Do you and your partner want to relax and spend some quality time together away from the hustle and bustle of city life? Search no more than on the beaches of Puerto Vallarta, the streets of charm, and where the LBTQ community is friendly. This dreamy destination is sure to satisfy every queer couple’s craving for the ultimate getaway, whether you’re after some chill-out time, some thrilling adventures, top-class food, numerous nightlife options, or a chance to mingle with nature.
The Perfect Time to Visit
Puerto Vallarta enjoys warm, sunny weather year-round, but there are a few key considerations when deciding when to plan your trip:
Winter (December-April)
If you’re a fan of unending sunny days and almost no rain, then it is through the winter (from December to April) that you should come to visit. This is the dry season in Puerto Vallarta when the weather is warm and comfortable, approximately in the mid-seventies to low eighties Fahrenheit. The weather is just right for sunbathing on the beach, discovering what the city’s lively streets have to offer, and trekking in the beautiful scenery of the nearby mountains. Yet, please bear in mind that the weather of this kind comes at a tight price. The high season is winter in PV, so the flight and hotel deals will be more expensive, and consequently, there will be more people who will be around at the popular spots like the gay beach at Playa Los Muertos.
Spring (April-June)
If you are looking for a little more space and fairly budget-friendly options, a spring visit (April through June) might be a good choice for you. Enjoy the sunshine you still get, with temperatures occasionally creeping into the mid-80s. Please take note that the afternoon showers might get longer, as this is when PV’s rainy season begins to intensify. The upside? The tourist season quietens down, so there is a chance to get excellent offers for accommodation and entertainment activities. Besides that, if you schedule your trip to Puerto Vallarta during May’s final days, you can join the city’s gay pride celebrations, an overwhelming array of parties, parades, and cultural events that honor the local LGBTQ community.
Summer (July-September)
Suppose you’re really implying that getting the most out of your travel budget ( July through September) can be your best choice. This is not peak season in Puerto Vallarta. The number of tourists is very low and even the best resorts are offering rooms at almost half price. Despite this, there’s a reason for these low prices. PV summer is hot, humid, and rainy, with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and evening showers being the most common in September. So, if you are comfortable with the idea of roaming air-conditioned places and coffee shops during rainfall, then a summer visit will be the perfect way to explore the city’s charm while saving money.
Fall (October-November)
Fall (October and November) can provide a good compromise with favorable weather and lower price levels. The humid rains of summer start to ease off but the temperatures still remain high, mostly around 80F or 85F. All of a sudden, despite the cold, tourism picks up a bit towards winter, but you can still find some good bargains, especially if you come in early October. This is an opportunity to discover PV’s stunning nature, such as the hidden beaches where you can hike or snorkel in the bay of Banderas with its crystalline waters.
Where to Stay
Puerto Vallarta provides accommodations ranging from expensive gateway resorts to affordable boutique hotels hidden in charming, narrow streets. Nowadays, hotels are often good at marketing themselves towards LGBTQ travelers by offering special packages. A few top picks:
- Almar Resort: This is a men-only, clothing-optional resort in the gay-friendly Zona Romantica. It is situated right in the middle of the neighborhood.
- Casa Cupula: The hotel labels itself as the top LGBTQ hotel in Mexico, and it has its own gourmet restaurant, spa, and well-known pool parties.
- Mantamar Beach Club: Just lounge under the sun at Puerto Vallarta’s only LGBTQ beach club, and it also has trendy hotel suites.
- Villa Mercedes: For a quiet, low-key stay, check out this tranquil bed and breakfast run by a friendly gay couple in a residential neighborhood.
Additionally, cheap accommodations are available on Airbnb’s local listings, especially if you go during the off-season. A lot of them are situated on the gay beach at Playa Los Muertos, which is just a walking distance away.
Sights, Activities & Adventures
One of the best things about vacationing in Puerto Vallarta is the sheer variety of experiences you can have, from pulse-pounding adventures to blissed-out beach lounging. Some ideas for your itinerary:
Explore the Zona Romantica
The Romantic Zone, or the “Old Town” or “Gay Village,” as it is commonly referred to, is the main center of LGBTQ culture in PV. Wander the cobblestone streets hand in hand to discover:
- Art galleries showcasing the work of gay artists
- Cozy sidewalk cafes perfect for people-watching
- Quirky specialty shops selling crafts by local artisans
- The iconic rainbow crosswalk at Lazaro Cardenas and Constitucion
Be sure to snap a selfie together in front of the “Vallarta Inspira” sign, painted in the colors of the Pride flag.
Hit the Beach
Plage Los Muertos is the main gay beach of Puerto Vallarta. Rent a pair of lounge chairs under a shady palapa and spend the day swimming, sunbathing, and sipping margaritas while you’re wearing your armor. For a great splurge, reserve the cabana at Mantamar Beach Club and experience classy cocktail services and the energetic social atmosphere.
Get Out on the Water
PV’s stunning Banderas Bay just begs to be explored. Popular aquatic adventures for couples include:
- Snorkelling and scuba diving excursions to Los Arcos Marine Park
- Sunset sailing cruises with cocktails and appetizers
- Kayaking to hidden beaches and sea caves
- Seasonal whale-watching tours to spot humpbacks and orcas
For a super romantic experience, charter a private yacht and enjoy a day out on the Water all to yourselves.
Take a Hike
Puerto Vallarta is embraced by the rich jungle, the majesty of waterfalls, and the towering peaks. Put on your hiking boots and embark on trails to have a look at the amazing views and also to possibly see tropical birds and wildlife. A few favorite routes:
- The short but steep climb to Mirador La Cruz lookout
- The meandering trail to Colomitos Beach and its postcard-worthy cove
- A day trip to the Vallarta Botanical Gardens followed by a dip in the Rio
Horcones swimming hole
Make it extra special by packing a picnic lunch to enjoy at the end of your trek.
Go Chasing Waterfalls
Among the hills that lie to the south of PV, one can find a series of cascading waterfalls that are attractive destinations for hiking, swimming, and picnics. Uber or go with an ocean taxi to Boca de Tomatlan, then hike to the hidden Colomitos Falls or famous Quimixto Falls for a relaxing dip at the bottom.
Day Trip to Yelapa
To feel the small-town Mexico, please get on a water taxi to the car-free village of Yelapa. Venture to the waterfall, have a meal at a casual palapa restaurant, and ride along the beach at sunset on horseback. It’s a different zone from the usual fast-paced and chaotic life in PV.
Experience the Nightlife
Puerto Vallarta is famous for its sizzling gay nightlife scene. Top spots to hit:
- CC Slaughters: The place to see and be seen, with go-go boys, drag shows, and themed parties
- Paco’s Ranch: A high-energy dance club that keeps the party going late into the night
- La Noche: This mega-club boasts a huge dance floor and laser light shows
- Mr. Flamingo: A fun spot to start your night with karaoke and margaritas
Offer VIP service for those who reserve tables with bottle service or get open bar bracelets. Make sure you’re walking at a steady pace, though – the party is until deep in the night.
- Dining & Drinks
You and your spouse will be treated to excellent cuisine during your stay at Puerto Vallarta. The town is famous for its superb Mexican and worldwide foods, which include everything from street food to fine restaurants. Some must-tries:
- Mole enchiladas and homemade tortillas at Gaby’s, a tiny local gem
- Baked chile relleno and chiles en nogada at elegant Coco Tropical
- Fresh seafood tostadas and ceviche at beachside El Barracuda
- Upscale tacos and cocktails with a view at rooftop bar La Capella
- Strong coffee and decadent French toast at popular brunch spot Fredys Tucan
For your date night, go ahead and book a table at the Iguana, a romantic restaurant that is set up in a historic mansion with twinkling lights and live music. Alternatively, if you are looking for a beachfront dining experience, then heading to La Palapa, where you can dine with your toes in the sand and watch the sun sink into the sea, is the place to go.
Making Magical Memories
From the moment you and your partner step foot in Puerto Vallarta, you’re bound to collect special memories that will stay with you forever. Walk along the Malecon during sunset, dance into the night at a gay club, take a break and hide on a beach, learn to make ceviche. .. the options are infinite.
As a matter of fact, you will be doing this in a town that gladly welcomes LGBTQ tourists but also with great enthusiasm. From the rainbow flags in the sky to the same-sex couples walking shoulder to shoulder, PV is a town where all love is love. Thus, make sure to do all the above and then go for a ride to the most wonderful place with your special one. Your dream vacation is already here with Puerto Vallarta.
