Picture this: Your teenagers actually looking up from their phones, grinning with excitement as they zip-line through lush jungle canopies. Imagine them willingly joining you for dinner, eager to try street tacos from a local favorite spot. Envision peaceful moments watching the sunset over Banderas Bay together, without a single complaint about being bored.
Sound too good to be true? Welcome to Puerto Vallarta, where family vacation dreams really do come true. As a mom who’s navigated the tricky waters of traveling with teens, I’m here to tell you that this Mexican paradise might just be the perfect destination for your next family getaway.
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After spending time in Puerto Vallarta and the Velas Vallarta Resort last November, I can confidently say that both offer the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences for families traveling with teens. Nestled along the stunning Banderas Bay, this Mexican paradise delivers everything from thrilling water sports and whale watching from the beach to authentic cultural encounters that will keep even the most challenging-to-please teenagers engaged and excited.
Here are Puerto Vallarta travel tips and helpful information to keep in mind when planning your next family vacation.
Getting There and Around
From the moment we landed at Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR), getting around was surprisingly straightforward. Here’s what worked for us:
Pre-book your airport transfer through your resort or a reputable company. We arranged ours through our resort, and the air-conditioned car service was prompt and comfortable.
Local taxis are plentiful, but always use the official white or yellow cabs and confirm the price before getting in. Most rides within the hotel zone cost between $8-15 USD.
Rideshare is available through Uber, but only in certain areas of the city. Make sure to have an international data plan or connect to WiFi before using the app.
If you’re feeling adventurous, renting a car is also an option. Just be aware that driving in Puerto Vallarta can be intimidating and parking can be difficult to find.
Best Times to Visit
Puerto Vallarta enjoys nearly perfect weather from November through April, with temperatures hovering in the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit. We visited in November, and the weather was absolutely ideal – sunny days with low humidity and comfortable evenings perfect for family strolls along the beach. If you’re trying to save money, consider the shoulder seasons of April-May or October-November, for fewer crowds and better room rates.
Where to Stay: Spotlight on Velas Vallarta Resort
Our home base at Velas Vallarta Suites Resort proved to be an excellent choice for families with teens. Located right on Banderas Bay, this spacious all-inclusive resort offers the perfect balance of family togetherness and independent teen-friendly activities.
Accommodation Highlights
- Spacious 1, 2, and 3 bedroom suites with separate living areas and fully equipped kitchenettes
- Private balconies overlooking either the lush gardens or the ocean
- Multiple swimming pools on the property
- Complimentary WiFi throughout the property (a must-have for teens!)
Teen-Friendly Features
What really made Velas Vallarta all-inclusive resort stand out was its attention to teenage guests:
- The resort’s activity center offers daily programs including beach volleyball, water aerobics, and Spanish lessons
- Multiple on-site restaurants including poolside food service with diverse menu options (perfect for picky eaters)
- Easy beach access for impromptu swimming or sunbathing
- Outdoor game area with ping pong
- Tennis courts and basketball facilities
Must-Do Activities for Families with Teens
Nestled in a vibrant locale brimming with natural beauty and cultural richness, Puerto Vallarta offers an abundance of outdoor activities perfect for families traveling with teenagers.
Water Adventures
Banderas Bay offers endless opportunities for water-based fun:
- Snorkeling at Los Arcos Marine Park (book through Vallarta Adventures for the best experience)
- Whale watching tours (December through March)
- Sunset sailing trips that include dinner and snorkeling
- Stand-up paddleboarding right off the beach
Land-Based Excursions
Some of our family’s favorite activities included:
- Zip-lining through the Sierra Madre mountains (minimum age 8)
- ATV tours across the longest suspension bridge and through the jungle (teens 16+ can drive their own with parental consent)
- Walking food tours in downtown Puerto Vallarta
- Shopping and art gallery hopping along the Malecón (on our own)
Cultural Experiences
Don’t miss these opportunities to immerse in local culture:
- Free art walks every Wednesday evening (October through May)
- Visit to the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe
- Traditional Mexican music and entertainment at the resort, along the Malecon, and throughout the Zona Romantica.
Food and Dining Tips
Resort Dining
Velas Vallarta’s all-inclusive dining options impressed us with:
- Three main restaurants offering Mexican, Italian, and international cuisine
- Pool and beach service for casual lunches
- 24-hour room service (perfect for teenage late-night cravings)
- Special theme nights featuring local cuisine
Tips for Picky Eaters
- Most restaurants offer familiar options like pizza, pasta, and grilled chicken
- Try new foods at the resort first, where quality and safety are guaranteed
- Keep snacks from the resort’s convenience store in your room
Local Dining
Puerto Vallarta offers a vibrant local dining scene that caters to a variety of tastes. To make the most of your culinary adventure, consider these tips:
- Start your gastronomic journey by exploring the local markets, where you can sample authentic Mexican street food such as tacos al pastor and freshly made churros.
For a more refined dining experience, visit the Zona Romantica, known for its eclectic mix of restaurants offering everything from seafood to gourmet fusion dishes. - When dining in local establishments, it’s wise to drink bottled water and avoid ice to ensure your health and safety.
- Embrace the opportunity to try traditional dishes like pozole or ceviche, but also rest assured that many restaurants offer international favorites for the less adventurous palate.
- Keep in mind that local eateries often serve generous portions, so consider sharing dishes to savor a wider variety of flavors.
Practical Travel Tips
Packing Essentials
- Don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen—the sun is stronger than you think!
- Pack light, breathable clothing, and bring at least one “nice” outfit for dinner.
- Water shoes are essential for rocky beaches.
- Bug spray will come in handy for evening activities.
- A power adapter is a good idea, although most hotels have US-style outlets.
Money Matters
- Inform your bank and credit card companies of travel dates
- Some places accept US dollars, but you’ll get better rates with pesos
- ATMs at banks are safest for withdrawing cash
- Tipping is expected (10-15% for restaurants, $1-2 USD per bag for bellhops)
Safety Considerations
- Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico’s safest tourist destinations
- Stay aware in crowded areas like any tourist destination
- Keep expensive jewelry and electronics low-key
- Use resort safes for passports and valuables
Budget Planning
Cost Expectations
- All-inclusive resorts like Velas Vallarta often provide the best value for families
- Budget $100-150 per day per family for activities outside the resort
- Most excursions range from $50-150 per person
- Shopping and local dining can be very affordable
- It is inexpensive to use rideshare from most area resorts to local areas
Money-Saving Tips
- Travel during shoulder season for better deals
- Look for package deals that include airport transfers
- Consider signing up Pomelo Travel, Skyscanner, and Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) for flight deal alerts
Cultural Considerations
Tips for Teens
- Dress modestly when visiting churches or local neighborhoods
- Learn basic Spanish phrases – locals appreciate the effort. I like Babble and Rosetta Stone for language study on my phone or desktop.
- Respect siesta time (2-4 PM) when some local shops may close. However many shops in tourist areas will stay open.
- Remember you’re a guest in another country – be respectful of local customs
Family Learning Opportunities
- Practice Spanish together before and during the trip – knowing some basic phrases will serve you well.
- Learn about Mexican holidays and traditions
- Try new foods and discuss their cultural significance
- Engage with local artisans and learn about their crafts. The Malecon is a great place to do this.
Final Thoughts
My stay at Velas Vallarta and exploring Puerto Vallarta exceeded my expectations for a family vacation. The combination of resort comfort, cultural experiences, and adventure activities created lasting memories for our entire family. Whether your teens are adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts, or just need some beach time, Puerto Vallarta offers something for everyone. One of my best memories from this trip was sitting on the beach and watching whales breaching in the distance. It truly was a magical experience that I will never forget.
Remember to balance structured activities with free time, allow teens some independence within safety boundaries, and embrace the laid-back Mexican lifestyle. Puerto Vallarta’s warm hospitality, stunning natural beauty, and range of activities make it an ideal destination for families looking to combine relaxation with adventure.
With proper planning and these tips in mind, your family vacation in Puerto Vallarta is sure to be as memorable as ours was. ¡Buen viaje!
Note: I stayed at Velas Vallarta as part of a media visit for Little Family Adventure. All opinions are my own.
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