Planning a family beach vacation to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico? There are tons of outdoor adventures and cultural attractions in this beautiful beach town to keep families busy for the entire vacation. Since we have been traveling to Banderas Bay for the past 15 years, we compiled all the best family-friendly things to do in Puerto Vallarta with kids.
Vallarta Botanical Gardens
A must for nature lovers, the Vallarta Botanical Gardens is a 30-minute drive south of Downtown Puerto Vallarta, but well worth the visit. Tucked into the Sierra Madre hills, this stunning ecological park has winding mountain walkways that showcase orchids, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Bring mosquito repellent and water. We suggest going in the morning and then stopping at Playa las Gemelas on the way back. Stretch out on the sand and enjoy a fresh coconut or fruit salad. Take a dip in the warm, crystal clear waters and look out at the Arcos de Mismaloya, a series of rocky islands that have been designated a national park.
Release Baby Sea Turtles
Season: June – December
This is definitely on the top of our list for things to do in Bucerias as a family. The area’s coastline is one of the most important breeding grounds for multiple species of sea turtle, and Bandera Bay’s preservation program ensures that sea turtles will thrive for years to come. Liberation ceremonies are held daily at multiple volunteer-run camp. Release ceremonies change every day depending on availability, so make sure to check out release dates & times below.
Whale Watching Tour
Season: December – March
Each winter the majestic Humpback Whales migrate from the arctic to breed and reproduce in the sheltered coasts of our bay. These gentle giants can be seen breaching out of the water as parents instruct their baby calves in the ways of the watery world. Each year, between 300 and 500 Humpback Whales are registered in the area! There are daily tours leaving from the nearby marinas in La Cruz (Marina Riviera Nayarit), Nuevo Vallarta, and Marina Vallarta.
Marietas Islands National Park
Explore this group of small uninhabited islands while snorkeling, kayaking, or paddleboarding. Dolphin encounters are a regular occurrence, but during the winter months, it is common to see humpback whales in the bay since this is a centuries-old breeding ground. In addition, you can visit the “hidden beach”, where you swim through cave formations and rock archways to an extraordinary oasis of white sand and crystal clear water.
Book a Family Beach Photoshoot
Hire a local professional photographer through LocalLens.com to return home with photo souvenirs that you’ll treasure for years to come. It’s a great idea for engagement photos, family portraits, honeymoon photos, bachelorette parties, or just because!
Get $20 OFF your photoshoot with our discount promo code: BEACHPLEASEMEXICO
Go on a Food Tour
Mexico is known for having some of the best food in the world, so you are probably looking to get a taste of the local culture during your visit! A food tour or cooking class can be the perfect way to interact with locals, discover some new dishes you probably wouldn’t have tried, and find some authentic restaurants off the beaten path. Below we’ll cover all our favorite family-friendly food tours and the best culinary experiences for foodies in Bucerias and Puerto Vallarta.
Go Hiking
If you are interested in doing a hike, we have some detailed instructions and maps to follow! Monkey Mountain is our favorite hike on the north side of the bay, and the Las Animas beach hike from Boca de Tomatlan is our favorite hike on the south side (past Puerto Vallarta).
Fishing Charters
Banderas Bay offers some of the best sport fishing in Mexico. Mahi Mahi and Marlin season is best from September to February, but Red Snapper and Jack Crevalle fishing are great all year! See a list of all our favorite fishing charters.
Puerto Vallarta Free Walking Tour
This is a great thing to do in Puerto Vallarta as a family with kids since you can see all the sights at your own pace! Start the self-guided walking tour by strolling down the Malecon, the boardwalk that is full of boutique shops, restaurants, and bars. Afterward, cross the wooden suspension footbridge to the Cuale River Island flea market to buy all kinds of Mexican crafts and souvenirs. Keep walking south until you reach the Romantic zone and Los Muertos Pier, one of Puerto Vallarta’s most iconic landmarks. Download the map of the free walking tour below:
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