White sand beaches, cobblestone streets, endless tequila, rich culture, friendly locals and delicious cuisine are what make Puerto Vallarta one of our favorite beach destinations. While the city itself offers tons of exciting things to do, weβre sharing four fabulous day trips from Puerto Vallarta that will make your vacay unforgettable.
The Marieta Islands (Islas Marietas)
Only accessible via certified boat tours, a day trip to the Marieta Islands is a must-do on your next beach vacay. This group of tiny, uninhabited, volcanic islands, just a 15-minute boat ride from Punta de Mita, is home to the regionβs most Instagram-worthy and iconic βhiddenβ beach, Loversβ Beach. Its unique, crater-like shape, diverse wildlife and secluded location make for an incredible Mexico adventureβyou can scuba dive, snorkel, whale watch, kayak, hike and more. Youβll want to get there early, though, since the local government only allows around 116 visitors per day to help preserve the islandsβ ecosystem.
- Exploring the islands from the water. (Photo by: @crack7insta)
- Stunning views of famous Lovers’ Beach. (Photo by: @blondo_)
- Kayaking in the Marieta Islands. (Photo by: @zbirmingham)
Sayulita
What was once a small fishing village with minimal tourist activity, Sayulita is a true gem of Mexicoβs Pacific coast. Although a lot livelier these days, the town still possesses the small beach town vibe thatβll make you want to stay forever. Sayulita is a surferβs paradise with endless surf spots to catch a wave, whether youβre a beginner or a pro. When youβre not on the water, be sure to stop at local restaurant ChocoBanana for a tasty breakfast and wander through the bohemian town of cobblestone streets, pastel-colored buildings and row after row of papel picado beautifully hung just above you.
- Mexican pom poms from a street vendor. (Photo by: @jshuly)
- Breathtaking views from Sayulita Beach.(Photo by: @carlosenriquec)
- Vibrant papel picado in Sayulita. (Photo by: @suzannelizabeth)
Village of Yelapa
If youβre looking for a day adventure where you can unplug and unwind from city life in Puerto Vallarta, you have to visit Mexicoβs quaint village of Yelapa. Itβs just a 40-minute water taxi from Los Muertos Pier or Boca de Tomatlan and offers up artsy vibes, crystal-clear water, vibrant marine life, lively locals and limited Wi-Fi (yes, thatβs a good thing). Enjoy the slower pace of this small, coastal town by lounging on the beach, exploring the local village, hiking the lush terrain or snorkeling in the aquamarine water.
- Mountain and beach views. (Photo by: @edvaldrete)
- We could live right here on these cliffs. (Photo by: @micaileyy)
- We prefer this kind of traffic jam. (Photo by: @kahemy_)
Mismaloya
Calling all old-time movie buffs! Spend the day living like Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor in the beautiful town of Mismaloya, just a 30-minute bus ride from Puerto Vallarta. The 1964 filming location of John Huston-classic The Night of the Iguana offers visitors a more intimate beach town experience, with pristine beaches and oceanfront restaurants serving up fresh, locally sourced seafood. Following the debut of the 1960s Hollywood film, many celebrities have dawned the small coastal town over the years and have even bought prime real estate in the area for its laid-back lifestyle and natural beauty. Mismaloya is, hands down, one of our fav day trips from Puerto Vallarta.
Ready to check these places out for yourself? Take a look at these fabulous, all-inclusive Puerto Vallarta deals you donβt want to miss out on! If youβre already planning your beach vacay (like we are), be sure to add these awesome local restaurants and nightlife spots to your list of to-dos!
Gwendolyn Houston
I would love to cruise with you guys again. Please keep me posted on more cruises
Rachel Tellez
Hi Gwendolyn, glad to hear you’ve enjoyed a cruise with us! We always have some great cruise deals going onβfeel free to check them out here. π