Travel

Mexican playground

Puerto Vallarta is one of North America’s greatest beach destinations. Maritime CEO explains why

One of Mexico’s most enchanting coastal destinations, Puerto Vallarta has been a jet-setter’s destination since the 1960s — thanks in part to John Huston’s sultry drama Night of the Iguana, which helped put the then-sleepy region on the map. It’s easy to see why so many fall under the spell: Beautiful beaches, a thriving culinary scene, and great nightlife are a few reasons to book a getaway. You’ll also find appealing outdoor activities from kayaking and surfing to horseback riding and mountain biking.

Puerto Vallarta has lots of options for beach-going. The centrally located Playa de los Muertos, just south of the Zona Romántica, is a convenient spot for some seaside action, but you’ll find the best beaches a bit out of town. Playa Palmares, about 6 km south of the centre, has white sand and calm waters that are ideal for swimming. More remote beaches like Playa Las Animas and Yelapa can be reached only by water taxi. Another way to experience the water is to go diving and snorkelling amid the stingrays, tropical fish and brightly hued coral. You can also take sunset cruises, explore the picturesque Islas Marietas on a boating excursion or go whale watching.

When you need a break from the beach, head to Puerto Vallarta’s botanical gardens. On a hillside, some 25 km south of the city, this 64-acre expanse is full of orchids, bromeliads, wild palms, cacti, and ponds of water lilies. You can often spy hummingbirds and other avian species along the nature trails. You can also go swimming in the river here.

Foodies are spoilt for choice in Puerto Vallarta. The city that loves to eat, whether munching street tacos in the Zona Centro or lingering over a multi-course meal while taking in the views at a seaside dining room. The densest concentration of restaurants lies in the Zona Romántica. The best street food is probably Tacos Revolución while the best classic Mexican is El Mole de Jovita while for Michelinstarred greatness check out Tintoque.

In terms of where to stay the Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort is hard to beat. Set on a lovely stretch of beachfront the Marriott has all the features you’d expect from one of Puerto Vallarta’s top resorts. Lush grounds, an ocean-view infinity pool, a luxurious full-service spa, a swim-up bar where you can sip cocktails poolside are just a few of the noted features. ●

“Beautiful beaches, a thriving culinary scene, and great nightlife are a few reasons to book a getaway”