Spring Break and Semana Santa in Puerto Vallarta: Where to Go

It is that time of year again as thousands of students will head south to the sunny beaches of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico to enjoy spring break vacation. In addition to foreigners enjoying Puerto Vallarta’s great springtime weather, many nationals also flock to the beaches during Semana Santa with their families who are also on school break. Read below to learn more about things to do for visitors to Puerto Vallarta for Spring Break or Semana Santa.

International Restaurants and Cultural Events

While Puerto Vallarta has been a long time favorite of spring breakers from up north, today’s Puerto Vallarta just keeps getting better. Thanks to an influx of entrepreneurs opening new businesses, there are tons of interesting places to visit and explore during your spring break vacation. Whether you stay in the tourist hot spots along the Malecon, or head inland to soak up the culture and diversity of Old Town’s hidden gems, you will not be disappointed with the options available. From international restaurants to cultural events, art galleries to festivals, there is lots to do in town besides just sipping fruity cocktails on the beach (which is actually pretty great in itself!)  No matter where you go, make sure to pick up your trash and help us keep Puerto Vallarta looking great.

Vallarta Botanical Gardens

An off the beaten path spot to explore during Spring Break or Semana Santa in Puerto Vallarta is the Vallarta Botanical Gardens. Located about 20 minutes south of downtown Puerto Vallarta, the Vallarta Botanical Gardens is nestled amongst the Sierra Madre mountain jungle landscape that helps keep the gardens cooler and fresher than other areas around Banderas Bay. Visitors will be amazed by the diversity of wildlife and plants they can see and learn about at the gardens.  Make sure you head down to the river that is adjacent to the gardens where you can take a refreshing dip in the cool, clear river waters. Keep your eyes peeled for fish and tadpoles that make their homes in these waters. If you are up for a bit of exercise, take the longer Jungle trail path for a medium level hike to return to the Visitor Center. The grounds have several special exhibitions to explore, and plants are for sale as well if you want to take one home with you. Entry is only $200 pesos making it a fun and inexpensive way to enjoy the beautiful nature of Vallarta in addition to its better known beaches.

Live Music and Shows

Did you know that Old Town Vallarta is a mecca for a wide variety of outstanding live shows and professional musicals? ACT II and Incanto are two top spots to check out. Incanto is a smaller scale venue that hosts incredible talent for a reasonable price. In April, you can check out salsa dancing performances, musical comedies and so much more. Don’t miss local favorites Zoe & Leon who play Nuevo Flamenco style music with hints of swing, jazz and Latin hits that are passionate and exhilarating to listen to live. They are collaborating with the Renteria brothers who bring their Cuban inspired rhythms to the mix.  Head to Incanto’s breezy and spacious patio with Rio Cuale river views after the show for a nice glass of wine. ACT II has multiple stages and additional seating to accommodate more guests. Check local listings to see what shows are playing during your visit to Puerto Vallarta.

Wonderful Restaurants and Bars

Vallarta has always been known for its incredible gastronomic scene, but the offerings just keep getting better. New restaurants and bars are popping up all the time, so Spring Breakers and Semana Santa visitors should take the time to visit the newer hot spots around town.  Frida’s Wine Patio is a beautiful spot with a lovely and lush garden located in the Tabachines area of town not too far from the Cruise Ship Terminal. They offer a variety of Mexican wine tastings, a morning rose tasting, and so much more all surrounded by an authentic Mexican patio with lots of outdoor seating and shade for those warm spring days in PV. If you find yourself downtown, make sure to check out Pal’Mar, a newer Seafood restaurant situated in the Old Town part of Vallarta that offers an unique blend of Italian, Seafood and Contemporary cuisine, all in a cozy and elegant setting. Make sure you try their locally made artisanal beers as well. Now available at other locations around town, Pal’Mar cerveceria currently has two delicious beers including a refreshing Blondie and satisfying Dark Lager.  Interested in an upscale dinner with incredible views? Try the newer La Cappella which is up the hill from the Malecon across the street from the famous Hacienda San Angel. With breathtaking views of Puerto Vallarta’s Lady of Guadalupe Church, the menu is Italian inspired fare with a twist. Their gorgeous open air dining room is reminiscent of ancient Europe style, and you may even be treated to live music including classical violinists.

Regardless of where you decide to spend your time during vacation, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for new restaurants and bars to explore. The diversity and endless options are part of what makes Puerto Vallarta not only a great tourist destination, but the perfect place to retire or move to permanently. In the market for quality Puerto Vallarta real estate? Check out the luxurious beachfront residences available at Garza Blanca Resort & Spa situated just 10 minutes south of downtown Puerto Vallarta. In a quiet and tranquil setting, you are still minutes from the action that city life provides, but can enjoy all the privacy and opulent accommodations you desire. Visit Garza Blanca’s real estate website today at www.garzablancarealestate.com to see what living in paradise could be like.