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Puerto Vallarta is a popular vacation resort on the Western Pacific coast of Mexico in the state of Jalisco. Along with its cobblestone streets, stunning beaches, plentiful marine life, lush Sierra Madre Mountains, exceptional restaurants, fine Gourmet Festival, new golf courses and vibrant culture, Puerto Vallarta is a vacationer's paradise that has maintained its unique Old Mexico charm despite the addition of these modern conveniences.

Around the Bay, beautiful beaches, lush jungles and sparkling waterfalls offer many opportunities for the adventurous, while five star resorts, world-class shopping and gourmet restaurants satisfy even the most sophisticated traveler. Stretching from the south end of Old Town to central downtown, a newly extended and refurbished boardwalk along the ocean, called the Malecon, often plays host to mimes, breakdancers, clowns and artists.

Puerto Vallarta has many activities and excursions to keep you entertained. The adventurous can hike or mountain bike in the hills, explore the jungle and hidden trails on horseback, take a jeep safari, snorkel, scuba dive, charter a yacht or sailboat, or take a cruise on one of the many party boats.

From December through April the Humpback Whales migrate to the warm waters of Banderas Bay. Private Charters are the best way to appreciate the magnificent whale activities that make these tours an unbelievable adventure. This is one of the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta. Private charters accommodate up to 10 people per trip. Vallarta Adventure Whale Watching Private Tours start at 8am and 1pm daily.

La Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe is the heart of Puerto Vallarta religious life, and is the focal point of an elaborate 12-day festival each December. The structure itself was built during a 12-year period beginning in 1929. The interior is filled with hand-carved columns, decorative moldings and other rich detailing. An earthquake damaged the ornate crown that originally adorned the church. It was replaced, but the repair still creates controversy. The original crown is said to have been modeled after a tiara worn by the mistress of the Emperor Maximilian. Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe is open on Sundays from 10am.

Experience the beauty of Puerto Rico and the thrill of deep-sea fishing aboard "The Legend," a 48 foot Hatteras equipped for luxurious cruising and the ultimate in sport fishing. In less than 25 minutes you'll be up to five miles from shore in waters 6000 feet deep, fishing for Dorado, Wahoo, Sailfish, Tuna and Blue Marlin. The boat departs from San Juan Bay Marina. Transportation and lunch are not included, though Castillo Tours can help arrange both for an additional fee. Every charter includes Captain, Mate, bait, tackle, sodas and mineral water. Available daily for 1/2 day, full day or split charters.