It’s Margarita Time! PV’s Best Cocktails

What comes to mind when you imagine a refreshing cocktail in your hand sitting on a beach in Mexico? A margarita of course! Whether you prefer lime, strawberry, mango, frozen or on the rocks, margaritas are the most popular tequila based cocktail in the world. Mexico’s claim to fame was invented way back in 1938 by Carlos “Danny” Herrera at his restaurant Rancho La Gloria near Tijuana, Mexico. Nearly 80 years later this classic cocktail is still a fan favorite that delivers a powerful and delicious punch. Try these top six margaritas in Puerto Vallarta.

La Margarita Bar is a cute and quaint bar doesn’t disappoint or let down its namesake as their margaritas pack a  powerful punch at a great price. In the heart of the Zona Romantica old town of Puerto Vallarta, La Margarita Bar offers tasty and strong margaritas that will leave you coming back for more. Sit inside the in the cool air conditioning and people watch as the entire front of the bar has ceiling to floor windows. Keep an eye on the action and activity while you stay fresh and cool inside as you sip your drink.  Happy Hour specials offer 2×1 margaritas so you can have a double dose of this delicious cocktail if you dare.

Sea Monkey is a casual beach bar that offers interior open air seating as well as palapa covered tables right on the sand. Their margaritas are tasty and very well priced so it is easy on your wallet. Beer drinkers will love their great pricing on Coronas and Pacificos, too. In the mood for a nibble to enjoy along with your margarita? Sea Monkey has a great and tasty bar style menu that are large portions at an affordable price. Head to Sea Monkey for an afternoon drink or happy hour as it gets very busy later in the day and you may have to wait for a table if you come too late.    

El Solar is another relaxed dive bar with a hipster vibe that is found right on the beach in the 5 de Diciembre neighborhood. El Solar offers specialty mezcal and tequila cocktails at reasonable prices. There is a small amount of interior seating inside, but most people prefer to sit right on the sand under the shade of a beach umbrella.  Sit back and relax in their comfy loungers while you sip your margarita cocktail. Can you handle a cocktail with some kick? The Mezcalita is a mezcal and serrano chile pepper specialty drink that will give your taste buds quite a tickle! Next door, Barracuda restaurant also serves their menu at El Solar so you can eat as you enjoy your drink. The fish tacos and ceviches are to die for! Also a great spot for whale watching during December through March, El Solar is the perfect beach bar spot.

Patio de mi Casa is a charming, hidden gem located in an interior courtyard near the Rio Cuale just a few blocks inland from the Puerto Vallarta malecon. Their classic margarita is everything that’s right about a margarita. Patio de mi Casa often has live music which makes for a pleasant evening with friends or a romantic night with your sweetheart. El Patio de mi Casa also has great food as well. If you looking for a cozy, comfortable place to enjoy your margarita, look no further than Patio de mi Casa.  

La Palapa is the oldest beachfront restaurant in Puerto Vallarta and opened back in 1951. A blend of fine dining and beachfront experience, they offer a wide variety of upscale, exquisite margarita combinations. In addition to great margaritas and specialty drinks, they have a great menu for breakfast,  lunch and dinner that is elegantly presented. A popular spot for brunch, get your day started right with a tasty margarita as you people watch the beach goers that walk by. You also have a great view of the Puerto Vallarta pier. If you head for dinner, the Puerto Vallarta pier lights up at night for a beautiful view that will add to the ambiance.  

La Playa is a great spot for a tasty cocktail in the heart of the action.  Just one block inland from the malecon off the Lazaro Cardenas park where the Saturday morning Farmer’s market is held, La Playa has lots of great margaritas that deliver on taste. Their Jalapeno margarita is a tantalizing mix of sweet and spicy that will have your taste buds begging for more. Find yourself at La Playa in the evening? Walk across the street to the adjacent Lazaro Cardenas park and take a relaxing stroll through the plaza. Many vendors set up their fares nearby down on the malecon so you can do a little shopping after or before you enjoy your margarita.   

A margarita is Mexico’s perfect drink that you can enjoy all year round in Puerto Vallarta. Next time you find yourself in beautiful PV, try as many of our top six margarita spots that you can….it’s margarita time!