Choosing between Puerto Vallarta and the Cancun side of Mexico can be a difficult decision. Both sides offer stunning features, but which is better for your vacation? In this article, we’ll compare all the major highlights of Puerto Vallarta and the Cancun/Riviera Maya region to help you make the right choice.
The Best Side for an All-Inclusive Tropical Vacation
If you’re looking for a tropical all-inclusive vacation, Cancun is the better choice. Whether you’re traveling as a family or a couple on their honeymoon, Cancun offers luxurious resorts, kid-friendly activities, and adventurous excursions. You can lounge by the pool, enjoy swim-up bars, walk along the beautiful beaches, and have everything you need within the resort. The Riviera Maya side of Mexico, which includes Cancun, is perfect for those who want a week of relaxation and luxury.
A More Authentic Experience in Puerto Vallarta
For travelers who want to immerse themselves in the authentic side of Mexico, Puerto Vallarta is the ideal destination. You have the option to stay at an all-inclusive resort or choose a vacation rental in the heart of downtown. Puerto Vallarta offers a mix of Spanish colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, beach boardwalks filled with shops, restaurants, and bars. The jungle and mountain terrains provide opportunities for outdoor adventures, and you can explore smaller towns and villages nearby.
Family-Friendly Options in Both Destinations
Both Puerto Vallarta and the Riviera Maya sides are suitable for families. They offer a variety of resorts and hotels with kids clubs and water parks on-site. You can also find plenty of options for adventures like snorkeling, whale watching, cenote swimming, ATV tours, and zip-lining. Both destinations provide a range of activities to keep your entire family entertained.
Price Comparison
In general, Puerto Vallarta is slightly cheaper than Cancun and the Riviera Maya. If you prefer planning things yourself and finding your own adventures, Puerto Vallarta is the right choice. If you prefer vacation packages with everything included and planned out for you, Cancun or the Riviera Maya is a better fit. Consider your travel style and budget when making your decision.
Beaches and Swimmability
The Caribbean side of Mexico, including Cancun, offers tropical white sandy beaches with turquoise blue water, perfect for a picture-perfect vacation. The water is generally warmer on the Cancun side compared to Puerto Vallarta. However, the Caribbean side has been dealing with an issue of sargassum, a type of seaweed that washes up on shore and turns the water a light brown color. On the other hand, the beaches on the Pacific side of Mexico, where Puerto Vallarta is located, have golden-colored sand. While the water may be slightly cooler, the beaches are very swimmable. Puerto Vallarta’s location in Banderas Bay protects the area from huge swells, making it a great option for swimming and water activities.
Weather and Climate
High season in the Cancun area is typically from January to April, with shoulder months on each side being pleasant as well. Puerto Vallarta sees an influx of tourists from December to March when the weather is consistently pleasant, though it can be somewhat cool at night. Shoulder season months, like November and April, are also great times to visit with perfect weather and fewer tourists. Puerto Vallarta can get very hot from May to July, which is when many locals choose to vacation in the area. In Cancun, it’s best to avoid visiting from September to November, which is hurricane season.
Activities and Excursions
The Riviera Maya offers unique attractions such as cenotes (underground freshwater pools) and Mayan ruins. Exploring these attractions is a must if you’re on this side of Mexico. The area also boasts great snorkeling spots and eco-resort style parks. You can also take day trips to hidden islands filled with marine life or visit places like Chichen Itza where you can explore ancient ruins. On the other hand, Puerto Vallarta offers a charming old town, scenic boardwalks, and the opportunity to explore small fishing villages and surfer towns. The coastal mountains and jungle terrain in Puerto Vallarta provide fantastic hidden gems, such as natural hot springs and hiking trails. Whale watching is also popular here from December to March.
Types of Accommodations
The Riviera Maya is known for its all-inclusive resorts that line the coast. This is the primary type of accommodation on this side of Mexico, ranging from two-star to luxury five-star resorts. However, if you choose to stay in Playa del Carmen, you can find smaller authentic hotels and excellent local restaurants. In Puerto Vallarta, you have a wide range of options including high-end luxury resorts, boutique hotels, vacation rentals, condos, and affordable hotels. The choice of accommodation in Puerto Vallarta is more diverse, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your style and budget.
Safety and Costs
Both the Riviera Maya and Puerto Vallarta areas of Mexico are generally safe for tourists. Staying in a resort in Cancun offers a worry-free experience, as long as you practice common-sense safety precautions. Puerto Vallarta is also considered safe, but it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking around the city. In terms of costs, Puerto Vallarta tends to be cheaper than Cancun. You can find affordable hotels and dine out at local restaurants without breaking the bank.
Choosing the Perfect Side of Mexico for Your Vacation
In conclusion, both Puerto Vallarta and the Cancun/Riviera Maya sides of Mexico have their own unique charms and experiences to offer. It ultimately comes down to your preferences, travel style, and budget. If you’re seeking a luxurious all-inclusive tropical vacation, Cancun is the way to go. For a more authentic Mexican experience with a mix of culture, scenery, and adventure, Puerto Vallarta is the ideal choice. Consider the beaches, weather, activities, accommodations, safety, and costs when making your decision. No matter which side you choose, Mexico has something to offer for everyone.
If you’re interested in more details and ideas for your trip to either destination, check out my blog post below for additional information and recommendations. [blog post link] And if you want more travel inspiration, itineraries, and packing guides, visit [travel blog website] for tons of helpful content. Happy planning and enjoy your vacation in Mexico!
