How to spend 3 Days in Puerto Vallarta: The Best Itinerary + Where to Stay

Planning a three-day trip to Puerto Vallarta and want to make sure you hit all the highlights?

You’ve come to the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared for you the perfect itinerary to visit Puerto Vallarta in 3 days.

From exploring the city’s iconic sights to enjoying its most beautiful beaches—some reachable only by boat—and venturing out to the quaint surf town of Sayulita, I’ve got you covered!

In addition to the best places to visit and activities for each stage of your itinerary, I will also give you all my best tips and accommodation suggestions depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta in 3 days? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

Day 1: Discover the Charm of Puerto Vallarta

Begin your morning with a walk along the Malecon, an oceanfront boardwalk adorned with numerous sculptures, including ‘The Boy on the Seahorse’ by Rafael Zamarripa, ‘Tritón y Sirena’ by Carlos Espino, and ‘In Search of Reason’ by Sergio Bustamante.

Continue to the Plaza de Armas, the central square located very close to the Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe. This church is renowned for its detailed facade and the crown-topped tower, a replica of a crown worn by Carlota, Empress of Mexico in the 1860s.

Ascend the steps on Calle Zaragoza next to the church to discover Casa Kimberly.

Today, you can experience this glamorous history by dining at the Iguana restaurant in Casa Kimberly (make a reservation here), which offers spectacular views.

How about a stroll in the Gringo Gulch neighborhood, named for the predominantly English-speaking expatriates who settled here during the 1950s and ’60s?

This area shows off the “Vallarta Style” developed back in the ’50s, characterized by the white-washed adobe facades, pitched red-tile roofs, decorative wrought-iron grilles, and stone walls, recapturing the atmosphere of a typical Mexican village.

Cross the Iguana Bridge, which provides a panoramic view of the city on one side and the lush greenery of the surrounding mountains on the other—a perfect photo opportunity.

Upon reaching Isla Cuale, turning right will lead you to a vibrant handicraft market where you can shop for authentic Mexican crafts, from colorful fabrics to handmade jewelry.

If you turn left on Avenida Constitución, you’ll enter the lively Romantic Zone, a neighborhood known for its bustling nightlife, street cafes, and boutique shops.

To cool off, stop by Cervecería Los Muertos for a craft beer experience, or enjoy a homemade ice cream at Sabores Helados.

If you’re up for some beach time, head right on Venustiano Carranza to reach Olas Altas Beach.

Turning left takes you to the bustling Playa Los Muertos Pier, which features a nautical-inspired design reminiscent of a sail catching the wind. You can sit on the benches, enjoy the cool sea breeze, and take in the stunning views.

Adjacent to it is the famous Playa Los Muertos, Vallarta’s most popular beach. It’s a vibrant mix of local families and beach bars, making it the perfect place to relax and watch the sunset.

Day 2: Beach Hopping and Evening Entertainment

Morning: Discover the Best Beaches of Puerto Vallarta

Start your day with an adventure to some of the most secluded and picturesque beaches near Puerto Vallarta.

You have two fantastic options: a private boat tour that takes you up to Yelapa, or, for the more active traveler, a hike to Colomitos and Las Animas from Boca de Tomatlan.

The boat tour offers a relaxing way to explore the beaches of Playa Colomitos, Las Animas, Quimixto, Majahuitas, and Yelapa. These spots are renowned for their crystal-clear waters and excellent snorkeling opportunities.

Yelapa is particularly famous for its beautiful waterfall, tranquil beach, and its local pies.

Coconut is my personal favorite, but you’ll also find delightful flavors like walnut or chocolate banana. You might spot a vendor selling them right on the beach, or you can visit Yuri’s, a mini market where you will usually find two or three flavors—depending on whether there are any left!

Book the boat tour here, that includes hotel pick-up here:

If you choose the hiking route, start from Boca de Tomatlan, a charming fishing village.

The hike to Colomitos beach is about 40 minutes and rewards you with a stunning small cove perfect for a quiet swim. Continue to Las Animas for a more lively beach scene and numerous dining options.

You can book the guided hike to the hidden beaches here:

Afternoon: Visit the Puerto Vallarta Botanical Garden

In the afternoon, take a short drive to the Puerto Vallarta Botanical Garden. This garden showcases a wide variety of native plants and flowers, and is an ideal spot for bird watching and relaxing amidst nature.

Don’t miss the Orchid and Vanilla House!

Get your tickets to the Botanical Garden here: 

Evening: Choose Your Adventure

As the evening sets in, choose between a romantic night or a lively adventure:

1. For a romantic evening, Alma by Rhythms of the Night offers a memorable experience.

Embark on a sunset cruise to the private beach of Las Caletas. This tour includes a candle-lit dinner on the beach, live music, and performances that highlight local folklore.

You can book the show here:

2. If you’re looking for something more exhilarating, the Pirate Ship Dinner-Show is the perfect choice.

This dynamic evening includes a pirate-themed show aboard a replica Spanish galleon, complete with dinner, open bar, and fireworks. It’s a fun-filled option for families or anyone looking to add some excitement to their night.

Book the pirate cruise here:

Day 3: Explore Sayulita: A Day in Puerto Vallarta’s Surfing Gem

Sayulita: A Beach and Surf Village with a Relaxed Vibe

On the last stop of your 3 days in Puerto Vallarta, head for Sayulita, which offers a relaxed beach atmosphere ideal not only for surfers, but also for travellers looking for a quiet day out.

This small surf village is celebrated not only for its vibrant street art but also for its array of restaurants, cafes, bars, and local shops.

Head to the main beach to soak in the sun and sea. If you find it too crowded, a short walk to Playa Norte or Playa Los Muertos offers a quieter setting. Both are excellent choices for a more relaxed beach day.

Known as one of the best places to surf in Mexico, Sayulita provides ample opportunities to catch some waves.

Rent a board or sign up for a surf lesson if you’re keen to try surfing. For those who prefer to relax, there are several options like Bar La Isla, Coco’s Beach Club, or Las Sirenas, where you can enjoy good food, cool drinks, and rent sun loungers and umbrellas for a comfortable day by the sea.

• Be sure to check out my complete Sayulita guide for all the best activities this vibrant surf village has to offer!

Getting to Sayulita from Puerto Vallarta

By car, it takes about an hour via Carretera Puerto Vallarta-Tepic 200, offering a scenic route along the coast. Alternatively, the Compostela bus, which is green and white, runs every 15-20 minutes and departs from across the Walmart parking lot.

If you prefer a hassle-free visit, consider taking a guided day trip from Puerto Vallarta.

This convenient option includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transport, a short visit to San Pancho, some free time in Sayulita, along with a 1-hour bodyboard rental to fully enjoy your beach experience.

Book the tour to Sayulita and San Pancho here:

Where should you stay during a three-day visit to Puerto Vallarta?

• Hostal Vallarta: this is a colorful hostel with a great atmosphere, a rooftop terrace, good wifi, pancakes for breakfast. You can stay in a shared dorm from only 19 usd or in a private room from 39 usd per night!

• Amapas Apartment – Adults Only: spacious apartments in the Zona Romantica, walking distance to Playa Los Muertos, with a kitchen, air-conditioned, and a roof terrace with small pool. They are very clean and comfortable, from 60 usd per night!

• Hotel Boutique BellView: This is a romantic hotel in Puerto Vallarta, with a famous restaurant called La Cappella. It offers a great view of the surroundings, and a violinist in the evening. It’s a cozy and elegant place to stay, from 192 usd per night!

• Maxwell Residences at Indah: Rooms and apartments for up to 10 people, with gym, sauna, good wifi, indoor parking. Perfectly located on Conchas Chinas Beach. The best view of Puerto Vallarta is from the rooftop terrace, with infinity pool, bar and restaurant. From 275 usd per night

• Hilton Vallarta Riviera All Inclusive Resort: This is an all-inclusive hotel ideal for families in Puerto Vallarta. It has a modern decor, several good restaurants and bars, lots of activities and entertainment and several oceanfront pools. It’s very quiet and relaxing, from 400 usd per night.

• Casa Velas – Adults Only: This is the most beautiful all-inclusive hotel in Puerto Vallarta, ideal for a couple. An intimate and elegant hotel, located in the Marina Vallarta Golf Club, with a large tropical garden, swimming pool and beach club. Excellent meals and cocktails. From 745 usd per night

Can you truly experience Puerto Vallarta in just three days?

With three days in Puerto Vallarta, you can see many of the city’s highlights and enjoy a well-rounded visit that includes cultural explorations, beach relaxation, and sampling local cuisine, ensuring each day is packed with activities.

However, if you have the opportunity to extend your stay, there are numerous other fantastic activities to enjoy (click on the name to book it):

• Las Caletas Beach Day: Spend a relaxing day at the secluded Las Caletas, complete with hammocks and a tranquil atmosphere
• Snorkeling at Los Arcos: Take a guided boat cruise to Los Arcos National Marine Park for an unforgettable snorkeling experience.
• Visit Islas Marietas: Explore the beautiful Islas Marietas, a group of small uninhabited islands a few miles off the coast.
• Whale Watching: Experience the majesty of whale watching, available from December to March.
• EcoParque Nogalito: hiking to reach a waterfall, river swimming, and zip-lining over the mountains
• Rancho Campomo: horseback riding, hiking, and ATV riding through the lush landscapes of the Sierra Madre
• Visit San Sebastian del Oeste: Explore this tranquil mountain village, once a thriving mining town, now known for its traditional houses and narrow streets, nestled in the Sierra Madre Occidental

All my Best Tips for Visiting Puerto Vallarta in 3 Days

• Explore Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on the local flavors—try seafood at the beachside restaurants, savory tacos on the street and local brews at spots like Cervecería Los Muertos. –Book the Street Food Tour now!
• Consider a Tourist Bus: As it can be very hot in Vallarta, which makes walking tiring, a great alternative on Day 1 is taking the double-deck tourist bus (book your ticket here) for a panoramic overview of the main attractions, from Marina Vallarta to Mismaloya Beach, passing by the Malecon, Los Arcos, and many other highlights.
• Book in Advance During High Season: If you’re visiting during high season, like New Year, spring break, or during important events, be sure to book your hotel and activities (like Alma by Rhythms of the Night or the Pirate Ship) ahead of time to secure your spot.

Rent a car in Puerto Vallarta

Renting a car is for sure the best way to explore Puesto Vallarta in 3 days and make the most of your stay!

To rent a car, personally, I always use Booking.com Cars, for a few reasons:

• You can easily compare the rental cars prices between all the agencies: for sure the easiest way to find the best rate!
• Cancellation is often offered free of charge: no need to worry if you change your mind
• Booking Cars offers full insurance coverage at a lower price than the rental companies, so it’s an instant saving with no effort

Simply click on the green button to find your rental car at the best price:

Find the Best Deals on Flights to Puerto Vallarta

The Puerto Vallarta International Airport accommodates numerous domestic and international flights.

Direct flights to Puerto Vallarta are available from cities such as Montreal, Toronto, London, Madrid, and various locations across the United States. Alternatively, you may find more economical options with layovers in Mexico City.

To find the best prices on flights to Puerto Vallarta, as well as the best domestic flights in Mexico, I suggest you to use our flight comparator in collaboration with Skyscanner. It is the best way to save time and money!

You’re traveling in Mexico? These articles will help you!

Discover all my articles about Mexico: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico are listed there.

• TOP 35 Things to Do and Must See Attractions in Mexico – All the best places to discover

• Puerto Vallarta: Top 35 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions
• 1 Day in Puerto Vallarta – A Complete Day’s Adventure
• 2 Days in Puerto Vallarta – Your Ultimate Weekend Guide
• The 17 Best hotels in Puerto Vallarta: My Selection for Every Budget!
• Staying in Puerto Vallarta: my experience at Maxwell Residences at Indah

• Sayulita: the 15 Best things to discover
• Guadalajara (Jalisco): Top 40 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

• Itinerary: 10 days in Mexico – Mexico City, Chiapas and Yucatan
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Mexico – Best itinerary to discover the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas!
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Mexico – Mexico City, Puebla, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Campeche, Yucatán and Riviera Maya
• Itinerary: 1 month in Mexico – My Epic 30-31 Days Itinerary from Mexico City to Cancun
• Road trip in Mexico: The best itineraries for 10, 15, 21 days and a month

• Itinerary: 1 week in Yucatan – The Ultimate 6, 7 or 8 days Itinerary
• Itinerary: 10 days in Yucatan – Best Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 Days in Yucatan
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Yucatan – Epic Itinerary + All my Best Tips!
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Yucatan – Best things to do in 20-21 days
• Itinerary: 1 month in Yucatan – Yucatan Peninsula in 29, 30 or 31 days from Cancun
• Road trip in Yucatan: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month

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