Gay PUERTO VALLARTA Guide 2021
Gay Puerto Vallarta Guide to the best gay beaches, finest restaurants and busiest gay bars in all of Mexico. Puerto Vallarta is popular from October to April making it the perfect Winter Escape!
Puerto Vallarta is one of the most popular gay destinations in North America. This bustling small city of cobbled streets is nestled between Bahía de Banderas and the tropical forests of the nearby Sierra Madre mountains. It combines the best beaches, ocean and mountain vistas, pacific sunsets, and handsome hombres, to create a truly memorable destination. Puerto Vallarta is busiest from mid November to the end of April.
There is no shortage of activities. Whether you want to bike ride along the Cuale River, whale watch while the sun sets, sail on one of the many gay-day cruises or simply relax in one of the beach clubs along the bay, Puerto Vallarta ticks all the boxes.
In 1963, then a small fishing town, Puerto Vallarta burst upon the international jet-set-scene with the arrival of Richard Burton, Ava Gardner, Deborah Kerr and soon after Liz Taylor, for the filming of the “Night of the Iguana”. The film brought mass attention to Puerto Vallarta and every since, Puerto Vallarta has been popular with those seeking an idyllic beach escape. Taylor’s influence still remains today. Her former home is now a stunning restaurant, The Iguana at Casa Kimberley.
The city’s evolution into a gay destination begin in the early 90’s when Paco Ruiz opened the first gay club, “Club Paco Paco”. Early on he faced police intimidation which garnered media attention. The public outcry that followed helped create the tolerant and gay-friendly environment experienced by visitors to the city today. It is this tolerance and openness that made Puerto Vallarta an attractive destination for gay tourists looking for a safe and welcoming destination. Over the years the city has become one of the world’s top 10 gay destinations. Incidentally Club Paco reopened as Paco’s Ranch in a new location and is now one of the busiest gay bars in Puerto Vallarta.
Located on Mexico’s west coast in the state of Jalisco, Puerto Vallarta is home to more than 40 different gay bars, restaurants and clubs, all located in the Zona Romantico and close to miles and miles of turquoise seas and golden beaches. Our Gay Puerto Vallarta guide brings you the best recommendations from our editors who visit the resort each year.
Unless you are staying in one of the resorts in Nuevo Vallarta, the Romantic Zone is where you will spend most of your holiday. Check out our top places to play, drink and dance below!
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From the best beaches to the most authentic restaurants, check out our top tips recommendations when staying in gay Puerto Vallarta!
No 1 – EL DORADO
Puerto Vallarta offers great dining options, from local Mexican food to the finest in International Cuisine. Our top recommendation has to be El Dorado with memorable views of Puerto Vallarta and a fresh take on traditional Mexican cuisine.
No 1 – Almar Resort
The beach clubs along the gay beach are clean, friendly and a great way to spend the day! Our favourite has to be the Mantamar beach club with great pool and excellent food.
No 1 – LA NOCHE
The best gay bars and clubs are all located on one strip. They are all fun and friendly but our favourite has to be La Noche. Great drinks, large interior and stunning shows with hot GoGos and excellent music.
Most of the major large chain hotels are located in the Hotel Zone. For gay visitors we recommend avoiding this area and opt for the Zona Romantica. Here you will find boutique hotels, gay guest houses and gay-friendly condos and apartments right by the beach.
One of Puerto Vallarta’s most famous gay Boutique Hotels!
Casa Cupula is one of the most famous gay guest houses in PV. Each room is different and they offer a delicious late breakfast. The venue also hosts several themed parties throughout the high season. Check rates for Casa Cupula
Stunning suites with the best view of PV
The luxury 5 star Signature by Pinnacle has a very popular roof-top bar for sundowners and the sea-facing rooms provide breathtaking views. Check Rates for the Pinnacle Now
Stunning adults only boutique hotel
Casa Dona Susana is an adult’s only boutique hotel with a great rooftop pool, large rooms with modern decor and is close to all the gay bars and clubs.
Whether you are a thrill-seeker or prefer lounging around in a private beach club, Puerto Vallarta has activities to suit all tastes. For shopaholics, the city is full of stunning art galleries and craft stores. Take the city art walk and discover some of the stunning local glassware, pottery, and paintings. Shop on the water by paying a visit to the Island in the middle of the Cuale river where you can find local artists selling their wares.
Those seeking adventure should check out the ATV and Zip Lining tours through the forest! Try some world-class surfing at Sayulita beach. Its paradise! Or hitch a ride on a panga (water taxi) and visit nearby Los Arcos for some snorkelling and relaxation. Diana’s Tour is one of the longest running gay tour companies in Puerto Vallarta. The tour sells out in advance. It takes in some of Puerto Vallarta’s best know beach stops including a clothing-optional stop at Los Caballitos Beach.
Want to do something different? Book a day Trip to Las Caletas. You have a variety of options on how you choose to spend your day. Relax under the shade on a hammock, book a therapeutic spa treatment, go diving, or explore Las Caletas by land.
Another popular destination is Marietas Islands, where you can snorkel and take in the stunning hidden beach. Sunset and whale watching cruises are also available.
Finally, we love the Vallarta Botanical Gardens with its stunning orchids, superb restaurant, and hidden swimming holes.
The best place to stay in Puerto Vallarta is in the Romantic District or old town, close to the gay bars and clubs. Hotels here tend to be small and simple, but offer clean rooms with great access to the beaches and amenities nearby.
World-class service at Casa Cupula Luxury LGBT Boutique Hotel, The rooms & suites offer contemporary décor, air conditioning, laptop safe, flat TV with DVD player. minibar, & coffee maker, free Wi-Fi is available in all areas.
The adult-only Almar Resort Luxury All Suites & Spa is located next to the gay beach, each room at this hotel is air conditioned and features a flat-screen TV, free toiletries & free WiFi. Private parking is available free of charge.
The Mercurio is in Vallarta’s main gay neighborhood, surrounded by bars and restaurants. The city’s gay beach is just a 5 minute walk away. All of the air-conditioned rooms have a flat-screen cable TV, free Wi-Fi and a safe.
Piñata PV Hotel is minutes from the beach. Featuring free WiFi, Pool & Hot Tub open 24 hrs, Every room has Air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV. Located in the gay neighborhood close to the gay bars and night clubs.