Puerto Vallarta, Mexico with H & B
If you’re looking for a Mexican beach getaway that isn’t Cancun or Cabo, Puerto Vallarta might just be the perfect place. Nestled between the Sierra Madre mountains and the Pacific Ocean, this coastal city blends culture, outdoor adventure, and laid-back luxury like no other. From cobblestone streets and colorful mercados to jungle-fringed beaches and all-inclusive resorts, PV offers a mix of experiences for every kind of traveler.
This May, HBTT is heading to Puerto Vallarta for a week—and we’re doing it two ways. Half the trip will be spent in a local Airbnb, diving into PV’s hidden gems, authentic eats, and off-the-beaten-path adventures. The other half? A luxury stay at an all-inclusive resort to celebrate a destination wedding in paradise. Whether you’re a traveler who prefers boutique stays and local finds or someone who loves an stress-free resort experience, we’ll be covering it all.
Let’s dive in to the best of Puerto Vallarta!
Where to Stay in Puerto Vallarta: Boutique or All-Inclusive?
Puerto Vallarta offers a perfect blend of boutique stays, luxury resorts, and hidden-gem accommodations, making it easy to tailor your trip to your travel style. Whether you crave authentic charm in the heart of town or a high-end beachfront retreat, we can help you find the perfect stay.
Local Stays: Immersing in the Heart of Puerto Vallarta
For the first half of our trip, we’re staying in an Airbnb in the Romantic Zone, one of PV’s most lively and walkable neighborhoods. This area is packed with cafes, art galleries, and street markets, giving us the chance to experience the city like locals. Staying in a boutique rental allows us to wake up to the sounds of the city, grab fresh pastries from a panadería, and wander the colorful streets at our own pace. Plus, it’s the best way to be close to Puerto Vallarta’s hidden gems, local shops, and must-visit excursions.
For travelers who love unique stays, here are some boutique hotels worth checking out:
Casa Kimberly – A romantic, luxury boutique hotel in Elizabeth Taylor’s former home, complete with an infinity pool and stunning city views. (starting at $475/night)
Villa Lola Boutique Hotel – An adults-only retreat with a rooftop terrace, located just steps from the best bars and restaurants in the Romantic Zone. (starting at $285/night)
Lofts Malecon Vallarta – Modern, stylish apartments perfect for travelers who want the comfort of an Airbnb but the amenities of a hotel. (starting at $89/night)
We found a stunning Airbnb with an infinity pool and ocean views for less than $90 a night, proving that you don’t need to splurge to stay somewhere incredible in PV. If you’re interested in our Airbnb recommendations, we include them in our Half-Board and Full-Board itineraries (request only).
All-Inclusive Resorts: Relaxation & Luxury by the Beach
For the second half of our trip, we’re checking into an all-inclusive resort to celebrate a destination wedding. Puerto Vallarta’s all-inclusives aren’t just about unlimited margaritas (though we won’t say no to that!); they offer world-class spas, oceanfront pools, and incredible dining experiences.
Some of the best all-inclusive resorts in PV include:
Garza Blanca Resort & Spa – A five-star luxury resort nestled between jungle and sea, with gourmet dining, a private beach, and stunning infinity pools. (starting at $414/night)
Casa Velas – A boutique all-inclusive designed for adults-only, featuring a private beach club, lush gardens, and personalized service. (starting at $758/night)
Hotel Mousai – A chic, modern adults-only resort with a rooftop infinity pool and an exclusive, upscale atmosphere. (starting at $450/night)
If you’re looking for personalized hotel or Airbnb recommendations, our Half-Board and Full-Board itineraries include our top stays tailored to your budget and style (available upon request).
Excursions & Outdoor Adventures in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta isn’t just about beautiful beaches and resort pools—it’s an adventure lover’s dream. We’ve picked out the best hidden jungle hikes, island getaways, and whale-watching tours for you to explore during your stay.
Hidden Beaches & Island Escapes
If you’re looking for secluded, postcard-perfect beaches, skip the crowded resort areas and head to these hidden gems:
Playa Las Gemelas – A small, quiet stretch of soft sand and turquoise water, just a short drive south of PV.
Colomitos Beach – A tiny cove with golden sand and emerald waters, accessible only by boat or a jungle hike from Boca de Tomatlán.
Yelapa – A car-free fishing village only accessible by boat, where you can hike to waterfalls, enjoy fresh seafood, and lounge on an unspoiled beach.
Jungle Adventures & Waterfalls
The lush jungle surrounding Puerto Vallarta is full of hiking trails and waterfalls waiting to be explored. Some of our top picks:
El Eden – A jungle adventure park with natural pools, waterfalls, and zip lines. (Bonus: It was a filming location for Predator!)
The Palo Maria Waterfall Hike – A moderately challenging hike leading to a stunning waterfall and natural swimming hole.
Quimixto Waterfall – A beautiful jungle waterfall near Yelapa, reached by a short hike or horseback ride.
Wildlife Encounters: Whale Watching & Snorkeling
Puerto Vallarta’s waters are teeming with marine life, and if you’re visiting between December and March, you’ll have the chance to see humpback whales up close. Even outside whale season, there are amazing snorkeling and divingspots:
Marietas Islands (Hidden Beach) – A protected national park with vibrant marine life and the famous "Hidden Beach" inside a collapsed cave.
Los Arcos Marine Park – A top snorkeling and diving site with tunnels, caves, and tons of tropical fish.
Majahuitas Cove – Crystal-clear waters perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and spotting sea turtles.
Adrenaline Rush: Zip Lines, ATVs & Boat Tours
For those craving a little more adventure, Puerto Vallarta has plenty of action-packed activities:
ATV Tours through the Sierra Madre – Ride through the jungle, cross rivers, and visit remote villages.
Canopy River Zip Line & Jorullo Bridge – Soar above the jungle on one of the longest zip lines in Mexico and walk across the impressive Jorullo Suspension Bridge.
Rhythms of the Night Boat Tour – A sunset cruise to Las Caletas beach, where you’ll experience an epic dinner show under the stars.
Not convinced yet? Don’t worry, there’s more!
Local Shops & Markets: Where to Shop in Puerto Vallarta
One of our favorite ways to experience a destination is by exploring its local markets, artisan boutiques, and specialty shops—and Puerto Vallarta delivers on all fronts. Whether you’re hunting for handmade crafts, authentic Mexican textiles, or boutique finds, the city is packed with vibrant spots to shop.
Mercado Municipal Rio Cuale
If you’re looking for authentic, locally made goods, this open-air market in the heart of downtown Puerto Vallarta is a must-visit. Here, you’ll find:
Hand-painted pottery and colorful Talavera tiles
Embroidered textiles and handwoven blankets
Locally made silver jewelry
Mexican leather goods (bags, belts, and huaraches)
Insider Tip: The vendors expect a bit of haggling, so don’t be afraid to negotiate (politely).
Olas Altas Farmers Market (Saturdays Only)
Every Saturday morning (November–April), this farmers market brings together local artisans, organic produce vendors, and gourmet food stalls in Lázaro Cárdenas Park. Some highlights include:
Freshly baked Mexican pastries & homemade salsas
Locally roasted coffee & craft chocolates
Handcrafted jewelry & ceramics
Organic honey & small-batch mezcal
La Isla Shopping Village
For a more modern, upscale shopping experience, head to La Isla Shopping Village, an open-air mall with a mix of international brands and local boutiques. It’s a great spot for:
High-end Mexican designers
Luxury fashion & beachwear
Air-conditioned cafés & wine bars for a break from the heat
Peyote People & Colectika
If you love authentic Mexican folk art, these two sister stores are absolute gems. They specialize in Huichol art, which features intricate, beaded designs created by the indigenous Wixárika people. Expect to find:
Hand-beaded skulls, jaguars & animal figurines
Colorful yarn paintings telling spiritual stories
One-of-a-kind handicrafts supporting indigenous communities
Tierra Huichol
Another excellent spot for Huichol art, but with a more gallery-style experience. It’s worth visiting if you’re looking for a statement piece to take home.
LOD Jewelry & Unique Boutiques
If you’re looking for something more contemporary and stylish, LOD Jewelry is a locally owned boutique specializing in minimalist, elegant silver designs inspired by Mexico’s coastline and culture.
Other small-batch boutiques worth checking out:
Nieves Hermosa – Gorgeous handmade Mexican clothing with modern cuts.
Casa Blù – Boho-chic home decor and woven accessories.
Fábrica de Chocolate – A dream for chocolate lovers, offering artisanal, bean-to-bar Mexican chocolate.
Mercado Emiliano Zapata
For a truly local experience, this neighborhood market is where Puerto Vallarta residents shop for fresh produce, spices, and everyday essentials. It’s a great spot to:
Try tropical fruits like mamey and guanábana
Pick up local spices and dried chiles for your own cooking adventures
Find handmade tortillas & fresh cheeses
Vallarta Botanical Gardens Gift Shop
After a visit to the stunning Vallarta Botanical Gardens, stop by their gift shop for some of the best locally sourced souvenirs, including:
Handmade vanilla extract
Locally harvested coffee & honey
Mexican pottery & botanical prints
Puerto Vallarta’s shopping scene is a mix of traditional markets, artisan boutiques, and modern finds. We’ll be stopping at a mix of these markets and shops—so stay tuned for our personal favorites!
Looking for more? no worries.
We’ve complied the best recommendations to make a google maps list just for you! Click the link below and get ready to explore.
Thanks for visiting! Please contact us at info@hbtourandtravel.com for any inquiries.
With Love,
H & B @ HBTT
