100 years ago, Puerto Vallarta was just a sleepy fishing village. However, that reality is very different now! A hotspot among Hollywood stars in the 1960s, it’s now accessible for the wider public. Holidaymakers flock to this gorgeous part of the Jalisco Coast to experience its white sand beaches, local food, and its plethora of water sports on offer.
In this post, we’ll take a look at the best water sports experiences on offer in Puerto Vallarta. Hopefully, it’ll make it easier for you to plan your trip and decide which exhilarating activity you’re going to try first!
Stand up Paddle Boarding
The fastest growing water sport in the world has made its way to Puerto Vallarta. Stand up paddle boarding started in Hawaii, and it’s one of the more relaxed and tranquil board sports… At least it can be! If it’s your first time, consider taking a lesson with a local instructor. They’ll help you to master the basics.
Wondering what size paddle board is right for you? It can be tricky to decide, as paddle boards come in all different shapes and sizes. It helps to know what you’re going to use it for first though – for example, will you use it casually, are you going to surf, or even practice yoga or fishing on it!
Whatever you use it for, SUP is great fun and an awesome workout for your core.
Sea Kayaking
Another way to see Puerto Vallarta from the sea is by kayaking. Kayak adventures mean that you’ll be just metres above rays, sea turtles, and tropical fish. Paddle out to the islands of Costalegre and find secluded coves to pull into and explore the islands and all their beauty. There are a few tour operators which offer sea kayaking – perfect if you don’t have your own kayak or don’t feel comfortable heading out on your own.
Surfing
The Jalisco Coast is one of the best surf spots in Mexico, with excellent waves year round. Finding the best places to surf in Jalisco means you’ll have to head out of Puerto Vallarta itself. However, if you’re willing to spend the time and money to get to somewhere like Sayulita, you’ll certainly reap the rewards. Packed with expats and tourists who have all come to enjoy the surf, you can pick up some cheap lessons here – or just head straight out into the water if you’ve already got some experience. As well as Sayulita, La Cruz de Loreto and San Pancho offer some great waves.
Snorkelling
What’s the best way to see the exquisite biodiversity in the waters around Puerto Vallarta without having to scuba dive? Snorkelling, of course! You probably won’t want to do this at the city centre beaches, as there’s a lot of human activity that marine life strays away from. However, there are some great spots in Banderas Bay. One such spot is Los Arcos, with lobsters, octopuses, and of course tropical fish, all being present below these spectacular rock formations. Las Marietas boasts another varied ecosystem off the Puerto Vallarta coast, where you’ll see an underwater paradise with needlefish and turtles. If you’re really lucky, in some places you may get to snorkel with wild dolphins! Snorkelling tours are a great option for those travelling with the family.
Parasailing
Want to get the adrenaline flowing above Puerto Vallarta Beach? Parasailing might just be the activity for you. Attached to a parachute, you’ll be pulled along by a speedboat, from which you’ll get spectacular views of the bay below you. Parasailing usually lasts for around 15 minutes, so it’s easy to squeeze it in to your itinerary. Even if you’re visiting from a cruise ship!
Jet skiing
What’s the quickest and most exhilarating way to skip along the Puerto Vallarta Coast, feeling the breeze and spray of the Pacific Ocean on your face, while taking in the jungle like surroundings? Jet skiing, of course! With several places in town offering rentals, you can take one out for a spin close to town, or even better, take a jet-ski safari where you’ll stop off at several beauty spots such as Playa Colomitos cove. Integrate other activities such as snorkelling or swimming before zipping back to Puerto Vallarta town at the end of the day.
Flyboarding
Want to fly above the water? Flyboarding is an extreme sport which will see you shoot straight into the air propelled by the thrust of a jet ski. It’s up to you if you want to fly 20 metres into the air, or dive as deep as you can go!
Whale Watching
Okay, not strictly a water sport. However, whale watching is something that many people have on their bucket lists. So why miss a chance to tick it off?! Visit from December to March to increase your chances of coming face to face with a humpback whale. These gentle giants will make a memory that is sure to be etched into your mind forever!
Final Thoughts on Water Sports Experiences you can enjoy in Puerto Vallarta
You’re one step closer to planning your trip to Mexico. Have you thought about where to stay in Puerto Vallarta? If not, check out Puerto Vallarta rentals. Here, you’ll find some of the best vacation rentals in town at the fairest prices. Take a look to find your dream apartment or villa to come back to after a day of hitting the beach!
