If you’re planning a vacation to Mexico but can’t decide between Puerto Vallarta and the Cancun side, this article is here to help! Both destinations offer stunning features, but they have their own unique highlights. In this article, we’ll compare the major attractions, prices, weather, activities, and accommodations in Puerto Vallarta and the Cancun/Riviera Maya side. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of which side is better suited for your vacation preferences.
Choosing Your Vacation Style
When it comes to choosing between Puerto Vallarta and the Cancun side of Mexico, your vacation style plays a significant role. Cancun and the Riviera Maya are better suited for those seeking a tropical all-inclusive vacation. Whether you’re traveling as a family with kids or a couple on their honeymoon, Cancun offers luxurious resorts, swim-up bars, and beautiful beaches. It’s the perfect destination to relax by the pool and enjoy resort amenities without venturing outside for a week.
In contrast, Puerto Vallarta is ideal for travelers who want to immerse themselves in an authentic Mexican experience. With the option to stay at an all-inclusive resort or in the heart of downtown, you can choose the level of immersion that suits your preferences. Puerto Vallarta offers a blend of locals and tourists, cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, and a vibrant culture.
Family-Friendly Features
Both Puerto Vallarta and the Riviera Maya are suitable for families, as they offer resorts and hotels with kids clubs and water parks onsite. Additionally, there are plenty of adventure activities to enjoy, such as snorkeling, whale watching, cenote swimming, ATV tours, and zip-lining. Whether you choose Puerto Vallarta or Cancun, there will be no shortage of family fun.
Price Comparison
In terms of prices, Puerto Vallarta is generally slightly cheaper than Cancun and the Riviera Maya. If you prefer being an independent traveler and planning your own adventures, Puerto Vallarta is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer having everything included and planned for you, the Cancun or Riviera Maya side will suit you better.
Comparing Beaches and Water
When it comes to beaches and water, the Caribbean side of Mexico offers tropical, white sandy beaches with turquoise blue water—perfect for that picture-perfect tropical vacation. However, the Caribbean side has been dealing with an issue of seaweed called sargassum, which can turn the water brown or beige. If you want to avoid this seaweed, the Pacific side is a better option. Puerto Vallarta’s beaches are swimmable and protected by Banderas Bay, which shields the area from large swells. The beaches on the Pacific side have golden sand, but you can still find pockets of softer, lighter-colored sand.
Weather and Climate
In terms of weather, Cancun experiences a high season from January to April, with slightly more humidity compared to Puerto Vallarta. In Puerto Vallarta, the most pleasant weather is from December to March, with shoulder season months like November and April still offering pleasant conditions. May to July is hot in Puerto Vallarta, with locals often vacationing during this time. On the Caribbean side, it’s best to avoid visiting from September to November due to hurricane season.
Activities and Excursions
The Riviera Maya offers unique attractions like cenotes (underground freshwater pools) and Mayan ruins. There’s also excellent snorkeling and tours that can take you to hidden islands teeming with marine life. A must-visit tour is to Chichen Itza, which also includes a visit to the beautiful city of Valladolid. Additionally, you can explore biospheres and nature reserves, and even swim with whale sharks if you visit Holbox Island.
In Puerto Vallarta, make sure to stroll along the Malacon, the beachside boardwalk, and explore the Zona Romantica, the old downtown area with its Spanish colonial charm. There are also numerous day trips to small fishing villages and surfer towns, offering a variety of experiences. The terrain in Puerto Vallarta allows for great hiking opportunities, and from December to March, you can witness humpback whales breaching in the distance.
Accommodations and Safety
The Riviera Maya is known for its all-inclusive resorts that line the coast. However, Playa del Carmen offers authentic smaller hotels and great restaurants, striking a balance between a walkable city and a nearby beach. In Puerto Vallarta, you’ll find a wide range of accommodations, from high-end luxury resorts to locally-owned hotels, vacation rentals, and affordable options. It’s also worth mentioning that both destinations are considered safe for tourists, but taking normal precautions is recommended.
Conclusion
In the battle of Puerto Vallarta vs. the Cancun side, both destinations have their own unique highlights to offer. Cancun and the Riviera Maya provide a tropical all-inclusive vacation experience, while Puerto Vallarta immerses you in the authentic culture of Mexico. Consider your vacation style, budget, preferred activities, and even the time of year you plan to visit when making your decision. Whichever side you choose, Mexico is sure to provide an unforgettable vacation experience.
