Puerto Vallarta vs Cabo - Better Wander

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Alice is a freelance writer and owner of the travel blog Adventures of Alice. Since she got bitten by the travel, she explored the world. She has visited 20 countries. Her favorite city to wander around is New York and she shares her travel guide for your trip. She loves traveling and she wants to make sure you do too.

Bottom Line Up Front

Cabo and wPuerto Vallarta are excellent holiday destinations on the Pacific side of Mexico. However, they are pretty different in terms of the vibe they give and the activities offered. One is much more geared to adventurous tourists, while the other provides a more authentic and relaxing retreat. I prefer Puerto Vallarta because it has a smaller-town feel without all the super touristy features, beautiful beaches, and plenty of ocean activities.

Main Differences Between Puerto Vallarta vs Cabo

Some of the main differences between Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas are:

Puerto Vallarta is located on the Bay of Banderas, whereas Cabo is located at the peninsula’s southern tip.
Puerto Vallarta has a more traditional Mexican feel, whereas Cabo has a more modern and touristy vibe.
Cabo is better for those who want to party, whereas Puerto Vallarta is better for those who want to relax.
Puerto Vallarta has more relaxing beaches, whereas the beaches in Cabo are more adventurous.
Puerto Vallarta is generally cheaper than Cabo.

Where is Puerto Vallarta?

Puerto Vallarta is located on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, in the state of Jalisco. The city is a resort town and is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. Puerto Vallarta has something for everyone – whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure. I found it to be the perfect mixture of adventure and relaxation.

Who Puerto Vallarta is suited for

If you want a carefree vacation by the sea, Puerto Vallarta is the place to go. The city has a laid-back atmosphere, and plenty of activities keep you occupied, such as swimming, sunbathing, fishing, sailing, and windsurfing. Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveler, a digital nomad wanting to spend a month in Mexico, a couple looking for some alone time together, or a traveler looking for some culture and history, Puerto Vallarta will keep you occupied. I also found that it has excellent food. When visiting Mexico, beaches are high on every visitor’s list! So, let’s look at some of the highlights of Puerto Vallarta first.

Puerto Vallarta: The Highlights

When you think of Puerto Vallarta, you may think of palm tree-lined beaches and small cobblestone streets. The pacific gem is oozing with charm and I’ll go over some of its specifics below.

Beaches

The waters around Puerto Vallarta are a little calmer than those around Cabo. However, it’s still warm enough to swim in! The beaches here are well worth a visit. Playa de Los Muertos is one of the most popular beaches in Puerto Vallarta, located a short drive from town. It’s recognized for its lovely golden sand and transparent waters. In comparison, Playa Las Gemelas is the ideal beach for those who want a more laid-back ambiance. Located just outside town, this private beach is a great place to unwind and soak up the sun.

Nightlife

Puerto Vallarta’s nightlife is centered around the Zona Romantica, also known as Old Town. This area is packed with bars, clubs, and restaurants, making it the perfect place to go for a night out on the town. One of the most popular nightclubs in Puerto Vallarta is La Santa. This club is known for its great music, friendly staff, and amazing cocktails. If you’re looking for a more lively atmosphere, then check out Mandala Beach Club. This open-air club is located right on the beach and is the perfect place to dance the night away.

History

Unfortunately, there are no ancient Mayan Ruins in the vicinity of Puerto Vallarta, but there is a lot of cultural history to enjoy. The Hacienda de San Sebastián is one of the most visited historical sites in Puerto Vallarta. This former sugar plantation has since been converted into a museum, and it’s an ideal location to learn more about the history of Puerto Vallarta. Plus, you will not be disappointed in Puerto Vallarta if you enjoy art. Some of Mexico’s most renowned artists call this place home, and there are many art galleries to choose from.

Local Life

If you’re interested in discovering the traditional Mexican culture, Puerto Vallarta is the place to go. There are several markets to explore where you can find everything from fresh produce to handcrafted items. The Mercado Municipal, one of the most well-known markets in Puerto Vallarta, is located in the city center and is ideal for sampling typical Mexican cuisine. The Museo del Nayar is a must-see if you’re interested in learning more about the city’s history. The museum is dedicated to the history of the Nayar people, who are the original inhabitants of Puerto Vallarta.

Pros of Puerto Vallarta

It’s a great place to learn about traditional Mexican culture.
There are several markets to explore, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handcrafted items.
The Museo del Nayar is a must-see for anyone interested in learning more about the city’s history.
Beautiful natural environment.
The Foodie scene is delicious, and you can easily find something unique to eat.

Cons of Puerto Vallarta

It doesn’t have any ancient ruins like some other Mexican destinations.
It can be pretty crowded during peak tourist season.
More of an older, small town, so you won’t find a ton of common comforts.

The best things to do in Puerto Vallarta

What are some of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico’s greatest things to do? This city has a variety of things that you can do, from gorgeous beaches to bustling bazaars and everything in between. Here are some of the top things to do in Puerto Vallarta:

Los Muertos Beach

Los Muertos is one of the most popular beaches in Puerto Vallarta, and for a good reason – the sparkling water and soft sand make it a perfect place to relax. The beach is also great for swimming, boogie boarding, and stand-up paddleboarding. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try parasailing!

Puerto Vallarta Malecon

The Puerto Vallarta Malecon is a must-see when you’re in the city. This oceanfront promenade stretches for over two kilometers and is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars. It’s the perfect place to take a stroll, people watch, or relax by the water. It’s a fantastic location to grab a bite to eat or have a couple of drinks while watching the city go by. Don’t forget to try the ice cream stalls along here.

Rhythms of the Night

Look no further than Rhythms of the Night for a zany circus experience. This dinner and show are held in an open-air amphitheater in the jungle that lasts around an hour. You’ll be delighted while eating a delicious dinner and being entertained by performers such as acrobats, fire dancers, and live musicians. It’s a true one-of-a-kind experience that you won’t find anywhere else!

Playa las Gemelas

If you’re looking for a secluded beach to relax on, Playa las Gemelas is the perfect spot. This hidden gem is located just south of Puerto Vallarta and can only be accessed by boat. The journey there is half the fun, and once you arrive, you’ll find yourself in a paradise of white sand beaches and crystal-clear water. It’s the perfect place to spend a day swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. This is the ideal location to unwind and relax away from Puerto Vallarta’s bustle.

Go Mountain Biking

Mountain biking is popular in Puerto Vallarta since it’s surrounded by a jungle. There are several routes to explore, and you’ll be able to see some fantastic sights and maybe even some wildlife, like monkeys. Plus, if you’re feeling daring, there’s always zip lining to try!

Explore the Old Town

The cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and distinctive atmosphere of Puerto Vallarta’s Historic District make it a delightful destination. It’s the ideal location to meander around, shop for souvenirs, and have a bite to eat. The Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, one of the most famous monuments in Puerto Vallarta, should not be missed.

Take a Boat Tour

A boat trip is an excellent method to see Puerto Vallarta from the sea. The city’s skyline and some of the adjacent islands are well worth the trip into the water. There are several boat trips to select from, so you’re sure to discover one that appeals to your preferences and budget. There’s a boat trip for seeing the sights, fishing, or snorkeling.

Go Scuba Diving

Scuba diving is another thing to do in Puerto Vallarta. There are numerous dive sites to discover, and you can even swim with dolphins, which is a fantastic experience. Numerous diving institutions will teach you the fundamentals if you’ve never scuba-dived before. You’ll be able to participate in group dives and explore the underwater environment once you’ve been certified.

See Mexican Street Art

Some of the world’s greatest street art can be seen in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. The city is covered with murals and graffiti, so keep your eyes open! El Faro Lighthouse, La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, and Puerto Vallarta’s Old Town are among the most popular locations to view street art.

Visit a Tequila Distillery

Puerto Vallarta is in Mexico’s tequila-producing heartland, so it’s the ideal hunting ground for a distillery. You can learn everything there is to know about how tequila is produced, as well as try some of the numerous varieties created. Several distilleries are available, so you can discover your new favorite tequila. I mean, can you go to Mexico and not try tequila? Of course not!

Food Tour

Mexico is a haven for food lovers, and Puerto Vallarta is no different. A food tour of Puerto Vallarta is a beautiful way to sample some of the city’s local specialties. You’ll be able to try various foods, from classic Mexican cuisine to contemporary fusion. You should also try as much seafood as possible while here because you won’t find any like it anywhere else.

Where is Cabo San Lucas?

Cabo San Lucas, or just Cabo, is located on the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula. Cabo is known for its beautiful beaches, parties, and luxury resorts, making it a popular beach vacation spot. Although it’s a little touristy, it’s ideal if your main reason for visiting is to have an adventure, relax in a high-class resort, or party the night away.

Who Cabo is suited for

Cabo San Lucas is perfect for those looking for a luxury vacation with the option to party the night away or do something unique. The city is home to some of the best resorts in Mexico, and there are plenty of activities to keep you busy, such as golfing, shopping, whale watching, and exploring the nearby desert. It’s also ideal for those looking for all their home comforts away from home while enjoying a unique adventure.

Cabo San Lucas: The Highlights

Now, let’s take a look at some of the best points of Cabo! This desert area is perfect for those seeking a luxurious home away from home experience that has plenty of exciting things to do.