...and is backed by the verdant Sierra Madre Mountains.

Travelers with an interest in soft adventure or ecologically oriented explorations will find a growing selection of specialized tours and services in Puerto Vallarta. Trained adventure guides offer hiking, mountain biking, ocean kayaking, birdwatching, botanical horseback safaris, Sierra Madre expeditions, and visits to nearby archeological sites.

Fall in love with Puerto Vallarta's old world charm and dreamlike natural beauty. Lush tropical jungles surround this quaint colonial city with interesting architecture, cobblestone streets and white-washed buildings.

Discover chic boutiques as you stroll along the Malecón, then check out the exploding art scene and sizzling nightlife. Sprawling golden beaches, Pacific blue waters and heart-stopping sunsets that reflect on majestic mountains complete this picture-perfect vacation spot.

Shopping is best along the Malecon, the seaside main street with many small shops. The Market on the banks of the Rio Cuale sells one-of-a-kind Mexican handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, food items and more.  Fine art galleries in Puerto Vallarta are internationally acclaimed and a 'must see'. Whether it's sunset margaritas at a quiet cliff side terrace, or pina coladas at a lively club. Puerto Vallarta's variety of bars is unsurpassed along the Mexican Riviera. When the sun goes down, the fun begins at nightclubs and discos that rival those of any cosmopolitan city.

When it comes to dining, Puerto Vallarta does it 'con gusto.' Restaurants serve up an array of international cuisine, including Mexican, Italian, French, Argentinian, Cajun, Japanese and more. Choose from casual beach restaurants to romantic candlelit dinner houses.

And there is plenty of Golfing if golf is your passion... Golf is increasingly becoming a way of life in Puerto Vallarta, where enthusiasts will find two very challenging public courses. Take a look at the Marina Vallarta and the Flamingo golf clubs.