Port of Puerto Vallarta Overview
Puerto Vallarta’s cruise pier is north of the main tourist core, near the hotel zone and across from big-box stores. From the dock it’s roughly 5–6 km to the Malecón and old town; taxis, shuttles, and buses cover that in 15–20 minutes.
Most visitors either head straight to the Malecón and Romantic Zone, or join beach, adventure, or boat tours.
A Little History
Vallarta was a small fishing village until tourism and film attention in the 20th century turned it into a resort town. The historic center and Romantic Zone keep older, low-rise character, while hotel zones and marina developments line the bay in both directions. That spread explains why the cruise pier sits a bit away from the classic Malecón area.
Museums
There’s no heavy museum scene for a typical cruise call. You’ll find a few galleries and small cultural spaces in the center and Romantic Zone. The real draw is the waterfront, neighborhoods, and bay.
- Tip: Treat Vallarta as a walking, eating, and bay tour stop; museums are optional extras.
Major Parks and Attractions
Key sights include the Malecón boardwalk, Our Lady of Guadalupe church, the Romantic Zone (Zona Romántica), Los Muertos Pier, Isla Cuale, and hillside viewpoints like Mirador Cerro de la Cruz.
Boat trips range from simple bay cruises to beach and snorkel outings. Recently, the long-running pirate ship Marigalante sank off the bay; similar themed experiences may shift to a sister vessel or other operators.
Nearby Places (Easy Day Trips)
Within a day you can do: a full downtown + Romantic Zone walking loop, a beach club or resort day, a boat/snorkel tour to coves south of town, or an inland adventure (ziplines, ATVs). Most longer adventures are sold through the ship or well-known outfitters.
Shopping
Shops and markets along the Malecón and in the Romantic Zone sell souvenirs, textiles, jewelry, and art. The port-adjacent area has some crafts and the usual pharmacies and mall across the road.
- Note: As always, compare jewelry and silver between a few places and avoid “too good to be true” deals.
Food and Drink
Food runs from street tacos to very serious restaurants. Expect seafood, tacos, birria, and international menus. Tipping 10–20 percent is standard in sit-down restaurants.
Practical eating tips:
- For local-feeling food, eat in the Romantic Zone or a block or two back from the Malecón.
- Hydrate; it’s hot and often humid, especially in the afternoon.
- Street food can be excellent—pick busy stands and freshly cooked items.
- If you’re on a long excursion, ask guides if and when you’ll have real mealtimes.
Currency, Payments, ATMs
Mexican peso; US dollars commonly accepted at tourist spots, with change in pesos. Cards accepted in most restaurants and shops; smaller stalls are cash-only. ATMs near the port and in central areas are easy to find; use bank-located ones when possible.
Opening Hours and Holidays
Tourist areas run late: shops and restaurants along the Malecón often stay open into the night.
Holidays that may affect hours or services:
- Jan 1
- Feb Constitution Day
- Mar Benito Juárez Day
- Sep 16
- Nov 20
- Dec 25
Practical City Notes
Taxis and organized shuttles line up at the pier; agree fares before you get in.
The bus system is cheap and frequent but can be confusing if you’re new and on a clock. Downtown sidewalks can be uneven and steep in spots. English is widely spoken in tourist businesses.
Quick Plans
- 3–4 hours: Taxi to the Malecón, walk to the church and through the Romantic Zone, grab tacos or ice cream, then taxi back.
- 6–8 hours: Morning bay or snorkel cruise, afternoon Malecón and Romantic Zone stroll, with a sit-down meal before returning.
- Full day: Adventure tour (ziplines/ATVs) or long beach-club day, with a quick pre- or post-excursion walk on the Malecón if time allows.
