Picturesque Paradise

Once a tiny fishing village, Puerto Vallarta retains the timeless, laid-back feeling of "Old Mexico." The combination of sand and sunshine with old-fashioned Mexican charm is what makes Puerto Vallarta one of Mexico's fastest growing resorts. Puerto Vallarta is surrounded by lush mountains on one side and the 25-mile-long Bay of Banderas on the other. This scenic locale is punctuated with winding, stone-paved streets bordered by old buildings with red-tile roofs. You can horseback ride along mountain trails or walk to a scenic waterfall.

What to Do

Puerto Vallarta beaches range from quiet to energetic with plenty of activity. For a day off the beach, visit Marina Vallarta -- encompassing some 445 acres, it is home to an 18-hole golf course, tennis and beach clubs, restaurants, and bars. You could also spend a day just looking at the magnificent homes around Puerto Vallarta, including Casa Kimberly, the famous Taylor-Burton residence. Puerto Vallarta also offers almost every kind of sport, including golf, deep-sea fishing, and tennis. Watersports are plentiful in Puerto Vallarta, Los Arcos (The Arches), a set of large rocks known for the caves formed under them, is a popular snorkeling spot, with a variety of brilliantly colored tropical fish.

Hiking is also a favorite pastime; there are a number of defined beach routes. And serious hikers can try the 24-mile, mostly uphill trek to the fascinating old mining town of San Sebastian.

Dining and Entertainment

Puerto Vallarta has a number of good restaurants, satisfying every budget and taste. International restaurants are prevalent. As you might guess, many of the ethnic recipes include the day's fresh seafood. Dining can be enjoyed overlooking the beach, along a quaint cobblestone street, high on the hill, or deep in the jungle beside a rushing river.

There is just as much variety in nighttime activities as in dining. There are discos, piano bars, jazz or rock clubs, organized beach parties, and sunset cruises. At least one
night plan to take in a fiesta - generally including folkloric dancing, drinks, and a buffet.