Check out our list of local, non-touristy things to do in Puerto Vallarta. While the city is a major hub for visitors, it’s a medium-size city with a popular of more than 200,000 people includes many residential and business areas to explore. In the many towns surrounding Puerto Vallarta there are extensive outdoor activities that are off the beaten path.
Here’s some place and bucket list items to explore:
- Take a boat to a secret beach.
- Eat the freshest local seafood
- Drink Raicilla & Tequila
- Explore local chocolates
- Go hiking in Yelapa and Animas
- Go mountain bike riding
- Walk around the Marina
- Go horseback riding
Top Local Vibes
Mariscos 8 Tostadas
Local favorite seafood restaurant located near Marina Vallarta.
- airy
- amazing
- carefree
- authentic
Vallarta Botanical Gardens
Lush tropical foliage, hummingbird-watching hot spots, and orchid sanctuaries are just three of the attractions you’ll find at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens (Jardín Botánico de Vallarta). A rich and diverse array of flora and fauna—mostly native—dominates the 20-acre (8-hectare) expanse of jungle. Follow jungle paths, wander curated gardens, and marvel at the koi pond as part of a scenic Puerto Vallarta day trip.
- curious
- special
- diverse
- scenic
La Cigale
With amber coziness and the evolved improvisations of the nightly French music, La Cigale delivers “We’ll always have Paris or Marseille” ambiance and sophisticated dishes aimed to please.
Whether you’re stopping in for a glass of red or settling in for a romantic meal, La Cigale French Bistro hits the spot.
By the Guadalupe church, La Cigale French Bistro has become a cherished neighborhood institution. With his Parisian bistro ambiance and reputation for serving delicious french bistro food, La Cigale has kept a diverse crowd since his opening.
- creative
- amazing
- tasty
- airy
La Tostaderia
Small patio know for it’s excellent tostadas. A chill hidden gem of a patio.
- creative
- hidden-gem
- tasty
- airy
Café des Artistes
Elegance and exclusive ambiances have placed Café des Artistes as an iconic reference of haute cuisine in Puerto Vallarta for over 30 years. The excellence in service and high-quality food, make of this restaurant, an ideal venue for intimate celebrations or important business reunions.
The creative spirit, passion and unique style of Thierry Blouet, Chef and Founder, have placed Café des Artistes as an outstanding representative of the gastronomic pleasures found in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco – Mexico.
- magical
- cinematic
- memorable
- decorative
ChocoMuseo Puerto Vallarta
- tasty
- vibrant
- artisanal
- artsy
