Multigenarational Trip to Bucerias, Mexico

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.

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.

The best sunsets and the best walks can be taken in this beautiful boardwalk, which is the Malecón. It is one of the things that enhances the beauty of Vallarta's Downtown as it runs along the beach. It is especially valuable as many large beach resorts obstruct the views of the ocean to all other tourists. The boardwalk features permanent art exhibits and some of the best places to dine and drink in town, like Carlos O'Brians, La Bodeguita del Medio and El Zoo.