-inclusive beachfront complexes. Our Puerto Vallarta travel guides cover the best all-inclusive resorts, top things to do, beaches, restaurants, and everything you need to plan an exceptional Pacific coast getaway.