Traveling with family to Puerto Vallarta means one thing: finding the balance between days of relaxation at the hotel and adventures the kids will remember for years. At Hacienda Buenaventura we know that a perfect family vacation combines both, so here's a plan with the best activities so that, from the youngest pirate to the most curious explorer, no day feels the same as the last.
1. Marigalante Pirate Ship: the adventure everyone will remember
If there's one activity that sums up the magic of vacationing with kids in Puerto Vallarta, it's the Marigalante Pirate Ship. This half-day tour recreates all the excitement of a pirate adventure aboard a replica 16th-century galleon: hidden treasure hunts, games, shows, and even the chance to dress up as real buccaneers.
The ship sets sail from the Malecón area, and the tour includes entertainment for all ages, so both the little ones and the preteens have a great time. It's one of those experiences that ends up on the "best of the trip" list when you ask the kids once they're back home.
Tip: book a few days in advance, especially during high season, since spots fill up quickly.
2. Kids club and children's pool: fun from day one
You don't need to leave the hotel for the kids to start having fun. The kids club and children's pool at Hacienda Buenaventura are the perfect option for arrival day, when the whole family is still settling in and the last thing you want is to organize an excursion.
It's a zero-logistics activity: no transportation, no outside reservations, no schedules to work around. Just head down, put on a swimsuit, and let the kids play while the parents relax for a while too.
3. The beach is just a shuttle ride away (and it's included)
An important note if it's your first time at Hacienda Buenaventura: the hotel isn't right on the beach, but that doesn't mean you'll miss out on it. The hotel offers free transportation that takes you to the shore in just a few minutes, so you can enjoy sand and sea with no hassle and no extra cost.
For families, this ends up being an advantage: it means a quiet pool near your room for downtime, and a beach available whenever the kids want to build sandcastles or dip their feet in the ocean.
Tip: ask at the front desk about shuttle departure times to plan your day better.
4. Vallarta Zoo: a whole day of animals
For families staying several nights, the Vallarta Zoo is an excellent full-day option outside the hotel. Kids can see jaguars, monkeys, and a wide variety of species up close, and some packages even offer the experience of swimming near tiger cubs under supervision.
It's an educational activity that fits well with the rest of the itinerary, especially if you have kids who love animals and want something different from the beach or pool.
5. Estero El Salado: mangroves, crocodiles, and a little turtle that stays in your heart
For a different and highly photogenic experience, a boat tour through the Estero El Salado mangrove is one of those activities that surprises kids and parents alike. During the tour you can spot crocodiles in their natural habitat while learning about the area's conservation efforts.
The most special part: on some tours, kids get the chance to release a baby sea turtle, name it, and make a wish before watching it swim out to sea. It's an activity that's as educational as it is emotional, and it tends to stay in the whole family's memory.
6. Extra tip: how to plan your family itinerary without rushing
With so many options, it's easy to want to fit everything into just a few days, but the key to a stress-free family vacation is alternating. A good approach is to combine, each day, one "high-energy" activity (like the Marigalante Pirate Ship or the Vallarta Zoo) with a relaxed one (pool, kids club, or beach).
This way you avoid wearing out the youngest kids, and you give the whole family time to rest between adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Hacienda Buenaventura have a beach?
The hotel is not located right on the beach, but it offers free transportation that takes guests to the beach in just a few minutes.
Is there an extra cost for the beach transportation?
No, the beach shuttle is included for hotel guests.
Is there a kids club at the hotel?
Yes, the hotel has a kids club and children's pool designed for families with young children.
How long does the Marigalante Pirate Ship tour last?
It's a half-day tour that sets sail from the Malecón area and includes games, shows, and a treasure hunt.
Which activities are free within the hotel?
The children's pool, kids club, and beach transportation are included at no extra cost for guests.