By Isabel Prontes
Puerto Vallarta is one of
Mexico's most popular
beach resort towns. From sunbathing to swimming in the beautiful waters of the area's many white sand
beaches, Puerto Vallerta is a certified seaside sanctuary. However, going to the beach isn't the only thing there is to do in Puerto Vallerta. Visiting art galleries, golfing and reveling in natural scenery are just some of the other many things to do while vacationing in this tropical Mexican town.
Viejo Vallarta
Strolling through Puerto Vallerta's romantic, traditional area, known as "Viejo Vallarta" is one of the most popular things for tourists to do while in the town. Walking along the Cuale River on cobblestone streets while soaking up the charm and ambiance of the section's many beachfront hotels and restaurants, this is an authentic, serene, and genuinely Mexican way to enjoy the softer side of Puerto Vallarta.
Deep Sea Fishing
Deep sea fishing is a highly popular recreational activity in Puerto Vallarta. The Pacific Ocean's Bay of Banderas is home to an abundance of fish like marlin, tuna and sailfish. Tourists can take comfortable and convenient sport fishing boats, and enjoy a day of extensive deep sea fishing with the assistance of an experienced, helpful and accommodating staff. Reputable companies include Puerto Vallarta Sportfishing and Puerto Vallarta Tours.
Hiking
Hiking tours of the exquisite Sierra Madre mountains are also very common recreational activities for Puerto Vallarta tourists. You will walk along shaded paths, pass serene mountain streams, explore mysterious jungles and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean on Sierra Madre hiking tours. Also, your guide (bilingual in English and Spanish) will point out the many local wildlife, birds and native plants that you will encounter on your hiking trip. Try Ecotours de Mexico or Vallarta Adventures.
Sailing
Sailing in Puerto Vallarta's Banderas Bay is another activity to consider. Onboard the boat, visitors will be able to revel in crystal blue waters and examine many different varieties of aquatic life. There are several recreation options available as well, including snorkeling, swimming and fishing --or, you can simply relax and bask in the warm glow of the sunshine. Sailing/Fishing Unlimited and Sunset Sailing are two experienced sailing tour companies serving Puerto Vallarta.
Canopy Tours
"Canopy tours" are a daring and adventurous way to take advantage of Puerto Vallarta's jungles--you will be elevated high above the ground, "flying" from tree to tree on zip lines. This is an energetic recreational activity to partake in, and one in which you can enjoy the lush natural scenery that Puerto Vallarta has to offer. Consider Puerto Vallarta Canopy Tours and Canopy Tours de los Veranos; both companies are considered safe and efficient with their canopy tour practices.
Resources
About the Author:
Isabel Prontes is a freelance writer and traveler residing in Manhattan, NY. She has traveled to five continents and counting. Her work has appeared on a number of websites, such as Travels, eHow.com and "Happy Living Magazine." Prontes has a professional background in public relations; she received a bachelor's degree in communication studies from Pace University.
