Things to Do & Places we Love

The Malecón is Puerto Vallarta’s famous oceanfront boardwalk — a lively, colorful stretch filled with art, music, food, and some of the best views in the city. It’s the heart of downtown and one of our favorite places to wander. You’ll find iconic sculptures, local artisans, street performers, cafés, bars, and endless spots to watch the sunset. It’s completely pedestrian‑friendly, safe, and perfect for an afternoon stroll or a nighttime adventure. Whether you’re grabbing a drink, people‑watching, or just taking in the ocean breeze, the Malecón is a must‑see during your stay.

Restaurants & Bars

Puerto Vallarta has incredible food — from street tacos to beachfront dinners to hidden little bars you stumble into and instantly love. Here are some of our favorites that are easy to get to from Fiesta Americana:

🍽️ Restaurants

• La Palapa – Beachfront dining with amazing seafood and a romantic vibe.

• El Dorado – Sister restaurant to La Palapa; perfect for sunset dinners.

• Pancho’s Takos – Famous for al pastor tacos (expect a line, but worth it).

• Café de Olla – Classic Mexican dishes in the Romantic Zone.

• La Cappella – Italian with stunning views of the church and bay.

• Mariscos Cisneros – Casual, delicious seafood tacos and tostadas.

• La Dolce Vita – Great Italian spot right on the Malecón.

🍹 Bars & Drinks

• Bar Oceano (on the Malecón) – One of our absolute favorites. The food is really good, great drinks, ocean views, and live music on weekends. It’s lively, fun, and the perfect spot to eat, dance, or just hang out with a margarita.

• Americana Sports Bar – This is the sports bar we found with pool tables upstairs, tons of TVs, cold drinks, and a super laid‑back vibe. It’s right off the Malecón and perfect for cooling off, catching a game, or playing a few rounds of pool.

• Bar La Playa – Craft cocktails, super friendly bartenders, and a local vibe.

• El Soñador – Rooftop bar with great views and a fun atmosphere.

• Monzón Brewing Co. – Local brewery with great beer and food.

• El Colibrí – Speakeasy‑style cocktail bar with amazing drinks.

• Margarita Grill – Fun, lively, and great for groups.

🍦 Treats

• Lix Ice Cream – Homemade ice cream and paletas.

• Churros on the Malecón – Follow your nose… you’ll find them

Things To Do

🐾 Visit Gatos Island (Cat Island!)

This is perfect for those who love animals! It’s magical!!

• Hundreds of friendly cats

• Safe, calm environment

• You can bring treats from Oxxo

• Great photo ops

⛵ Boat Tours

Boat tours are one of the best ways to experience Puerto Vallarta’s coastline. You can cruise out to hidden beaches, snorkel in calm coves, or take a relaxing sunset sail with music and cocktails. Many tours visit Los Arcos Marine Park, known for its dramatic rock formations and incredible wildlife. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a laid‑back day on the water, a boat tour is always a highlight of the trip.

⛳ Golfing

Notable golf course close by is the prestigious Marina Vallarta Golf Club, just ten minutes from the hotel. This world-class course is nestled between the majestic Sierra Madre mountains and the panoramic views of Banderas Bay, offering an unforgettable playing experience.

🦜Vallarta Zoo (Mismaloya)

• A very interactive zoo where kids can feed many of the animals.

• Bring pesos for food bags

• Lots of shade

• Great for a half‑day outing

🛍️ Isla Cuale Market

A fun, colorful market on an island in the river. We went here and got to hold and take pictures with a rescued Macaw!

• Handmade toys, masks, and souvenirs

• Shady walking paths

• A small playground area

• Cats everywhere (again!) 

🎭Nightly Shows on the Malecón

• Totally free and very family‑friendly.

• Magic shows

• Acrobats

• Musicians

• Dancing in the town square

🗿 Sculptures on the Malecón

The Malecón is basically an open‑air museum. There are dozens of sculptures lining the boardwalk, from whimsical pieces you can climb on to iconic works by famous Mexican artists. Every few steps you’ll find something new — mermaids, dancers, sea creatures, surrealist figures — all with the ocean as the backdrop.

🎨 Mosaics & Murals

PV is known for its colorful mosaic benches, tiled staircases, and vibrant murals tucked into side streets. Even the bridges and walkways have artistic touches. It makes wandering the city feel like a treasure hunt.

🏛️ History & Culture

Puerto Vallarta has a rich history that blends Indigenous roots, Mexican tradition, and the influence of artists and filmmakers who fell in love with the city in the 1960s. One of the most famous chapters in PV’s story is the romance of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, who lived here during the filming of The Night of the Iguana. Their love affair put Puerto Vallarta on the world map and helped transform it from a quiet fishing village into an international destination.

🖼️ Art Walks & Galleries

If you love art, the galleries in the Romantic Zone and Centro are amazing to explore. Many host weekly art walks where you can meet local artists, sip wine, and browse everything from contemporary pieces to traditional Mexican folk art.

✨ Rhythms of the Night

Rhythms of the Night is one of Puerto Vallarta’s most unforgettable experiences — part sunset cruise, part jungle adventure, part world‑class performance. The evening begins with a scenic boat ride across the bay, where you’ll watch the sun set over the water. When you arrive at Las Caletas, a secluded beach lit only by torches and candles, you’re welcomed into a magical open‑air amphitheater for an incredible show featuring acrobatics, dance, live music, and fire performances. Afterward, you enjoy a candlelit dinner right on the beach. It’s romantic, dramatic, and unlike anything else in the area — a true highlight for many visitors.

One of the things we love most about PV is how much art is woven into everyday life. As you walk through the city — especially along the Malecón & in the Romantic Zone — you’ll see sculptures, mosaics, murals, & handcrafted details everywhere.