Discovering Puerto Vallarta on a Budget: 5 Free Activities to Enjoy When Hollywood icons Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor put Puerto Vallarta on the map with their film ‘The Night of the Iguana,’ this quaint fishing village evolved into a premier travel hotspot.
Vacations are enjoyable and stress-relieving. Ease the strain on your wallet with these complimentary activities to explore while in Puerto Vallarta.
Puerto Vallarta on a Budget: 5 Things to Do for Free
Malecón Boardwalk: Where Art, Culture, and Entertainment Meet
Experience the vibrant pulse of Puerto Vallarta at Malecón. As one of the top attractions in the city, Malecón offers breathtaking views of Banderas Bay, Mexico’s largest and deepest bay. Every corner presents a picturesque scene, from the golden beaches to the captivating oceanfront sculptures.
Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in local culture during the Historic Center Art Walk, held every Wednesday night from November to April. This period also marks the peak season for whale watching along the shore.
Bring the whole family along for the adventure! We recommend staying at Dreams® Vallarta Bay Resort & Spa. Nestled in the hotel zone, this all-inclusive resort boasts three pools, A Variety of dining options, lively bars, a kids’ club, a teens’ club, and a rejuvenating spa with a hydrotherapy circuit.
Discover the Charm of the Romantic Zone
Discover the Charm of the Romantic Zone Nestled in the southern part of Puerto Vallarta lies the Romantic Zone, or Zona Romántica.
This eclectic neighborhood boasts its own distinct identity and warmly welcomes all visitors. Immerse yourself in its artistic ambiance with attractions like the vibrant Mozayko Mural on Pino Suarez Street, perfect for striking Instagram-worthy poses.
Don’t miss the Olas Altas Farmers Market on Saturdays, offering a delightful array of local produce and crafts. Day or night, the Romantic Zone promises something intriguing around every corner.
For an unforgettable romantic escape, we recommend Villa Premiere Boutique Hotel & Romantic Getaway Situated near downtown Puerto Vallarta, this boutique, adults-only hotel offers personalized service, a serene atmosphere, an oceanfront pool, and three exquisite dining options.
Experience Luxury at Marina Vallarta
For a taste of elegance, sandy shores, and a marina adorned with luxurious yachts, Marina Vallarta is the place to be Take a stroll along the pedestrian boardwalk and bask in the beauty of El Salado Beach.
For breathtaking vistas of Puerto Vallarta and Banderas Bay, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the iconic El Faro Lighthouse. And if you’re in town between November and April, Thursday nights offer Art at Market Marina Vallarta, a showcase of local talent.
To fully immerse yourself in this upscale destination, we recommend Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa. Nestled amidst lush gardens in Marina Vallarta, this beachfront resort boasts a sprawling free-form pool and a luxurious spa offering a wide range of indulgent treatments. Plus, with its spacious wellness area, you’re sure To find the ultimate relaxation.
Explore Nature at Cuale River Island
just as Central Park is iconic to New York City and Stanley Park is to Vancouver, Cuale River Island serves as a tranquil oasis within Puerto Vallarta. Surrounded by the Cuale River, this island offers a sanctuary within the city, complete with winding hiking trails where you may encounter local wildlife like iguanas and vibrant macaws.
For a hassle-free, all-inclusive getaway just a quick 30-minute drive from Cuale River Island, we suggest Hilton Vallarta Riviera – All-Inclusive. Nestled Along a Picturesque stretch of coastline, this resort provides an ideal retreat for those seeking an authentic experience of Puerto Vallarta.
Discover the Charm of Los Muertos Beach,
embraced by locals and visitors Los Muertos Beach stands as a beloved gem in Zona Romántica. With its expansive shoreline and crystal-clear waters, it offers the perfect backdrop for Strolls in the surf with your loved ones.
Nearby, the Los Muertos Pier Stands as a marvel of modern engineering, while the iconic Boy on the Seahorse sculpture adds an artistic touch to the beachscape.
For a serene retreat just south of Los Muertos Beach, we recommend Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa.
Set amidst tranquil surroundings, this resort boasts spacious rooms and suites, two gourmet restaurants, two pools, and a luxurious spa. It’s an ideal launchpad for your Puerto Vallarta adventure.”
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Puerto Vallarta offers a beautiful backdrop for a relaxing and memorable vacation, and the good news is that it doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some free (or almost free) things you can do while visiting this stunning Mexican resort town:
- Malecón Boardwalk: Stroll along the iconic Malecón boardwalk, a must-do for any Puerto Vallarta visitor. This lively pedestrian walkway stretches for miles along the beachfront, offering stunning views of the Banderas Bay, street performers, art vendors, and a chance to people-watch.
Los Muertos Beach: Soak up the sun on the sandy shores of Los Muertos Beach, a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching. There are also plenty of beach bars and restaurants where you can grab a drink or a bite to eat (although these won’t be free)
Cerro de la Cruz Lookout: Hike up to the Cerro de la Cruz Lookout for panoramic views of the city and the bay. The hike is a bit challenging, but the views are definitely worth it. You can also take a taxi up if you’re not up for the hike. There’s a small chapel at the top where you can light a candle or two.
Cuale River Island: Explore the Cuale River Island, a lush green oasis in the heart of the city. You can cross the river on footbridges and wander through the botanical gardens, or rent a kayak and paddle down the river. There are also several art galleries and shops on the island.
- Free Art Walks: Take a free art walk on Wednesday nights in the Romantic Zone. This is a great way to see some of the best art that Puerto Vallarta has to offer, and to meet some local artists.
- Salsa in the Streets: Learn how to salsa dance in the streets! There are often free salsa lessons offered in the evenings in the Romantic Zone.
- Voladores de Papantla: Watch the Voladores de Papantla perform their daring flying pole dance ritual. This traditional ceremony is a fascinating sight, and it’s free to watch (although tips are appreciated).
- Window Shopping at the Malecón: Window shopping is a free and entertaining activity, and the Malecón is a great place to do it. You’ll find everything from high-end designer stores to local souvenir shops.
- Free Museum Entry: Some of Puerto Vallarta’s museums offer free admission on certain days or evenings. For example, the Vallarta Art Center offers free admission on Wednesdays from 5:00 to 8:00 pm. Check with the museums you’re interested in to see if they have any free admission days or times.
Conclusion
Puerto Vallarta is a treasure trove of experiences that won’t drain your wallet. From iconic strolls along the Malecón boardwalk to cultural immersion with the Voladores de Papantla, you can have a fantastic and memorable vacation without spending a fortune. So pack your walking shoes, adventurous spirit, and get ready to discover the magic of Puerto Vallarta!
FAQs
Q: Are there any free beaches in Puerto Vallarta?
A: Yes, all beaches in Puerto Vallarta are free to access. You may need to rent chairs or umbrellas, but enjoying the sand and surf won’t cost you a thing.
Q: What are some other free things to do in the evenings?
A: Enjoy the free entertainment on the Malecón, like street performers and musicians. You can also try your hand at salsa dancing during free lessons offered in the Romantic Zone.
Q: How can I find out about free museum days?
A: Check the websites or social media pages of the museums you’re interested in, or ask your hotel concierge for a list of free cultural events happening during your stay.
Q: Are there any free tours available?
A: While not strictly free, some walking tours operate on a “pay what you wish” basis. You can also explore the city at your own pace with the help of a free travel map