Photo by Elmira DanilovaA colourful Pacific city on the shores of Banderas Bay
Puerto Vallarta combines a characterful old town of cobbled streets and a seaside malecon with the warm beaches of Banderas Bay. Villas here range from hillside estates above the bay in the exclusive Conchas Chinas area to homes near Old Vallarta's galleries and restaurants, each with a pool, sea views and concierge support for boat days, dining and whale watching.
- Cobbled Old Vallarta, the malecon and the church of Our Lady of Guadalupe
- Warm, swimmable Banderas Bay beaches and boat trips to hidden coves
- Hillside villas with infinity pools and sweeping bay views in Conchas Chinas
- Humpback whale watching offshore from December to March
- A vibrant dining, gallery and nightlife scene, and a welcoming atmosphere
Puerto Vallarta in pictures
Events not to miss in Puerto Vallarta
- December to March
Humpback whale season
Humpbacks migrate into Banderas Bay each winter, and boat trips from the city offer some of the Pacific coast's most reliable whale watching.
- December 1 to 12
Fiestas de la Virgen de Guadalupe
The city's most important religious festival, with nightly processions of pilgrims and dancers streaming to the landmark Guadalupe church downtown.
- Late May
Vallarta Pride
One of Latin America's most celebrated Pride festivals, filling the Zona Romantica with a parade, parties and cultural events in a famously welcoming city.
- November
International Gourmet Festival
Guest chefs from around the world join the city's restaurants for a week and a half of special menus, wine dinners and culinary events.
Puerto Vallarta through the seasons
- Winter (December – March)
Whale watching and flawless dry-season days
Humpback whales calve in Banderas Bay while the malecón enjoys day after day of dry sunshine. High season at its finest, ideal for multi-generation villa stays.
- Spring (April – May)
Hot sun, warm sea, fewer crowds
After Easter the beaches quieten and the ocean warms nicely for swimming and snorkelling around Los Arcos. Restaurant tables and boat charters are easier to come by.
- Summer (June – September)
The lush green season
Morning sunshine, dramatic afternoon storms and jungle at its most vivid, with excellent villa value. Surf trips to Sayulita and river excursions suit the adventurous.
- Autumn (October – November)
Festival season returns
The rains fade just as the fishing tournament and Festival Gourmet arrive, making November a connoisseur's month. Warm seas, green mountains and a city getting its sparkle back.
The Area and Where to Stay
Puerto Vallarta wraps around Banderas Bay, from the historic centre and Zona Romantica to the hillside neighbourhoods above the water. The Conchas Chinas area, just south of downtown, is the prime villa enclave, with estates cascading down to the sea. North of the city, the Marina and Nuevo Vallarta offer newer resort areas, while the wilder south shore reaches toward Mismaloya. Our collection favours hillside and near-beach villas with private pools and bay views, supported by a local concierge.
Things to Do
Wander the malecon and the galleries and boutiques of the Zona Romantica, then take a boat across the bay to secluded beaches like Las Animas, Quimixto and Yelapa. The bay is superb for snorkelling, diving, paddleboarding and, in winter, whale watching. Inland, the Sierra Madre offers zip-lining, tequila tours and mountain villages. Evenings bring rooftop bars, live music and some of Mexico's most varied dining; the concierge can arrange charters, tours and reservations.
Food and Local Flavour
Puerto Vallarta has a deservedly strong reputation for food, from street tacos and fresh ceviche to elevated Mexican tasting menus and international kitchens. Seafood is a highlight, pulled straight from the bay, and the city's markets overflow with tropical fruit and local produce. A private chef is a relaxed way to enjoy regional cooking at your villa, and the concierge can secure tables at the city's most popular restaurants.
When to Visit
The dry season from November to April brings warm, sunny days and calm seas, ideal for beaches and boating, with whale season running December to March. The summer and early autumn months are hotter, greener and more humid with afternoon showers, but quieter and better value. A villa with a private pool and bay breeze keeps the city comfortable year-round.
Getting There
Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR) sits close to the city with direct flights across North America. Transfers to the villa areas are quick, and a hire car helps for exploring the wider Banderas Bay and Riviera Nayarit. The concierge can arrange airport transfers, drivers and boat charters across the bay.





