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Top Day Trip Destinations

Near Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Mike LymanMike Lyman—November 27, 2024
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Whether you are looking for a tranquil beach, a rustic mountain town, or a taste of Mexico’s rich history, Puerto Vallarta offers an ideal base for day trips to nearby destinations. Here are some spots to explore, organized by direction for easy planning.

South of Puerto Vallarta

  1. Mayto
    Mayto offers a secluded beach experience with golden sands and clear waters as an escape for the adventurous. Located in the Costalegre region, this untouched paradise is perfect for those seeking natural beauty. Enjoy a sunrise stroll along the expansive beach, kayak through nearby mangroves, or visit the Turtle Conservation Camp, where you can help protect local sea turtles.

  2. El Tuito
    About a 90-minute drive from Puerto Vallarta, El Tuito welcomes visitors with its colorful buildings and traditional cobblestone streets. The town’s plaza is the heart of local life, where you’ll find artisanal cheeses and traditional Mexican snacks. Visit in January to witness the lively celebration of the Virgin of Guadalupe.

  3. Tehuamixtle
    Known for its fresh seafood and stunning cliffside sunsets, Tehuamixtle (Tehua Bay) is a small fishing village about 2.5 hours from Puerto Vallarta. Paddleboard or kayak in the bay, and for diving enthusiasts, there’s a sunken ship to explore.

North of Puerto Vallarta

  1. Bucerías
    This laid-back town in Riviera Nayarit has miles of uninterrupted beach and a charming town center filled with shops, restaurants, and vibrant street art. Bucerías is famous for its January festival honoring Our Lady of Peace, featuring a bustling bazaar with local crafts and delicacies.

  2. La Cruz de Huanacaxtle
    As it’s locally known, La Cruz is a quaint fishing village renowned for its modern marina and traditional Mexican charm. Walk along the docks of Marina Riviera Nayarit, explore the local market, or sample freshly caught seafood in one of the seaside restaurants.

  3. Punta Mita
    A luxury resort town set on a private peninsula, Punta Mita is perfect for beach lovers and surfers. Nearby, take a boat ride to Marietas Islands National Park, known for unique rock formations and diverse marine life.

  4. Sayulita
    As a designated Pueblo Mágico, Sayulita is a vibrant village known for its surf culture, art galleries, and boutiques. The beaches here offer something for everyone, from surfing at Sayulita Beach to relaxing at the more tranquil Los Muertos Beach. Sayulita’s charming streets and colorful buildings make it a photographer’s dream.

  5. San Pancho
    Just a short drive from Sayulita, San Pancho (officially called San Francisco) is a relaxed, family-friendly beach town. San Pancho embodies a laid-back, artistic vibe with its community center, art studios, and various cafes.

  6. Lo de Marcos
    This peaceful town has calm streets lined with colorful homes and a beach perfect for families. Lo de Marcos feels like a step back in time, where you can stroll through the village, enjoy fresh seafood, and relax on the serene beach.

  7. Chacala
    Chacala is a small beach town known for its friendly community and unhurried lifestyle. Enjoy its picturesque beach cove, explore local art galleries, and dine in cozy, traditional restaurants.

  8. Rincón de Guayabitos
    A popular spot for families, Guayabitos offers gentle waves, affordable accommodations, and a lively beach scene. The beach is dotted with vendors selling fresh seafood, and during the right season, you can also experience whale watching or join a turtle release.

East of Puerto Vallarta

  1. San Sebastián del Oeste
    Nestled in the mountains, San Sebastián offers a glimpse into Mexico’s colonial history. Originally a mining town, it’s now a Pueblo Mágico, where cobblestone streets and historic buildings create an old-world charm. Hike the scenic trails or visit local coffee farms.

  2. Mascota
    This quiet town, surrounded by lush green hills, is perfect for those looking to experience rural Mexican life. Explore its haciendas, taste local cheeses, and hike or bike through the countryside. Mascota also has an array of historic churches and plazas to discover.

  3. Talpa de Allende
    A famous pilgrimage site, Talpa de Allende draws thousands annually to visit the Nuestra Señora del Rosario church. Surrounded by pine forests and mountains, Talpa is also a great spot for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.

Each of these destinations offers unique experiences, from untouched beaches and historical sites to traditional Mexican markets and local festivals.

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Mike Lyman

Chief Financial Officer and co-owner of PVEverything.com, was raised in Illinois. He earned a BS in Wildlife Management from the University of Idaho. Mike purchased 16 acres and moved to Stevens County, WA, where Mike built a log cabin from outbuildings and raised his family (one daughter and one son) on a self-sufficient homestead. Transitioning to real estate, he became a top agent in Colville, WA, and purchased his own brokerage company in 1994. Mike met his wife Tricia, and they married in 2001. In 2012, they sold their estate and started searching for a home out of the country with visits to Panama, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Peru, and Nicaragua. However, they finally decided in December 2013 that our old favorite, Puerto Vallarta, was the place to be. Now retired, he has enjoyed an active community life with Democrats Abroad and ten years as Tricia’s support and backup for Puerto Vallarta: Everything you Need or Want to Know and all the benefits and adventures it has brought their way. Mike remains active through his patio gardening, recycled art mediums, music, and local events.

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