Staying at Hacienda Buenaventura Hotel & Mexican Charm means having the best of Puerto Vallarta close at hand: the sea, Mexican cuisine and the warmth of its people. And when you feel like heading out to explore, there are plans for every taste just minutes from the hotel, from a walk alongside the yachts to a getaway to a fishing village.

Here are four plans near Hacienda Buenaventura to experience the most authentic side of Vallarta, with everything you need to know to enjoy them.

1. A Walk Around Marina Vallarta

If you’d rather head out on foot, Marina Vallarta is the ideal plan. From the hotel, walk past Galerías Vallarta and continue to the marina boardwalk, a waterfront promenade surrounded by yachts and sailboats. Along the way you’ll find restaurants, cafés and ice cream shops with terraces facing the docks.

The symbol of the area is the Marina Vallarta lighthouse, one of the most photographed spots along the route. It’s a relaxed plan, perfect for the afternoon, for a waterfront dinner or for a family stroll.

2. A Food Route in Downtown

For those who travel taste buds first, Downtown Vallarta is a feast. Start in front of the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, with its iconic crown atop the bell tower, and wander the nearby streets in search of the taco and snack stands that locals know by heart: fish and shrimp tacos, tacos al pastor, corn on the cob and traditional sweets.

End the route with a tasting of tequila or raicilla, the agave spirit typical of the region of Jalisco near the coast. It’s the best way to discover two drinks that are part of Mexico’s pride.

3. A Visit to the Cuale Market

The Río Cuale Municipal Market is one of the most Mexican corners of Vallarta. On the ground floor you’ll find stalls with handicrafts, embroidered textiles, hand-painted ceramics, silver jewelry, hats and traditional sweets. Head up to the second floor to eat at its fondas, where homestyle Mexican food is served at affordable prices.

On your way out, cross the bridge to Cuale Island, a green spot with trees and suspension bridges, ideal for a walk in the shade. It’s a perfect half-day plan.

4. A Getaway to Bucerías

About 30 minutes north, already in Riviera Nayarit, Bucerías keeps the charm of old coastal Mexico. This fishing village has a plaza with a gazebo by the sea, a church full of tradition, cobblestone streets and a walkway lined with stalls selling handicrafts, jewelry, textiles and regional sweets.

The experience is complete on the beach: in the palapas facing the sea they prepare the famous pescado zarandeado, marinated and grilled over a wood fire, along with ceviches, aguachiles and fresh seafood. Stay until sunset to watch the sun go down over Banderas Bay.

Tips for Exploring from Hacienda Buenaventura

• Combine plans: the Cuale Market and the Downtown food route are very close to each other and can be done on the same day.
• Cash: it’s the most practical option at markets, stands and palapas.
• Sun protection: bring a hat, water and sunscreen for every plan.
• Timing: outdoor walks are best enjoyed in the morning or late afternoon.
• Getting back to the hotel: a taxi or ride-hailing app is the most comfortable option at the end of the day.

The Most Authentic Mexico, Close to You

Whether among handicrafts, tacos, yachts or sunsets in a fishing village, the surroundings of Hacienda Buenaventura are full of experiences to discover the culture and flavors of Mexico. And when you return to the hotel, the journey continues with the Mexican cuisine of our restaurants.