Blake Walsh

15 Best Things to Do in Nuevo Vallarta

  • Published 2021/12/28

Nestled in Mexico’s Pacific coast is the charming municipality of Nuevo Vallarta that boasts sprawling beaches, brimming with water adventures, and more.

This vibrant coastal destination makes the perfect vacationer’s dream for its numerous exploration opportunities.

You can meet plenty of wildlife species thriving in Nuevo Vallarta that’ll add a touch of wonder and adventure to your vacation.

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a family summer vacation, Nuevo Vallarta is the place to be!

Here are the 15 best things to do in Nuevo Vallarta and see the wonders that await you.

Wade the Waves of Playa Punta de Mita

Cave in Playa Punta de Mita

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A trip to Nuevo Vallarta wouldn’t be complete without visiting the sprawling beaches.

Located along Mexico’s Bay of Banderas coast is the charming Playa Punta de Mita in Nuevo Vallarta that boasts a sprawling white sandy shore.

Boardwalk in Playa Punta de Mita

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The beach attracts many tourists and locals with its fascinating view of the sea and the relaxing sound of the waves crashing on the shore.

View of Playa Punta de Mita

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Playa Punta de Mita is the perfect spot for surf enthusiasts because its gentle waves are perfect for beginners.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy exciting water recreational activities or simply bask in the sun to enjoy the relaxing sea breeze, Playa de Punta Mita has got you covered!

Aerial View of Playa Punta de Mita

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Spend a Fun-filled Day in Aquaventuras Park

Escape the scorching heat of the summer and dive down the pools at this vibrant water park in Nuevo Vallarta.

Aquaventuras Park is the top family spot for locals and tourists visiting Nuevo Vallarta for its fantastic water activities and fascinating experiences.

The water park features water slides, a rock-climbing wall, a zipline, and an obstacle course to keep your day brimming with thrilling activities and adrenaline rush.

You can also cool off and relax as you stream through the calm waters of the lazy river surrounded by natural sceneries.

Be amused with the majestic creatures staying at Aquaventuras Park; you can swim with the dolphins or enjoy the playful sea lion show for a memorable experience.

The Aquaventuras Park is a must-visit on your trip to Nuevo Vallarta to fill your day with awesome activities without a dull time.

Meet the Crocodiles at El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary

Experience the combination of the beauty of nature and educational adventure awaiting at the El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary.

This quaint sanctuary in Nuevo Vallarta is home to crocodiles, turtles, and other native wildlife that requires proper care and rehabilitation.

A trip to the El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary will surely fill your day with a fascinating experience surrounded by the animals in their habitat.

You can take a guided tour around the sanctuary, where you’ll meet several protected wildlife and learn about the environment from passionate biologists and veterinarians that lead the tours.

Aside from the up-close experience with the wild animals, you can also stop by their gift shop and buy some of their merchandise to support the sanctuary’s mission.

A trip to El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary will not only fill your day with new information, but you’ll also be supporting their cause to preserve the wild flora and fauna of the local ecosystem.

Test your Golfing Skills at El Tigre Golf Club

Another exciting addition to your trip to Nuevo Vallarta is to test your golfing skills at the exciting championship golf course of El Tigre.

Tee off and tame the El Tigre with your golfing skills as you overcome the challenging water hazards, sand traps, and elevation changes.

The El Tigre Golf Club is a must-visit for avid golfers who are in for a bit of challenge.

After your tiring tee time, you can stop by in the clubhouse restaurant and bar to recharge with some hearty foods and beverages.

El Tigre Golf Club combines the challenging course with the picturesque landscaping, making for the perfect venue to unwind and enjoy.

Dine and Enjoy the Breathtaking Sight of the Sea at the Marina Nuevo Vallarta

Nestled in the heart of Nuevo Vallarta is the region’s private marina that features a panoramic view of the sea and spectacular landscape.

The marina offers plenty of fun activities you can do with the family, which consists of fishing, sightseeing, cruising, dining, and more!

This seaside location in Nuevo Vallarta is the ideal spot for dining and entertainment where you can get your grubs from plenty of local joints while listening to live music.

A day spent at the Marina Nuevo Vallarta makes for a memorable experience where you can get acquainted with the lively community of the town.

Book a Luxurious Stay at Vidanta

If you’re looking for a place to stay on your trip to Nuevo Vallarta, then Vidanta is the ultimate resort vacation for you!

Experience top-notch service and high-end experiences to fill your stay with relaxation and enjoyment.

Vidanta in Nuevo Vallarta offers a selection of restaurants and lounges to satisfy your taste buds, three golf courses for golf enthusiasts, a shopping and entertainment plaza, and more!

Whether you’re looking to enjoy a dip in the pool or wade the waves by the beach, this beachfront resort has got you covered.

You can also enjoy the art of relaxation in their spa, try the array of resort activities, or shop for unique items in the shopping plaza.

Vidanta is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for a place to stay that offers a lot of relaxation opportunities without having to leave the comforts of the resort.

Shop for Fresh Produce and Homemade Goodies at the Riviera Farmers Market

Shopping for fresh produce and homemade goodies made by local vendors is a great way to spend a day in Nuevo Vallarta.

The Riviera Farmers Market offers a variety of fresh food items, homemade goodies, handicrafts and jewelry, and ready-to-eat snacks.

You can stroll through the farmers’ market to shop for healthy food options, try local street foods, and get acquainted with the locals.

This local market is a must-stop if you’re looking to buy a souvenir to commemorate your stay in Nuevo Vallarta; you can choose from a range of stores offering a variety of unique items.

A trip to the Riviera Farmers Market makes for a wonderful addition to your itinerary where you can enjoy the lively community of Nuevo Vallarta.

Spend a Whole Day of Fun at the Splash Water Park

If you can’t get enough of the adrenaline rush from sliding down the pool, then make sure to visit the Splash Water Park in Nuevo Vallarta.

This water park features plenty of pools with different depths for all ages, large winding slides, a pirate ship, and a tiki bar.

You can pack some snacks and set up a picnic with the family, or if you don’t want to stress about packing foods, you can also get some grubs from their snack bar.

Gear rentals are available in the park to amp up your water activity experience, so you wouldn’t have to worry about packing your own.

Aside from the thrilling water recreational activities, you can also enjoy the dolphin and sea lion shows, where you’ll marvel at the majestic sea animals.

This quaint water park is the ideal destination to delight the young and the young at heart alike.

Go on a Nature Walk at Sierra del Vallejo

Delve deeper into the beauty of nature at Nuevo Vallarta’s protected tropical forest, the Sierra del Vallejo.

This nature respite among the busy town is the perfect destination to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.

You’ll get to see the native flora and fauna in Nuevo Vallarta, and you can also take a guided birdwatching tour to see a variety of majestic bird species soaring in the sky.

A trip to Sierra del Vallejo is ideal for adventure-seekers and nature lovers looking for a nature escapade from the hustle and bustle of the town.

Go Deep Sea Fishing with Nuevo Vallarta Fishing Charters

If you’re looking for a great way to spend the day, then you can never go wrong on a deep-sea fishing trip in the waters of Nuevo Vallarta.

Private charters and boat rentals are available to take you on an exciting fishing trip where you can reel in plenty of trophy fish, like the Marlin, Sailfish, Mahi-Mahi, Yellowfin Tuna, and more!

You can go on the fishing trip with their skilled crew that will help you to get a fresh, big catch.

Amp up your regular fishing trip by going on exciting deep-sea fishing to reel in the fresh catch, so don’t forget to schedule your fishing adventure at Nuevo Vallarta.

Go on a Whale Watching Trip with Whale Watch Vallarta

Be fascinated with the majestic sea animals as the humpback whales gather in the warm waters of Nuevo Vallarta during the prime whale watching season that runs from early December to early March.

You’ll go aboard a boat to get an up-close view of the majestic whales swimming and playing in the waters of Nuevo Vallarta.

Whale Watch Vallarta is Nuevo Vallarta’s first dedicated whale watching company that will ensure that you’d have a memorable time watching the gentle giants of the sea.

Make sure to book your reservation for a whale-watching excursion on your trip to Nuevo Vallarta.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Tee Off at the Flamingos Golf Course

Suppose your definition of a well-spent day is to spend a tee time on perfect weather in a beautifully-maintained fairway surrounded by charming natural sceneries.

In that case, Flamingos Golf is the place for you!

Test your golfing skills in their challenging 18-hole championship course that features water hazards, bunkers, and elevation changes that will allow you to strategize and enjoy at the same time.

You won’t have to worry if you’re a beginner or a pro golfer because the golf course layout is perfect for all abilities with a bit of challenge.

After your tee time, you can stop by their restaurant and bar for some grubs to recharge and cool off with a cold beverage.

Go on a Pirate Themed Tour at Marigalante Pirate Ship in Puerto Vallarta

Sail the seas on a unique adventure where you’ll voyage through Mexico’s coastline and experience pirate exploration.

A 20-minute drive from Nuevo Vallarta to Marigalante Pirate Ship is truly worth it as you go on a thrilling pirate-themed tour.

Enjoy the fun and interactive show on the pirate ship tour while enjoying the hearty meals served to satisfy your taste buds.

Whether you’re looking to spend your pirate tour on a vibrant sunny day or go on a night out for some drinks and pirate fun, the Miragalante Pirate Ship has got you covered!

Make sure to reserve your tour and create a unique, memorable experience with friends and family at the Miragalante Pirate Ship.

Explore the Artistic Community of Bucerias on the Bucerias Art Walk

Get a glimpse of the artistic community of Nayarit by exploring the art district of Bucerias.

The Bucerias Art Walk is a free self-guided walking tour that will take you through the Bucerias’ art district known as the Golden Zone.

You can follow the Bucerias Art Walk Directory that will lead you to plenty of participating galleries in town.

As you go through the art galleries in the Golden Zone, you can also stop by the restaurants serving local dishes that you can try to amp up your exploration experience.

A 20-minute drive to Bucerias is surely worth it once you see the fascinating works of artistic locals and meet friendly people along the way.

Check Out the Tropical Plants at El Eden Botanical Gardens

If you’re looking for a mini nature escape in an oasis of lush greeneries and a wide selection of tropical plants, then head out for a 20-minute drive at El Eden Botanical Gardens in Bucerias.

This charming place in Bucerias is home to a selection of tropical plant species and mystical landscaping surrounded by the relaxing atmosphere of nature.

The El Eden Botanical Gardens is a hidden gem for plant enthusiasts to explore and shop for plants native to Mexico.

A trip to El Eden Botanical Gardens is ideal if you’re looking for a nature escapade from the hustle and bustle of the town.

Final Thoughts

The vibrant town of Nuevo Vallarta will surely keep your vacation brimming with exciting adventures and fascinating experiences.

Don’t forget to reference this list if you’re planning a trip to Nuevo Vallarta soon!

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