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Day Trips & Excursions

Day Trips & Excursions

Mexico

Sayulita Approximately 1 hour North

Sayulita attracts a younger crowd and presents a different atmosphere than Puerto Vallarta.

Direct buses depart from Puerto Vallarta's Central de Autobuses, or local buses from the Walmart or Sam's Club stop. Taxis and Uber are also available, though more expensive. A full day is enough time for town exploration, beach enjoyment, and perhaps surfing.

Considerations

  • Lively atmosphere, great for surfing, good food choices.
  • Can be very crowded, especially on weekends and during high season.
  • Buses from Central de Autobuses or Walmart/Sam's Club.
  • Full day for exploration.

Nearby Locations

Discover more destinations in the region.

San Pancho San Francisco

A quieter, more upscale, community-focused village just north of Sayulita. It boasts a beautiful beach and excellent dining options, for a more relaxed experience.

Details

  • Bus routes to Sayulita often continue to San Pancho.
  • A full day to enjoy the beach and town.
  • More relaxed than Sayulita, peaceful escape.

Yelapa

A picturesque, car-free village nestled in a secluded cove. Known for its tranquil beach, a beautiful waterfall a short hike inland, and famous local pies.

Details

  • Water taxis from Los Muertos Pier or Boca de Tomatlán.
  • Half to full day for exploration.
  • Unique, peaceful, beautiful scenery. Can get touristy.

More Coastal Escapes

Las Ánimas / Quimixto

  • Secluded beaches and small villages south of Puerto Vallarta.
  • Quimixto features a waterfall a short hike inland.
  • Accessible by water taxi from Los Muertos Pier or Boca de Tomatlán.
  • Half to full day for these spots.

Bucerías

  • Charming, traditional Mexican town.
  • Long, swimmable beach, lively market, excellent seafood.
  • Local buses from Puerto Vallarta (Walmart or Sam's Club stop).
  • Half to full day visit.

GetYourGuide Day Trips

Additional Day Trip Info

Consider booking day trips in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and find better pricing for popular excursions like the Marietas Islands.

Natural Escapes

Explore the stunning natural beauty around Puerto Vallarta.

Marietas Islands National Park

A protected natural wonder known for its "Hidden Beach" (Playa del Amor), diverse marine life, and bird colonies. Access is regulated.

Vallarta Botanical Garden

A lush garden displaying Mexico's botanical diversity, with walking trails and a river for swimming. Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore.

Jungle River Expeditions

Tours up the Cuale River or other rivers present opportunities for swimming, tubing, or wildlife viewing.

Outdoor Adventure Activities

Numerous outdoor pursuits exist for the adventurous traveler.

Activities to Consider

  • Snorkeling and diving in Banderas Bay.
  • Hiking to hidden waterfalls.
  • Paddleboarding or kayaking along the coast.

Wildlife Spotting

The region is home to diverse wildlife, both marine and terrestrial.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Abundant marine life for snorkelers and divers.
  • Seasonal whale watching (December to March).
  • Birdwatching opportunities in jungle areas.

Important Considerations for Natural Areas

Book Marietas Islands tours in advance for permit access.Important
Check weather conditions before jungle excursions.Advisable
Respect protected area regulations.Mandatory
Use reef-safe sunscreen.Recommended
Stay on marked trails in natural parks.Safety First
Bring insect repellent for jungle trips.Practical

Sustainable Practices

  • Choose eco-certified tour operators.
  • Minimize waste and avoid single-use plastics.
  • Do not disturb wildlife.
  • Support local conservation initiatives.
  • Carry out what you carry in.

Cultural Excursions

Step back in time with a visit to a mountain town.

San Sebastián del Oeste

A charming "Magical Town" (Pueblo Mágico) nestled in the Sierra Madre mountains. This former mining town features well-preserved colonial architecture and a tranquil atmosphere.

Visit Details

  • Tours are available, or drive a rental car (approx. 1.5-2 hours).
  • A full day is suitable for town exploration.
  • Historic, cooler climate, feels authentic.

Tequila Town Jalisco

The birthplace of tequila, another "Magical Town." It features distillery tours and tastings, for insights into the iconic Mexican spirit.

Visit Details

  • Longer day trip by tour bus or rental car (approx. 4-5 hours one-way).
  • A very long full day, or better as an overnight trip.
  • Iconic Mexican experience.

Guadalajara and Tequila

A journey to Mexico's second-largest city, rich in history, culture, mariachi music, and charrería (Mexican rodeo), with a dedicated trip to Tequila.

Suggested Route 3-4 Days

  • Easy bus connections between Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara (5-6 hours).
  • Travel from Puerto Vallarta to Guadalajara for 2-3 nights.
  • Day trip or overnight stay in Tequila from Guadalajara.

Riviera Nayarit Coastal Exploration

Explore more of the northern Nayarit coast beyond Sayulita. Visit towns like San Blas, known for birdwatching, or Chacala, a quiet fishing village.

Suggested Route 2-3 Days

  • Buses connect these towns. A rental car makes for more flexible exploration.
  • From Puerto Vallarta, travel to Sayulita or San Pancho for 1-2 nights.
  • Continue to Chacala or San Blas for 1-2 nights before returning.

Multi-Day Travel Tips

Accommodation Booking

Book stays in advance, especially for popular destinations during peak season.

Transportation

Inter-city buses are a comfortable and affordable travel method in Mexico.

Flexibility

A flexible schedule allows for spontaneous discoveries and a more relaxed pace.

Planning Your Journey

For a seamless travel experience, consider arranging your transportation and main activities for multi-day excursions ahead of time.

Multi-Day Exploration

Maximize your time with extended trips from Puerto Vallarta.

Featured Multi-Day Options

1

Guadalajara & Tequila

A combination of Mexico's second-largest city and the home of tequila. Plan 3-4 days for this trip.

2

Riviera Nayarit Coast

Explore towns like San Blas and Chacala north of Sayulita. A 2-3 day journey is suitable.

3

Southern Jalisco

Discover more of the beautiful state of Jalisco beyond the immediate coastal area.

Considerations for Extended Stays

  • Look for monthly discounts on accommodations.
  • Engage with local markets and events.
  • Take Spanish classes for cultural immersion.
  • Use public transit to explore diverse neighborhoods.
  • Seek out hidden local attractions at your own pace.
  • Consider visa requirements for longer visits.

Travel Logistics

  • Inter-city buses offer comfort and affordability.
  • Rental cars bring greater freedom for exploration.
  • Domestic flights can shorten travel times for distant locations.
  • Secure your accommodation well ahead of time.
  • Pack for varied climates when traveling inland.
  • Inform your bank of travel plans.

Affiliate Travel Resources

Ethical Tours

G Adventures for responsible small-group travel.

Eco-Friendly Stays

Ecobnb for unique eco-friendly accommodation options.

Carbon Offsets

Terrapass contributes to carbon reduction projects.

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