Puerto Vallarta’s famed attractions promise every visitor a great holiday vacation to remember. Brochures, advertisements and internet write-ups give a glimpse of what to expect. Most of its beauties are well known, but there’s a lot more that this beautiful place can offer.
What do the Locals Do in Puerto Vallarta?
When you really want to see the heart and soul of a destination, one of the best things you can do is go where the locals go and do what the locals do. They are the ones who can show you the way to areas less explored.
Here are some local secrets revealed that will make your Puerto Vallarta’s stay more thrilling than the usual.
Barracuda and Solar
The Malecon boardwalk in Puerto Vallarta is one of the best areas to make an exciting stroll. People enjoy the setting sun and promenade that’s alive and colorful. However, if you walk along Camarones Beach about 5 minutes, you will come to a a hangout that is popular with trendy local people, Barracuda Restaurant and its sister bar, Solar. This duo specializes in sizzling seafood, ceviche and fish tacos that will whet one’s appetite. Its strategic location right on the beach is perfect for some lazy beach lying or walking.
On the weekends, you can expect to be dancing on the sand into the early hours at Solar, which is adjacent to Barracuda. This is a cute little bar where barefooted visitors are always welcome. Known for great live music like R&B, jazz and reggae, as well as various DJs there are tunes to fill the soul of every music lover. One can order food and drinks and have a dining experience right on the beach’s sand. Having your favourite drink while letting your eyes explore its vast ocean is the coolest thing that El Solar can offer its customers.
The Farmers Market
The Farmers Market is the favourite of locals and expats when it comes to their buying needs. This is where local cuisines abound and so are the ingredients that make them up. Local products like vegetables, fruits, and ornaments fill the place to the satisfaction of its shoppers. A secret not known to many visitors where the best buys and bargains can be easily accessed. Market time starts at 9 am to 2 pm during Saturdays, but buyers as early as 7 am are already gathered in the Lazaro Cardenas plaza at Olas Atlas. Be sure to be here early as goods are sold like hotcakes.
Las Gemelas Beach
When most of Puerto Vallarta’s upscale beach resorts are crowded, one can try other places around that are just as glamorous but less crowded. One such beach place is the Las Gemelas Beach which is about 15 minutes away from other beaches like Los Muertos. A hidden gem where tranquillity and peace can be felt because of less people visiting it. Calmer waters and a serene surrounding await every restless soul. It will provide the perfect getaway hub from the noise brought by overcrowded and noisy beaches. A stress reliever for those needing a relaxing break.
J and B Dancing Club
If you’re looking for a place to test your dancing skills, then head to J&B Dancing Club in Puerto Vallarta. A premier salsa and merengue club in Puerto Vallarta, here is where visitors can sway to the rocking sound of merengue, cumbia and salsa. There’s a nightly band performer to provide the live music and the wide dance floor can be your stage. For a reasonable 100 pesos entrance fee, you can dance all night with courteous and fast personnel serving your favourite alcoholic drink. This makes a more local experience to complement the fun you can have at La Bodeguita del Medio on the Malecon.
Mayto
For those wishing to explore the outside Puerto Vallarta’s more natural charms, Mayto is the place to be. It’s a two hours drive away where one will pass El Tuito on his way to 12 kilometers of unspoiled beach beauty. With a handful of people on a secluded beach, Mayto is a treat for those staying more than a couple of weeks in Puerto Vallarta.
Here, there are a couple of small hotels that are well-equipped with air conditioning. Mayto beach is a great way to socialize with other visitors and the venue for many people enjoying a dance around a beach fire. It’s well recommended for those seeking a great holiday escape where fun and thrill can start and end.
