While Puerto Vallarta is known for its charming architecture and majestic scenery, the city has always relied on Banderas Bay for survival. Resting in the middle of this sprawling bay off the Pacific Ocean, the city supported itself with the fishing industry long before the tourists arrived. Today, the vibrant culture of this unique destination still relies on the recreational possibilities of the bays calm waters. From the beaches lining the bay to all the water sport activities possible off the coast, visitors to Puerto Vallarta shouldnt miss Banderas Bay.
In one way or another, all of the activities in Banderas Bay start with the beaches. The bay boasts 34 miles of coastline, 26 of which are beaches. From Puerto Vallarta in the middle of the bay to the northern surfing village of Sayulita, the beaches are typically wide and sandy perfect for relaxing and water sports alike. South of the city, the beaches tend to be rockier and more secluded. However, these beaches represent the exotic ideal known to travelers through movies and magazines where the mountains spill into the sea and jungles rest above the water.
Lining the bay in Puerto Vallarta, you will...