Solo Female Travel in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta, nestled halfway down Mexico's verdant Pacific coastline in the heart of Banderas Bay, is a pulsating paradise brimming with culture and elegant charm. This vibrant resort city is chiefly known for its enchanting beach resorts, water sport activities, diverse nightlife, and thriving art scene. With everything from cobblestone streets of the historic downtown - El Centro, adorned by the magnificent Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe church, to the scenic Malecón boardwalk with contemporary sculptures, and alluring south shore with hidden beaches and coves at Mismaloya, Puerto Vallarta is an epitome of an idyllic tropical hideaway. Not to forget, the city's lush Sierra Madre foothills and the spectacular Bahía de Banderas, one of the world's largest bays, offering a captivating setting for whale watching and fishing.

Travel rating

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Travel index

Safety:Safe

Puerto Vallarta is moderately safe for solo female travelers. The city is tourist-friendly with warm locals and an active police presence, especially in popular areas. Being vigilant, avoiding isolated areas at night, and being mindful of personal belongings can further ensure safety. Street harassment is rarely reported but often of a nonviolent nature. Use trusted transportation companies and avoid flashing valuables to prevent petty theft. Always keep a contact in case of emergency.

Transport:Easy

Puerto Vallarta is generally easy to navigate. It offers diverse options ranging from public buses and taxis to Uber. Both the downtown and marina area are quite walkable, making it convenient for sightseeing. However, some areas may have steep hills and cobblestone streets, which might pose challenges. Always ensure your transportation is from a safe and reliable source.

Things to do:Interesting

Puerto Vallarta offers a variety of interesting activities for solo female travelers. Its beautiful beaches and quaint cobblestone streets host a myriad of shopping opportunities with artisanal gems to discover. There are diverse food options, from high-end restaurants to street food stalls offering appetizing local delicacies. Outdoor lovers will value Puerto Vallarta’s eco-tourism activities, such as whale watching, snorkeling, and zip-lining. There is also a thriving art scene, with numerous art galleries and sculptures scattered throughout the city. For relaxation, there are many spas and wellness centers. Despite its charm, like any tourist destination, it's important to exercise caution while exploring the city alone, especially at night.

Food:Above average

The food scene in Puerto Vallarta is both flavorful and diverse. From the high-end delicacies to the street food options, there is so much for food explorers to taste and enjoy. A lot of traditional Mexican fare like tacos, tamales, and enchiladas can be found here, coupled with an amazing selection of fresh seafood. In addition to that, international cuisine is also well represented in Puerto Vallarta, which adds to the diversity. Just remember to explore to find the best hidden gems, and take food hygiene into consideration. With all these things in mind, first-time visitors are likely to have an enriching culinary experience.

Budget:Moderate

Puerto Vallarta is moderately budget-friendly for travelers. Accommodation and food can be quite affordable, especially if you choose local and less touristy options. However, activities and transportation, particularly taxis, can add up. It's a middle ground between being a cheap and expensive destination, so be sure to plan ahead and be mindful of your spending.

Is Puerto Vallarta worth visiting?

Overall rating

3.9 /5

based on 3 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do

4.2/5

Safety

3.7/5

Food

4.2/5

Budget-friendly

3.7/5
Portland_Annie

Portland_Annie (54)

United States

Solo travel experience

I traveled to and from PVR alone but stayed with good friends while there. I felt very safe as I was in a private car or in a taxi with my dear friends and we stayed in their condo. It rained for 3 days but it was a great time. The view from their place was amazing. We also took a trip to San Sebastian and to the Botanical Garden. So lovely. Good was great, especially seafood and fresh fruit! And, of course, the margaritas!

Posted: March 7, 2024Experienced: February, 2024
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Christina

Christina (26)

United States

Family travel experience

Traveling to Puerto Vallarta with my family during the summer of 2022 was one of the best experiences I could recommend. There's plenty of activities to try and mostly importantly (for any foodies like me) there's so many different cuisines to eat. After doing some research before going I realized that it's a really safe and welcoming place for the LGBTQIA+ community such as myself. In fact, it's one of the most welcoming places in the world. Outside of spending time with my family I was welcomed into groups of people that were happy to chat and show me some cool places to hang. I would definitely recommend Puerto Vallarta as a family, solo or couple vacation!

Posted: February 14, 2024Experienced: May, 2022
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 4/5Safety: 4/5
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Solo travel experience

Amazing city, I felt totally safe, clean, artistically, spiritually, colorfully and openly, with nice boulevards and beaches, friendly people, even the traffic is safe, many taxis and buses.

Posted: April 30, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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