Looking for the best cocktails in Puerto Vallarta? Let us help you! We live in Puerto Vallarta and love drinking cocktails. Whether you’re after a margarita or the best mezcal, we’ve rounded up the cocktail bars in Puerto Vallarta.
It’s no secret that Puerto Vallarta is a party town. From rowdy Spring Breakers to the festivities of Pride Week, people flock here throughout the year to let loose and have a good time in this vacation destination.
There’s certainly no shortage of places to find a drink here, with bars, clubs, and breweries lining the streets of the Romantic Zone. Not all are created equal when it comes to quality, though.
That begs the question – where does one go to find the best drinks in Puerto Vallarta? After years of diligent “research,” I’m happy to present my findings!
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✅ Expert guide leads you on a food and cocktail tour
✅ Includes five Mexican cocktails served by expert mixologists
✅ Food tastings of tacos and desserts along with the cocktails!
Best Cocktails Bars in Zona Romantica Puerto Vallarta
This is the heart of Puerto Vallarta’s nightlife scene, packed with rooftop lounges, speakeasies, and beach bars. Whether you’re into mezcal cocktails, martinis, or something tropical with a view, you’ll find it here. Most bars are walkable, and the area really comes alive after dark.
1. Bar La Playa Puerto Vallarta
Lázaro Cárdenas 179, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal. – get directions here
When it comes to delicious cocktails in Mexico, the margarita is the undisputed champion. After all, tequila comes from right here in the state of Jalisco.
I’ve had my fair share of margaritas in PV, from the watered-down 20-peso to-go cups to the high-end Cadillac Margaritas that cost over 200.
And in my humble, tequila-soaked opinion, the best margarita in Puerto Vallarta is from Bar La Playa. Their Spicy Jalapeño Ranchero is the stuff dreams are made of.
If you can’t handle the heat, their classic margarita hits the spot. They’re only 70 pesos, and you can add fresh fruit for an extra ten. That’s a reasonable price for a delicious drink! They also have some delightful Mezcal cocktails, offering some of the best drinks in Puerto Vallarta.
Pro tip: Drop in from 3–5 pm Monday to Friday for their amazing Happy Hour. Grab a margarita for just 35 pesos and kick off a fun night out on the town.
2. Mezcal & Sal
C. Fco. I. Madero 176, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal. – get directions here
We can’t talk about tequila without mentioning its cousin. I’m talking, of course, about mezcal.
Just so we’re clear – both come from the agave plant. The only difference is that tequila can only be made from blue agave, while mezcal can be made from any kind. #TheMoreYouKnow.
My vote goes to Mezcal & Sal. I mean, it’s right there in the name. Not only is this one of the best places for an extensive range of mezcal cocktails but also to enjoy amazing tacos.
They do a great job crafting freshly-made beautiful cocktails with this potent spirit that has an acquired taste. It’s the perfect place for mezcal newbs, and the food is fantastic.
3. Twisted Palms
Ignacio L. Vallarta 228, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal. – get directions here
If you’re craving a drink that’s shaken, not stirred, Twisted Palms is the place to be. This rooftop lounge in downtown Puerto Vallarta is renowned for its expertly crafted martinis.
Interestingly, Twisted Palms is only open during the week, making Monday nights especially appealing. On Martini Madness Monday, you can choose from over 15 martinis for just 85 pesos and enjoy it alongside a classic James Bond film.
This season, they’ve also introduced Twisted Tiki Tuesdays, adding a tropical twist to PV’s cocktail scene. This great spot is easily one of the best cocktail joints in town!
4. Elixir Mixology Bar
Basilio Badillo 419, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal. – get directions here
While the classic cocktails are great, sometimes you’re in the mood for something fresh. Elixir Mixology Bar is a great place to go for creative cocktails in Puerto Vallarta.
This cocktail bar is the perfect spot to kick off a night out in Old Town, where you’ll find the best nightlife. Choose from their extensive list of cocktails and enjoy good conversation with friends and the friendly staff before bar hopping.
They’ve got so many fantastic drinks here that choosing a favorite is hard. The Fire & Ice is de there. It’s got pineapple vodka infusion, elderflower, coconut, and cinnamon.
Then again, I really enjoyed their Magic Mule with vodka, ginger, lime, and bubbles. I advise you to head to their Facebook page to peruse the whole menu of this LGBTQ bar.
5. Blondies
Basilio Badillo 258, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal. – get directions here
It can get pretty hot in Puerto Vallarta, so sometimes you just need a good frozen cocktail. Just a block from Los Muertos Beach, Blondies is there to help you cool off and catch a buzz.
These are a bit sweet for my taste, but it’s a good idea after a day at the beach. My go-to is the Big Tease Blondie, which is basically a frozen White Russian.
You can even grab one to go to enjoy your adult milkshake while walking around town. In fact, the time it takes to drink one is just about enough time to get to the other location (Los Otros Blondies) in case you want another.
6. iK Mixology Bar & Cuisine
Olas Altas 380, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal. – get directions here
Tucked into Zona Romántica right at the beachfront of Playa Los Arcos (Olas Altas 380), iK Mixology Bar & Cuisine is the perfect place to kick off a night, or enjoy a leisurely dinner with a view. Its architectural design, inspired by bird nests, creates a cozy yet striking atmosphere that instantly draws you in.
The cocktail menu is crafted by mixologist Mario Mendoza, who brings over 20 years of experience and a creative fusion of local and international flavors – think inventive drinks made with high-quality ingredients and a touch of sustainability.
Pair your drink with gourmet bites that balance smoky, sophisticated cuisine and Pacific-fresh sensibilities; the whole experience is designed for every sense, especially against those golden-hour ocean views.
If you’re looking for a stylish spot with excellent service, Instagram-worthy photo ops (hello, bamboo swing and sunset framing), and next-level mixology, this is a must-visit.
7. The Social Club
One of the newest cocktail bars in Zona Romántica, The Social Club is a speakeasy-style cocktail experience. Tucked behind a discreet door marked only with an “SC” on Basilio Badillo, this bar opened its doors in November 2024 and already sets a high bar in the PV nightlife scene.
The dimly lit, vintage décor spans multiple distinct rooms, some indoors, one with an outdoor bar, decked out with retro touches and memorably sourced memorabilia. They host unpredictable live performances like jazz trios, burlesque dancers, magicians, setting a vibe that’s different from anythign else you’d find downtown.
If you’re craving something more than just a drink, this is your spot. It’s a lounge that feels like an experience – great cocktail craftsmanship meets live performance in an atmosphere that keeps you guessing (in the best possible way).
8. La Palapa
A longtime favorite on Playa de los Muertos, La Palapa has been a go-to spot for beachfront dining and cocktails since 1959. Set right on the sand under a classic thatched palapa, it’s one of the most iconic places in town to enjoy a drink with your toes in the sand and live music in the background.
I’ve eaten here a few times, and while it’s definitely on the pricier side, that’s pretty much what you can expect for prime real estate right on the beach in the heart of the Romantic Zone. The setting is stunning, especially at sunset when the pier lights start to glow and the sky turns pink.
The cocktails are tropical and refreshing, which are perfect for a relaxed but classy night out. It’s a great spot to bring visitors or celebrate something special with a view you won’t forget.
9. Residences Sky Bar at Pinnacle Resorts 220
Púlpito 220, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, 48380 Puerto Vallarta, Jal. – get directions here
If you’re looking for one of the best cocktail bars in Puerto Vallarta with a view, the rooftop at Pinnacle Resorts is hard to beat. The 360-degree views stretch over the city and the bay, and the sunsets up here are absolutely next level.
While the rooftop is normally reserved for hotel guests, they open it to the public every day for happy hour from 5:30 to 8:00 pm. We always try to take advantage of it when friends are in town – 2-for-1 cocktails and wine with that kind of view? Yes, please.
The vibe is upscale but relaxed, with comfy lounge seating and a breezy atmosphere that’s perfect for starting the night.
Cocktail Bars in Centro
Centro blends classic charm with a growing cocktail scene. It’s a great area to bar-hop if you want a more local feel, especially just off the Malecon where some of the best hidden gems are tucked away.
10. Blind Tiger
Blind Tiger is the new kid on the block of cocktail bars in Puerto Vallarta, and it’s certainly making its mark. Located in Centro, this visually stunning bar is hard to miss while walking by. With an impressive selection of spirits and well-trained mixologists, the cocktails are fantastic.
Their signature cocktails use local spirits like the Maximiliana, a mix of Raicilla, mango, lime, habanero, hibiscus infused with chiles. It doesn’t get more Mexican than that!
The setting makes you feel like you’ve traveled back in time with its old music and atmospheric lighting. It’s really such a vibe, and while it’s not the cheapest place to grab a drink, it’s definitely worth one or two. Super cute date spot!
11. El Colibri Puerto Vallarta
Morelos 582, Centro, 48300 Puerto Vallarta, Jal. – get directions here
You know that old saying “When in Rome”? Well, when in Puerto Vallarta, drink as the locals do. That means trying some raicilla – another spirit we have the agave plant to thank for.
To better understand the differences between the three, I recommend this post as some in-flight reading on your way down.
Raicilla is very much a local favorite in Puerto Vallarta. You can find unmarked bottles of the stuff for dirt cheap, but that’s not for the inexperienced…
Instead, I recommend heading over to El Colibri. First of all, it’s one of the coolest bars in town and, hands down, has the best cocktails in Puerto Vallarta.
On the weekend, they have a DJ with a dance floor, making this a great place to go on a Saturday night. Secondly, they make some kickass raicilla cocktails that will help introduce you to this unique spirit.
Their Racillalater is a simple, classic cocktail. As the description reads – “Lime, pineapple, raicilla. Enough said.” At the moment, they also have a drink called Brebaje N•7, an herbal mix of Balam Costa raicilla, Yolixpa Teepak, lemon juice, and a dash of simple syrup.
Cocktail Bars in 5 de Diciembre
A little more laid-back than the Romantic Zone but still full of character. This area has a mix of casual beach bars and cool local hangouts. It’s a popular after-work spot for expats and nomads, especially around the Malecon and waterfront.
12. El Tasting Room
Panamá 134, 5 de Diciembre, 48350 Puerto Vallarta, Jal. – get directions here
One of my favorite spots for starting the night, El Tasting Room is a cozy cocktail bar just a block up from the beach in 5 de Diciembre. The staff here are incredibly friendly and know their craft; they’re always happy to make recommendations or whip up something off-menu based on your taste.
The menu features a rotating selection of creative cocktails with high-quality spirits and fresh ingredients. It’s the kind of place where you’ll probably end up chatting with the bartender and staying longer than planned.
13. El Solar
Paraguay 1294, 5 de Diciembre, 48350 Puerto Vallarta, Jal. – get directions here
An honorable mention for the best mezcal cocktail in Puerto Vallarta goes to El Solar. Feet in the sand, cocktail in hand – that’s the life, mis amigos!
I love their Jalapeño Mezcalita but often go for the Blackberry one if I’m not feeling the spice. In addition to their excellent selection of cocktails, El Solar is one of the best places to hang out on the beach from day to night. They often have live music!
It’s especially loved by locals, expats, and digital nomads who come here for after-work drinks and beachside hangs. The cocktails are solid, the music is always good, and the atmosphere is super relaxed. It’s a great place to kick off the evening with your feet in the sand and a margarita in hand.
Best Cocktail Bars in Versalles
Versalles is more low-key but has become one of the best spots in town for craft cocktails. The bars here are smaller and more intimate—perfect for a chill night out. It’s where locals go when they want great drinks without the downtown crowds.
14. Coco Machete
Inside El Jardín, you’ll find Coco Machete, which serves some of the best cocktails in Puerto Vallarta. The mixologists at Coco Machete craft unique and visually stunning cocktails using fresh, local ingredients – and they often have happy hour specials!
El Jardín de la Versalles is behind my apartment in the Versalles neighborhood, offering a fantastic atmosphere for enjoying cocktails and wood-fired pizzas. This grassy courtyard is the perfect spot to unwind with friends while sipping on craft beer and indulging in delicious homemade wood-fired pizza and snacks.
They often have nightly entertainment ranging from live music to quiz nights, making this a popular place for locals to hang out. It’s definitely become my neighborhood bar, and I love it!
15. El Rey Cocktail Bar
El Rey Lounge is one of the newer cocktail bars in Versalles. It’s owned by the same friendly team behind The Office, located just around the corner in Versalles. Here, you can enjoy a wide variety of cocktails, craft beers, and selected wines. You can’t leave without trying the exclusive house cocktail!
The interior of the lounge provides the perfect setting for any occasion, whether it’s a night out with friends or a special celebration. They also have outdoor pet-friendly seating.
Every week, El Rey Lounge PV features performances by local bands and DJs – I’m excited that another bar has opened up in my neighborhood, and look forward to spending more time here.
16. The Office PV
Hidden in the Versalles neighborhood behind a subtle entrance, The Office PV is a snug speakeasy-style bar that punches well above its size. It’s very small, but it’s a favorite among those of us living in Versalles, especially if you’re into mezcal, raicilla, and well-crafted cocktails with a local twist.
The bartenders are friendly and seriously know their spirits. Expect fun extras like trivia nights, tasting flights, and themed events throughout the week. It’s a cozy, community-style spot that’s perfect for low-key nights and catching up with friends over a creative drink.
17. Bar 322
Right next door to The Office in Versalles, Bar 322 is another local favorite that’s perfect for a casual night out. It’s a tiny spot with a cool, minimalist vibe and a solid craft cocktail menu. The bartenders know what they’re doing, and the drinks are always well-balanced and thoughtfully made.
It’s the kind of place that feels like a neighborhood hangout—small, friendly, and easy to settle into for a round or two. If you’re doing a little cocktail hop through Versalles, this is an easy and worthwhile stop.
How expensive are drinks in Puerto Vallarta?
At local bars and restaurants, you can find domestic beers and basic cocktails at reasonable prices. For example, a domestic beer may cost anywhere from 40 to 100 Mexican pesos, and basic cocktails like margaritas or piña coladas could range from 80 to 200 Mexican pesos.
Upscale bars and hotels in touristy areas may charge higher prices for drinks. Expect to pay more for premium brands and specialty cocktails. The cost of cocktails in such places may range from 100 to 250 Mexican pesos or more. I’ve seen cocktails as high as 500 pesos in some of the higher-end restaurants!
Many bars and restaurants in Puerto Vallarta offer happy hour specials, which can significantly reduce the cost of drinks during specific times of the day. During happy hour, you might find discounted prices on beers, cocktails, and even some appetizers. Happy hours are a great way to save money while still enjoying the vibrant nightlife in the city.
Quick Choices: Cocktails Bars in Puerto Vallarta
| Best For | Bar | Neighborhood |
|---|---|---|
| Best Margarita | Bar La Playa | Romantic Zone |
| Best Mezcal Cocktails | Mezcal & Sal | Romantic Zone |
| Best Rooftop View | Residences Sky Bar | Romantic Zone |
| Best Speakeasy Vibe | The Social Club | Romantic Zone |
| Best Beachfront Drinks | La Palapa | Romantic Zone |
| Best Raicilla Cocktails | El Colibrí | Centro |
| Best After-Work Spot | El Solar | 5 de Diciembre |
| Best Neighborhood Hangout | The Office | Versalles |
| Most Creative Menu | iK Mixology | Romantic Zone |
Puerto Vallarta Cocktail Tours
Can’t decide which Puerto Vallarta bar to visit? Join this highly-rated cocktail tour to try tacos, desserts, and five Mexican cocktails from expert mixologists!
“We had a wonderful experience on our tour with Luis. He was knowledgeable, friendly and passionate about his love of the Mexican culture. The food, cocktails and information gained were exceptional. We would highly recommend this tour!” – Joann (read more reviews)
Final thoughts: Best Cocktails Puerto Vallarta
I hope you enjoyed this guide to the best cocktails in Puerto Vallarta. It sure was fun for me to look through all those pictures of fun nights out with friends!
From rooftop bars with panoramic views to beachside bars, each venue on our list offers a unique experience.
Whether you find yourself sipping expertly crafted cocktails while watching the sunset over the ocean, enjoying a beachfront paradise with your toes in the sand, or immersing yourself in the artistic ambiance of a chic mixology bar, Puerto Vallarta’s cocktail culture will be sure to impress you.
Be sure to check out my write-up on the best bars in Puerto Vallarta as well for recommendations beyond cocktail bars. That way, you’ll be ready to party it up in PV!
Cheers to discovering the hidden gems, raising a glass to breathtaking views, and creating cherished memories in Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant cocktail scene. Salud!
Planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta? Check out these other places to eat and drink!
- The best craft beer spots in Puerto Vallarta
- Top restaurants in Puerto Vallarta
- Where to find the best seafood in Puerto Vallarta
- Best restaurants in Puerto Vallarta with a view
- Top 5 Food Tours in Puerto Vallarta
