Puerto Vallarta NOW – Aug 2019

You’ve heard it from your friends, or perhaps you’ve read it online in other Puerto Vallarta travelers’ comments: Puerto Vallarta is hot. Well, we know that, but during the summertime, it is hot! But, you know, it is not the end of the world. There are many travelers that like Puerto Vallarta during the summer months because contrary to popular misconception, there are many things to do. So, before you turn your sights at another summer destination, here’s a possible itinerary for a summer week in Puerto Vallarta.

Day 1 – Thursday: Arrive and Chill

You’ve probably spent most of your day flying and are checking in mid-afternoon. Take the opportunity to relax in your hotel room or condo until it’s time for dinner, at which time, you’ll find quite a few choices of air-conditioned restaurants, all within walking distance, in Emiliano Zapata, the gay neighborhood. 116 Pulpito Gastro Bar (116 Calle Pulpito) is one of the small restaurant gems in town, featuring a fresh Mediterranean flair. La Palapa (105-3 Calle Pulpito) was founded in 1959 as the first beach restaurant in Puerto Vallarta. For over 50 years, La Palapa has been a destination for those who enjoy a candlelit romantic dinner on the sand.

Day 2 – Friday: Look Around

Daily breakfast at Hotel Mercurio is the place to go for a laid back meal and the chance to meet other travelers. Still feeling jet-lagged? Book yourself a massage! There are plenty of options in the ‘hood, and you’ll find spa treatments considerably less expensive than north of the border. When it’s time to hit the beach, head to Los Muertos, where you can pick from several gay spots to spend the day, from the stylish Mantamar Beach Club or Sapphire Beach Club to the casual Green Chairs. In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing disco nap, particularly if you are planning to go out in the evening and experience some of Puerto Vallarta’s newest gay bars. If dancing is on your agenda, be sure to check out PV’s newest club, Industry (258 Lázaro Cárdenas), a true nightclub with pumping music, a huge dance floor, and amazing lighting.

Day 3 – Saturday: Pool Time

If your weekend coincides with Casa Cupula’s monthly Adam & Steve parties at The Pool Club (129 Callejon De La Igualdad) definitely check it out! It is clothing optional, so it can be completely relaxing or a bit flirtatious. Any other weekend, the Pool Club offers a truly relaxing day-pass experience with a light fare menu, signature cocktails and more. The pool at Hotel Mercurio is smaller but just as playful. Mercurio offers daily 2×1 happy hour and great pool side treats to enjoy (we mean food, not guys, but you’ll find those treats quite tasty if you catch my drift!). Mantamar Beach Club provides live DJs spinning poolside music, cabanas, food and bar service, and even a swim-up bar. During the evening, catch a live show at Incanto or Act II Entertainment, or head over to Garbo (143 Cale Pulpito), where different entertainers keep things lively.

Day 4 – Sunday: Brunch

Try Sunday brunch at Casa Cupula. The food is excellent, and the ambiance is inviting. For something on the healthy side, check out Salud Super Food (534A Olas Altas) bringing you healthy local vegetarian friendly cusine. For the rest of the day, repeat, or head to Hotel Mercurio (168 Francisca Rodriguez) for their always-festive weekly pool party, Beers, Boys & Burgers, from 4-7 pm.

Day 5 – Monday: Head to the Mountains

Given the proximity of the Sierra Madre, it is quite possible to travel a short amount of time and be surrounded by pine trees and cooler temperatures. Take an excursion to the Vallarta Botanical Garden, one of the finest in the Americas and it is only 40 minutes south of Puerto Vallarta! Be adventurous and take the city bus, or ask your concierge for information on how to schedule a tour to explore the many endemic species along the Garden’s walking trails. Reward yourself at the Garden’s Hacienda de Oro restaurant with panoramic views and whopper margaritas.

Day 6 – Tuesday: Sweat it Out

By now, you’ve confirmed what we told you before -: summer in Puerto Vallarta is hot and humid. This time of year is great for nature lovers as the summer rains bring Puerto Vallarta’s surrounding mountains back to life. Consider a horseback or ATV excursion, even a canopy ride. Again, your concierge should be able to point you in the right direction.

Day 7 – Wednesday: Relax!

Your final vacation day is perfect for you to relax or maybe call that guy you met on Saturday—or was it Sunday? Book another Spa treatment before the time comes for you to pack your suitcase and get ready to return home. Intrigued? Savvy travelers are increasingly choosing Puerto Vallarta during the Summer months because our destination offers a different pace and a different vibe during this time of year. Pull out your calendar and book your next vacation today! Paco Ojeda is a Puerto Vallarta based influencer, photographer and musician. Learn more about his activities by visiting his website at paco-ojeda.com.