Consequently, you will find an intoxicating blend of traditional Mexican culture, from bullfights to grilled marlin served beachside; along with the finest of resort living, from spectacular sport fishing to all-inclusive resorts that cater to your every whim.
Art and music abound, with live concerts of all types, beachfront sculpture displays and hundreds of other exhibitions and performances both large and intimate throughout the area. The local Indian culture is prominent, with an abundance of crafts and local wares available for purchase.
Golfers will find great courses - including two designed by Jack Nicklaus and Tom Weiskopf at Villa Vallarta - among the seven championship layouts in the area - and the climate in this part of Mexico makes golf a year-round activity. The temperature usually hovers around the mid 80s (30 C) for much of year, giving way to a rainier summer season from late June to early October.
Away from the golf courses, there are many other activities at hand, from hiking, sport fishing, whale watching, to jungle tours
The Marina area of Puerto Vallarta offers a selection of European-styled hotels, but the town itself is full of Mexican culture and locally-run bars and restaurants.