Looking for the best bars in Puerto Vallarta? After living here for several years, I’ve spent plenty of nights exploring the city’s vibrant nightlife.
It’s no secret that Puerto Vallarta is a bit of a party town. Regardless of what night of the week it is, there’s something fun going on. The city has an incredible mix of bars, from casual beachside hangouts where you can sip a margarita with your toes in the sand, to stylish rooftops with sweeping sunset views, and lively clubs in the Romantic Zone that keep the party going until sunrise.
Whether you want craft cocktails, live music, a drag show, or just a cold beer after the beach, there’s a spot in Puerto Vallarta to match your mood. In this guide, I’ll share my favorite bars across the city’s neighborhoods so you can plan the perfect night out.
To make this guide easy to navigate, I decided to break these best bars in Puerto Vallarta into a few different categories to help you find bars suitable for day into night.
Short on time? Join this VIP Nightclub Tour and skip past the line to three of the city’s most popular bars and clubs!
Best Beach Bars in Puerto Vallarta
Let’s start things off on la playa, where you’ll probably spend most of your time here. Here are some of the best beach bars and clubs in Puerto Vallarta to drink the day away by the sea.
Overview: Puerto Vallarta Bars
| Category | My Pick | Why It Stands Out |
|---|---|---|
| Best LGBTQ+ Bar | Mr. Flamingo | Always packed, music blasting, and the party spills into the street every night. |
| Best Cocktail Bar | Blind Tiger | Upscale, intimate, and serious about cocktails with a huge wall of bottles. |
| Best Brewery | Yambak | Craft beer on tap + turns into a DJ-fueled dance party on weekends. |
| Best Rooftop Bar | The Top Sky Bar | Iconic ocean views, chic atmosphere, and high-energy sunset parties. |
| Best Beach Bar | El Solar | Casual, affordable, and the perfect place for sunset with your toes in the sand. |
| Best Live Music | La Bodeguita del Medio | Salsa bands, mojitos, and even salsa classes some nights. |
| Best Nightclub | Industry | Late-night gay club with DJs, drag shows, and one of the best after-hours parties in town. |
| Best Dive Bar | Gusto Lounge | Laid-back, unpretentious spot with cheap drinks and a fun local vibe. |
1. Swell Beach Bar
Let’s start our booze-fueled tour of PV off on Los Muertos Beach. My go-to spot here is Swell Beach Bar, as it’s just a swell place to hang out.
Bad jokes aside, this is an excellent beach bar. They make good cocktails, the service is fantastic, and they’re just really nice people. They also serve delicious food if you need something to soak up the tequila.
The vibe is laid-back with comfy loungers, good service, and a mix of locals and travelers.
2. El Solar
Personally, I prefer a more relaxed environment for a beach bar. That’s why I love going to El Solar up in the 5 de Diciembre neighborhood.
They make some of the best cocktails in PV here, including my fave – the jalapeño mezcalita. The vibe is relaxed, but they have DJs playing on weekend nights.
3. Mango’s Beach Club
Up on Playa Camarones in 5 de Diciembre, Mango’s has a fun, lively vibe without being as crowded as Los Muertos Beach. It’s popular with locals and expats who want affordable drinks, tasty Mexican food, and a live music on the weekend. Grab a beachfront table for sunset and you’ll see why it’s a favorite for starting the night right on the sand. But, they close as soon as the sun sets!
4. Casita Marika
It’s a bit of a journey to get here, but this slice of paradise is worth the effort. You can hike along the coast from Boca de Tomatlán or hop on a 10-minute panga to arrive.
The setting is stunning; turquoise sea, jungle backdrop, and a laid-back atmosphere that makes you want to linger. Food and drinks are on the pricier side, but the quality is excellent. They close at sunset, so be sure to catch the last boat back to Boca.
Best Rooftop Bars Puerto Vallarta
Who doesn’t love a cold drink with ocean views and palm trees? Thankfully, there are several fun rooftop bars in Puerto Vallarta that overlook the stunning Banderas Bay and beautiful beaches where you can watch the sunset.
5. Rooftop House PV
Tucked away from the main drag in Zona Romántica, Rooftop House PV is one of my regular weekend bars. You’ll need to climb a set of stairs to reach the open-air rooftop, but it’s worth it for the breezy views and atmosphere.
There’s often a DJ spinning on weekends, giving it more of a house-party vibe than a polished lounge. The staff are super friendly, and it’s one of those spots I find myself coming back to on weekends when I want good music and a fun crowd without the chaos of the bigger clubs.
6. Sky Bar at Pinnacle Resorts
One of the best bars for an elevated adult beverage is the Residences Sky Bar at Pinnacle Resorts. The panoramic view alone is worth the trip.
That being said, the drinks aren’t amazing, and they’re a bit pricey. Be sure to come between 5:30-8 for their 2-for-1 Happy Hour. Have your drinks, take your selfies, watch the sunset, and move on to the next stop.
7. Top Sky Bar
For some reason, there are two bars with basically the same name here. If you accidentally end up at the Top Sky Bar, it’s not such a bad thing.
This rooftop gay bar has a few jacuzzis and great nightly events. There’s also a full menu if you need a bite to keep the party going.
Best breweries in Puerto Vallarta
Wanna grab a few pints before heading out? Check out these craft breweries in Puerto Vallarta.
8. Los Muertos
If you’re looking for a place to get cheap pizza and beer while watching a sports game, Los Muertos Brewing is the spot.
They have happy hour specials and delicious pizza, so this is a great place to go for dinner before heading out on the town. Plus, it’s only a few blocks from Monzon Brewery, so you can hit both on a self-guided brewery tour!
9. Monzon Brewing
Located in Zona Romántica, Monzon Brewing is a haven for craft beer enthusiasts. Offering a variety of local craft beers, it’s a great spot to start your evening with friendly local staff.
The best time to visit Monzon is during their weekly trivia nights, making it not just a place to grab a pint but also a venue for some wholesome fun. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a laid-back atmosphere before hitting the town.
10. Yambak
Known for its craft beer, Yambak has become one of Puerto Vallarta’s favorite breweries. They rotate taps with a mix of local and regional brews, so it’s a good place to try something different from the usual Pacifico or Corona.
But it’s not just about the beer! On weekends the space transforms into a dance party with live DJs and a packed on the second floor open-air dance space. Come early if you want to grab a table, or show up late if you’re ready to dance.
The combination of local craft beer, delicious wood-fired pizza, and a rooftop terrace with dirty house beats until the wee hours of the morning makes this one of my favorite spots in town.
Best Cocktail Bars in Puerto Vallarta Mexico
Before hitting the clubs, head to one of these Puerto Vallarta cocktail bars to grab a drink and catch up with friends.
11. Bar La Playa
Another of our go-to spots is a few blocks away – Bar La Playa. For such a small space, it sure packs a punch. They might have the best margarita in town here, and it’s just a damn fun place to hang out.
If you want to start the party early, BLP has a great Happy Hour from 3-5 PM. Grab one of their fantastic margaritas and pull up a bar stool. There’s always someone interesting to chat with here!
Lora’s take: We usually drink here until they close at midnight and then head over to El Sonador around the corner. It’s one of the best bars in Puerto Vallarta for meeting other expats!
12. El Colibri Cocktail Bar
El Colibri is one of my favorite bars to go to for a drink with friends. As you enter, you’ll see a sign that says, “welcome to the jungle,” When you go through the next door, you’ll know why!
It’s full of beautiful jungle plants, giving this place a cozy tropical atmosphere with speak-easy vibes. They have some of the best cocktails in town with a constantly changing menu. During the weekends, they have a DJ and it can be a really fun dance party.
13. El Tasting Room
El Tasting Room is a small but charming cocktail bar owned by Colibri, offering an intimate setting for early evening drinks. With a curated menu of handcrafted cocktails, it’s the perfect spot to start your night or enjoy a low-key gathering.
14. Blind Tiger
An upscale cocktail bar in Centro, Blind Tiger is small and intimate, giving it that speakeasy feel while still being easy to find from the street. Inside, the massive wall of bottles sets the tone; this place takes its cocktails seriously.
The menu leans creative and refined, and the bartenders are happy to craft something off-menu if you’re adventurous. It’s a great spot for a quieter, more elevated night out compared to the busy beach bars and clubs.
15. El Rey Bar & Grill PV
A cocktail bar in Versalles that also happens to serve some of the best BBQ in town. It’s not the combination you’d expect, but somehow it works. The vibe is casual and welcoming, and while they close at 11 pm, it’s a solid option for a casual night out in Versalles without heading into Centro or the Romantic Zone.
16. Coco Machete
Tucked inside Jardín de Versalles, Coco Machete is one of the best spots in the neighborhood for cocktails. The menu is creative and pairs perfectly with the food options in the shared garden space. It has a large outdoor area with plenty of tables, making it a great place to come with friends or host events.
They used to host live music and DJs until the neighbors complained, but it’s still a popular spot for meetups and a fun, social vibe right in the heart of Versalles.
Best Gay Bars in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is a major LGBTQ destination, not just during the city’s massive Pride Week celebration. These gay bars in Puerto Vallarta are some of the best places to dance the night away!
17. Mr. Flamingo
There are dozens of gay bars in the Old Town (Zona Romantica), including the legendary Mr. Flamingo.
This place is rockin’ every night of the week, even in the depths of the low season on a rainy night. The dance floor often spills out onto the sidewalk here. While the drinks aren’t the best, it’s one of the best places for a great time, especially on a Saturday night.
Not sure where to go? Join this Puerto Vallarta gay bar crawl and meet new friends!
18. La Noche
Just a few doors down is La Noche, where you’ll find go-go dancers and a rooftop garden. This and Mr. Flamingo are just a few stops on the classic PV Gayborhood bar crawl, where you can find many other dance clubs to party the night away, like CC Slaughters and Twisted Palms rooftop lounge.
Roxy Rock House is also around the corner, with live music and entertainment.
If you’re looking for a more mellow vibe, check out Reinas Bar, a few blocks down the street.
19. CC Slaughters
A longtime staple of the LGBTQ+ nightlife scene in Zona Romántica, CC Slaughters is a high-energy dance bar where the crowd almost always spills into the street. It’s often one of the latest spots open, so it naturally becomes the last stop of the night. The music is loud, the dance floor is packed, and it’s always a fun choice if you’re in the mood for a full-on dance party.
20. Elixir Mixology Bar
This LGBTQ-owned spot in Zona Romántica has quickly built a reputation for some of the best cocktails in town. The menu is creative and beautifully presented, with drinks that taste as good as they look.
The space itself is intimate and stylish, making it a great place to start the night before heading to the nearby clubs. If you’re into craft cocktails and want to support a queer-owned business, Elixir is an easy pick.
21. Blondies Slush Bar
Famous for their frozen cocktails, Blondies is the perfect place to cool off from the Puerto Vallarta heat. They have two locations in Zona Romántica, both small in size but big on fun. It’s a great spot for people-watching or grabbing a drink to kick off the night before heading to the nearby clubs. The slushies are playful, refreshing, and just strong enough to get the party started.
22. Tryst Puerto Vallarta
One of the newest additions to the Romantic Zone, Tryst is a luxury gay hotel with a rooftop pool and bar that doubles as a nightlife hotspot. The sleek design, ocean views, and regular DJ sets make it a standout for sunset cocktails or late-night parties.
Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, the rooftop is open to the public and has quickly become a favorite in Puerto Vallarta’s LGBTQ+ scene.
23. Industry Nightclub
One of the hottest gay clubs in Zona Romántica, Industry is where you go when you’re ready to dance until sunrise. The space has an impressive light and sound system, with DJs spinning a mix of pop, house, and Latin beats alongside high-energy drag performances.
It’s one of the best places to go dancing in Puerto Vallarta’s LGBTQ+ scene, drawing big crowds on weekends and special event nights.
Best nightclubs in Puerto Vallarta
After a few drinks, you’ll probably want to hit the dance floor! Here are the best places to go dancing in Puerto Vallarta.
24. Mandela / La Vaquita / Zoo
These three mega-clubs sit side by side on the Malecón, and you’ll know you’ve found them by the booming music and neon lights. Inside it’s all about over-the-top performances, dancers in cages, and a party-until-dawn atmosphere.
Drinks are pricey and the music is loud, but if you want the classic big-night-out-in-Mexico experience, this is where to find it. Personally, it’s not my scene, but plenty of visitors love the energy.
25. Bar Morelos
Bar Morelos is a popular spot in El Centro, perfect for a night out. I’ve partied there several times with my friends over the weekend, and it’s always entertaining.
It’s a loud club that knows how to keep the energy high. One of the highlights is their over-the-top entertainment; imagine entertainers dressed in clown costumes setting off firecrackers! It’s a spectacle to see.
26. La Santa
Located in the Hotel Zone, La Santa is one of Puerto Vallarta’s most upscale nightclubs. Expect dressier locals, bottle service tables, and a mix of electronic and Latin beats under flashing lights. The multi-level space has a stylish, high-energy vibe, with performances and DJs that keep the party going until dawn. If you’re after a more polished big-club experience, La Santa is where to go.
Best Puerto Vallarta live music bars
27. Roxy’s Rock House
A late-night staple in Zona Romántica, Roxy’s is the spot to end the night if you’re into live music. Local bands take the stage playing rock, blues, and everything in between, and the energy always ramps up as the night goes on.
It stays open later than most bars, so it’s a natural last stop when you’re not ready to call it a night. The vibe is casual, the crowd is fun, and the music keeps it going until the early hours.
28. Awaysis
Tucked just behind the main drag in Zona Romántica, Awaysis is a lively spot for food, drinks, and live music. The space feels relaxed, with fun Instagrammable décor and a casual vibe. Local bands and musicians keep the energy high, and the mix of good food and affordable cocktails makes it a favorite hangout for both locals and visitors.
29. La Bodeguita del Medio
This lively Cuban bar on the Malecón brings Havana vibes to Puerto Vallarta. It’s famous for its mojitos, live salsa bands, and a dance floor that fills up quickly once the music starts. The walls are covered in scribbled notes and signatures from past guests, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
On some nights they even offer salsa classes, so you can learn a few steps before joining the crowd. Even if you don’t dance, it’s a fun spot to grab a cocktail and soak up the energy.
30. The Social Club
One of Puerto Vallarta’s newest nightlife spots, The Social Club blends speakeasy vibes with live entertainment. Hidden behind an unassuming entrance in Zona Romántica, the space opens up into an intimate bar with moody lighting and a polished cocktail menu.
What sets it apart is the live jazz. You can sip a perfectly made old fashioned while listening to incredible musicians. It feels like a little slice of New York tucked into PV, and it’s quickly become a go-to for a more sophisticated night out.
31. Mestizo Espresso and Bar
Newly opened in 2023, Mestizo Espresso and Bar took over where AM Bar used to be and has quickly become one of my favorites. The bar often features live music and DJs set against a backdrop of 3D psychedelic art (they even provide glasses).
They serve fantastic mezcal cocktails crafted by super friendly local staff. Though small, it’s a great spot for a fun night out with friends.
Best dive bars in Puerto Vallarta
I don’t know about you, but I feel most at home at a dive bar. You know – the kind of place where your shoes stick to the floor, the pool table is slanted, and the beers are cold and cheap.
If those fancy nightclubs aren’t for you either, you’ll be happy to hear there are plenty of fun bars in Puerto Vallarta that very much fit the “dive bar” mold.
32. Doberman Bar
Located right next to Mestizo but offering a completely different vibe, Doberman Bar is the place for late-night drinks. Open until 3 or 4 AM, it’s often my last stop for the night.
The bar has a more laid-back atmosphere, perfect for winding down or keeping the party going. My friend Rio sometimes plays sets here, adding to the bar’s eclectic energy.
33. El Sonador
One of my favorite bars in town, El Soñador, is precisely that. We call it our Cheers because we’re there so much that everybody knows our names.
They’ve got a pool table downstairs, a nice rooftop terrace above, and friendly staff. In addition to having some of the best bartenders in town, they have DJs a few nights a week and show NFL football games.
While the inside may not seem like much when you walk in, the second floor turns into a dance party every weekend with DJ’s.
34. Devil’s Bar
Another classic PV dive is Devil’s Bar on the Malecon. It’s literally a hole in the wall right off the famous oceanfront promenade. They make some delicious cocktails, and the people-watching here is top-notch.
35. The Gusto Lounge
Up in the 5 de Diciembre area, I have to give a shout-out to my buddy Sergio and his awesome bar, the Gusto Lounge
They have the cheapest beers around, their own tequila (which is great), and an impressive menu for a small bar. I mean, where else can you get a lobster dinner at a freaking dive bar?!
If you make it over to Gusto Lounge, tell them we sent you to get a free drink!
Tips for Enjoying Puerto Vallarta Nightlife
- Start late – Most bars don’t get busy until after 9 or 10 pm, and clubs don’t fill up until midnight.
- Bring cash – Many smaller bars and street-side spots are cash-only, and it’s handy for tipping musicians or drag performers.
- Expect to tip – Standard is 10–20% of your bill, just like at restaurants.
- Dress code varies – Beach bars are super casual, but upscale clubs like La Santa or Industry lean toward dressier attire, especially if you want table service.
- Stay safe – Stick to well-lit areas, use Uber or InDriver late at night, and keep an eye on your belongings.
- Plan your transport – If you’re staying outside the Romantic Zone, arrange a ride back before the clubs close when it can be harder to find a taxi.
- Hydrate – The mix of heat and strong cocktails catches up fast, so pace yourself with some water
Best time to visit for Puerto Vallarta nightlife
While you can always find a party in Puerto Vallarta, there are some times of the year when it feels like the entire city is one cohesive vibe.
If you’re looking for that kind of atmosphere, come during spring break, Semana Santa (easter weekend), or between Christmas and New Year. During that time, the Malecon will be packed with people on the streets pouring out from the bars.
If you’re looking for the best LGBTQ+ parties, come during pride week at the end of May each year.
FAQ: Puerto Vallarta best bars
What part of Puerto Vallarta has the best nightlife?
Zona Romántica, El Centro, and Malecón areas are hotspots for nightlife, offering a range of bars and clubs.
Does Puerto Vallarta have a good nightlife?
Yes, Puerto Vallarta has some of the best nightlife in Mexico with various bars, clubs, and live music venues to suit all tastes.
Can you walk around Puerto Vallarta with alcohol?
While it’s technically illegal to walk around with open containers of alcohol in public areas, many people do.
What alcohol is Puerto Vallarta known for?
Puerto Vallarta is famous for tequila and raicilla, a local spirit similar to tequila but less refined, offering a more rustic flavor.
Is Puerto Vallarta safe to walk around at night?
Generally, Puerto Vallarta is considered safe, but it’s always best to stay in well-lit areas and be aware of your surroundings. I never recommend walking alone at night.
What is the best time to go to Puerto Vallarta?
The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is from November to April, during the dry season when the weather is pleasant and outdoor activities are abundant.
Is Cancun or Puerto Vallarta more fun?
Both have their merits, but Puerto Vallarta offers a more laid-back vibe and cultural experiences, while Cancun is known for its obnoxious party atmosphere.
What is the main strip in Puerto Vallarta?
The main strip in Puerto Vallarta is the Malecón, a boardwalk lined with shops, restaurants, and bars offering stunning ocean views.
How many days is good in Puerto Vallarta?
A stay of 4-7 days is ideal to explore the beaches, nightlife, and cultural attractions Puerto Vallarta offers.
Final thoughts: Best bars in Puerto Vallarta Mexico
If there’s one “problem” I’ve encountered living in Puerto Vallarta, it’s the challenge of NOT going out. Seriously, there’s always something happening; be it a trivia night at Monzon Brewery, a new bar opening, or a live DJ set at El Sonador.
The city is buzzing with energy, making it a playground for both residents like me and tourists alike.
So whether you’re here for a short visit or considering making PV your home, you’re in for a treat when it comes to nightlife. Trust me, the biggest issue you’ll have is deciding where to go next.
If you can’t decide where to go, join this VIP Nightclub Tour and skip past the line to three of the city’s best bars and clubs!
