Puerto Vallarta beyond the beach… - Travel Tales by Vacation Express

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Puerto Vallarta beyond the beach…
Posted by Claire Kennard, 31 August 2010, 11:58
in Hot Topics
Mexico’s glamorous Pacific Riviera is home to ever-popular Puerto Vallarta, where you’ll find the perfect combination of sophisticated resorts and old-world Mexican charm. Known as the ‘Soul of Mexico’, it retains the character and traditions of the small fishing village it once was, and guarantees an authentic Mexican experience. Set between the Pacific Ocean and lush jungles leading to the Sierra Madre Mountains, the region has so much to discover – walk the cobbled streets of the old town, take the family to swim with dolphins, play golf on a championship course, mountain bike in the Sierra Madres, snorkel and scuba dive. Why laze on the beach when there’s so much to do…?
Check out our recommendations for top excursions in and around Puerto Vallarta:
Puerto Vallarta Old Town -
Take a tour of the old town and stroll the cobbled streets, where you'll discover white-washed, red-tile roofed houses dripping with colorful bougainvillea along with an amazing array of cozy cafes and lively night spots. Browse the eclectic shops to pick up some unique souvenirs, jewelry and local crafts before heading to Gringo Gulch, known for its beautiful villas - the most famous being ‘Casa Kimberly’, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton’s love nest.
Visit a tequila distillery –
Located in the state of Jalisco, the birthplace of tequila, Puerto Vallarta is home to several local brands. Take a trip to a tequila distillery to watch the process in action and maybe even put some varieties to the test.
Whale watching -
From December through March, Banderas Bay is one of the best locations in the world to see humpback whales in their natural habitat. Take a whale watching tour to see the humpbacks come home to calve – you may even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a baby humpback! Some tour companies feature hydrophone systems to hear the whales underwater and guides specially trained in marine sciences.
Swimming with dolphins –
One of Puerto Vallarta’s top attractions, swimming with dolphins is an experience you’ll never forget, no matter what your age! You’ll interact with the dolphins in their own environment, touch them, shake hands (or flippers) and watch them perform for you. Some tours even allow you to help out with their training!
Snorkeling and scuba diving –
Choose from a wealth of snorkeling options, either close to the shore at Mismaloya, Yelapa or Majahuitas, or on half or full day tours out to secluded islands. Banderas Bay is home to a rich marine life and you’ll be sure to spot turtles, needlefish, spotted eagle rays and endless varieties of tropical fish. The region offers world-class options for beginner and experienced divers alike. Explore underwater caves, canyons and reefs teeming with marine life.
Deep sea fishing -
The abundant marine life in the waters of Banderas Bay is the reason it’s renowned for some of the best deep sea fishing in the world. Top catches include marlin, yellow fin tuna, snapper and sail fish.
Horseback riding –
What could be more relaxing than a scenic trip by horseback through the foothills of the Sierra Madres? Various ranches around town offer horseback riding tours, taking jungle and mountain trails past waterfalls, and along rivers and canyons to picturesque mountaintop villages that offer breathtaking views of Banderas Bay. No riding skills are required for most tours.
Jeep safari –
Take an off-road adventure to the heart of the Sierra Madres! On a thrilling jeep safari admire the breathtaking views of Puerto Vallarta and Banderas Bay far below, as you journey through dirt roads, off-the-map paths, river beds and subtropical jungle.
Golf –
And last but certainly not least - Puerto Vallarta is quickly developing a reputation as one of the best golf destinations in Mexico. There are 9 world-class courses to choose from, including designs by some of the greats – Jack Nicklaus, Tom Weiskopf and Robert Van Hagge. Enjoy a round amidst jungle-rich layouts, while admiring stunning views across the bay and to the Sierra Madres.
Find out more about Puerto Vallarta in our Insider’s Guide - Mexico’s Pacific Riviera Rocks
URL Puerto Vallarta beyond the beach…

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