Puerto Vallarta is a perfect tourist destination to enjoy with family. With its combination of paradise beaches, lush nature, and exciting activities, it offers options for all ages. If you are planning a trip with kids and want to make the most of your stay, here are the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta with family.
1. Enjoy Family-Friendly Beaches
The beaches of Puerto Vallarta are perfect for a fun day with family. One of the most recommended is Playa de los Muertos, which has calm waters and a wide variety of restaurants and water activities. Another great option is Playa Camarones, ideal for swimming and building sandcastles with the little ones.
If you prefer a more relaxed experience, Playa Conchas Chinas offers a more private setting with natural pools formed by rocks. Additionally, on all these beaches, you can rent umbrellas and lounge chairs for extra comfort.
2. Explore the Malecón and Its Outdoor Art
The Malecón of Puerto Vallarta is an iconic walkway where the whole family can enjoy sculptures, street performers, and outdoor shows. It is a safe and pleasant walk, perfect for strolling while enjoying an ice cream or taking photos with the iconic Seahorse Statue.
Additionally, kids will love watching the Papantla Flyers and the cultural performances held in the afternoons. Don’t forget to visit Plaza de Armas, where there are often events and live music.
3. Go on a Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour
If you visit Puerto Vallarta between December and March, you can’t miss a whale-watching tour. During this season, humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Banderas Bay to give birth to their calves. It is an impressive and educational experience for kids.
For an even closer encounter, you can also take a dolphin swim tour in their natural habitat, where specialists guide families through an unforgettable experience with these intelligent mammals.
4. Visit the Vallarta Zoo and Marina Vallarta
The Vallarta Zoo is a fascinating option for the little ones. Unlike other zoos, visitors here can feed and get close to some of the animals. There are jaguars, monkeys, flamingos, and many other species that will make this visit a memorable experience.
Another great option is exploring Marina Vallarta, where you can see luxury yachts and enjoy a relaxing afternoon at one of its restaurants. Kids will enjoy spotting pelicans and stingrays that often appear near the dock.
5. Have Fun at Water Parks and Eco-Tourism Adventures
For a day full of adrenaline, Aquaventuras Park is the best choice. This water park has slides, lazy rivers, and play areas for kids of all ages. It also offers the chance to swim with dolphins and sea lions.
If you prefer a more natural experience, you can visit El Edén, an ecological park in the jungle where the movie “Predator” was filmed. Here, you can swim in crystal-clear pools and explore hanging bridges surrounded by lush vegetation.
6. Explore the Marietas Islands and Hidden Beach
The Marietas Islands are a protected natural wonder that can be visited on a boat tour. In addition to the famous Hidden Beach, kids can snorkel and observe the diverse marine life inhabiting these islands.
Excursions usually include stops at other nearby beaches and activities like kayaking and paddleboarding, making the experience even more fun for the whole family.
7. Discover the Magic of San Sebastián del Oeste
If you want to take a break from the beach and explore a historical town, San Sebastián del Oeste is an excellent option. This “Pueblo Mágico,” located less than two hours from Puerto Vallarta, takes you back in time with its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture.
Here, you can visit old mines, taste high-altitude coffee grown in the region, and enjoy a quiet and picturesque atmosphere, perfect for a family excursion.
8. Try Water Sports and Outdoor Activities
Puerto Vallarta is ideal for practicing water activities in a safe environment for kids. Some options include kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat tours around the bay. You can also rent bikes to ride along the Malecón or join guided jungle hikes.
For a unique experience, some agencies offer canopy tours, where you can glide on ziplines through the jungle—an exciting activity for older children and adults.
9. Enjoy Local Cuisine with Kid-Friendly Options
Puerto Vallarta is known for its excellent cuisine, and many restaurants offer special menus for kids. Places like Gaby’s Restaurant serve traditional dishes in a family-friendly setting, while spots like La Leche provide a unique dining experience with a modern and welcoming design.
For seafood lovers, a visit to Mariscos El Coleguita is a must, as they offer delicious dishes with generous portions in a relaxed atmosphere.