Explore the Malecon in Puerto Vallarta and let the Historical Center sweep you off your feet

Visiting the Malecon in Puerto Vallarta is one of the most famous walks in the city, a must-see in the itinerary of any traveler. With its restaurants practically on the shore, incredible gift shops, and colorful little roads, it is considered one of the main things to do in Puerto Vallarta all year round. 

Its long walkway parallel to the ocean offers a wide outdoor space, perfect for walking, running, or biking, with the evergreen Sierra Madre in the background. 

Discover everything the Malecon in Puerto Vallarta has to offer and get ready for a summer of fun in the sun. 

Top things to do in Puerto Vallarta: walk around the Historical Center and delight your senses 

With its outdoor sculptures, typical local architecture, and always abundant calendar of events, the Malecon in Puerto Vallarta is the main cultural scenario of the city. The walkway itself begins at the height of the iconic Parque Hidalgo and extends until it reaches the Olas Altas beach, in over ten blocks filled with activities and adventures all over, far and wide. 

There’s always either the Bohemian artist just around the corner, enlivening the afternoon with his faithful instrument; or the typical vendor of tuba, a traditional fermented drink. Refreshing, delicious, and unmissable. 

Every Thursday and Sunday at 6 pm, the Municipal Band performs in the central square, and around it, you can find delicious traditional food stalls, selling everything from the famous handmade tacos to local delicacies, such as Cuala de coco, a 100% Vallartan dessert. 

You can also get on the Tour Bus and venture around the city, discovering the stories and legends of the Historical Center, curiosities about the architecture, and the different types of buildings, roofs, and materials that make it up. 

Iconic places on the Malecon in Puerto Vallarta

When traveling you can forget about bringing socks, or buying souvenirs, but never about taking photos.  

Right at the statue of the boy and the seahorse, a few feet before reaching Los Arcos, there are the letters of Puerto Vallarta with decorative paintings in honor of Manuel Lepe, the naïf painter and illustrious son of the city, who also has a mural in the Town Hall and a stained-glass window in the main square, both unmissable pieces of art.  

There is also the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, with its iconic crown. If you visit in the month of December, before the 12th, you will have the opportunity to see the pilgrimages and witness one of the main festivities of the old town. 

The Municipal Market and the Cuale River are both ideal places to find handicrafts and small works of art that are unique in the world, either to keep as souvenirs or to take to your loved ones. 

A sunny day at the beach 

Along the Malecon, you will also find various beaches where you can spend the day enjoying the sea breeze and the warmth of the sun. All downtown beaches are public, and the Olas Altas beach, where the boardwalk ends, is one of the main destinations for tourists due to its wide array of food stalls and activity centers, offering boat excursions, hiking in the mountains, and more. 

Whether you choose to grab some snacks and drinks for a simple picnic or try the delicious fresh catch from the coastal restaurants, the Malecon in Puerto Vallarta will earn a special place in your heart.  

If you have more questions about the many things to do in Puerto Vallarta and want to discover additional activities, do not hesitate to contact our team for information on incredible tours and unforgettable rides.