15 Fun Things to Do in Vallarta with Kids

Puerto Vallarta isn’t just for honeymooners and spring breakers; it’s one of the top destinations for Mexico family vacations. From the top of the mountains to the depths of the sea, the number of activities for families and things to do in Puerto Vallarta will fill your days with adventure and excitement. When you travel to Puerto Vallarta with kids, try these 15 fun tours and activities for a trip like no other.

1. Swim with Dolphins

The wonder of swimming with dolphins is a dream come true for kids, and in Puerto Vallarta, this is one of the most popular activities for families. Splashing and swimming with dolphins adds a little magic to Mexico family vacations.

2. Hike to Hidden Beaches

While hiking may not sound like something to do in Puerto Vallarta with kids, it’s a fantastic way to explore the great outdoors and discover hidden beaches. There are a few tricks to encourage kids along the way: slow down, bring plenty of snacks, take turns leading, and play games like I Spy.

3. Sail with Pirates

One of the best Puerto Vallarta things to do with kids of all ages is a trip aboard the Marigalante Pirate Ship. While their evening show is geared towards adults, the day tour includes sailing the high sea, paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkeling, and visiting a private beach, activities for families everyone will enjoy.

4. Splash and Play in a Waterpark

While kids could spend hours splashing in resort pools, switching things up and going to Aquaventuras Water Park adds thrills and laughter to your Mexico family vacations as you race down water slides and kick back in the lazy river.

5. Ride Horses through the Jungle

Horseback riding has remained at the heart of Mexican culture for years and riding the trails to discover secret waterfalls is one of the classic Puerto Vallarta things to do.

6. Shop the Local Markets

With just a few pesos in hand, kids can discover local markets and find treasures to take home. There are several markets where you can experience the local culture and do a little shopping when you’re in Puerto Vallarta with kids.

7. Stroll the Malecon

Strolling the malecon boardwalk is one of the things to do in Puerto Vallarta you shouldn’t miss, and when you’re traveling with kids, stop to take pictures with the giant and living statues along the way.

8. Snorkel in the Sea

The Bay of Banderas is full of tropical fish, sea turtles, and even whales. Snorkeling is one of the best Puerto Vallarta activities that lets families discover the wonders of the sea.

9. Explore the Botanical Gardens

At the Vallarta Botanical Gardens, kids can learn about native flora and fauna, splash in the cool river, and fuel up in the delicious hacienda restaurant. This is one of the places in Puerto Vallarta that visitors of all ages love.

10. Visit the Chocolate Museum

Satisfy your sweet tooth at the Chocolate Museum, where you can learn about the history and production of chocolate, shop for treats to take home, enjoy authentic Mexican cocoa, and snack on sweet desserts.

11. Take a Day Trip

The best Puerto Vallarta activities show you the diversity of the country, and day trips to Sayulita, San Sebastian del Oeste, and Mascota are perfect for families. Teaching your children about people around the world is one of the most enriching gifts you can give them.

12. Savor Authentic Mexican Food

Take a Puerto Vallarta food tour or sample one of the many local restaurants’ authentic Mexican food, and even the pickiest eater will find something to love. From street tacos and fresh seafood, savoring the local cuisine is one of the tastiest Puerto Vallarta activities.

13. Zipline over the Jungle

Of all the things to do in Puerto Vallarta, ziplining over a lush canopy of trees is one of the most thrilling activities.

14. Drive RZRs over Rugged Trails

For kids with a need for speed, RZR tours over jungle trails let parents take the wheel for a wild ride. With standard safety procedures, you’ll spend the day getting a little dirty and laughing together.

15. Catch a Wave

One of the classic Puerto Vallarta things to do is surfing, and while it may not seem like a family activity, it’s often easier for kids with their lower center of weight to hop straight up on the board. With experienced instructors, you can spend the day catching waves at secret surf spots.