There is so much to see and do in the town and surrounding area that it is difficult to know where to start. I have therefore first highlighted some of the places that I think are ‘must see’ places to go. After that I have broken the city down by the zones that are used locally so that you can see what is available in each area.
Los Arcos National Marine Park
In the Bay of Banderas between Las Gemelas and Mismaloya beach is the very impressive Los Arcos National Marine Park. This protected marine preserve is made up of several small islands and granite rock formations. They have spectacular coral reefs and arches around them but there are also deep tunnels and caves. Los Arcos underwater park is the most popular diving and snorkelling place in Puerto Vallarta. This will be because of its plentiful variety of marine life and the clarity of the surrounding water which always seem to be very calm. Snorkelers, scuba divers and boaters can enjoy the area’s natural wonders and beauty while having a chance to view the tropical marine life. Some of the common that you will come across include puffer fish, parrot fish, cornet fish, lobster, octopus, angelfish, rays, clown fish and needle fish.
La Isla Rio Cuale
There is a bridge over the Rio Cuale which has a staircase leading down to La Isla Rio Cuale. You will often find children playing in the water here where the Rio Cuale intersects with the Pacific Ocean. The little island can be reached several ways, including by taking stairs leading down from a new bridge that crosses over the river or by crossing over a hanging bridge.
Once on La Isla Rio Cuale there are a number of walkways surrounded by jungle foliage with the trees being home to numerous iguanas and parrots. If you look over the side of the island you can still see the water rushing by over rocks. La Isla Rio Cuale is defiantly a must-see for anyone who is making a visit to Puerto Vallarta. Here you will find that the shops are overflowing with a large variety of colourful Mexican crafts. There are also some nice restaurants that serve refreshing drinks and delicious food. I can recommend Oscar’s Restaurant which can be seen from the bridge or the River Cafe which you will find just before entering the flea market area.
So in summary La Isla Rio Cuale is just about the perfect place to browse shops, have a relaxing rest in the shade or just stroll around taking pictures of all the interesting sights and views.
Continued in part 13.
Los Arcos National Marine Park
In the Bay of Banderas between Las Gemelas and Mismaloya beach is the very impressive Los Arcos National Marine Park. This protected marine preserve is made up of several small islands and granite rock formations. They have spectacular coral reefs and arches around them but there are also deep tunnels and caves. Los Arcos underwater park is the most popular diving and snorkelling place in Puerto Vallarta. This will be because of its plentiful variety of marine life and the clarity of the surrounding water which always seem to be very calm. Snorkelers, scuba divers and boaters can enjoy the area’s natural wonders and beauty while having a chance to view the tropical marine life. Some of the common that you will come across include puffer fish, parrot fish, cornet fish, lobster, octopus, angelfish, rays, clown fish and needle fish.
La Isla Rio Cuale
There is a bridge over the Rio Cuale which has a staircase leading down to La Isla Rio Cuale. You will often find children playing in the water here where the Rio Cuale intersects with the Pacific Ocean. The little island can be reached several ways, including by taking stairs leading down from a new bridge that crosses over the river or by crossing over a hanging bridge.
Once on La Isla Rio Cuale there are a number of walkways surrounded by jungle foliage with the trees being home to numerous iguanas and parrots. If you look over the side of the island you can still see the water rushing by over rocks. La Isla Rio Cuale is defiantly a must-see for anyone who is making a visit to Puerto Vallarta. Here you will find that the shops are overflowing with a large variety of colourful Mexican crafts. There are also some nice restaurants that serve refreshing drinks and delicious food. I can recommend Oscar’s Restaurant which can be seen from the bridge or the River Cafe which you will find just before entering the flea market area.
So in summary La Isla Rio Cuale is just about the perfect place to browse shops, have a relaxing rest in the shade or just stroll around taking pictures of all the interesting sights and views.
Continued in part 13.