Puerto Vallarta is one of the most complete family destinations in Mexico. Safe beaches, direct flights from almost any North American city, easy food, and activities for kids ages 2 to 17. Here's your guide.
Safe beaches for kids
Not every beach has gentle surf. These are the most family-friendly:
Playa Los Muertos
The most accessible. Near the pier, the surf is gentle. Beach clubs offer chairs, umbrellas, and bathrooms. Constant ice cream and popsicle vendors. View page →
Playa Lindomar (Conchas Chinas)
Natural rock pools, almost like swimming pools. Perfect for little ones just learning to swim. View page →
Playa Palmares
Blue Flag certified. Clean water, soft sand, accessibility ramps, clean bathrooms. Few crowds, moderate surf. View page →
Playa Las Ánimas
Calm waters thanks to a protected cove. Activities like banana boat, parasailing, and zipline. Family-friendly restaurants right on the sand. View page →
Activities for kids
The Malecón
Sculptures to climb on (carefully), mimes, sand artists, musicians. Weekend afternoons are continuous free entertainment.
Vallarta Zoo
In Mismaloya. Feed baby tigers, giraffes, parrots. Controversial for some, but popular with families of small children.
Vallarta Adventures
Family tours like Las Caletas (full day at a private beach with supervised activities) or Outdoor Adventure (gentle zipline + ATV + river swim).
Aquaventuras
Water park in Nuevo Vallarta. Slides for all ages, dolphinarium, sea lions.
Splash Water Park
More affordable than Aquaventuras. Great for a low-key afternoon.
Cooking classes for kids
Sí Señor and El Arrayán offer family classes where kids make tortillas, salsas, and desserts.
Pirate ship cruise
Marigalante and Jolly Roger offer themed cruises with shows, food, and a toy sword included. Kids leave happy (and tired).
Kid-friendly restaurants
Puerto Vallarta has many, but these stand out:
- No Way José! — Mexican with kids' menu and toys.
- Daiquiri Dick's — beachfront, broad menu, open space.
- La Palapa — kids run on the sand while parents dine.
- Archie's Wok — Asian food with forks (no chopsticks pressure).
- Fajita Banana — tacos, quesadillas, all fresh and simple.
- Sanborn's — Mexican chain with predictable menu, perfect for days when you want something safe.
Where to stay with family
Recommended areas:
Marina Vallarta
Quiet, with the marina dock and family hotels. Less nightlife but ideal for early bedtimes.
Nuevo Vallarta (Nayarit)
Big all-inclusives with kids clubs, infinity pools, kids programming. Favorites: Grand Velas, Hard Rock, Paradise Village.
Conchas Chinas
Airbnbs and villas with private pools, perfect for big groups or multigenerational families.
Avoid the Romantic Zone with little kids
It's the party and LGBTQ+ neighborhood. Not unsafe — just loud late at night and not much for kids. Better for families with teenagers.
Practical tips
- Umbrella and sunscreen: the Pacific sun burns fast. Reapply every 2 hours.
- Bottled water: even if the hotel water is filtered, buy bottles for outings.
- Mexican meal times: meals run late. Breakfast 8-10 AM, lunch 2-4 PM, dinner 8-10 PM. Adjust schedules or pack snacks.
- Taxis: use Uber or hotel taxis. Never the unofficial airport taxis.
- First-aid kit: bring children's acetaminophen, electrolytes, and DEET repellent if you're going into the jungle.
- Documents: kids need a valid passport. Birth certificates if flying with only one parent.
Vallarta is easy with kids. You just need a little planning.