3 Days in Vallarta with no kids

Our Local Expert Says:

Once you arrive you are treated to massages and drinks straight off. The service is extremely good and there are always people around to help you with whatever needs you may have. All of their rooms have ocean views.

Description:

This is a tranquil, adults-only beachfront hotel offering exceptional dining, this resort is one-half mile north of Puerto Vallarta's signature Malecón oceanside walkway. 83 contemporary guestrooms and suites feature ocean-view balconies, recessed lighting, pillow menus, and bathrobes hung on wrought-iron stands. Guests have the option of booking an all-inclusive plan, which includes à la carte dining at three restaurants and drinks at a swim-up pool bar. No children under 16.

Our Local Expert Says:

Make sure to have a drink and some nacho's at one of the variety of bars/restaurants, and watch the pelicans dive for fish.

Description:

Returning visitors to Puerto Vallarta long for two things – that first margarita and a visit to the magnificent El Malecón (boardwalk). This beautiful, mile long oceanfront walkway, an easy walk or short car ride from most of the city's hotels, traces the beach, running parallel to the main street. The Malecon offers stunning, unobstructed views of sand and surf and is the perfect place to watch Vallarta's magical sunsets. In 2005 the Malecon was extended to link downtown with the popular Romantic Zone, giving all visitors easier access to enjoying it. Whether you are looking for shopping, dining or music – you won't be disappointed with a visit to the Malen. Don't miss the famous permanent sculptures by local artists. On Saturday nights, you are likely to see the customary Mexican "courting" ritual as teenagers walk hand-in-hand along the boardwalk, their entire family trailing two feet behind. Restaurants, bars and boutiques selling trendy clothing, silver, folk art, Cuban Cigars and tequila abound near the Malecon. If you want to dance the night away, head for the Malecon where the music begins at 11 pm and can continue to 6 a.m. the next morning

Description:

There may be more beautiful beaches in Puerto Vallarta, but Boca de Tomatlan still draws its fair share of visitors. Boca is the last beach, heading south, that is easily accessible by car, making it the de facto water-taxi gateway to Yelapa, Los Animas and Quimixto. Hikers also like Boca de Tomatlan because it has a rugged, but spectacular, hiking trail that takes you over high cliffs and past many tiny beaches, eventually dropping you off onto lovely Las Animas beach. Those who prefer an easier trip can negotiate a good price with one of the many small boats that shuttle back and forth between Yelapa, Los Animas and Boca. Snorkelers also like Boca de Tomatlan for its clear aqua waters and gentle surf. Don't worry about lugging all your gear, the local vendors will rent you whatever you need.

Our Local Expert Says:

During the rainy season the waterfalls are spectacular and swimming holes are abundant. Remember to bring your insect repellent, the jungle is dense behind the small beach town and mosquitoes and no-see-ems come out in full force during the night.

Description:

If you want to get an idea of what Puerto Vallarta was like in the distant past, you can hop a water taxi at Boca de Tomatlan or from the Fisherman's Pier in Puerto Vallarta to Yelapa and find out. Yelapa is only accessible by boat and only in the last few years was it connected to the local power grid. There are no cars, no massive hotel complexes or large groups of tourists here.

If you are staying for the day, hop the taxi in the morning. You can take a hike or horseback ride up to the waterfall, eat at one of few beachfront palapa-style restaurants and then spend the day sunning and swimming in the gentle waters of the cove (albeit among the fishing boats that tie up there). There are a few shops and vendors if you want to take home a souvenir and there are a few hotels/guesthouses too if you want to spend the night. The one thing you cannot miss is a giant slice of pie from the roving pie ladies of Yelapa. It's the best you've ever had.

Our Local Expert Says:

A local favorite featuring authentic and fresh Mexican food.

Description:

Cafe de Olla is a local favorite and regular haunt for expats living in the Romantic Zone. It's usually busy, especially in the morning because they serve delicious breakfasts (including cafe de olla, a Mexican spiced coffee from which the restaurant gets its name). Here you will find generous portions of authentic Mexican food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It's located right in the Romantic Zone, near the beach so you can stroll to the water after or along the quaint shops or street vendors in the area. There's sidewalk seating for great people watching too.

During busy times of the day and especially in high season, you may have to wait for a table. Once seated, the tortilla soup is highly recommended. If you want a margarita, definitely try the raicilla version. Raicilla is a local liquor, similar to tequila but with a distinctive taste.

Description:

The fashionably hip folks flock to this New York City nightclub reincarnation. You can dress up or go casual, the atmosphere is fun and classy. The full-service bar includes the popular classic or contemporary martini. You can dine on a complete dinner or just graze on the expertly prepared appetizers, such as the Prawn Cocktail. Though the food is good, most patrons are here for the entertainment and socializing.

Our Local Expert Says:

Romantic with an amazing view

Description:

The Vista Grill is a fine dining restaurant set high above the city in the Alta Vista colonia. While the world cuisine menu is good, as is the service and wine selection, the real treat is the fantastic view. There's a multi-level terrace that overlooks the city and the bay. This is definately the place for a special dinner or romantic occasion.

Description:

The stunning Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe that dominates the Puerto Vallarta skyline, is the subject of millions of photographs, and Puerto Vallarta's best known and most treasured landmark, is a must-see attraction. Each year it receives thousands of visitors, particularly during the 12-day festival celebrating the Feast of Guadalupe in December. There are guided tours daily. The original church was built over a 12 year period (1929-1941) but it was expanded and modified several times over the next 45 years.. From outside you will be enchanted by the majestic structure that is topped with a crown that is said to be a replica of a tiara once worn by the mistress of the Emperor Maxmillian. A little known fact among tourists is that the crown you see today is actually a replica of the replica. The original concrete crown was destroyed by a 7.5 earthquake in 1985. A fiberglass replacement was quickly commissioned but the material could not withstand its own weight and the crown you see today is slightly distorted. On-going fund raising efforts are in the works to restore the crown to its original state. Although you are welcome to tour the church yourself, nformation about guided tours can be found at the church or at information booths around Vallarta.

Our Local Expert Says:

Hilo faces the Malecon and its décor draws your attention; big gaudy statues hang from the high ceilings and the front opens up to a wonderful ocean view. The bar is skinny and long, with tables running almost into the rafters. It gets popping at night, the dance floor is small but packed. Go there to party not to converse It has a younger/tourist crowd, dressed up and dancing on the bar. But earlier in the night it is common to see older couples enjoying a drink with the view or popping in just to people watch and have a drink.

Description:

Located right on the famous Malecon, Hilo stands out from the rest of the bars and clubs thanks to the giant statue of a woman that stands about 40 ft high in front. The location makes it a top choice for people watching but the drinks can be expensive and service questionable. There can be a cover charge, depending on how the door people feel about you. You will hear new and classic dance music and can expect large crowds during times like Spring Break, or when the cruise ships are in port for the night.

Our Local Expert Says:

Once you arrive you are treated to massages and drinks straight off. The service is extremely good and there are always people around to help you with whatever needs you may have. All of their rooms have ocean views.

Description:

This is a tranquil, adults-only beachfront hotel offering exceptional dining, this resort is one-half mile north of Puerto Vallarta's signature Malecón oceanside walkway. 83 contemporary guestrooms and suites feature ocean-view balconies, recessed lighting, pillow menus, and bathrobes hung on wrought-iron stands. Guests have the option of booking an all-inclusive plan, which includes à la carte dining at three restaurants and drinks at a swim-up pool bar. No children under 16.

Our Local Expert Says:

A winning choice for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Description:

Located directly on Los Muertos Beach, Daiquiri Dick's is a favorite with locals and visitors alike. It's has an upscale casual atmosphere and diners will enjoy the open air patio with a view of the ocean. The service is prompt and the waitstaff very friendly. They go out of their way to make you feel welcome.

The menu is eclectic and includes influences of international cuisines as well as Mexican. For breakfast, you can't go wrong with the Eggs Benedict or a freshly made cinnamon bun. Fresh squeezed OJ is always available. Sandwiches and salads dominate the lunch menu, including a great burger. The Asian Chicken Salad is a favorite.

There is free Wi-Fi available if you want to bring your laptop and surf the Internet while you eat. The atmosphere makes it comfortable whether you are dining alone, part of a large group or on a romantic date. The evenings are especially romantic while daytime is better for business or lunching with friends.

Description:

Sit back and relax at the Burros Bar overlooking the Los Muertos beach. The bar has a special range of fresh fruit margaritas, pina coladas and beer. Grab a bite at the restaurant that primarily serves local traditional cuisine and seafood delights.

Description:

Mismaloya deserves the credit (although some say they deserve the blame) for the tourism boom in Puerto Vallarta. In 1963, John Huston chose this almost inaccessible, deserted beach as the set for his award winning film, The Night of the Iguana. The movie made Vallarta famous, but the set, sadly, was soon forgotten. However, Mismaloya is still worth the 6-mile drive from downtown. Not only is it a sweet little beach perfect for chilling out, it has a killer view of the famous Los Arcos sea rocks (a favorite destination for snorkelers and scuba divers). If you want to go to Los Arcos, there are plenty of boats available for hire. But before you board a boat and get too far away from the mango margaritas, consider snorkeling right off the beach where the crystal clear water is teeming with gaily painted tropical fish. There are also plenty of good restaurants competing for your business, many of them offering beach chairs and umbrellas.

Description:

Though the name is casual, this restaurant on Playa de los Muertos appeals to sophisticated tastes. Obviously, the daiquiris have to be excellent, and they are, combining fresh fruits with top-quality liquors for the strawberry and peach daiquiris. The tropical atmosphere is a perfect place to take in the view of Banderas Bay. Entrées include Californian, Mexican and Asian influences, and the Chinese Chicken Salad combines them all. The "Ultimate Sunday Brunch" draws a big crowd and the dress code is very casual.