Puerto Vallarta is a land of gorgeous sandy beaches, majestic mountains, and small-town allure. Located in the heart of the Mexican Riviera, a beautiful stretch of coastline running from Mazatlan to Manzanillo, Puerto Vallarta is second only to Cancun in its popularity with tourists.
The city of Puerto Vallarta traces its history back to the 1500's, when it was first visited by Spanish explorers. Later, migrating Mexicans and even pirates added their individuality to this unique city. Today Puerto Vallarta remains a place enriched with history and culture, welcoming all people to join in its beauty. Puerto Vallarta offers its visitors a wide range of lovely hotels, inns, resorts and restaurants, which are sure to fit any budget. Tours are offered year round to sites such as Los Arcos and Huichol Indian villages. Kids will find places to explore and learn about around every corner of this Mexican paradise. Puerto Vallarta is alive with the feeling of "old Mexico". It is not rare to see donkeys roaming the streets and artfully designed homes reminiscent of days long past.
While areas of Puerto Vallarta can make you feel as if you have entered early 20th century Mexico, only walking distance away, the same city offers the feeling of a modern world-class resort with all the amenities of home. The city's 26 miles of coastline offer some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with plenty of boardwalk on which to stroll or browse the wares of the street vendors, who always offer something unique as a reminder of this beautiful and historic city.
In recent years, Puerto Vallarta has also gained a reputation as being a prime area to take part in many adventurous "ecotourism" activities. Outfitters are springing up all over town, providing the necessary equipment and expertise to enjoy a day of mountain biking, sea kayaking, and deep-sea diving.
