What’s New in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for Travel in 2024
Puerto Vallarta, recently honored as one of the Best Cities in the World by Conde Nast Traveler, is set to unveil an exciting array of new experiences and events for the upcoming year. Renowned for its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and pristine beaches, the oceanside paradise, nestled on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, invites travelers to immerse themselves in a haven of natural beauty and warm hospitality.
From the groundbreaking achievement of Latin America’s first Net Zero-certified terminal to thrilling sky-high adventures and a tapestry of acclaimed events, discover the best of Puerto Vallarta’s beach life, sports, nature, and LGBTQ+ culture. Here’s what’s happening:
Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR) will open its groundbreaking new terminal in late 2024/early 2025 marking the first Net Zero-certified terminal in Latin America. This two-story, LEED-certified structure will reduce energy consumption by 40%, and water consumption by 35%, while preserving 50% of the area’s ancient trees, creating a sustainable and environmentally conscious travel hub.
Ensuring inclusivity, the terminal is fully accessible, providing a welcoming environment for all travelers, including those with disabilities. Enhancements to the passenger experience include a spacious restaurant, VIP area, fast-food outlets, and a dining area. A substantial upgrade in security filters will increase capacity by 125%, and double the checked baggage inspection points. A feature not found at any other Mexican airport, outdoor terraces will provide passengers with an opportunity to enjoy the city’s sunshine as they await their flights.
International travelers now have a new way to reach picturesque Puerto Vallarta with Alaska Airlines’ new route from Las Vegas. Running through April 9, 2024, the service operates four times a week, complete with First Class and Premium Economy options with extra legroom.
Puerto Vallarta comes to life with the majestic presence of whales during the annual Whale Watching Season from December to March. Witness the awe-inspiring spectacle as humpback whales migrate to the warm waters to give birth and nurse their calves. Various tour operators provide unforgettable excursions to witness these magnificent creatures up close. Offering two daily departures, Ecotours Vallarta’s biologist-led tours support the work of Ecobac (Ecology and Conservation of Whales), a nonprofit dedicated to scientific research and conservation of whales in Banderas Bay. Tours are USD$97 for adults and USD$86 for children ages 4-11.
Explore the enchanting Sierra Madre with Canopy River’s new Jorullo Point tour. Traverse private trails on all-terrain vehicles fit for the entire family, journey through the diverse ecosystems of the Sierra Madre Occidental ending in an extraordinary experience on the world’s longest vehicular suspension bridge, the Jorullo Bridge. The tour includes a stop at the new Jorullo Point glass platform viewpoint, offering breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the majestic mountains and bay. Tours, starting at USD$360, can be booked HERE.
Somos, the queer music and arts festival, returns for its second year on the secluded Las Animas Beach, offering a unique and intimate experience exclusive to just 400 attendees. Accessible only by boat and located just 40 minutes south of Puerto Vallarta, this unique setting ensures an immersive and unforgettable atmosphere. This year’s lineup featured outstanding acts and performances from Mexico, Colombia, El Salvador, the United States, and Canada. With a lineup and hosts to be announced soon on Instagram, Somos 2024 promises to exceed expectations. Tickets are on sale now at Resident Advisor.
The Mexico Open at Vidanta, one of the most important golf tournaments on the PGA Tour, combines world-class golf with Mexico’s renowned sports, culture, and cuisine. Taking place February 22-25 in the exclusive Vidanta Vallarta area, a purse of USD$8.1 million is up for grabs among the anticipated 144 players. Tickets are on sale now through Ticketmaster.
Vinoma Fest brings together the best wineries, labels, and upscale restaurants from across Mexico, creating an extraordinary tasting and pairing event that captivates around 4,000 wine enthusiasts. The festival, running from March 7-9, offers a blend of social, commercial, culinary, and educational events, including lectures, gala dinners, and the long-awaited Wine Festival at the maritime terminal of Puerto Vallarta on March 9. The 2024 edition will spotlight the wines of Jalisco, Puerto Vallarta’s home state, with a special focus on the fertile grounds of Ribera de Chapala and Altos de Jalisco—recognized as premier regions for cultivating vineyards. For a detailed schedule, reservations, and tickets, visit Vinoma Fest 2024.
#RunWithUs in the 2024 Puerto Vallarta Marathon on April 21, featuring a completely renovated course starting and finishing at the Puerto Mágico facilities. The marathon includes four sporting events: 42K marathon, 21K half-marathon, and 5K and 10K recreational races, coupled with an exhibition open to the public. A qualifying race for international marathons like the Boston Marathon, the 42K is sanctioned by AIMS World Running. Visit the Marathon Puerto Vallarta website for the full call for entries. Early registration is underway through the end of the year with a reduced fee of USD$23 for the 5K and 10K, and USD$40 for the marathon and half marathon.
Vallarta Pride recognizes and celebrates the diverse LGBTQ+ community that lives in and visits Puerto Vallarta. Taking place each May (official dates TBD), the program typically includes the Pride Parade, traveling down Puerto Vallarta’s main avenue and the Malecon, ending in Olas Altas Street at the Romantic Zone. The popular Block Party on Lazaro Cárdenas Street, featuring DJs and live music, is also a highlight. Stay tuned to the event website for further updates.
As Puerto Vallarta embraces the future with sustainable travel initiatives and exciting experiences, the allure of this coastal gem remains timeless. Whether you’re chasing whales, swinging through the Sierra Madre, or celebrating diversity at Vallarta Pride, the city seamlessly blends tradition and innovation. As you navigate cobblestone streets and bask on pristine beaches, Puerto Vallarta beckons with a promise – a year ahead filled with discovery, warmth, and the enchantment of a truly exceptional destination. https://banderasnews.com/
Come…relax and experience the charm and culture of Puerto Vallarta Mexico with quaint cobblestone streets, the fragrant scent of Bougainvillea, beautiful beaches, Mexican cuisine, outstanding golf courses, and a host of activities for everyone to enjoy!
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Your vacation time is valuable and that is why we inspect every property we represent for the owners. We are familiar with the accommodations, amenities, and staff to help you select the best rental property in Puerto Vallarta. The results…vacation rentals that won’t leave you with unwanted surprises.
Our private vacation rentals offer a full range of services during your stay from full staff services including a chef who will prepare two meals a day.
Our concierge services will personally contact you with information on activities, tours, or spa services in the privacy of your villa rental, to the best restaurants for dining out in Puerto Vallarta. We have the most current information to guide you for your holiday in Puerto Vallarta from our daily weather report to maps and directions.
For more information about renting a villa in Puerto Vallarta visit our website at https://www.casabayvillas.com/ or email Jennifer at info@casabayvillas.com or call us at 203.386.8022.
We hope you will visit one of our luxury vacation rental villas soon and experience the magic of Puerto Vallarta!
Our mission at Casa Bay Villas is to exceed your expectations, listen to your needs, and assist you in selecting the best villa rental for your vacation in Puerto Vallarta Mexico.