Puerto Vallarta is drenched in romance! After all, it was the legendary love of Richard Burton for Elizabeth Taylor that brought Hollywood here and catapulted the town into a world class resort in the ‘60’s. Today, it is one of the most ideal honeymoon destinations on the planet. Newlywed couples love it from the get-go, and there are plenty of romantic reasons why.
The city has one of the most vibrant and sophisticated fine arts scenes in the country, and many of Mexico’s most innovative jewelry, clothing and accessories designers reside here, yet informality and barefoot sophistication reign. Puerto Vallarta invites you to take it at your own pace. You never have to get dressed up unless you want to. Men never need ties or jackets and all women have to pack are a few bathing suits, cover-ups, and some pretty resort wear for the evenings. You won’t have to include overweight baggage charges into your budget when you honeymoon here!
Should you decide to marry here, there are plenty of professionals who are skilled in planning world class events to help arrange your Big Day. (Click here for a list of wedding planners and information about the documents you’ll need to get married in Puerto Vallarta.)
Walk along the Malecon at sunset and you’ll discover why Puerto Vallarta charms couples from throughout the world!
WHERE TO STAY:
HOTELS YOU’LL LOVE
Puerto Vallarta offers just about every type of hotel under the sun. Tiny boutique properties, mostly upscale and ultra-chic, are scattered throughout town along with small bohemian hotels with plenty of charm. Sprawling, sun drenched resorts in all sizes and price ranges line the golden beaches on both sides of town. You’re sure to find a honeymoon haven that matches your dreams and your budget!
Below are some of our very favorites.
You can find more at www.visitpuertovallarta.com.
For some recommended All Inclusive resorts, click here.
This seaside resort is a world in itself. It runs like clockwork but manages to make you feel at home. In spite of its size, the hotel staff manages to spoil you with friendly, personalized service.
Just about everything you want or need is easily available.
Reserve a room with a full ocean view and it will come with a safe, a mini bar, Wi-Fi, and luxurious bed linens.
The food is exceptional throughout. Have a snack in the lobby bar, a sumptuous breakfast buffet in the coffee shop garden, or a delicious dinner in one of four world-class restaurants and follow it with a walk in the garden to enjoy the moonlight.
By day, relax around the giant pool. Find water sports on the beach, play tennis or treat yourselves to a massage for two at the gorgeous spa. A championship golf course is minutes away, and the Concierge can arrange just about anything else you might like to do. She can also help surprise your new mate with a champagne breakfast in bed or an extreme adventure experience. Your wish is everyone’s command here!
Even though there are many guests at any given moment, you’re never rushed at mealtimes and you can find as much privacy as you want. You can always find a quiet corner to steal a kiss or share a dream. Every honeymoon day together is pure pleasure here!
Paseo de la Marina Norte 435. Tel: (322) 226 0000.
This small, elegant oasis is nestled on a hillside overlooking the town although it stands only a few blocks from the Malecon. The stunning architecture is that of a modern townhouse with all the comforts of home. It has the atmosphere of a trendy private club for hip travelers in-the-know.
Stretch out around the pool or Jacuzzi, have a rejuvenating
session in the holistic spa, and get to the lounge in time for high tea or a drink. Reserve a table for two in the tiny View Restaurant on the roof and enjoy a romantic dinner with a view of the bay. Then, have a dance in the lounge before turning in. You’ll be pampered from morning till night!
The beach and downtown shops, restaurants and clubs are
within easy walking distance, but your beautiful room is a tranquil
dream come true. This place is easy to love!
Calle Aldama 297, Colonia Centro. www.landmarkhotelpv.com info@landmarkhotel.com
Sophisticated, sybaritic couples who have travelled a lot revel in this seaside high-rise resort on the beach in the southern part of town. Rooms and public areas look like elegant sets for a fashion shoot. The modern décor is that of a beautiful private home that is as comfortable as can be.
Your room will have a sweeping ocean view. Junior Suites have private Jacuzzis on the balcony. Stretch out on a lounge around the beautiful infinity pool, pamper yourselves with a luxurious spa treatment, or soak up the sun on the beach just a few steps below and you’ll feel any remaining wedding stress melt away.
The Blanca Blue Restaurant, a hideaway gem for discerning diners, has one of the top three wine cellars in town. Reserve an intimate table for two and plan to linger and savor the moments as well as the flavors.
There are plenty of rich honeymoon memories to be made here!
Km. 7.5, Carretera Barra de Navidad, Tel: (322) 176 0700. www.garzablancaresortpv.com
This compact “downtown” resort stands between the ocean and the mountains. The town’s top restaurants and shops are just outside your front door and the glorious golden beach awaits at the back so you’ll never have a dull moment unless you want one.
Be sure to reserve a room with an ocean view. The Suites have bedrooms, kitchenettes and living rooms that make honeymoon living easy. Downstairs, the friendly Concierge is ready to help you create memorable honeymoon days.
This is a pleasant, affordable place that delivers good value. Be sure to check out the great wedding packages!
Olas Altasl 380, Colonia Emiliano Zapata. www.playalosarcos.com
Couples who like being “above it all” will love life in this tranquil resort. Perched atop a hill in Conchas Chinas, Puerto Vallarta’s posh residential section, it is the highest hotel in town. A nature preserve borders one side and a spectacular bay view is on the other so you’re always surrounded by natural beauty.
Breathtaking panoramas of the city and the bay spread out below you day-into-night. The atmosphere is that of a private club, complete with stunning restaurants, four large pools, a gym, a beauty salon and a full service spa.
Your elegant, modern suite is the size of a large apartment with a dining area, sitting room, at least one spacious bathroom, a kitchen or kitchenette, and a laundry, all elegantly furnished with state-of-the-art equipment. Every detail, down to the last cup and saucer and fuzzy terry robes, has been included to make your stay as comfortable as can be. Some suites have their own Jacuzzis on the balcony so you can relax to the beautiful wrap-around view.
The spectacular panoramas make the elegant restaurants even more wonderful. Mirage is right out of a movie set and offers innovative gourmet cuisine with a romantic view. Stop in the rooftop bar for a drink before or after dinner.
Shuttles will whisk you from your hilltop paradise to the beach or to town when the spirit moves you, but you’ll be glad to get “back home” to your elegant hilltop paradise where privacy and tranquility surround your love.
You can choose to stay with a Full American Plan if you really want to relax. Because of the extra spacious rooms, this “resort in the sky” is particularly suited to destination weddings. If you have a large family or group of friends to accommodate, this is your place. Furthermore, you can rest assured that yours will be the only wedding of the day. The Grand Miramar is an elegant, privately owned property that can cater to your every whim!
Paseo de las Corales 139, Conchas Chinas. Tel: (322) 221 5120.
www.grandmiramar.com
If you are newly engaged and planning a destination wedding in Mexico, the Golden Crown Paradise All Inclusive Resort is the answer!
This adults-only paradise is where couples find an unequaled romantic experience, singles and friends reconnect, dazzled by the countless activities the hotel has to offer, and everyone can just relax, rejuvenate, and recharge. It's also the perfect spot for groups to come for a wedding, a meeting or training session. Our medium-sized adults-only resort offers everything you need to create lasting memories including: spacious and well-appointed accommodations, a la carte dining, personalized service, a wide variety of activities, sports and entertainment, and a romantic setting for candlelight dinners.
We can arrange a romantic seaside ceremony at sunset followed by a candlelit dinner on the beach, a reception around the pool, and much more. The options are endless here and our catering team can help you dream up something wonderful, so the two of you focus on the simple pleasures of just being together.
Exclusive wedding packages available with attractive prices: Crystal ($1,000 USD), Gold ($1,300 USD) and Platinum ($1,600 USD). Enjoy the wedding benefits, when a minimum of 10 rooms are booked, the wedding ceremony free, and also receive a gift certificate of 2 nights for wedding anniversary and much more...
If you are longing for a getaway to someplace warm and sunny where you can escape the world even if just for a few days, the Golden Crown Paradise All Inclusive Adults- Only Resort in Mexico awaits.
For information and reservations contact us at:
TOLL FREE (US): 1 (800) 882 82 15PUERTO VALLARTA
FAST FACTS
HONEYMOON TIPS
At Customs, your baggage may be put through an X-ray machine. When it comes out, present your declaration to officials. Do not rush through. Everyone has to press a button before leaving though the inspection is usually cursory.
Refuse politely and proceed to one of the official kiosks to buy a ticket for the taxi to your hotel. Give it to the driver, and you’re on the way to a wonderful stay.
If you plan to go farther out of town, agree on a price before getting in. Consider renting by the hour (about $20-$25USD/hr.) for a day of sightseeing or shopping.
Puerto Vallarta is one of the few resorts which has easy-to-use public transportation. Buses run along major thoroughfares linking the northern and southern sections of town to the city center. To go from one end of the town to the other you usually have to change downtown. However, one of the most scenic sightseeing trips available is the bus ride from the city center to the Barcelo Resort. The route follows the coastline from sea level to the top of the cliffs and winds around to afford breathtaking views of the bay and the posh homes of Conchas Chinas. The fare is only about 50 US cents!
Some riders leave small change. Bellboys get $1-$2 USD/bag.
Waiters get 15-20% of the bill before tax. Make sure that a Service Charge has not been included. Hotel maids, airport porters, tour guides and street performers also expect small tips.
If the price is more than $20USD, it’s better to buy the item in a reputable store. It’s always better to buy silver in a shop, but if you look at a vendor’s merchandise, make sure that it’s not “alpaca,” a silver colored metal, or silver plated. Real silver carries a 9.25 stamp.
DON’T MISS:
Puerto Vallarta might be a small town, but there is a millionaire’s array of truly romantic activities to share. You can find just about anything under the sun to plan each day to match your moods, whether you feel lively or lazy.
Your choice can include anything from extreme zip lining or bungee jumping to a cooking class or nothing more than a rest on a beach lounge where all you have to do is reach for a drink.
Here are a few of the most romantic things to do. Find even more at www.visitpuertovallarta.com
The new Northern and Southern extensions bordering the beach are lined with tempting shops and restaurants. After dark, some sections become a carnival full of mimes and entertainment. Other pockets are quiet and invite you to do nothing but stop to enjoy the dramatic seascapes. You’ll soon discover that the Malecon offers one of the most romantic sightseeing tours available, and it’s free!
Fine arts galleries full of breathtaking contemporary pieces can be found all over town. Quality decorative items, cutting edge fashions and accessories, innovative jewelry and exquisite handicrafts, including the amazing yarn and bead artwork made by Huichol Indians, are just a few of the prizes to be had. Find them in typical open air souvenir markets or search in world class shops and boutiques. Or, you can buy from a beach vendor wearing 10 hats and carrying 25 purses. Any way, shopping is a popular sport here.
Bausilio Badillo is Puerto Vallarta’s fashion “Fifth Avenue” but you’ll find hundreds of other shops tucked away all over town. There is even an interior design center on the way to the airport!
Even those who pretend to hate shopping love it here!
For example, the Virgin of Guadalupe Festival in early December puts the town’s deep community spirit on display. Three days and nights of colorful processions to the church, floats, songs, and special foods are all part of the heartwarming event.
CRUISES
Couples who opt for the comfort and convenience of a honeymoon cruise love the Puerto Vallarta port of call. (Click here for more cruise information.)
NIGHTLIFE
When the sun goes down and the moon comes up, Puerto Vallarta’s pace can ramp up to any speed you want. It has the look of a small town, but the beat of a big city after dark.
Your hotel might offer Mexican Fiestas, music, shows or other events on the premises. Outside, the town lights up at night and becomes filled with international razzle dazzle. Fireworks light up some part of the bay almost every night. Cultural performances are often staged at the Malecon amphitheater under the stars.
Action-packed, late night spots where you can drink and dance till dawn are scattered around town. Cozy bars, lounges and restaurants abound, and you’re invited to join the party in any of them. Major, late night drink and dance clubs aren’t hard to find. The clubs where the young, hip crowd gathers - Zoo, Hilo, Mandala, Roo and others - are right in the center of town on the Malecon. There may be an Entry Fee at these but it never matches the high degree of revelry inside. Smaller bohemian places, quiet piano bars, and jazz and salsa spots that don’t close till the last patron leaves are everywhere, and everyone is welcome. Just walk in, order a Pacifico beer or a margarita and let the good times roll!
Here are a few places to begin:
Click on www.visitpuertovallarta.com to find more.
ROMANTIC RESTAURANTS:
Puerto Vallarta is a food lovers paradise! It now competes with Mexico City for having some of the best chefs and the best restaurants in the country. Few resorts in Mexico offer such a wide variety of culinary magic at such reasonable prices. Every day can be a romantic feast for the senses from breakfast through dinner. You’ll love choosing a different dining spot to share your dreams every night!
Every meal is a celebration. Restaurants range from simple to sophisticated, but almost all have picturesque settings that ring romance. Even the busiest ones have candlelit tables and soft music in the evenings. An amazing number offer tables for two just off the beach or right on the sand or high on a hill with a lovely view of the bay, so you can share your love and wish on a star over desert. More restaurants are nestled along downtown streets or locations along the river. Most of these have a cozy, intimate décor and almost all make dining easier by translating their menus to English.
Restaurants featuring every ethnic cuisine from Austrian to
Thai (Puerto Vallarta is one of the few Mexican resorts that has not one but three Chinese restaurants!) can also be found.
Service is generally superb and diner friendly. If you look like you’re enjoying yourselves, you’ll never by rushed and circumspect waiters will let you while the night away over coffee and savor the moments as well as the food.
To get the best of everything, slip into a Mexican dining schedule: Breakfast is at 10:00 a.m.; Lunch around 2:00 or 3:00 p.m. and Dinner is at 9:00-11:00 p.m.
Wonderful meals made from fresh ingredients are an integral part of the fun and fantasy of a Puerto Vallarta honeymoon. You don’t have enough fingers and toes to count the number of super romantic places to dine. You’re sure to find some personal favorites, but here are a few of ours:
Located on Vallarta’s most action packed beach, it serves up delicious seafood and Mexican snacks day-into-night. You can choose a quiet table for two in the shaded dining room or on the sand for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Itinerant vendors of just about everything under the sun pass by and “bring the shops to you” until sundown. Sunset is a joy and dinners after dark are as romantic as they come. The owner supplies the music while you just relax, dream and listen to the waves as you enjoy your dinner. Prices are reasonable and the scene is unforgettable. Don’t miss an afternoon or evening here. You can take a dip in the ocean between courses!
Pulpito 103, El Centro. Tel: (322) 222 5225.
The Mediterranean/Italian dishes taste like they’re prepared with love and the high quality of the cuisine is not reflected in the price. This is the place to go when you want a relaxed, just-for-the-two-of-us night out. Leave room for one of the scrumptious deserts and follow your dinner with a stroll along the Malecon in the moonlight.
Guerrero 264, El Centro. Tel: (322) 222 2196.
Here, you’ll dine to the soothing sound of the waterfall that spills down one wall. This is a place where you will savor every morsel as well as every moment. It will be an unforgettable evening that’s worth every penny! Their famous art gallery is just across the street!
Guadalupe Sanchez 740, El Centro. Tel: (322) 222 3228.
Fireworks may light up the sky. You’ll feel as if you’re on top of the world!
Pulpito 377, Colonia Alta Vista, Tel: (322) 222 3570.
This over-the-top restaurant stands on a small island in the river.
Reserve a table by the railing and you’ll hear the murmuring water and be surrounded by lush tropical vegetation as you enjoy a candlelit dinner. The rich décor could be the home of a daring millionaire who has an eclectic art collection on display. Have a drink at the bar, and then walk around to see it before you dine. A tempting menu features everything from game to seafood dishes and the drinks list is as creative as the food. By day, you can stroll along the river walk after lunch to visit the shops and the small archaeological museum. By night, stay for a drink and you’ll be serenaded by soft jazz. This is the place to begin when you’ve decided to have a night on the town. Hip bars and dazzling dance clubs are just a few blocks away on the Malecon.
Rio Cuale 16 A, Tel: (322) 20283. www.lebistro.com.mx
DESTINATION WEDDINGS:
Puerto Vallarta can make all of your dreams for a perfect wedding come true! Invite your family and friends to this beautiful place to be with you when you say “I do.” You’ll not only save money if you have a destination wedding and honeymoon here but you’ll also have an incredibly romantic time.
Check out wedding packages at various hotels. Many include a selection of perks such as photos, breakfasts in bed, use of gazebo, decorated chairs, bouquets, etc.
Here are a few Destination Wedding resorts we highly recommend:
If you are newly engaged and planning a destination wedding in Mexico, the Golden Crown Paradise All Inclusive Resort is the answer!
This adults-only paradise is where couples find an unequaled romantic experience, singles and friends reconnect, dazzled by the countless activities the hotel has to offer, and everyone can just relax, rejuvenate, and recharge. It's also the perfect spot for groups to come for a wedding, a meeting or training session. Our medium-sized adults-only resort offers everything you need to create lasting memories including: spacious and well-appointed accommodations, a la carte dining, personalized service, a wide variety of activities, sports and entertainment, and a romantic setting for candlelight dinners.
We can arrange a romantic seaside ceremony at sunset followed by a candlelit dinner on the beach, a reception around the pool, and much more. The options are endless here and our catering team can help you dream up something wonderful, so the two of you focus on the simple pleasures of just being together.
Exclusive wedding packages available with attractive prices: Crystal ($1,000 USD), Gold ($1,300 USD) and Platinum ($1,600 USD). Enjoy the wedding benefits, when a minimum of 10 rooms are booked, the wedding ceremony free, and also receive a gift certificate of 2 nights for wedding anniversary and much more...
If you are longing for a getaway to someplace warm and sunny where you can escape the world even if just for a few days, the Golden Crown Paradise All Inclusive Adults- Only Resort in Mexico awaits.
For information and reservations contact us at:
TOLL FREE (US): 1 (800) 882 82 15This seaside resort is a world in itself. It runs like clockwork but manages to make you feel at home. In spite of its size, the hotel staff manages to spoil you with friendly, personalized service.
Just about everything you want or need is easily available.
Reserve a room with a full ocean view and it will come with a safe, a mini bar, Wi-Fi, and luxurious bed linens.
The food is exceptional throughout. Have a snack in the lobby bar, a sumptuous breakfast buffet in the coffee shop garden, or a delicious dinner in one of four world-class restaurants and follow it with a walk in the garden to enjoy the moonlight.
By day, relax around the giant pool. Find water sports on the beach, play tennis or treat yourselves to a massage for two at the gorgeous spa. A championship golf course is minutes away, and the Concierge can arrange just about anything else you might like to do. She can also help surprise your new mate with a champagne breakfast in bed or an extreme adventure experience. Your wish is everyone’s command here!
Even though there are many guests at any given moment, you’re never rushed at mealtimes and you can find as much privacy as you want. You can always find a quiet corner to steal a kiss or share a dream. Every honeymoon day together is pure pleasure here!
Paseo de la Marina Norte 435. Tel: (322) 226 0000.
This small, elegant oasis is nestled on a hillside overlooking the town although it stands only a few blocks from the Malecon. The stunning architecture is that of a modern townhouse with all the comforts of home. It has the atmosphere of a trendy private club for hip travelers in-the-know.
Stretch out around the pool or Jacuzzi, have a rejuvenating
session in the holistic spa, and get to the lounge in time for high tea or a drink. Reserve a table for two in the tiny View Restaurant on the roof and enjoy a romantic dinner with a view of the bay. Then, have a dance in the lounge before turning in. You’ll be pampered from morning till night!
The beach and downtown shops, restaurants and clubs are
within easy walking distance, but your beautiful room is a tranquil
dream come true. This place is easy to love!
Calle Aldama 297, Colonia Centro. www.landmarkhotelpv.com info@landmarkhotel.com