Puerto Vallarta City Guide

Food ranges from local dishes like pescado embarazado and birria to many international options. Vegetarian and vegan choices are growing. Late-night street food is common, especially in Zona Romántica.

Nightlife is vibrant and diverse, centered in Zona Romántica and downtown, with beach bars, live music, clubs, and LGBTQ+-friendly venues.

Coffee culture is developing with a mix of traditional and specialty cafes focused on quality.

Tipping is expected. 10-15% in restaurants, more for great service. Taxi tips are rare but rounding up is common.

Get SIM cards at phone stores or some OXXO shops. Telcel has the widest coverage and offers eSIM. ID or passport is needed to activate.

Tourist areas are clean with regular waste pickup; recycling is growing.

Many 24/7 pharmacies, OXXO stores, and some late-night food options in tourist areas.

Big supermarkets like Walmart, Mega Soriana, La Comer, and Chedraui carry international products. Local markets offer fresh produce and seafood. Supermarkets usually open 7 or 8 AM to 10 or 11 PM daily.

Cards work in large places like hotels and big restaurants. Smaller shops and street vendors usually take cash only. It's best to carry some cash.

ATMs are common from banks like HSBC, Santander, Banamex, and Banorte. Using ATMs inside banks or trusted places is safest. Fees apply sometimes from local or home banks.

International schools teach in English and Spanish. Notable ones include the American School and British American School. Contact schools early to check availability.

The digital nomad community is growing with meetups and social media groups. Co-living spaces are starting to emerge.

Parks like Parque Lázaro Cárdenas and the Malecon provide green space for walking and relaxing.

Popular running spots include the Malecon and Zona Romántica streets; safety and air quality are generally good.

Several gyms are available including popular chains and hotel fitness centers.

Tennis courts exist at resorts and clubs; padel courts are growing in number.

Padel courts are becoming more common, with some facilities offering rentals.

Many yoga studios offer different styles with English-speaking instructors.

Facilities offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and Boxing with some English-speaking instructors.

No skiing nearby due to tropical climate.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are popular with rentals available along the beaches.

Surfing is available nearby in Sayulita and San Pancho about an hour away. Warm water year-round; best waves in winter.

Diving and snorkeling are good, especially at Los Arcos Marine Park with caves and marine life.

Several hospitals and clinics have English-speaking staff, with good private care options. Common meds are easy to buy at many pharmacies, some with onsite doctors.

Tap water isn't safe to drink directly. Use bottled or purified water for drinking and brushing teeth.

Many parks and family restaurants welcome kids. Attractions include the Malecon, Los Muertos Beach, and boat tours.

Puerto Vallarta is very LGBTQ+ friendly, especially in Zona Romántica. There are many safe spaces and annual Pride events.

Many places welcome pets, especially in Zona Romántica. Vet services and pet parks are common.