Resorts, Weddings, Beaches, and Nightlife
The area of Puerto Vallarta is where I have been staying for my winter ‘2024 long stay.
Puerto Vallarta is on the West coast of Mexico, with beaches that open up to the expansive Pacific Ocean. A top travel spot for North American tourists, due to it’s easy direct flights, this town offers options for all kinds of vacationers.
Whether you are flying in for a weekend getaway with the girls, a luxurious all-inclusive resort break, a destination wedding, or to enjoy the surf and relaxed atmosphere at Sayulita, you’re bound to have some fun in the Mexican sun. Temperatures are warm year round, with daily winter highs of 26C, and the summer, a scorching 45C.
Once named as ‘The Friendliest City in the World’, in Puerto Vallarta you can enjoy the watersports on the beaches, take a tour to see the migration of humpback whales, walk along the beachfront Malecon or day trip to some of the local quaint, traditional towns.
Here are a few ideas about what to wear in Puerto Vallarta for a fabulous and stylish trip!
All-inclusive Resort
After a little R&R? Puerto Vallarta had a plethora of beautiful all-inclusive resorts to choose from. If you don’t want to have any plans other than soak up the sun and enjoy a cocktail or two, a luxe resort break could be right up your alley.
Most resorts are an all-inclusive style basis, where once you arrive, everything is included; gourmet food, drinks, plus entertainment.
J.Crew Classic Fit Beach Linen Shirt
Daytime Resort Wear
Make sure to bring a few bathing suits including a trendy one piece that can also double up as a top with shorts, a skirt, or breezy beach pants.
When planning what to wear in Puerto Vallarta on a resort vacation, don’t forget a cover-up or two to make the trek from your hotel to the pool. Avoid polyester based cover-ups (you’ll roast!) and opt for 100% cotton or linen instead to stay pretty and fresh, too.
Victoria Fedora Sun Hat UPF 50+
Team with a straw style wide brimmed sun hat for a look that’s chic enough for the beach or the pool.
If you do want to be a little more active, you may want to do some sports or games, a lot of resorts have a great daytime entertainment schedule just for you. If you want to participate in the beachfront yoga class or spinning session, you may want to pack a sports bra and leggings.
ZESICA Summer Wrap Beach Mini Dress
Evening Resort Style
In the evenings, guests at resorts like to dress up. Use it as an opportunity to look good, throw on a nice dress and heels. Although if you want to tone it down a little, you could opt for wedges or a cute pair of dressy sandals.
Try to pack fabric that is lightweight and cool, as summer evenings are still pretty warm. Keep the hair and make up more natural, the humidity will likely ruin any look after a while anyway, so simple tinted moisturizers, eyeliner and mascara will work for you. Add a coat of glossy lipgloss and you’re good to go.
Quince Tencel Jersey Side Tie Dress
Destination Wedding
For a destination wedding you’ll need something similar to the above resort options for the time you’ll have to enjoy your resort outside of the wedding.
You’ll also want to add your wedding outfit, of course, plus an extra dress that can serve as a backup or be worn for any nice dinners the day before or after the wedding.
Clarks Annadel Eirwyn Wedge in Sand
Instead of packing two pairs of heels for each dress, choose one neutral option you can wear with either style. Or a pair of wedges may be more convenient if you are going to be walking along a sandy stretch of beach for the photographs.
Don’t forget to include the right underwear. Having visible panty lines can turn a classy outfit into a bad one. If your dress has thin or no straps, choose a good strapless bra to keep you supported.
Girl’s Weekend
If your visit is based on a girl’s weekend or bachelorette party, then you’ll need the same daytime wear as mentioned in the resort section plus a couple of cute party dresses.
Quince 100% Organic Cotton Open-Knit Cover-Up Mini Dress
Sayulita
The beaches in Puerto Vallarta aren’t the best so many opt for a day trip to the nearby surf town, Sayulita.
This once sleepy town, known only to surfers, is now jam packed with vacation-goers who want a chilled out alternative to the Puerto Vallarta town. A small but cute village, it has a laid back vibe with chilled out bars and a social beach.
If you plan to give surfing a try during your visit, pack a bathing suit that fits properly so it doesn’t slide up on the board and bring a rash guard too.
Whale Watching
From December to February, Humpback whales traverse the Pacific coast to give birth and spend a few weeks in the warmer Mexican waters before heading back up to Alaska.
You can join a tour from a number of organizers to see these majestic, huge beasts in their natural environment, with many tours also having a microphone system that allows you to hear the whale song.
You’re never likely to forget the mesmerizing sight of a whale breaching with her calf, but you’re going to want to take along a waterproof camera or a waterproof phone pouch that can allow you to snap some pictures without worrying about your electronics getting wet.
Snorkelling
The Pacific coast near to Puerto Vallarta has some great snorkelling spots. You can join a tour easily, but if you are planning to snorkel and want to make the most of your experience, I would recommend bringing your own gear.
You don’t have to include fins – and these are usually bulky to pack – but at least buy your own quality mask and snorkel. A cheap mask can flood and you might suck in some yucky salty water if the snorkel doesn’t have a good drainage valve. It can really make the difference between having a great experience or never wanting to do it again.
Test a new mask before your trip to make sure it fits your face. The way you do this is by placing the mask on your face (unstrapped) on your face. Breathe in, look down, then look up and inspect the fit in a mirror. If it stays on and doesn’t fall off – it’s a good fit.
Keep checking back for more discoveries during my time in PVR and areal.
I’m ready to work with you to create a unique travel experience based on your travel destination, style, and interests. Please touch base so I may answer any questions you have and provide you with expert travel advice.
Disclaimer: Current travel rules and restrictions can change without notice. The decision to travel is ultimately your responsibility. Contact your consulate and/or local authorities to confirm your nationality’s entry and/or any changes to travel requirements before travelling.
