Your trip to Puerto Vallarta and Banderas Bay would not be complete without a visit to the beautiful Malecon. The picturesque boardwalk stretches for over a mile and provides astounding views of the vast Pacific Ocean as it is embraced by the beloved Banderas Bay. The pedestrianized icon of Puerto Vallarta is peppered with bars, restaurants, souvenir shops and jewelry stores tempting visitors to their wares, as well as imposing sculptures and street artists.
Safe and Friendly
A safe and friendly area of the city for adventuring tourists to explore at their leisure and locals to hang out in, Puerto Vallarta’s Malecon is one of the most important icons of the city, alongside the bell tower of the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe and the rocky arches known as Los Arcos. A brisk morning stroll or a romantic walk at sunset are just two ways you might enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s malecon.
Renovations of 2011
If you have been to Puerto Vallarta before, then you might be interested to know that the Malecon underwent some amazing renovations in 2011 to make it a delightful pedestrianized area for people to enjoy without dodging cars and motorbikes. Now the Malecon is decorated with lush flower beds, towering palm trees and trestling bugambilia, many of which were donated by the Vallarta Botanical Gardens. The sidewalks are etched with designs that represent the art of the Wixarika-Huichol people, who are the native indians from the area. Therefore, you will find images of animals, nature and the cosmos as you walk.
Sculpture Walking Tours
There are also sculptures all along the Malecon boardwalk all of which were made by Mexican artists, most of whom live in the area or have some strong connection with Puerto Vallarta. If you would like to know even more about each of the sculptures, head to Galeria Pacifico and ask about the English tour that will talk you through all of the art on the Malecon. You will learn some interesting information about the history and rich heritage of Jalisco and Nayarit too.
The Pier
If you are looking for more places to explore, you can always take ferry trips from the modern pier that you can find as you walk towards the Old Town along the Malecon. There are many fabulous uncharted beaches worth seeing to the south of Puerto Vallarta which can only be accessed by the use of small boats.
Amphitheater for Entertainment
For some free outdoor entertainment, visit the amphitheater next to the main plaza where shows are held each day. You can also find community classes of yoga here on Saturday mornings.The amphitheater is easy to find as it is near the well known Our Lady Of Guadalupe church and is beneath some concrete arches. You will also find fellow visitors, artisans, vendors, street show entertainers, expats and local people here to make your visit a truly memorable one.