15 Fun Things to do in Puerto Vallarta at Night [2023]

Looking for the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta at night? Let me help! I live in Puerto Vallarta and go out almost every night, so you’re in the right place.

While this coastal city is known for its beautiful beaches and endless water activities, it also offers many exciting things to do at night.

Famed for its party culture, there are plenty of bars and clubs to keep you entertained until the early hours of the morning. But it’s not all about drinking – there are other activities!

From brewery crawls to firework shows and art walks to concerts, here are the best things to do at night in Puerto Vallarta.

But first, any good night in Puerto Vallarta starts with watching the beautiful sunsets. Head to one of these gorgeous sunset spots and enjoy a beverage with this view as the day turns to night.

1. Hit the bars and clubs

When it comes to Puerto Vallarta nightlife, the best places to go in town are El Centro and Zona Romantica (Old Town). There are also some beach clubs open on the weekends at night, such as Majahuitas pictured above.

If you’re on the Malecon, you don’t have to go far for nightlife in Puerto Vallarta. Restaurants, bars, and nightclubs line the streets, and partygoers spill onto the street.

We’ve written an entire guide on the best bars in Puerto Vallarta that breaks it down by category, so head over there to find where to go for happy hour specials, dancing the night away, and the after-party.

2. Neon boat party

Boat parties are among the most popular activities in Puerto Vallarta, thanks to its prime coastal location. But who says the fun has to be limited to daylight hours? The Neon Boat Party offers a unique nighttime experience!

Departing from the cruise port, you’ll embark on a booze-fueled adventure complete with unlimited drinks, lots of dancing, and neon lights. Make sure to wear white clothing to fully embrace the glowing ambiance!

We had a blast dancing all night, trying not to fall off the side. However, if you’re prone to seasickness, this might not be the best choice. Two of my friends learned that the hard way.

3. Puerto Vallarta Rhythms Of The Night

The Puerto Vallarta Rhythms of the Night dinner show is one of the most popular things to do in Puerto Vallarta at night.

Vallarta Adventures is the host for this world-class night show that can be compared to the most prestigious spectacles in Vegas, and there is a good reason for that: the co-creator of Cirque du Soleil is behind it.

About half an hour on a boat is all it takes to get to Las Caletas beach, where the magic begins as you approach from the distance, and you can only see torches and candles.

The setting is second to none. The show is a feast for the senses, a celebration of acrobatic skills, wonderful dance, fabulous costumes, fire, color, and a breathtaking interpretation of Aztec history. Learn everything about this show in this guide to Rhythms of the Night.

4. Puerto Vallarta Pirate Ship Night Show

If you’re already in Puerto Vallarta, you’ve undoubtedly witnessed the fireworks that happen every night over the water from a pirate-themed boat.

While they are fun to watch from the shore, an even better experience is to see them from the boat aboard the Marigalante on The Pirate Show.

You can join this nightly tour and go back to the times of pirates and conquerors. It’s not just fireworks! A delicious dinner and open bar are included, along with a pirate-themed show, which you can even participate in. Learn more about this tour in this guide to the Puerto Vallarta pirate ship.

5. Taco adventure evening food tour

If you’re a foodie, don’t miss the Taco Adventure Evening Food Tour. This guided tour takes you through the streets of Puerto Vallarta at night to sample some of the best tacos the city has to offer.

It’s not just about eating; you’ll also learn about the history and culture behind this iconic Mexican dish. Do this tour at the beginning of your itinerary so you can make note of your favorite places to go back!

6. Watch the fireworks

Another magical way to spend your night in Puerto Vallarta is by watching the fireworks that light up the sky almost every night.

Around 10 PM, a private ship sets off a few fireworks that can be enjoyed from various spots along the shore. It’s a simple yet enchanting experience that adds a touch of magic to any evening.

I’ve been living in Puerto Vallarta for almost three years and am still not tired of watching the fireworks – even though my friends make fun of me for always taking videos of them!

During special occasions like New Year’s Eve and the Puerto Vallarta anniversary, the fireworks are even more spectacular. Multiple displays light up the sky, making these holidays an unforgettable experience if you’re in town.

7. Join a Cooking Class

For those looking to bring a bit of Mexico home with them, consider this cooking class that includes a market visit. You’ll learn to cook authentic Mexican food with a modern twist, guided by a local chef.

It’s a hands-on experience that not only teaches you about Mexican cuisine but also gives you skills to impress back home.

8. Mezcal Tasting

For those who share my love for Mezcal over tequila, a Mezcal tasting experience is a must. Dive into the rich history and complex flavors of this iconic Mexican spirit.

Guided by experts, you’ll get to sample a variety of Mezcals, learning about the distillation process and the unique characteristics that set it apart from its more famous cousin, tequila.

9. Puerto Vallarta Art Walk

If you’re looking for free things to do in Puerto Vallarta, check out the art walk in Centro every Wednesday evening from 6-10 p.m.

The art walk takes you through the best art galleries in the city, where you’ll find beautiful artwork by national and international artists, local paintings and sculptures, fine ceramics, and gorgeous jewelry.

It’s free to attend and makes for a great date night in Puerto Vallarta! The Art Walk starts in late October and goes until the end of June.

10. Catch a show at Act2PV

Act2PV is not just another entertainment venue; it’s the only 5-star entertainment spot in the Banderas Bay area. With 3-5 shows every night, the venue offers a wide range of performances, from Broadway-style musicals and cabaret shows to comedy, drag shows, and concerts.

Whether you’re a visitor or a local like me, Act2PV provides world-class entertainment right here in Puerto Vallarta, without the New York or Las Vegas price tag. Check the lineup of shows here.

11. Craft Bites and Brew Tour

For those who love a good beer as much as me, this Craft Beer and Bites Tour is a must-try. This tour takes you on a journey through Puerto Vallarta’s craft beer scene, pairing local brews with delicious Mexican snacks.

It’s a great way to explore the city’s culinary landscape and meet other travelers while enjoying some of the best beers it has to offer.

12. Trivia nights at Monzon Brewery

Speaking of craft breweries, one of my favorite things to do in Puerto at night is trivia nights at Monzon Brewery.

Every Wednesday, Monzon Brewery hosts a Trivia Night in English. You can win prizes like free beer and t-shirts, and of course, bragging rights. It’s free to play, and 25% off pitchers of beer for participating teams!

13. Swim with bioluminescent plankton

One of the most unique things to do in Puerto Vallarta is swimming at night with bioluminescent plankton, which you can see by Los Arcos Marine Park.

This is one of the best places to see marine life in PV, but going at night is an entirely different experience.

Me and a group of friends organized a trip to see the plankton with a local water taxi from Mismaloya Beach, but you can also book the experience online here.

14. Go on a night dive

Puerto Vallarta is a fantastic destination for diving, and you can even go at night with Silent World Divers to discover the thrill of night diving at “El Bajo del Cristo.”

By diving at night, you’ll see unique marine creatures like lobster, octopus, and moray eels. Plus, you’ll get to experience the magic of the bioluminescence plankton, which look like sparkling lights under the water.

15. Marina Vallarta night market

One of the highlights of living in Puerto Vallarta is the Marina Vallarta Thursday Night Market.

Open from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM from January until the end of May, this night market features over 200 exhibitors offering everything from traditional handicrafts and home décor to fresh organic products and international cuisine.

I went with friends and couldn’t resist picking up some tasty hummus to bring home. The romantic setting of the marina adds to the overall experience, making it a perfect spot for both locals and visitors.