The Best 5 Things to Do with Children in Puerto Vallarta

When planning a summer vacation that caters to the needs and interests of the whole family, Puerto Vallarta emerges as a picture-perfect destination. Nestled on Mexico's Pacific Coast, this vibrant coastal city offers an array of family-friendly experiences that promise to create lasting memories for everyone involved.

This beautiful destination boasts some of the most breathtaking beaches in Mexico, making it an ideal spot for a family beach getaway. With its golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and gentle waves, the beaches cater to children of all ages. Whether building sandcastles, snorkeling or splashing in the surf, the whole family will find something to enjoy together.

Beyond its natural wonders, Puerto Vallarta offers a rich cultural experience for families. The city's charming downtown area, known as the Zona Romantica, is a treasure trove of Mexican culture, with colorful buildings, lively markets, and street performers. Children can immerse themselves in the local culture through art workshops, traditional dance performances, and culinary experiences.

The city is also renowned for its warm and welcoming atmosphere. The locals embrace family tourism and ensure the safety and comfort of all visitors. Traveling with children can be stress-free as the destination prioritizes family-friendly facilities and services.

The Top 5 Activities to Do with Children in Puerto Vallarta

For families seeking a touch of adventure, Puerto Vallarta offers a great array of eco-tourism activities. Children will revel in the chance to explore the vibrant marine life through guided snorkeling tours or enjoy the thrill of swimming with dolphins. Exploring the lush jungles, zip-lining through the treetops, or embarking on a thrilling ATV tour are just a few of the exciting options that await.

Find below the list of the best five things to do with children in Puerto Vallarta:

1. Las Caletas

No minimum age is required. A hidden gem accessible only by boat, Las Caletas offers a magical escape for families. Kids will love the relaxing boat ride across the bay, exploring the lush rainforest, snorkeling in clear waters, and meeting adorable rescued animals. They can unleash their adventurous spirit by flying through the jungle in a small zipline designed especially for them or conquering an exciting climbing wall. With kid-friendly facilities and guided activities, Las Caletas promises a memorable and enriching experience for the whole family.

2. Swimming with Dolphins

Minimum age: 1 year old. For an enchanting and educational experience, swimming with dolphins is a must-do in Puerto Vallarta. Kids will be delighted as they interact with these gentle creatures, learning about their behavior and intelligence. Under the guidance of expert trainers, children can enjoy safe and unforgettable moments with these magnificent marine beings, creating joyful memories that will last a lifetime.

3. Majahuitas Beach Day

No minimum age is required. Take the family on a delightful adventure to Majahuitas Beach, a tranquil oasis surrounded by lush jungle. The journey begins with a scenic boat ride, perfect for kids to spot playful sea birds and occasional dolphins along the way. Once at the beach, children can engage in a variety of activities, from snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters to kayaking with their parents or simply building sandcastles on the pristine beach. The whole family can relish in a delicious beachfront culinary experience, basking in the beauty of nature and enjoying quality time together.

4. Outdoor Adventure

Minimum age: 8 years old. Puerto Vallarta's outdoor adventures cater to adrenaline-seeking families. With activities like zip-lining, a mule ride, and rappelling down a waterfall, kids will be thrilled by the sense of adventure. They can explore the region's diverse ecosystems, encountering exotic flora and fauna under the guidance of experienced guides. Outdoor Adventure provides an excellent opportunity for children to learn about nature while having a blast with their parents.

5. Ocean Mania

Minimum age: 9 years old. Ocean Mania is a fantastic combination of fun-filled water activities such as bouncing over the waves on a banana ride, calmly hovering over the ocean admiring the gorgeous surroundings from the privileged point of view of parasailing, flying at full speed on our powerful Thriller jet boat, and sliding down a zipline and fast waterslides. Ocean Mania promises endless laughter and fun for families seeking a splash-tastic adventure in Puerto Vallarta.

Comprehensive list of Things to do in Puerto Vallarta with Children by Age

Vallarta Adventures offers a variety of the best family-friendly activities in Puerto Vallarta. Choose yours depending on your children’s age:

• No Minimum Age: Las Caletas Beach Hideaway and Majahuitas Beach Day are free of minimum age restrictions and have activities for different ages and the entire family all at once. During the winter months (December to March), our Whale Watching Adventure is also an option with no age restrictions.

• 1-Year-Old Minimum Age: Dolphin Connection is a popular activity with a minimum age requirement of just 1 year. Bonus tip: Toddlers from 1 to 3 years old go free! (one toddler per paying adult). 

• 4-Year-Old Minimum Age: Dolphin Kids is available to families with members at least 4 years of age. Only the children will be in the shallow pool in this activity, while their parents can watch them have fun from the observation area.

• 5-Year-Old Minimum Age: Check out the Combo Tour: Las Caletas + Dolphins, the Sea Lion Encounter, or the Dolphin Signature Swim.

• 6-Year-Old Minimum Age: Bring your 6-year-old to an unforgettable Whale Watching excursion during the winter season. For those who want to expose their children to a cultural immersion San Sebastian del Oeste, Pueblos, and Sayulita & San Pancho are fantastic options.

• 8-Year-Old Minimum Age: Options include All Terrain Safari, Sayulita Escape, Dolphin Extreme Swim, Extreme Adventure, and Outdoor Adventure.

• 10-Year-Old Minimum Age: If your kids are +10 years old, you can take any of Vallarta Adventures activities, however, two great recommendations are Ocean Mania and Sea Safari.

Families with strong swimming abilities can consider Yelapa & Majahuitas or Marietas Eco-Discovery. Both tours involve jumping out of the boat into the water and then swimming to the beach, so it is important all family members are comfortable swimming in the sea. Life jackets and snorkeling gear will be provided, so everyone can admire Puerto Vallarta’s underwater world.

Unforgettable summer vacation with children in Puerto Vallarta: A family-friendly paradise

In conclusion, Puerto Vallarta stands out as a dreamy summer vacation spot for families, providing a harmonious blend of natural beauty, engaging activities, and cultural charm. The city's commitment to being family-friendly ensures parents and children can create cherished memories together, making their summer vacation truly unforgettable.

We hope this list helps you plan the perfect trip to Puerto Vallarta with kids!