Puerto Vallarta is a world-renowned tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich Mexican culture. However, there are lesser-known aspects of this paradise that might surprise you. Here are seven things you probably didn’t know about Puerto Vallarta.
- Puerto Vallarta Was a Mining Town
Before becoming a globally recognized tourist destination, Puerto Vallarta was a small mining town known as Las Peñas. In the 19th century, miners arrived, attracted by the region’s wealth. It was in 1918 when the area was renamed Puerto Vallarta, in honor of Ignacio L. Vallarta, a prominent governor of Jalisco.
Although there are no active mines anymore, traces of this era can still be found in nearby towns like San Sebastián del Oeste, where old mines and buildings remain, reminding visitors of the area’s early days.
- The Famous Malecón Is Full of Art
Puerto Vallarta’s Malecón is not just a seaside promenade, but an open-air art gallery. Along its 1.5 kilometers, you can find iconic sculptures, colorful murals, and works by renowned artists like Sergio Bustamante and Alejandro Colunga.
In addition, artistic performances, cultural shows, and temporary exhibitions are regularly held. This space has become a symbol of cultural expression that blends perfectly with the vibrant essence of the destination.
- Puerto Vallarta Was the Setting for a Famous Movie
In 1964, the movie “The Night of the Iguana,” directed by John Huston and starring Richard Burton, was filmed in Puerto Vallarta. During this time, Burton began a romance with the famous actress Elizabeth Taylor, drawing global attention to this small Mexican paradise.
Thanks to the film, Puerto Vallarta began receiving visits from celebrities and tourists, which helped boost its international fame. Today, you can still visit iconic places related to the filming, including the famous Casa Kimberly, which was the residence of Burton and Taylor.
- It’s Home to One of the Largest Bays in the World
Banderas Bay, where Puerto Vallarta is located, is one of the largest in the world, stretching about 100 kilometers of coastline. This bay is famous for being a prime location for humpback whale watching during the winter months.
Additionally, the bay offers a variety of water activities such as snorkeling, diving, sport fishing, and boat tours, making it an ideal destination for ocean lovers.
- There Are Hidden Beaches That Are Hard to Reach
While Puerto Vallarta is home to famous beaches like Los Muertos and Playa Conchas Chinas, there are other hidden and less-known beaches that can only be accessed by boat or on foot.
One example is Playa Escondida on the Marietas Islands, a natural paradise formed by a volcanic explosion. Another is Playa Colomitos, considered one of the smallest beaches in the world, accessible only by a 30-minute hike or by boat.
- The Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe Has Special Meaning
One of Puerto Vallarta’s most iconic landmarks is the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, whose iconic crown has been part of the city’s skyline for decades. What many don’t know is that the original crown was destroyed by an earthquake in 1995 and had to be replaced.
Every year, during the first twelve days of December, the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe is celebrated, where locals and visitors unite in processions, masses, and celebrations in honor of Mexico’s patron saint.
- It’s a Leading LGBT+ Tourist Destination
Puerto Vallarta has become one of the most LGBT+-friendly tourist destinations in the world. The Zona Romántica, located in the southern part of the city, is famous for its bars, clubs, and accommodations catering to the LGBT+ community.
Each year, Vallarta Pride is celebrated, attracting thousands of visitors with parades, concerts, parties, and cultural activities in honor of diversity and inclusion.