Vallarta in summer is the perfect time for families to explore the natural beauty and engaging activities Mexico has to offer.
Whether your family enjoys the great outdoors or prefers to spend more time relaxing in one of the city’s luxurious resorts and water parks, we’ve created a list of the best things to do in Vallarta in summer for an unforgettable experience!
Minimum Age Requirement: 5 Years Old
One of the best ways to make the most of your Vallarta vacation is by taking advantage of a special two-day combo package that combines two of the most family-friendly experiences: a day at Las Caletas and an unforgettable swim with dolphins.
Day 1 at Las Caletas
Accessible only by boat, this tropical paradise offers a perfect setting for families to bond and relax. Whether you choose to lounge in hammocks under the shade of lush palms, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, or engage in a variety of eco-friendly activities, there is something for everyone.
Kids can delve into adventures at the Kids Adventure Park, where they can safely enjoy zip lines and climbing nets. For the rest of the family, paddle boarding and kayaking provide a gentle way to explore the surrounding beauty.
After all the activities, everyone can gather for a delicious buffet lunch, featuring local dishes that cater to all tastes, accompanied by refreshing non-alcoholic beverages available throughout the day.
Day 2: Swimming With Dolphins
The following day brings a change of pace with a thrilling dolphin encounter. This activity not only delights but also educates, as families learn about the fascinating biology and behaviors of the Pacific Bottlenose dolphins from experienced trainers.
In the shallow waters of specially designed pools, you and your family can experience the joy of interacting with these intelligent creatures through hugs, hand signals, and even a dolphin kiss.
The highlight for many is the chance to ride across the pool with a dolphin, feeling the incredible power and grace of these marine animals. It's an exhilarating experience that combines excitement with the magical feeling of connecting with another species.
Minimum Age Requirement: 9 Years Old
When planning your family vacation to Puerto Vallarta this summer, consider adding an exhilarating twist with a visit to Ocean Mania, a thrilling adventure park that offers a variety of heart-pounding activities.
Perfectly timed for summer travel, this attraction provides an adrenaline-fueled half-day tour that starts at the Dolphin and Sea Lion Center with a delightful meet and greet with friendly sea lions, setting a joyful tone for the day.
After your sea lion encounter, you'll board a speedboat bound for a secluded ocean cove specifically designed for adventure. Ocean Mania includes an array of attractions that cater to those with a thirst for adventure. Among these, the FlowRider offers an exceptional surfing simulator where you and your family can enjoy the thrill of wave riding in a safe and controlled environment.
The adventure continues with the Thriller speed boat, where you'll experience high-speed turns and adrenaline-inducing maneuvers that are sure to get your heart racing. This is followed by other thrilling activities like parasailing, where you soar high above the cove, offering panoramic views of Puerto Vallarta's stunning landscape—ideal for those who dream of flying.
Don’t miss the latest additions to Ocean Mania: the Spinner, an innovative rotating inflatable that provides a dizzying, fun-filled experience, and various ocean waterslides that promise a refreshing plunge into the ocean. For those seeking a challenge, the Step-Up and ocean zipline will test your bravery and physical agility.
The park’s location in Puerto Vallarta, one of the best summer destinations, makes it an ideal choice for families looking to combine the beauty of nature with the thrill of adventure.
Minimum Age Requirement: 6 Years Old
During your family's summer getaway to Puerto Vallarta, don't miss the chance to explore the enchanting town of San Sebastian del Oeste.
This "Pueblo Magico" offers a delightful retreat from the bustling beach scenes and provides a cooler, temperate climate thanks to its location in the Sierra Madre Mountains.
Your adventure begins with a comfortable, air-conditioned ride from Puerto Vallarta to the heart of the mountains. The first stop is a local coffee farm, where your family will learn about the coffee-making process and enjoy the aroma of freshly brewed coffee.
Upon reaching San Sebastian, you will feel as though you've stepped back in centuries. Our knowledgeable guides will lead your family through cobblestone streets, visiting historical landmarks including an 18th-century church and a traditional silversmith workshop.
Adding a day trip to San Sebastian del Oeste to your Vallarta summer travel itinerary introduces your family to the historical depth and cultural richness of Mexico, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Minimum Age Requirement: 10 Years Old
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Vallarta with your family is by embarking on a Luxury Sailing tour across the enchanting Banderas Bay.
Your day starts on our state-of-the-art catamarans or sailboats, where our friendly crew welcomes you aboard. As we set sail, enjoy the gentle sea breezes and captivating views of the Sierra Madre mountains and the expansive blue waters. Our vessels, designed for your comfort, provide a luxurious setting for an unforgettable family outing.
As we cruise along the picturesque coast, keep an eye out for playful dolphins and, if you’re lucky, the majestic whales that visit these waters. Our tour includes a stop at an exclusive cove, accessible only by boat, where the crystal-clear waters invite you to swim, snorkel, or paddleboard.
We provide all the necessary equipment, so you and your kids can safely explore the vibrant underwater world.
After working up an appetite, indulge in a freshly prepared lunch and a selection of drinks on us. Our menu caters to all ages and preferences, ensuring a delightful dining experience amidst the sea.
Relax on our spacious decks, savoring hors d'oeuvres and soaking up the sun, as we take care of every detail.
Minimum Age Requirement: 1 Years Old
Puerto Vallarta during the summer is the perfect backdrop for unforgettable family experiences, especially when it involves meeting the friendly and intelligent Pacific Bottlenose dolphins.
Our Dolphin Encounter experience is designed with families in mind, making it an ideal activity for parents, kids, and non-swimmers of all ages to enjoy together.
The encounter begins with a fun and educational introduction by our trained marine mammal specialists. They'll share fascinating details about the dolphins' anatomy, behaviors, and their interactions with humans.
No need to worry if you're traveling with toddlers or anyone who isn't comfortable swimming. Our Dolphin Encounter takes place in a specially designed shallow-water habitat safe for all ages and swimming abilities.
Here, every family member can stand comfortably, ensuring everyone feels secure throughout the experience.
Complete Your Summer Vallarta Travel Plans With Vallarta Adventures
Summer is the best time to go to Vallarta with the family, but the activities you plan are just as important as the season.
Take advantage of all the exciting options available with Vallarta Adventures. Book your experience today and make this summer one for the books!
