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2023
18
December
How can I make the most out of a 10-day trip to Puerto Vallarta with a toddler?

Question:

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Anonymou

Ok this is really embarrassing but is my first time in Mexico, Puerto Vallarta on June (10 days). Any suggestions in general please, airbnb, all inclusive hotels and things to do/visit. We are 2 adults & a 3 y.o. Thanks in advance

Humans say...

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Colleen

In my opinion you should do an all inclusive with a child . You don’t want to be having to rent a car or take taxi to grocery store for food .

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Anonymou

Colleen thanks. Was thinking 50/50 with an airbnb, for amenities around and explore town I think airbnb could help

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Colleen

Can’t see many bnb being downtown puerto Vallarta , renting a car can be dangerous in mexico

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Jeannett

Colleen there are lots of Airbb centro and the romantic zone. We have stayed at many over the years

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Julie

Group member You have to be leary of the air bnb. There have been a lot of people scammed and scrambling last minute for accomodations. You could join a few Puerto Vallarta F B sites.

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Rebecca

Renting a car in PV is fine, we have done it many many times

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Judy

Colleen how so?

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Kirsten

Colleen We just got back from our first time at an all-inclusive (in a different part of Mexico) with our kids - best thing ever. I completely agree that all-inclusive resorts are the way to go with kids. It makes life soooo much easier.

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Sonya

Kirsten which part of mexico? and would recommend the resort you stayed at

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Kirsten

Sonya We went to Huatulco in Oaxaca - stayed at Las Brisas Huatulco. We loved it - the kids preferred it to trips we've taken to Hawaii and the Bahamas. We'd definitely recommend it.

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Sharron

Stay at one of the Riu’s in Nuevo Vallarta.

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Anonymou

Sharron will check it out
. Thank you!

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Judy

Anonymou be very aware of time shares in PV. Those salespeople are relentless!

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Sharron

Group member We have never been approached at Riu! Never!

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Christy

I’ve only stopped there on a cruise, but my personal suggestion is to avoid the ziplining trek at Vallarta Adventures. Sooo rikkety (it felt unsafe), and they pushed me off a platform. Scared me so bad, and I’ve zip lined a lot, in a few different countries.

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Jeannett

Christy we did the full zip line , unimog, donkey to the zip line and it was fabulous. The company is great and I would recommend them

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Anonymou

Jeannett would you consider it safe for a 3 years old ?

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Jeannett

Group member not suited to small children at all.

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Anonymou

Jeannett Thanks!! good to know

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Corinne

I think for a first timer an all-inclusive would be easiest (family friendly)
Puerta Vallarta town is safe .. it’s all tourists

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Anonymou

Corinne Thank you, i am considered all inclusive for the whole travel now, with all the recommendations

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Corinne

Group member Oh that’s great .. enjoy

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Denise

The zoo is a really neat experience and you can take a taxi there and they will either wait or come back for you. It’s not like a typical zoo.

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Anonymou

Denise Thanks for mention "not like a typical zoo", I am not a fan of those.

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Victoria

I live in PV and the zoo is so sad. The animals look miserable in tiny little concrete cages.
I’ve only heard bad things.

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Laurel

Villa del Palmar (PV) has option of all inclusive for 3 days, then you could decide from there. Plus kiddy pool near ocean. Waterside in bigger pool. 2 blocks from grocery store, convenice store on site. Studios and 1 bedrooms with kitchen. Zoo is great. I wouldn't rent a car. Taxi's and buses are available. Been going to pvr for many years. The Buggivillas (Sheraton) is good too, walking distance to town for sure. Lots of great restaurants, depends what your after!

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Laurel

https://villagroupresorts.com/
VILLAGROUPRESORTS.COM
Mexico All Inclusive Resorts & Luxury Suites | The Villa Group®

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Laurel

https://sheratonvallartaallinclusive.com/
SHERATONVALLARTAALLINCLUSIVE.COM
Sheraton Puerto Vallarta | Hotel Todo Incluido

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Stephani

I stayed at the Sheraton Bougainvillea. Of all the times I have gone to PV that was the best. The food was good and close to town. If you go down to the path under the bridge it will take you to an awesome walking path. We booked tours directly with Alejandro at www.birdinginmexico.com. He took us to a mcCaw rescue and to the Botanical gardens. I think a 3 year old would be dazzled by the mccaws on the vehicle.
BIRDINGINMEXICO.COM
Home

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Cindy

If you want to try an excursion, Rythms of the Night is great!

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Mike

https://www.marivalemotions.com/?partner=8483utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=MyBusiness&utm
I recommend this resort nice beach and great for kids it has an arcade and a snack bar with pizza cooked in a Woodfield stone pizza oven.
I definitely recommend the rhythm of the nights tour
https://youtu.be/LJSZ-OylgQQ
MARIVALEMOTIONS.COM
Family fun | Hotel in Nuevo Vallarta | Marival Emotions

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Lisa

We have travelled MANY times to Mexico and PV with our kids. Search Dreams Villa Magna in Nuevo vallarta in airbnb or vrbo. They are owner condos in the dreams resort on a fantastic beach. You will get your own kitchen, laundry, bedrooms and best of all.. flexibility! If you want to try the all inclusive then you can buy 24hr wrist bands and your child can use the kids club. Otherwise, take a cab to the grocery store and buy your own food and alcohol that will actually have alcohol in it and not sugary drinks. You can take a cab anytime easily or the city bus to Vallarta. We have done it many times. You can walk to nice restaurants and a shopping Center from here or just stay and use alll the resort amenities which are included with your stay.

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Anne

Lisa it’s actually not the Dreams Villamagna.. it’s now a whyndam resort

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Lisa

Anneyou are correct … last we stayed there was pre covid. The address for the condos is Paseo de los Cocoteros 32, Villa Magna, 63735 Nuevo Vallarta, Nay., Mexico. Which will assist in finding them on airbnb or vrbo

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Patrick

If you want a smaller all-inclusive that's in town, we stayed at the Buenaventura 3 years ago with our then 5 & 2 year olds and enjoyed it. We chose it because it was in town and the food was well reviewed. We weren't disappointed with the food.
https://www.hotelbuenaventura.com.mx/
HOTELBUENAVENTURA.COM.MX
Buenaventura Grand Hotel - Mexico Puerto Vallarta Hotels

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Brenton

Crown Paradise Club All-Inclusive.
Great for kids. Did it a few years ago, kids had a blast.

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Mike

Take a horse ride on the beach at night. Let them hold you wallet and phone for safety purposes

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Reg

Mike I've been through the desert on a horse with no phone!

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Silvia

I agree all inclusive is good with kids or pick resort that us close to beach with pool. Kids love sand and pool. Downtown PV the beach is not great. Las Gloria's beach area hotel zone area is nicer beaches

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Gail

Lesley Drobny

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Tamara

Depending on what you’re into, we’ve done multiple trips to the smaller towns north of PV with our kids, and always stayed in airbnbs without issue.
Sayulita is awesome but getting busier and busier. San Pancho (San Francisco) is smaller, totally walkable, and a great place to spend 10 days.
We just take the bus from the airport, but you can also get a car to pick you up… and then don’t need transport once you’re there


A.I. says...

AI Profile Pic

Puerto Vallarta Travel Guide for First-Timers with a Toddler

Puerto Vallarta is a beautiful coastal city in Mexico, perfect for a family vacation with its stunning beaches, rich culture, and kid-friendly activities. Here are some suggestions for your upcoming 10-day trip.

Accommodations

Airbnb:

Renting an Airbnb can be a great option for families with young children. Look for properties with kid-friendly amenities like a pool, playground, or kid-friendly decor. Some popular family-friendly neighborhoods in Puerto Vallarta include Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata, and Conchas Chinas.

All-Inclusive Hotels:

If you prefer the convenience of an all-inclusive resort, Puerto Vallarta has several options that cater to families with children. Some highly-rated options include:

  • Velas Vallarta Resort
  • Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa
  • Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta
  • Barceló Puerto Vallarta

Things to Do and Visit

Beaches:

Puerto Vallarta is famous for its beautiful beaches. Some family-friendly options include Playa Los Muertos, Playa Las Gemelas, and Playa Camarones. Pack plenty of sunscreen, beach toys, and snacks for your little one.

Malecón:

The Malecón is a beautiful seaside boardwalk lined with sculptures, restaurants, and street performers. It's a great place to stroll, people-watch, and enjoy the scenic views.

Aquaventuras Water Park:

This water park is a must-visit for families with young children. It features water slides, lazy rivers, and splash areas, all in a beautiful tropical setting.

Marietas Islands:

Take a boat tour to the Marietas Islands, a group of uninhabited islands with stunning beaches and opportunities for snorkeling or swimming.

Downtown Puerto Vallarta:

Explore the charming downtown area with its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and lively markets. Don't miss the iconic Our Lady of Guadalupe Church and the Plaza de Armas.

Remember to pack light, comfortable clothing, hats, and sunscreen for your family. Embrace the laid-back Mexican culture, and enjoy creating lasting memories with your loved ones in beautiful Puerto Vallarta.



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