About The Port Of Puerto Vallarta
Set along the Bay of Banderas with the Sierra Madre rising behind it, Puerto Vallarta pairs a historic seaside core with miles of sandy coastline. The old town, or Zona Romántica, is known for its whitewashed buildings, tiled roofs, and the riverside Malecón boardwalk lined with sculptures and open-air cafés. The parish church of Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, topped by its crown-shaped tower, remains a defining landmark of the skyline.
Beyond the town center, the surrounding hills and jungle give way to beaches, fishing villages, and outlying areas favored for water sports and scenic drives along the coast. Ports of call typically dock within reach of downtown, allowing easy access to the Malecón, local markets, and waterfront restaurants on foot. The blend of colonial architecture, tropical scenery, and steady coastal breezes makes it an easy, walkable introduction to Mexico's Pacific coast.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Puerto Vallarta.
Stroll the Malecón Boardwalk
This oceanfront promenade links downtown to the Zona Romántica with bronze sculptures, buskers, and open-air bars; walkable directly from the pier in about 15 minutes.
Explore the Church of Guadalupe
Step inside the crown-topped parish church, the city's most recognizable landmark, then wander the surrounding plaza and market stalls just a short walk from the waterfront.
Take a Boat Trip to Los Arcos
These rocky sea arches and marine reserve just south of town offer snorkeling and wildlife viewing; small-boat excursions run a few hours and are best arranged ahead of time.
Last Minute Cruise Deals From Puerto Vallarta
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 20, 2026 | Princess | Island Princess | 16 | $1,779 | ||
| Sep 25, 2026 | Princess | Grand Princess | 10 | $1,869 | ||
| Sep 27, 2026 | Holland America | Nieuw Amsterdam | 21 | $2,699 | ||
| Sep 29, 2026 | Princess | Coral Princess | 16 | $1,199 | ||
| Oct 1, 2026 | Celebrity | Celebrity Summit | 17 | $1,639 | ||
| Oct 3, 2026 | Disney Cruises | Disney Wonder | 7 | $1,292 | ||
| Oct 30, 2026 | Disney Cruises | Disney Magic | 7 | $1,264 | ||
| Nov 6, 2026 | Disney Cruises | Disney Magic | 14 | $2,477 | ||
| Nov 6, 2026 | Princess | Sapphire Princess | 16 | $1,416 | ||
| Nov 23, 2026 | Crystal | Crystal Serenity | 28 | $15,000 | ||
| Dec 3, 2026 | Princess | Crown Princess | 16 | $1,239 | ||
| Dec 4, 2026 | Norwegian Cruise Line | Norwegian Star | 16 | $1,179 | ||
| Dec 7, 2026 | Holland America | Zaandam | 12 | $1,199 | ||
| Dec 10, 2026 | Crystal | Crystal Serenity | 11 | $5,400 | ||
| Dec 12, 2026 | Princess | Island Princess | 16 | $1,429 | ||
| Dec 12, 2026 | Crystal | Crystal Serenity | 9 | $4,100 | ||
| Dec 15, 2026 | Princess | Ruby Princess | 11 | $1,699 | ||
| Dec 18, 2026 | Azamara | Azamara Quest | 18 | $4,519 | ||
| Dec 19, 2026 | Holland America | Koningsdam | 14 | $1,759 | ||
| Dec 19, 2026 | Princess | Discovery Princess | 7 | $1,209 |
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Cruise Lines That Call Here
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