Cristina
Our neighborhood favorite in Plaza Nima Bay on the marina. Italian-Argentine cooking with Mexican influences, a bakery corner, and a breakfast worth getting up for.
Visit CristinaPuerto Vallarta guide
Around the bay
Where to eat, swim, and wander from Casa de la Vida, starting with what's walkable in Marina Vallarta and working out to the rest of Banderas Bay.
~5 minDrive to the airport (PVR)
~15 minWalk to Marina shops and cafes
9.3 kmTo the Malecón, 5.8 mi
10.9 kmTo Los Muertos pier, 6.8 mi
Our favorites
Where we go when we're there
The places our family comes back to every trip. Start here, then use the rest of the guide to fill in the gaps.
La Piazzetta
Wood-fired pizza and fresh homemade pasta in the Romantic Zone. Pair it with an evening walk to the Los Muertos pier.
Visit La PiazzettaLa Tavola di Vittoria
Our go-to Italian dinner in the marina, close to the condo. Check their Facebook page for current hours.
Open in Google MapsSee them on FacebookLas Caletas
A beach cove on the south shore of the bay that you can only reach by boat. Boats leave from Marina Vallarta, close to the condo, for a full day of snorkeling, paddle boarding, hammocks and lunch.
Book with Vallarta AdventuresMismaloya and Canopy El Edén
Drive down the coast and spend some time in Mismaloya, then head into the jungle to Canopy El Edén for zip lines, ATVs and lunch where the movie Predator was filmed.
Visit Canopy El EdénLos Muertos pier
Walk out on the pier at sunset. It's the best seat in town as the sun drops into the bay.
Open in Google MapsOrange Car Rental
The local rental company we use. Cars come with full insurance, A/C and CarPlay, from compact sedans up to eight-seat minivans and SUVs. A car makes the drives south to Mismaloya and north up the coast easy.
See the fleetRight outside
Marina Vallarta
The neighborhood around the condo is built along the yacht marina, with a waterfront walk, cafes, and the Marina Vallarta golf course next door.
Walk
The marina boardwalk
Restaurants, shops and boats along the water. An easy evening stroll from the resort.
Golf
Marina Vallarta golf course
An 18-hole course within walking distance of the resort.
Beach
Your own stretch of bay
Velas Vallarta sits right on the beach. Grab the pool towels and head down to the sand.
Groceries
Stock the kitchen
The condo has a full kitchen. Ask Brenda where she recommends shopping for your first night.
Eat nearby
Marina Vallarta tables
A few well-regarded spots in the neighborhood, all a short walk or taxi ride away.
Seafood
La Cevichería
Nayarit-style seafood: aguachile, ceviche and pescado zarandeado.
Steak
Sonora Prime
An upscale steakhouse known for beef from Sonora.
Italian
Porto Bello
A classic Italian dining room with a patio overlooking the marina. Busiest in the evening.
Coffee
Coffee Cup
Opens early for coffee, smoothies and breakfast before the beach.
Bakery
Repostería Los Chatos
A local favorite for coffee and pastries.
Restaurants open, close and change hours often. Check before you go.
Downtown
Centro and the Zona Romántica
Old Puerto Vallarta is a short drive south. Plan an afternoon and stay for sunset on the Malecón.
Walk
The Malecón
The seafront boardwalk through the center of town, lined with bronze sculptures, street food and sunset views.
Landmark
Our Lady of Guadalupe
The parish church with the crown-topped tower that anchors the old town skyline.
Culture
Isla Río Cuale
A shaded river island with the Centro Cultural Cuale, the Museo del Cuale and craft stalls.
Beach
Playa Los Muertos
The busy town beach in the Zona Romántica, with its sail-shaped pier and beachfront restaurants.
Viewpoint
Mirador Cerro de la Cruz
A steep stair climb above downtown for a view across the whole bay.
On the water
Out on Banderas Bay
Boat trips leave from the marina and from the Los Muertos pier. Book with a licensed operator.
Snorkel
Los Arcos
Protected rock islands off Mismaloya, south of town, popular for snorkeling.
Islands
Islas Marietas
A national park at the mouth of the bay, famous for the Hidden Beach. Visits are limited and only authorized operators may land.
Village
Yelapa
A car-free beach village reached by water taxi from the Los Muertos pier.
Wildlife
Whale watching
Humpback whales come to the bay to breed and calve each winter.
Park access rules for the Marietas change. Confirm current conditions with your tour operator.
Day trips
Further afield
Worth a full day if you are staying a week or more.
Gardens
Vallarta Botanical Garden
Orchids, river trails and a hillside restaurant in the jungle south of town, past Mismaloya.
Surf town
Sayulita
A colorful surf village north along the Riviera Nayarit coast.
When to come
The Vallarta year
December to March
Whale season
Humpbacks in the bay. January and February are usually the best months for sightings.
November 13 to 22, 2026
Festival Gourmet International
The city's annual food festival, with guest chefs at restaurants and resorts around town, including Velas Vallarta.
Roughly June to October
Green season
Hot and humid, with afternoon and evening storms. Quieter, greener, and easier to book.