There is something particularly magical about Sunday’s in Puerto Vallarta
During the day an influx of local families and friends take to the beach and then as night falls, the city’s downtown lights up with a vibrant culture unlike anywhere else I’ve seen in the world.
Along El Malecon (the boardwalk) clowns and street artists perform for families by the arches of the amphitheatre, while the older population and those in love dance the night away around the gazebo in Plaza de Armas.
The night is alive and the spirit of Puerto Vallarta’s culture is plentiful.
Of course the evening’s activities wouldn’t be complete without a few late night snacks, and as you stroll ocean side along El Malecon you can feast on seemingly endless local fare.
This is the place to order an elote AKA ‘corn parfait’.
A cup filled with corn kernels, sour cream, mayo and cheese all blended into a creamy concoction that’ll have you wishing you were 16 again and your metabolism could erase the calories by morning.
Absolutely: Sunday’s from 6-10pm are a moment that should not be missed!
But that’s just 1 day, and during the rest of your vacation there are many more things to explore in the tropical state that is waiting to share its 100th birthday with you!
Pool, beach and relaxation will most likely take up most of your time, but there are a few day-tivities worth investing your time and money in because the experiential rewards are worth every moment – and every peso!
These are just 5 activities I’ve personally done and I whole heartedly recommend these as a must do PVR experience!
Canopy River
The adventure starts for Canopy River as soon as you leave the city centre.
Heading into the rural countryside through windy dirt roads, small residential areas and tree laidened mazes you will be well-versed in mountainous navigation and ready for your first activity when you arrive!
First up… ATV Quadding!
“With the wind in your face and the power at your fingertips, explore twisting trails through pines and palms in a scenery that only Vallarta can offer.”
And don’t worry about getting dusty and dirty, your adventure lands you at a hidden oasis with a stunning waterfall where you can cliff jump for a refreshing dip!
Next… Ziplining!
Your adrenaline will run high as you fly from mountain top to mountain top along 11 feat-defying zip lines.
Nestled in the heart of a tropical forest you’ll reach speeds of up to 70mph on Mexico’s longest and fastest zip line.
Ride it right side up or team up with one of the pro staff for a hands free, upside-down experience that’ll have even the bravest of the brave screaming.
The Street- An Evening Taco Tour
I love shoving my face with food but speaking no Spanish I sometimes have no idea what or how to order… And when it comes to street food, that’s a whole other ball game.
So having the ladies of the PV Food Tours at the helm, I was sweet eating!
Tacos and churros might be the focus during this 3 hour, 8 stop tour, but when I was thirsty for a margarita, the guides when out of their way to make it happen!
And it wasn’t just me they were appeasing.
This was a perfect place for the dietary restricted foodies I was with to go too.
No dairy, no gluten, no meat and no nuts…. The whole crew enjoyed an option at every stop and nobody had to pull out an epi-pen!
Explore the History
Ever wonder what put Puerto Vallarta on the map?
In 1964 John Huston brought top Hollywood stars Richard Burton and Sue Lyon to the ocean-side town to film Academy Award winning Night of the Iguana.
After the extreme success of the film, tourists began to flock to Puerto Vallarta, including Elizabeth Taylor who then took up residence.
Hire a local tour guide and let them show you where she lived… And let them dish on the torrid affair that followed!
Meet the Mexican Willy Wonka
As you shop the streets of Puerto Vallarta you’ll run into a lot of local artisans and entrepreneurs.
On my most recent trip I fell in love with some original art from Fungus Fou (a must visit shop/gallery) I also ran into the self proclaimed Mexican Candyman at Dulceria Leal’s.
Using just a few simple ingredients he stirred up a sweet and flavorful concoction of candy covered almonds!
Yes: I bought 10 bags!
Beach Club
If your hotel or resort isn’t beach front or all-inclusive – you should suss out a Beach Club.
For a flat rate you can sip, snack and sit pool or Oceanside all day long.
Places like Mantamar Beach Club are LGBT hot spots with DJ’s spinning pool side!
Or charter a boat with Mike’s Fishing and you’ll be wisked away to an ocean front location only accessible by water.
Regardless of what you choose to do, one thing will be for certain: you’ll leave the beautiful city and its people with special memories, longing to visit again soon!
Te Amo Puerto Vallarta
Mr. Fab
