Marina Vallarta is one of my favorite neighborhoods in Puerto Vallarta to spend an afternoon. Just a few minutes from the airport, this upscale area feels worlds away from the busy downtown — with luxury yachts lined along the boardwalk, waterfront restaurants, and a laid-back yet polished vibe.
It’s one of the city’s most walkable areas, where you can grab coffee by the water, browse local art at the Thursday night market, or watch the sunset from El Faro lighthouse with a cocktail in hand.
In this complete guide to Marina Vallarta, I’ll show you everything you need to know, from the best things to do and restaurants worth visiting to where to stay and what makes this part of Puerto Vallarta such a great base for travelers and locals alike.
Getting There and Around Marina Vallarta
One of the best things about Marina Vallarta is how easy it is to get to. It’s just a 5-minute drive from Puerto Vallarta International Airport and about 15 minutes from downtown or the Romantic Zone. If you’re arriving by plane, you can grab a taxi, Uber, or inDriver right from the terminal, just make sure to confirm the price before you get in.
Once you’re there, you’ll find that Marina Vallarta is one of the city’s most walkable neighborhoods. The main boardwalk loops around the marina, lined with cafés, boutiques, and restaurants. It’s perfect for a morning stroll or a sunset walk when the boats light up and the air cools down.
If you’re staying in another part of Puerto Vallarta, it’s easy to visit for a few hours, especially for dinner or the weekly Thursday night market. Parking is available along the main street and near the marina entrance, but spaces fill up fast in the evenings, so arrive early if you’re driving.
You don’t really need a car here. Most people explore on foot and Ubers are always nearby if you want to venture to nearby spots like the hotel zone or downtown.
Marina Vallarta Things to Do
Marina Vallarta might be smaller than other neighborhoods in Puerto Vallarta, but there’s plenty to keep you busy here, whether you want to relax by the water, go golfing, or enjoy dinner with a view.
1. Take a stroll on the Marina Boardwalk
The boardwalk is the heart of Marina Vallarta. It wraps around the docks, lined with boutique shops, cafés, and restaurants overlooking luxury yachts.
It’s one of my favorite places to start the day with coffee or end it with a sunset drink. Don’t miss the giant whale sculpture at the entrance, it’s a local landmark and a great photo spot.
2. Thursday night market
The Thursday Night Market is a must-visit event in Marina Vallarta, taking place every Thursday evening during the high season near the marina boardwalk from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM,
You’ll find local crafts, jewelry, handmade soaps, baked goods, and plenty of street food. It’s one of the best markets in Puerto Vallarta and worth planning your visit around.
There’s also the cutest stand that sells handmade dog accessories. I definitely went overboard there spoiling Puglo with new collars and bandanas! It’s such a fun spot to pick up something unique for your pup or as a local souvenir.
3. Whale-watching tours
Many tours depart from the Marina, including the popular whale watching tours during the migration season. Every year, humpback whales migrate to Banderas Bay to begin their mating season and give birth.
The whales are so famous that a statue of them greets you upon entering the Marina!
Seeing these majestic creatures up close and personal is an unforgettable experience. You can also expect to see many dolphins on a tour.
🐋 We highly recommend this 5-star whale-watching tour led by a biologist!
4. Catamaran Trips
You can also head out on snorkeling tours, sailing trips, party boats, and much more from the marina. For those who plan to spend lots of time out on the water, the Marina makes a great home base.
One of the most fun things you can do in Puerto Vallarta is rent a private boat. There are tons of options to choose from depending on your group size and budget. All of these tours leave from the Marina:
We rented the Chica Loca party boat for a double birthday bash for 50 friends, and it was the best day ever. Check out what the boat tour looks like in the video below.
5. Marina Vallarta Golf Course
Of course, hitting the links is also a popular pastime here.
The Marina Vallarta Golf Club is one of the best golf courses in Puerto Vallarta. It’s a gorgeous course with views of the bay and the Sierra Madre Mountains.
Playing at such a nice course will set you back $142 during prime time (7 AM to noon). Twilight rates range from $114 to $65, including the use of a golf cart. Click here if you’d like to book a tee time.
6. Hit up Tau beach club
Marina Vallarta is home to one of Puerto Vallarta’s best beach clubs.
Tau Beach Club is a high-end beach club with a pool by the ocean, sun loungers, Bali beach beds, showers, lockers, and a pool concierge.
You can get a day pass here for 1700 pesos (85 USD) which includes 800 MXN credit to use on cold drinks or from their fabulous lunch and dinner menu with elevated Mexican fare.
Other than that, there isn’t a ton to do here. After a boat tour or a round of golf, the best thing to do is simply stroll the pleasant boardwalk admiring the boats and looking for a place to eat and drink.
There’s also a famous crocodile that lives in the Marina Pier, so be sure to look out for him while walking around.
7. Grab a drink at El Faro Lighthouse
For one of the best sunset views in the city, head up to El Faro Lighthouse. The rooftop bar offers panoramic views over the marina and Banderas Bay, making it a popular place for evening cocktails. It’s a must-do while you’re here.
8. Enjoy the Beach Nearby
While Marina Vallarta itself is more known for its boardwalk, there’s beach access nearby near Velas Vallarta and The Westin Resort. It’s a great spot for a quick dip or a quiet afternoon away from the busier beaches downtown.
9. Visit the Estero El Salado Mangrove Reserve
Just a short drive away, you can explore Estero El Salado, a protected urban estuary filled with birds, crabs, and mangroves. Guided boat tours take you through the wetlands and are a great change of pace from the beach.
Restaurants in Marina Vallarta
One of the best reasons to visit Marina Vallarta is the food. You’ll find everything from casual brunch cafés to elegant waterfront restaurants with some of the best views in the city and seafood restaurants in Puerto Vallarta!
Here’s a curated list of some of the best places to eat, drink, and be merry:
- Coffee Cup: the perfect place to start your day with a coffee and breakfast
- Bacha’s: I got excited and thought it said Sacha’s… anyways it’s good local food
- Victor’s Place: a local joint known for their excellent seafood options
- D’s Route 66 Diner: a little slice of classic Americana in the marina
- Los Alcatraces: highly-rated local restaurant with a great view
- Porto Bello: upscale Italian with wood oven pizza and more
- Barra Light: great salad shop for a light and quick lunch
- Chappy’s: a popular sports bar with a full menu
- Fajita Banana: tropical grill and sports bar
- Almacen: a fancy cocktail bar that also has excellent food
- La Cevicheria: no-frills spot for great ceviche and other seafood dishes
- Sonora Prime: high-class steakhouse
- Cerveceria Chapultepec: Mexican dive bar chain known for its cheap snacks and drinks
- Helados Thrifty: because who doesn’t love ice cream?
Hotels in Marina Vallarta
If you want to be close to the airport, enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, and still have plenty of restaurants and shops nearby, Marina Vallarta is a great place to stay.
You’ll find a mix of upscale resorts and mid-range hotels in the area. The Westin Resort & Spa and Velas Vallarta are two of the most popular beachfront options, with spacious pools, ocean views, and easy access to the marina’s boardwalk. Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa is another favorite, known for its beautiful grounds, beachfront location, and top-rated restaurants.
Velas Vallarta Suite Resort is located on ten acres of beautiful coastline, with private access to the beach and ocean. It’s the perfect place for a family vacation, with a well-equipped kids club, nightly entertainment, and a luxury spa to unwind.
Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa offers everything you need for a fantastic vacation with its beachfront location, renovated infinity pool, and fabulous on-site restaurants. Plus, you’ll earn Marriott Reward points for staying here to use on your next vacation!
Living in Marina Vallarta
This upscale residential community emerged in the 1980s when Puerto Vallarta became a popular alternative to Cancun and Acapulco.
With a new wave of snowbirds coming to Banderas Bay to escape the harsh winters up north, a new luxury neighborhood was created.
In addition to the many resorts and condos, there’s an 18-hole golf course and 450 boat slips. It’s fun to visit the Marina to walk around and gawk at the impressive luxury yachts and sailboats parked there.
Marina Vallarta is definitely a little bubble of suburbia in PV. It’s sparkling clean, quiet, and peaceful.
For those who find local neighborhoods to be a bit too noisy and chaotic, this is a popular choice. The expat crowd here is a bit older, with many families and retirees calling the Marina home.
One big reason why this neighborhood is so popular with families is that it’s home to the American School of Puerto Vallarta.
The school offers a bilingual education to students from kindergarten through 12th grade and is one of the top schools in the city.
In a way, Marina Vallarta is a sort of “Mexico Lite.” You’re very much in Mexico – and there are plenty of places to eat tacos and drink tequila – but it’s secluded and cut off from the rest of the city.
Digital nomads and younger expats may find this area a bit boring and white-washed, myself included.
While Marina Vallarta isn’t exactly my type of neighborhood, plenty of people live there who love it. If you’re looking for some peace and quiet (if that’s even possible in Mexico) and a safe place for your kids, then the Marina is for you.
Of course, I would probably enjoy the Marina more if I had a boat. If you’re fortunate enough to have one and need a place to park it, this is a pretty fantastic option. Maybe someday I’ll pull my luxury yacht up there…
FAQ: Puerto Vallarta Marina
Is the marina in Puerto Vallarta worth visiting?
Yes, the marina in Puerto Vallarta, especially Marina Vallarta, is worth visiting. It offers a beautiful setting with luxury yachts, charming shops, gourmet restaurants, and a lively atmosphere.
Does Puerto Vallarta have a marina?
Yes, Puerto Vallarta has several marinas, with Marina Vallarta being one of the most popular ones.
Which part of Puerto Vallarta is the best?
The best part of Puerto Vallarta depends on individual preferences. Marina Vallarta, the Romantic Zone, and the Hotel Zone are popular areas offering unique experiences.
Can you swim in Marina Vallarta?
While Marina Vallarta offers beautiful waterfront views, it’s not ideal for swimming due to its marina setting. However, you can find nearby beaches suitable for swimming.
What is the safest part of Puerto Vallarta to stay in?
Puerto Vallarta is generally safe, but the Hotel Zone, Marina Vallarta, and the Romantic Zone are considered safe areas for tourists to stay.
What is the best area to walk around in Puerto Vallarta?
The Marina Vallarta Boardwalk and the Malecón (downtown boardwalk) are excellent areas for leisurely walks, each offering unique charm.
Can I walk to the beach from Puerto Vallarta cruise port?
Yes, you can walk to nearby beaches from the Puerto Vallarta cruise port.
How far is Marina Vallarta from the airport?
Marina Vallarta is approximately 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) from Puerto Vallarta’s international airport. You can drive there in about 5 minutes by car, making it a conveniently short journey for travelers.
Where is Marina Vallarta?
Marina Vallarta is situated in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, along the coastline of Banderas Bay. It is conveniently located just a short drive from Puerto Vallarta’s international airport and is easily accessible from various parts of the city.
Is Marina Vallarta safe?
Yes, Marina Vallarta is considered one of the safest neighborhoods for tourists and visitors in Puerto Vallarta.
Final thoughts: Marina Puerto Vallarta
Marina Vallarta might not have the cobblestone charm of downtown or the nightlife of the Romantic Zone, but that’s exactly what I love about it. It’s calm, clean, and beautifully maintained; the kind of place where you can sip your morning coffee by the water, stroll the boardwalk at sunset, and feel like you’re on vacation even if you live here.
Every time I visit, I find something new: whether it’s a cute café tucked between the boats, a stall at the night market, or another reason to spoil Puglo with accessories he definitely doesn’t need.
If you’re planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta, make sure to carve out at least half a day to explore Marina Vallarta. And if you’re thinking about staying longer or investing here, it’s one of the most convenient and livable areas in the city.
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