Nuevo Vallarta
Oftentimes we have disappointed tourists who thought they were coming to Puerto Vallarta but found themselves in Nuevo Vallarta instead. This happens because most travel agents haven’t been here themselves to know the difference. Vallarta equals Vallarta on paper and they seem pretty darn close on a map. Nuevo Vallarta, using the name, which lures the unaware, is in the state of Nayarit, to the north of Puerto Vallarta. They aren’t even in the same time zone as Puerto Vallarta. It’s an hour ahead of us and cause for lots of confusion, especially regarding flight times.
However, there is a lot to do and see in Nuevo Vallarta and we recommend anyone who hasn’t visited yet to get busy and make a plan. With a first class infrastructure throughout the area, Nuevo Vallarta has the second highest number of hotels and resorts in the country, so you’re bound to find something to suit you. Golden sand beaches stretch for miles and Nuevo Vallarta not only can boast a 2019 Earth Check Silver Certification, they also have been awarded Five Diamond distinction by the AAA (American Automobile Association).
Accessible by boat, two of Mexico’s premier marinas are located in Nuevo Vallarta. As well as the Nuevo Vallarta Marina, the Paradise Village Marina has been certified as Mexico’s cleanest marina. The landscape along Paradise Village Marina is the essence of luxury with care taken to preserve the natural flora and dwellings, straight out of Architectural Digest. The marina is capable of docking up to 500 vessels of various lengths, and accommodates sailors with drinking water, pump outs, excellent security and a 24 hour concierge service.
For nature lovers, there is the Sierra de Vallejo State Biosphere Reserve, covering nearly 885 square miles. Within the reserve there are three lakes and more than a dozen canals that one can take nature tours through, with the chance of spotting wild boars, jaguars and colorful, chattering parrots. This is where you’ll find the National Marshes, where twenty percent of Mexico’s mangroves are located.
For golfers, there are two state-of-the-art courses, both vast and beautiful. Jack Nicklaus Vidanta, which is a nine-hole; and El Tigre, with eighteen holes designed by the famous Texan, Robert von Hagge, said to be one of the most challenging courses in the world.
The Grand Velas Hotel in Nuevo Vallarta has received international attention for the restaurant Piaf, which has been named a Michelin Restaurant. If you want a dazzling gourmet experience, we recommend making reservations. There are several restaurants in Nuevo Vallarta that partake in the International Gourmet Festival, serving dishes with global influence. During the festival would be an excellent time to take in the sights of the region.
Nuevo Vallarta is a quick trip from the airport, Puerto Vallarta, Bucerias, and Punta de Mita, and there is something for everyone.
Que cómo es es.
