One of the best activities families can enjoy in Puerto Vallarta year-round is swimming with dolphins. Suitable for children as young as one year old, Vallarta Adventures’ Marine Mammal Center provides a safe and comfortable environment to enjoy this unforgettable experience—rain or shine, busy season or not.
Las Caletas Beach & Adventure Park is another year-round family favorite! Children can meet and pet sea lions, docile rays, little monkeys, and curious lemurs, admire colorful macaws, or learn to snorkel to discover the rich marine life under the surface. Among tropical trees is a mini Adventure Park featuring a zip line, hanging bridge, and climbing wall—designed to spark a sense of adventure in every child and often becoming the highlight of their vacation.
Being one of Mexico’s most family-friendly destinations, Puerto Vallarta offers incredible activities every season. While the weather varies throughout the year, each season brings its own unique charm.
Month-by-Month Family Highlights:
Winter (December–April) offers sunny skies and comfortable temperatures. The season's highlight is, without a doubt, whale watching, thrilling for kids who dream of spotting a tail or spray from the boat deck. There is also a combination of whale watching and a dolphin encounter, ideal for marine mammal lovers who are 5 years old and up.
May and September are ideal months for families looking to avoid crowds and enjoy great deals on flights, hotels, and activities. May is typically the windiest month, perfect for sailing the bay, while September offers lush, vibrant jungle landscapes—an excellent time for outdoor and adventure tours. These off-season periods provide the perfect opportunity for families with flexible travel dates to experience Puerto Vallarta at its best.
Summer (June–August) is hotter and more humid, but perfect for water play. Even though it rains frequently during these months, the sun usually shines right after—snorkeling, paddleboarding, enjoying the beach, and water activities in general are a must for children. The best-value combination for families during these months is a tour package with a swim with dolphins and a day at Las Caletas, across two days. A visit to the Marietas Islands National Park is also a fantastic family day trip for ocean lovers.
Fall (October-November) continues with rains turning all landscapes featuring rivers, waterfalls, and jungle a dream for those passionate about nature. Tours to the Yelapa waterfall, to a zipline and waterfall rappel park, and thrilling water activities are amazing for those coming with teenagers craving fun and adrenaline!
Best Beaches and Family Activities
Sunday, Funday, Beach Day!
For those staying in Puerto Vallarta on Sundays there’s no better family-friendly beach than Majahuitas. Located on the lush coast south of Puerto Vallarta, there are no roads to get to Majahuitas, meaning that the only way to get there is by boat.
The day starts as Sundays must begin, waking up late, since boat departure is around 11 AM. After a relaxing cruise across the bay admiring coastal landscapes and sea birds plunging into the water to catch their breakfast, you’ll disembark at secluded Majahuitas. No beach vendors mean that you can just unwind and enjoy the lush vegetation covering the towering cliffs that protect the calm cove.
With emerald warm waters, golden sand and a waterfall falling almost to the ocean, Majahuitas Beach Club is one of the hidden gems of Puerto Vallarta. There are paddleboards, kayaks, snorkeling gear and the ever fun banana boat available. All of these are complimentary!
There are excellent options for food and beverage, all with the freshest ingredients and suitable for all tastes. A feast for adults and children alike!
Enjoy Easy Family Fun by the Sea
Playa Camarones offers families a perfect spot for relaxed beach days, with wide sandy shores, gentle waves, and lifeguards on duty. Kids love splashing in the safe, shallow waters while parents kick back with refreshing coconut water from beach vendors. Between sandcastle building contests and afternoon strolls, this beach delivers simple, joyful moments.
Nearby shops and food stands make it easy to extend your visit without worrying about supplies. Whether paddling through clear surf or watching pelicans swoop by, Playa Camarones invites families to slow down and enjoy the natural beauty of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline.
Discover a Beach Paradise Full of Adventures
Hidden away along the coast, Las Caletas Beach Hideaway feels like a secret world crafted just for families. Arriving by boat, kids jump into adventure with activities like ziplining, snorkeling, clay crafting, and even encounters with friendly parrots and sea lions.
There are Extra Wide Family Paddle Boards, kayaks, inflatable rings and long nature paths to enjoy together while admiring the tropical vegetation and local fauna.
Parents will appreciate how seamlessly excitement and safety are woven together. Calm waters invite beginner snorkelers, shaded hammocks offer downtime, and the included meals make everything effortless. From playful exploration to peaceful beach naps, Las Caletas captures the spirit of a day where kids lead the way and families reconnect.
Malecón Boardwalk: A Colorful Family Stroll
The Malecón Boardwalk is a must-visit for families, with sculptures, music, and street performers turning every step into a discovery. Children are enchanted by the whimsical bronze statues, from giant seahorses to playful mermaids, while street vendors tempt with cotton candy, toys, and colorful souvenirs. On Sunday afternoons, the Los Arcos public amphitheater comes alive with clowns and performers delighting crowds with fun, family-friendly shows.
Families can enjoy a leisurely stroll as the ocean breeze and festive atmosphere fill the afternoon. Parents love that the Malecón is pedestrian-only, making it safe for little ones to explore freely and capture unforgettable photos against Puerto Vallarta’s dazzling sunsets.
Connect with Gentle Dolphins in Shallow Waters
Imagine your child’s face lighting up as they meet a dolphin for the first time. At the Dolphin Encounter, families step into shallow, calm pools where professional trainers guide meaningful, playful interactions with these incredible creatures. Kids can touch, hug, and even dance with their new dolphin friends.
For children in the “I want to do it by myself” phase, nothing beats Dolphin Kids—an experience designed just for them (ages 4 to 9). While kids enjoy unforgettable moments and bursts of laughter with a friendly dolphin, parents can relax in a dedicated observation area and watch the fun unfold.
More than just fun, the experience highlights important lessons about marine conservation, inspiring young minds to care for the ocean and its creatures. It’s a moment of wonder, connection, and joy that becomes a treasured memory for families of all ages.
Visit the Puerto Vallarta Zoo: Get Close to Wildlife
Nestled in the green hills of Mismaloya, the Puerto Vallarta Zoo invites families to experience unforgettable animal encounters in a lush, jungle-like setting. Unlike traditional zoos, here children can feed and interact with a variety of friendly animals, from colorful parrots to gentle giraffes, making the experience more personal and memorable.
Parents appreciate that the zoo offers shady paths, lots of opportunities for learning, and a beautiful backdrop of tropical forest. Kids leave not only with wide smiles but with a deeper appreciation for the natural world, having seen it up close in a vibrant, hands-on environment.
Splash and Slide at a Family-Friendly Water Park
When the sun is high, nothing delights tweens and teenagers more than a thrilling day of splashing and sliding at Ocean Mania Water Park. Located on the shores north of Puerto Vallarta, this family-friendly waterpark designed for those over 9 years old offers a thrilling combination of a hillside waterslide, zip line into the ocean, jet boat, spinner boat, parasailing, surf simulator and more exciting activities to keep those older children entertained and engaged.
Families can spend the day racing the waves on the exhilarating banana boat, or testing their fear of heights on the step up. down slides, relaxing under shaded cabanas, and even swimming with dolphins through specially designed encounters. With lifeguards on duty and attractions for every age group, Aquaventuras Ocean Mania turns a hot day into a cool, laughter-filled adventure that adventure-loving families will enjoy.
Baby Turtle Release: Witness Nature’s Smallest Miracle
Between July and December, families have the extraordinary opportunity to participate in a baby turtle release. Guided by local conservationists, children can gently help newly hatched turtles navigate their first steps toward the ocean, a powerful and emotional experience. Most family beachfront hotels have scheduled turtle releases, so make sure you ask during your booking process.
These programs teach families about endangered species and the importance of protecting natural habitats, blending learning and compassion in a way that touches young hearts deeply. Few vacation memories will shine brighter than watching a tiny life begin its incredible journey under a golden Puerto Vallarta sunset.
Soar Through the Jungle on a Zipline Adventure
At Outdoor Zip-Line Adventure, adventurous kids over 9 years old and teens can experience the thrill of flying over the jungle canopy under the watchful care of expert guides. Designed with safety as the highest priority, this exhilarating journey lets families soar above waterfalls, ancient trees, and tropical birds.
Between zips, families hike gentle trails and rappel down next to a waterfall, ride mules and refresh into a pristine river and splashswim in hidden jungle pools. Guides share insights about the Sierra Madre’s incredible biodiversity, turning each leap through the forest into a lesson in courage and nature’s power.
Isla Río Cuale: Treasure Hunts and Artisan Markets
Isla Río Cuale is a shaded, green oasis perfect for curious young adventurers. Winding footpaths, colorful market stalls, and secret swinging bridges create a setting straight from a child's imagination. Kids love browsing handwoven toys and artisan crafts while parents enjoy the relaxed, authentic atmosphere.
From impromptu storytelling sessions with friendly vendors to impromptu art discoveries tucked along the riverside, Isla Río Cuale brings Puerto Vallarta’s creativity and culture to life. It’s a peaceful afternoon escape where families can experience the city’s vibrant soul away from the beach crowds.
Did You Know? Vallarta Adventures' Commitment to Conservation
Beyond unforgettable tours, Vallarta Adventures is deeply committed to protecting Puerto Vallarta’s natural wonders. We operate the largest marine rescue center in the Mexican Pacific, lead wildlife conservation programs, and offer eco-education initiatives for families. Every dolphin encounter, snorkeling trip, or jungle tour supports local ecosystems—and teaches young explorers the value of protecting our planet.
Rainy Day Adventures for Families
Create and Play Indoors at Kid-Friendly Spaces
When skies turn gray, Puerto Vallarta still delivers unforgettable family fun indoors. Instead of an aquarium (which the city does not have), families can head to indoor spaces like restaurants with game rooms (locally known as “ludotecas”) where children can have fun and make friends while playing on indoor playgrounds or with board games, blocks, interactive books and more. CampoMar, La Vaca Argentina, Café Lukumbé, PlayTime and Freddy’s Tucan are some of these restaurants with complimentary game rooms.
For more hands-on excitement, consider family workshops at Art VallARTa, where children can try pottery, painting, or even puppet-making under the guidance of local artists. These creative sessions are perfect for curious minds and allow families to take home one-of-a-kind souvenirs made with their own hands. Indoor options like these turn rainy days into memorable ones—full of learning, laughter, and artistic discovery.
Rainy Day Thrills at Extreme Adventure Park
Who says the fun has to stop when it rains? At Extreme Adventure Park, a little water only adds to the excitement. Families with kids ages 9 and up can embrace the adventure with thrilling zip lines through the misty jungle, splash down waterslides, and ride ATVs across muddy trails and river creeks—turning a rainy day into an epic outdoor playground.
Rain enhances the wild, tropical setting, making the experience feel even more immersive and unforgettable. For families who don’t mind getting a little muddy, this is the perfect way to bond, laugh, and create memories under the canopy of nature’s own waterpark.
Play Indoors at Galerías Vallarta Mall
When the rain falls, Galerías Vallarta Mall becomes a lively indoor playground for families. Between movie theaters, arcade zones, and indoor play areas, kids have plenty of ways to burn off energy while staying dry. Colorful rides and soft play zones keep little ones happy, while teens can test their skills at video games or shop for souvenirs.
Parents will appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and variety of family-friendly dining options, making it easy to spend a comfortable afternoon out of the rain. Sometimes, simple joys like sharing popcorn after a movie or competing in a family arcade tournament create just as many memories as beach days.
Go Beneath the surface at Las Caletas
When the sky turns cloudy, it’s the perfect time to dive beneath the surface and explore a whole new world. Discover Scuba Diving at Las Caletas is an unforgettable family experience guided by expert PADI-certified instructors and ideal for beginners ages 10 and up. Learn the basics in calm, clear waters and get up close with vibrant marine life in a safe, supportive environment.
After your underwater adventure, a plentiful lunch awaits—served either beneath swaying palm trees or under the roof of a cozy, oceanfront restaurant if rain makes an appearance. Cloudy days at Las Caletas often turn into some of the most magical.
Discover Chocolate Making at ChocoMuseo
A visit to ChocoMuseo is a treat for both the taste buds and the imagination. Located just steps from the Malecón, this charming chocolate museum invites families to dive into the history of cacao, from ancient Mayan traditions to modern-day chocolate-making techniques. Hands-on workshops allow kids to grind beans, mix ingredients, and create their very own sweet masterpieces.
Parents love that the experience blends culture, history, and fun into one delicious adventure. And of course, everyone enjoys sampling the handmade chocolates afterward, a perfect reward for budding chocolatiers!
How to Create a Stress-Free Family Vacation in Puerto Vallarta
Prioritize Safety and Age-Appropriate Adventures
Puerto Vallarta is exceptionally family-friendly, but it’s important to choose activities suited to your children's ages and energy levels. Tours like the Dolphin Encounter are perfect for young children, offering safe, shallow-water interactions. More adventurous kids can try ziplining, while toddlers might prefer calm beach days and gentle snorkeling adventures.
Book Tours in Advance
Family-favorite tours like Las Caletas Beach Hideaway often sell out, especially during holiday seasons and weekends. Booking early ensures you secure spots in the tours best suited for your family's interests and keeps your trip stress-free once you arrive.
Packing Essentials for Families
Pack smart to make the most of your family vacation:
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Sun hats and UV-protective swimwear
- Water shoes for beach and jungle adventures
- Light rain jackets for occasional showers
- Spanish phrase cards for fun local interactions
Mix Active Days with Relaxed Moments
Balancing high-energy adventures with slower, easygoing moments is key to creating a happy and memorable family vacation. After an exciting morning snorkeling among colorful fish or soaring through the jungle on a zipline, plan for afternoons that invite your family to slow down and savor the magic of Puerto Vallarta. A leisurely stroll along the Malecón, stopping for handmade ice cream or exploring whimsical sculptures, lets kids recharge while still soaking in the city's vibrant spirit.
Sunset beach walks, casual meals at outdoor cafés, or browsing local artisan markets create soft, beautiful pauses between bigger adventures. Mixing active days with relaxed ones not only keeps little travelers happy and rested, but also allows families to experience Puerto Vallarta’s deeper rhythm, where excitement and serenity live side by side, and every moment becomes part of your shared story.
Building Unforgettable Memories in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta offers families something truly rare, a destination where discovery, adventure, and connection come together effortlessly. It is a place where children's laughter echoes through jungle trails, where the first glimpse of a dolphin or a baby turtle lights up young faces with pure wonder, and where the simple joy of exploring a colorful market or sailing at sunset becomes a story shared for years to come.
Families who choose Puerto Vallarta find more than just a beach vacation, they find a vibrant classroom without walls, a playground sculpted by nature, and a canvas for memories that grow brighter with time. From snorkeling beneath rock arches to ziplining above lush canopies, from tasting handmade chocolates to learning about marine conservation, every moment here is a chance to inspire curiosity, courage, and joy in children of every age.
Thanks to the thoughtful experiences offered by Vallarta Adventures, families can adventure safely while deepening their connection to nature, culture, and each other. Whether you dream of sailing into golden sunsets, helping protect sea turtles, or sharing wide-eyed excitement at every turn, Puerto Vallarta invites your family to live its next great story together.
Start creating your unforgettable family adventure today with Vallarta Adventures and watch memories blossom in every smile.
