By Kathy Kindred
Puerta Vallarta Information
Puerto Vallarta is located on the Pacific coast of
Mexico along 25 miles of Mexico's largest natural bay, Banderas Bay. The city is situated in the northwest part of the state of Jalisco. According to the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Office, about 2 million people visit the city per year.
History
Spanish conquistadors first explored the Mexican Gulf coast in the 1500s. Settlements began in the area in 1851. In 1918, Puerto Vallarta was named after then-governor Ignacio L. Vallarta.
Weather
From May to October, the average daytime temperature is 92 degrees F. November to April is the cooler season with temperatures averaging 85 degrees F. Rainy season is mid-June through September.
Lodging
According to the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Office, the city offers more than 15,000 guest rooms ranging from villas and condominiums to five-star hotels and resorts.
Economy
The economy in Puerto Vallarta primarily is tourist driven. However, tobacco, agriculture and tequila production are vital financial resources for the city, as well as cattle ranching.
Wildlife
Every year, Humpback whales spend the winter in Banderas Bay. Visitors also can observe dolphins, sea turtles, giant mantas and more than 100 species of birds that make Puerto Vallarta home.
Things To Do
Visitors to Puerto Vallarta enjoy the Gulf beaches, scuba diving, snorkeling, motorized and non-motorized watercraft. Many guided tours offer hiking, mountain biking and Sierra Madre mountain excursions.
Resources
About the Author:
Kathy Kindred began her professional editing career in 1995 at the "Kansas City Kansan." Other publications for which she has worked include "The Independence (Mo.) Examiner" and the "Kansas City Star." Kindred has a Bachelor of Science in journalism from the University of Kansas.
Photo Credits:
Photo courtesy of the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Office
