Puerto Vallarta 1 Week Trip Itinerary

06 Jun 2026Updated last time

Puerto Vallarta 1 Week Trip Overview

This one-week Puerto Vallarta itinerary blends oceanfront relaxation, local culture, nature, and adventure. Start your journey with a walk along the Malecón, where public art, sea views, and lively street energy set the tone for the trip. Spend time at Los Muertos Beach for swimming, beach clubs, and sunset drinks, then take a memorable excursion to the Marietas Islands to experience snorkeling, dramatic coastal scenery, and wildlife viewing. Midweek, escape into the jungle with a visit to El Manto Waterfall, a refreshing natural stop that adds a peaceful outdoor contrast to the beach days.

Beyond the main highlights, the trip can also include scenic dining, local markets, and optional adventure activities like boat tours, hiking, or zip-lining. Puerto Vallarta is ideal for travelers who want a balanced getaway: easy access to the beach, authentic Mexican atmosphere, and enough variety to keep every day interesting. Whether you want a romantic escape, a fun group trip, or a solo adventure, this itinerary offers a strong mix of iconic sights and hidden gems.


Recommended Activities

Day 4
  • 1

    El Manto Waterfall

    El Manto Waterfall is a hidden gem located near Puerto Vallarta. It is a stunning, cascading waterfall nestled in the lush green jungle. The journey to the waterfall involves a short hike through the scenic forest, making it an adventure for nature enthusiasts. Once you reach the waterfall, you can take a refreshing swim in its pristine waters or simply relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. It's a great place to escape the city and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
Day 5
  • 2

    Malecón

    Malecón is a popular boardwalk in Puerto Vallarta that runs along the ocean. It offers stunning views of the coastline, with restaurants, shops, and street performers. It's a great place to relax, stroll, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Day 6
  • 3

    Los Muertos Beach

    Los Muertos Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Puerto Vallarta. It has golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and a lively atmosphere. The beach is lined with beach clubs, bars, and restaurants, offering a wide range of activities and services. It's a perfect spot to sunbathe, swim, and participate in water sports.
Day 7
  • 4

    Marietas Islands

    Marietas Islands are a group of uninhabited islands located off the coast of Puerto Vallarta. They are known for their unique rock formations, hidden beaches, and diverse marine life. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the islands, go snorkeling or scuba diving to witness the vibrant underwater world, and even spot dolphins and humpback whales during the winter months. It's a nature lover's paradise.

Restaurants

  • Picture for Le Kliff
    Road to Barra de Navidad KM 17.5, Between, Mismaloya, Boca de Tomatlán, Mexico
    Located on a cliff overlooking the ocean, Le Kliff offers breathtaking views and a romantic atmosphere. Enjoy fine dining with a fusion of Mexican and international cuisines.
  • Picture for Café de Olla

    Café de Olla

    Basilio Badillo 168, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico
    This charming café transports you back in time with its traditional Mexican decor and delicious homemade Mexican dishes. Don't miss their signature Olla coffee.
  • Picture for No Way José!

    No Way José!

    5 de Febrero 260, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico
    Known for its vibrant atmosphere and innovative Mexican cuisine, No Way José! offers a memorable dining experience with live music and a diverse menu. Try their famous tableside-prepared guacamole.
  • Picture for El Arrayán
    Río Zula 412 B, López Mateos, 48260 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico
    Experience authentic Mexican flavors at El Arrayán. This restaurant specializes in traditional Mexican cuisine from different regions of the country. Don't miss their signature mole dishes.
  • Picture for La Palapa
    Púlpito 105-3, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico
    La Palapa is a beachfront restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere and stunning ocean views. Indulge in fresh seafood dishes and sip on exotic cocktails while enjoying the beautiful sunset.
  • Picture for Trio
    Guerrero 264, Centro, 48300 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico
    Trio is a stylish restaurant with a European-inspired menu. Known for its elegant ambiance and delectable dishes, it offers a gastronomic journey blending flavors from Italy, France, and Spain.
  • Picture for El Barracuda
    Paraguay 1290, 5 de Diciembre, 48350 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico
    This rustic seafood restaurant is a local favorite, offering a laid-back vibe and fresh fish dishes. Enjoy dining under the palapa roof and try their famous fish tacos.
  • Picture for Mariscos Cisneros

    Mariscos Cisneros

    Aguacate 271, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico
    For a truly local experience, visit Mariscos Cisneros. This hidden gem serves authentic seafood dishes in a casual setting. Try their ceviche or shrimp aguachile.

Hotels

  • Hotel Mousai

    HP2P+WQ, Carr. a Barra de Navidad Km. 7.5-Torre 6, Sur, 48390 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico

    Hotel Mousai is a luxurious adult-only hotel known for its modern design and stunning views of Banderas Bay. It offers exclusive amenities and is perfect for a romantic getaway.
  • Garlands del Río

    Aquiles Serdán 367, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico

    Garlands del Río is a boutique hotel set in a beautifully restored historic house. It features unique Mexican decor and a peaceful garden setting, providing a charming and relaxing stay.
  • Hotel Cinco

    Hidalgo 522, Proyecto escola, Centro, 48300 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico

    Hotel Cinco is a contemporary eco-friendly hotel located steps away from the beach. With stylish rooms, a rooftop pool, and sustainable practices, it offers a unique and responsible travel experience.
  • Casa Cupula

    Callejon de la Igualdad 129, Amapas, 48399 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico

    Casa Cupula is a gay-friendly boutique hotel known for its vibrant and stylish atmosphere. It boasts luxurious accommodations, a pool with breathtaking views, and personalized services.
  • Hotelito Mío

    Playa Caballo, 48292 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico

    Hotelito Mío is a secluded eco-friendly hotel nestled in a pristine beachfront setting. It offers private and rustic cabins, providing a peaceful and nature-inspired retreat.
  • Hotel Amapa

    Púlpito 138, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico

    Hotel Amapa is a trendy and contemporary hotel in the heart of Puerto Vallarta's Romantic Zone. With its stylish design, rooftop bar, and central location, it offers a vibrant and convenient stay.

Local Events & Happenings

  • Picture for Los Espiritus

    Los Espiritus

    C4 CONCERT HOUSE in Zapopan (121.64 mi)28 Jul 2024
    Desde sus inicios en 2010, la banda se consolidó como una de las agrupaciones más comprometidas con el rock, la psicodelia, los ritmos latinos y el blues. En 2013, lanzó su primer LP homónimo y en él se incluyen hits como "Lo echaron del bar" y "El g...
  • Picture for Feid

    Feid

    Estadio 3 De Marzo U.A.G in Zapopan (121.99 mi)26 Aug 2024
    Salomón Villada Hoyos?, mejor conocido por su nombre artístico Feid o por su alter ego Ferxxo, ? es un cantante, compositor y productor discográfico colombiano
  • Picture for The Killers

    The Killers

    Estadio 3 De Marzo U.A.G in Zapopan (121.99 mi)4 Oct 2024
    The Killers, la banda originaria de las Vegas, Nevada, regresará a reencontrarse con su público mexicano después de una larga espera. Con nueva música y un repertorio de éxitos que los ha consolidado como una de las mejores bandas del momento
  • Picture for Maná Mexico Lindo y Querido

    Maná Mexico Lindo y Querido

    Estadio 3 De Marzo U.A.G in Zapopan (121.99 mi)30 Nov 2024
    Maná es una banda de pop rock latino de origen mexicano fundada en 1986 en Guadalajara, Jalisco.
  • Picture for Morat

    Morat

    Estadio 3 De Marzo U.A.G in Zapopan (121.99 mi)3 Dec 2024
    Morat es una banda colombiana de pop latino formada originalmente en Bogotá el 13 de diciembre de 2011. Se dieron a conocer en 2015 con su canción Mi nuevo vicio.
  • Picture for Twenty One Pilots - The Clancy World Tour

    Twenty One Pilots - The Clancy World Tour

    Estadio 3 De Marzo U.A.G in Zapopan (121.99 mi)23 Feb 2025
    El dúo ganador del GRAMMY®, Twenty One Pilots, ha anunciado las fechas para la etapa latinoamericana de su masiva gira mundial The Clancy World Tour. Las nuevas fechas marcan la primera gira del grupo en América Latina, después de encabezar sólo fest...
  • Picture for Remmy Valenzuela

    Remmy Valenzuela

    Auditorio Telmex in Zapopan (124.33 mi)30 Jun 2024
    Remigio Alejandro Valenzuela Buelna, más conocido por su nombre artístico Remmy Valenzuela, es un cantante, compositor, acordeonista mexicano. Considerado el mejor acordeonista moderno de México, apodado por ello mismo como "El Principe del Acordeón"...

Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Planning a week-long trip to PV & I've absolutely lost my mind

    /r/puertovallarta

    We saw dolphins on our last day, ... go hop into the ocean right after ... That is the plan! The itinerary is just 'go to this area on this day' and if I get hungry ...

  • Trip itinerary

    /r/puertovallarta

    Either through a whale watching tour, or even just taking the water taxi to Yelapa. Theres a waterfall hike in Yelapa too. ... It's active and ambitious -that's grea...

  • Help finding excursions and day trips for first-timers!

    /r/puertovallarta

    Use Vallarta Tours for excursions. Take a boat to Yelpa or Mismoyola from the dock at Los Muertos Beach in the heart of Zona Romantica. Do the Rythms of the Night show and it ...

  • Itinerary Help

    /r/puertovallarta

    Day 1: flight arrives at 4:30pm Day 2: ? Day 3: Rhythms of the Night (booked) Day 4: ? Day 5: Las Caletas (booked) Day 6: ? Day 7: ? Day 8: Flight leaves at 11:30 Share ... Tr...

  • 7 Day January Itinerary

    /r/puertovallarta

    Hello everyone! My husband and I are visiting Puerto Vallarta for the first time this January, and we are looking forward to experiencing what your

  • Trip itinerary

    /r/puertovallarta

    Flying into PV in a few months, staying for a total of 8 days the first 3 days will be spent in puerto and then looking to spend 3-4 days in sayulita

  • Please review my itinerary! 6 days, Puerto Vallarta & Guadalajara

    /r/puertovallarta

    Im hoping to get some insight into our itinerary and if it seems feasible! We want to spend more time in Guadalajara as were not really beach people, and prefer city and cultu...

  • Just came back from a week in PV-our experience

    /r/puertovallarta

    My bf and I just came back to the states over the weekend after spending a week in PV. It was our first time in Mexico and we had a blast. Below is a brief recap on our experi...

  • Need advice: Best day trip and/or should we just stay in PV?

    /r/puertovallarta

    Long time lurker, first time poster. My fiance and I will be heading to PV in a couple weeks as the first leg of a 10 day trip to Mexico (combining

  • Three Days at Puerto Vallarta

    /r/puertovallarta

    My wife and I are going to Puerto Vallarta for the weekend in a few weeks. Direct flight takes 2.5 hours. We get there on Friday night and leave on

  • Coming in for 7 days for the first time. Does this look too ambitious? Also would like to fit in a trip to Jorullo Bridge but dont know where it seems to fit in. Also primarily want to eat at the resort. We are staying in Nuevo Vallarta.

    /r/puertovallarta

    Just one thing, it's a little far away Nuevo Vallarta to Downtown Puerto Vallarta, just consider your travel times between the two.