Mexico is known worldwide as one of the most vibrant, exciting and colorful vacation destinations. Combining cultural traditions, beautiful landscapes and high temperatures, it is a must-visit for all avid travelers. Mexico's Pacific coast is still a largely undiscovered gem, but the dual destinations of Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit are cultivating the name themselves as the new Latin American hot spots.
With so much to do in the area, we've rounded up the best way to spend 7 days in one of the world's most beautiful destinations. Use it as inspiration or just to decide where you want to go. Make sure you don't miss these Mexican jewels.
Art and culture
The Pacific coast of Mexico is a cultural hotspot that provides the perfect start to your week in Puerto Vallarta. Discover artistic activities and workshops on the island of Cuale, or visit places such as galleries, theatres, museums and concert halls. A particular highlight is San Pancho, the cultural capital of Riviera Nayarit with the Entre Amigos Community Center where you can buy art made from recycled materials or participate in activities to learn about the culture or help the community.
Street Food Tour
Bucerias is a perfect area to get an authentic taste of Mexican life; the many beachfront places like El Brujo, where you can enjoy a cold Pacifico and cheese-topped Prawn tacos. You can also book a tour with Vallarta Food Tours, which offers a catalog of different excursions, from the Original Downtown Tour – a daytime walking tour of the best of the Centro and Old Town neighborhoods – to the Bikes &Bites Tour – a 3-and- a half-hour bike ride through the eight best tasting locations.
A night as an A-Lister
Puerto Vallarta is full of great hotels and enchanting restaurants. Casa Velas offers all-inclusive, adults-only luxury stays set in lush gardens on the edge of the beach, and the W Punta de Mita guarantees lavish luxury with infinity pools and exquisite cuisine. End the night with a walk along the harbor side to see the superyachts that dock regularly in Puerto Vallarta or go bar hopping in Sayulita.
Snorkeling/Dolphins
At the coast, you have plenty of opportunities to get to the water – from diving and snorkeling to exploring the beautiful marine life to swimming with dolphins and whale watching trips to create magical memories.
Beach/Surf/Paddle Board
After all that time in the water, why not try surfing or paddleboarding right away? Water sports abound in Puerto Vallarta's 70km stretch of golden coastline. You can also relax on the soft sand and soak up the sun on the perfect beach.
Ecotourism
The Puerto Vallarta Botanical Gardens have a large collection of rare and local plants and vegetation, and the El Salado Estuary Tour is the perfect opportunity to spot wildlife, including crocodiles. Nearby Riviera Nayarit is home to 400 species of native and migratory birds – La Tovata National Park in San Blas is an absolute must for wildlife enthusiasts!
Something else
End your week in Mexico with a unique twist. If wildlife excites you, Riviera Nayarit offers an even more rewarding experience:the Baby Sea Turtle Release Mission, where thousands of sea turtles hatch along the shoreline and head for the Pacific Ocean. For something a little more adventurous, go zip-lining or rappelling down a rainforest waterfall!
