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Top Experiences

The Malecón

Nighttime is the right time for strolling PV's famous malecón. Bring your camera to photograph the seawalk's whimsical statues at sunset. Sip a cool drink, buy a caramel-topped crêpe from a vendor, or eat at a restaurant across the street. At the end of your eight-block promenade, take in the near-nightly free evening entertainment—be it a brass band or outdoor dance at the town square or a magician or mime at adjoining Los Arcos outdoor amphitheater, overlooking the sea.

Canopy Tours

Zinging through the treetops makes even a timid traveler feel like a superhero. Canopy tours are action-packed rides, where, fastened to a zip line high off the ground, you fly from tree to tree. Blue sky above, ribbons of river below, and in between: a forest of treetops and a healthy shot of adrenaline. The most highly praised area operators are El Edén and Canopy Tour Los Veranos, both south of PV near Mismaloya.

In, On, Under and Above the Water

Spend a day on the bay. Dive the varied landscape of Las Marietas Islands, angle for giant billfish, or soar above the scene in a colorful parasail. Look for orcas or humpbacks in winter and dolphins year-round. Swim, snorkel, or learn to surf or sail. Perhaps just build a sandcastle with your kids.

Late Nights, Latino Style

Much of Vallarta is geared to the gringo palate, however, there's plenty of authentic spice for those who crave it. Stray a bit from the tourist scene for a mojito—Cuba's version of the mint julep—at La Bodeguita del Medio, on the malecón. Dine on roast pork, black beans, and fried plantains before heading for the dance floor at around 9, when the house band comes to life. Wednesday through Friday, take a taxi to J.B. Dance Club, in the hotel zone, for $2 dance lessons at 9:30. Otherwise hang at La Bodeguita until around 11, when the Mexican and Latino crowds start to arrive at J.B. for a late night of cumbia, salsa, and hot merengue.

Sensational Sunsets

After a day of activity, you deserve some R, R, and R: rest, relaxation, and rewarding views. Sip a fancy cocktail with a live music accompaniment at busy Los Muertos Beach or indulge in dessert from the crow's nest at Bucerías's The Bar Above. For the most dramatic views from high above the sea head to Barcelona Tapas, Vista Guayabitos, Las Carmelitas, or Le Kliff (F chapter 3). All of them serve dinner and drinks.

20 Minutes to a More Elevated You

Get away from the gringo trail 4,000 feet above sea level in the mountain towns west of PV. Admire the elegant simplicity of tiny San Sebastian; in Talpa, visit the diminutive Virgin of Talpa statue, revered throughout Mexico for petitions granted. Buy keepsakes and mountain-grown coffee in small shops around the square. Or fly to Mascota, where you can sample homemade raicilla—second cousin of tequila. Hike into tapestry hills and deep green valleys where, on a good day, you can spy Puerto Vallarta and a ribbon of the Pacific far below.