Where is Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is a popular resort town located on the Pacific coast of Mexico. It is situated in the state of Jalisco, in the western part of the country. Puerto Vallarta is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and natural beauty. It is a well-known tourist destination and offers a wide range of activities, including water sports, cultural events, and outdoor adventures. The city is located along Banderas Bay and is surrounded by the lush Sierra Madre mountains, providing a stunning backdrop for visitors.

Puerto Vallarta Location Map, Mexico

About Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is a coastal city located in the western part of Mexico, in the state of Jalisco. The city was officially established as a municipality in 1918 and was later renamed Puerto Vallarta in honor of Ignacio Vallarta, a former governor of Jalisco. It is situated along the Pacific Ocean on the Bahía de Banderas and is widely known for its beaches, resort areas, and vibrant tourism industry.

Population

According to recent official estimates, the population of Puerto Vallarta is 291,839, and the population density is approximately 2,200 people per square mile.

Area and Geography

Puerto Vallarta covers a total area of approximately 502 square miles (about 1,300 square kilometers), including predominantly land area with limited inland water coverage. The city features coastal plains, sandy beaches, and the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains rising inland, creating a distinctive tropical landscape.

Neighboring Locations

Puerto Vallarta is bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the west and lies near the state of Nayarit to the north.

Major Cities and Communities

Major cities and towns include Puerto Vallarta, Ixtapa, Las Juntas, and Boca de Tomatlán.

Attractions and Recreation

Puerto Vallarta is known for its Malecón boardwalk, historic Zona Romántica district, and beachfront resorts. Outdoor activities include boating, fishing, snorkeling, and whale watching in the Pacific waters. The city also hosts cultural festivals, art galleries, and traditional Mexican markets that attract visitors throughout the year.

Transportation

Puerto Vallarta is served by Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport, providing domestic and international flights. Highway connections link the city to Guadalajara and surrounding coastal destinations.

Explore more destinations across Mexico on the Mexico Map section for additional geographic information.

Facts about Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Top Attractions in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

• Malecón - famous oceanfront boardwalk with sculptures, shops, and nightlife
• Zona Romántica - charming neighborhood known for beaches, dining, and galleries
• Playa Los Muertos - popular beach with swimming, restaurants, and beach clubs
• Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe - iconic landmark with a crown-topped tower
• Marina Vallarta - upscale marina area with dining, shopping, and boat tours
• Los Arcos Marine Park - protected area ideal for snorkeling and diving
• Islas Marietas - nearby islands famous for hidden beaches and wildlife
• Mirador Cerro de la Cruz - viewpoint offering panoramic views of the city and bay
• Vallarta Botanical Gardens - lush gardens showcasing native plants and orchids
• Downtown Puerto Vallarta - historic area with markets, cafés, and local culture

Distance from Puerto Vallarta to Other Mexican Cities

• Puerto Vallarta to Tepic - 165 km (103 miles)
• Puerto Vallarta to Guadalajara - 330 km (205 miles)
• Puerto Vallarta to Colima - 360 km (224 miles)
• Puerto Vallarta to Manzanillo - 310 km (193 miles)
• Puerto Vallarta to Aguascalientes - 520 km (323 miles)
• Puerto Vallarta to León - 540 km (336 miles)
• Puerto Vallarta to Morelia - 560 km (348 miles)
• Puerto Vallarta to Zacatecas - 600 km (373 miles)
• Puerto Vallarta to Querétaro - 650 km (404 miles)
• Puerto Vallarta to Mexico City - 880 km (547 miles)
• Puerto Vallarta to Monterrey - 1,100 km (684 miles)
• Puerto Vallarta to Tijuana - 2,200 km (1,367 miles)