Puerto Vallarta has a lot to offer visitors, but be sure to venture outside the city to discover hidden gems. Discover small fishing villages, explore the Pacific coastline, and learn about Mexican culture on one of these day trips from Puerto Vallarta.
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Sayulita
Escape the bustling streets of Puerto Vallarta for relaxation and exploration in the laid-back surf town of Sayulita. Just a short drive north along the picturesque coastline, Sayulita beckons with its bohemian charm, pristine beaches, and vibrant atmosphere. There is art everywhere you look! Even the sidewalks are beautiful in Sayulita!
Wander through colorful streets lined with quaint shops, art galleries, and beachfront cafes, soaking in the town’s eclectic vibe. Sayulita is the perfect place to complete all your souvenir shopping! You will find everything from beautifully crafted fine jewelry, to hand-made beach wear, to silly t-shirts, key-chains, and koozies.
Don’t miss the intricately beaded pieces that abound in this art community. They range from simple bracelets to meticulously beaded bowls, frames, and even animal sculptures.
Take to the waves for a surf lesson or simply bask in the sun on Sayulita’s beach, where palm trees sway in the ocean breeze. End the day watching the sun set over beautiful Banderas Bay from one of the many beach side restaurants. Sayulita’s relaxed atmosphere and artistic charm make it an ideal spot for a day of leisure and beachside fun.
How to Get There
Sayulita is located less than an hour from Puerto Vallarta by car, making it an excellent day trip location! If you prefer not to drive in Mexico, you can also get there in two hours by bus. One of the easiest ways to visit Sayulita is with a guided tour like this one that includes a stop in San Pancho. Consider this stop an extra bonus along the way! We loved shopping in both villages.
San Sebastian del Oeste
Journey back in time with a day trip from Puerto Vallarta to the colonial town of San Sebastián del Oeste. Tucked away in the lush mountains of the Sierra Madre Occidental, this picturesque pueblo magico (magical town) offers a glimpse into Mexico’s rich history and culture.
Wander through cobblestone streets lined with colorful colonial buildings, visit historic landmarks such as the centuries-old church of San Sebastián Martir. Or, explore traditional silver mines that once fueled the town’s prosperity. Surrounded by verdant forests and breathtaking mountain vistas, San Sebastián del Oeste provides a serene escape from the city.
How to Get There
Take Highway 544 north from Puerto Vallarta toward Guadalajara. You will reach San Sebastian del Oeste in under 2 hours. Or consider a guided tour if you don’t wish to drive. There is not a direct bus route from Puerto Vallarta but you can take a bus to nearby Mascota and then take a shared taxi to San Sebastian del Oeste. Busses to Mascota depart from the main bus terminal near the airport.
Islas Marietas
Embark on an unforgettable day trip from Puerto Vallarta to the enchanting Marietas Islands, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The islands are renowned for pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking natural wonders. After a scenic boat ride across Banderas Bay, explore hidden beaches, sea caves, and dramatic rock formations.
Snorkel through vibrant coral reefs, swim in secluded lagoons, and marvel at the diverse marine life that inhabits these protected waters. You will find tropical fish, dolphins, and sea turtles galore. With its unspoiled beauty and abundant wildlife, the Marietas Islands offer a truly magical escape from the mainland.
How to Get There
Getting from Puerto Vallarta to Isla Marietas for a day trip involves a combination of land and water transportation due to the island’s remote location. The most common way to visit Isla Marietas is by booking a guided tour from Puerto Vallarta. Many tour operators offer boat tours to the islands, departing from the marinas in Puerto Vallarta or nearby towns like Sayulita and Punta de Mita. These tours typically include round-trip transportation, snorkeling gear, and sometimes lunch or snacks. Or, you could make your way to Sayulita or Punta de Mita by car or bus and hire a private boat to take you to Isla Marietas.
Mismaloya and Los Arcos
Embark on an unforgettable day trip from Puerto Vallarta to the picturesque coastal paradise of Mismaloya. Just a short drive south of Puerto Vallarta, Mismaloya beckons with its beaches, lush jungle landscapes, and vibrant marine life.
Spend the day lounging on golden sands, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or exploring the surrounding jungle trails. Then, venture out to Los Arcos, a cluster of majestic granite islands rising dramatically from the sea. These natural landmarks provide a stunning backdrop for snorkeling and diving. Explore the vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine species.
How to Get There
The most convenient way to reach Mismaloya and Los Arcos is by car or taxi. From downtown Puerto Vallarta, you can drive south along Highway 200 towards Mismaloya. The drive takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi for a direct ride to Mismaloya and Los Arcos. Another option is to take a public bus from Puerto Vallarta to Mismaloya. Buses depart from the downtown area and travel along Highway 200 towards the south. Look for buses with signs indicating “Mismaloya” or “Boca de Tomatlán.” Once you reach Mismaloya, you can either walk or take a short taxi ride to Los Arcos, a popular snorkeling and diving spot located just offshore.
For a scenic and adventurous option, you can take a water taxi from Puerto Vallarta to Mismaloya and Los Arcos. Water taxis depart from the Los Muertos Pier or Playa Los Muertos and offer transportation to various destinations along the coast, including Mismaloya and Los Arcos. This option allows you to enjoy stunning views of the coastline and avoid traffic on the highway.
The easiest way to visit is by guided tour. These tours not only get you where you need to be, they also typically include the snorkeling gear you need to fully enjoy the day trip from Puerto Vallarta.
Punta Mita
Head to Punta Mita, an upscale coastal village renowned for its luxury resorts and world-class golf courses. Just a short drive north along the stunning Riviera Nayarit, Punta Mita entices visitors with its beaches, resorts, and exclusive amenities. Spend the day lounging on white sands lapped by turquoise waters. Or, indulge in water sports such as surfing, paddleboarding, or kayaking in the gentle waves of the Pacific Ocean.
Explore the charming town center with its boutique shops, upscale restaurants, and lively beach clubs. You will find a taste of the high life in this tropical paradise. With its breathtaking scenery and upscale amenities, a day trip to Punta Mita promises a luxurious escape.
How to Get There
The most convenient way to reach Punta Mita from Puerto Vallarta is by car. You can drive north along Highway 200, which follows the coastline, towards Punta Mita. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Another option is to take a public bus from Puerto Vallarta to Punta Mita. Buses depart from the downtown area. Look for buses with signs indicating “Punta Mita” or “Sayulita.” The bus ride takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and stops along the way.
Many transportation companies in Puerto Vallarta offer shuttle transfer to Punta Mita, providing convenient and comfortable transportation for travelers. This option is ideal for those who prefer a hassle-free journey with door-to-door service.
Chacala
Venture further to the hidden paradise of Chacala. Nestled along the pristine shores of the Riviera Nayarit, Chacala offers a peaceful retreat away from the bustling city life. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Chacala promises a tranquil escape and a chance to connect with nature.
Take a scenic drive through lush jungle landscapes and rolling hills to reach Chacala. Upon arrival you will find palm-fringed beaches and turquoise waters. Spend the day relaxing and soaking in the breathtaking ocean views and gentle sea breezes. Explore the charming village center, with its colorful fishing boats, quaint cafes, and artisanal shops.
How to Get There
The best way to get to Chacala is by car. Drive up Highway 200 toward Tepic to Las Varas and then follow your GPS for the remainder of the 2-3 hour drive. You can also get to Las Vara by bus and then take a shared taxi the rest of the way. This will take an hour or so longer though making it more difficult to return the same day. This is the most difficult day trip form Puerto Vallarta but still worth it if you have the time!
Bucerias
Embark on a delightful day trip from Puerto Vallarta to the charming coastal fishing village of Bucerías. Just a short drive north along the scenic Riviera Nayarit, Bucerías beckons with its laid-back atmosphere and vibrant local culture. Known for its art scene, lively markets, and welcoming ambiance, Bucerias will entice you. Spend the day wandering along the bustling cobblestone streets lined with colorful shops, art galleries, and seafood restaurants. If you are as lucky as we were, you may even catch a village festival and parade.
Relax on the soft sands of Bucerías Beach, where gentle waves invite swimming and sunbathing. Or, embark on a thrilling adventure with water sports like kiteboarding and windsurfing. With its welcoming ambiance and picturesque surroundings, a day trip to Bucerías offers a delightful day trip from Puerto Vallarta.
In fact, we liked Bucerias so much that we recommend you consider staying in Nuevo Vallarta instead of Puerto Vallarta. This stretch of resorts just outside the city is located between Puerto Vallarta and Bucerías. So we took a day trip to check out all the sites of Puertpo Vallarta but really enjoyed quiet evenings of dining in Bucerías. Check out the this post on the pros and cons of staying in Nuevo Vallarta vs. Puerto Vallarta.
How to Get There
The most convenient way to reach Bucerias from Puerto Vallarta for a day trip is by taxi or ridesharing service. Taxis are readily available and ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft also operate in the area. The journey typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and your starting point in Puerto Vallarta.
Buses depart from downtown Puerto Vallarta. Look for buses with signs indicating “Bucerias” or “Sayulita.” The bus ride takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. Buses are an affordable option, but they may be crowded during peak travel times.
Plan Your Adventures in Puerto Vallarta!
Be sure to venture outside the city and explore these some of these great villages on a day trip when you visit Puerto Vallarta.
Plan your trip! Tell us what you think below in the comments. You can also contact us and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest so you never miss a post!
