From 2017 through 2022 I visited Puerto Vallarta solo every year, and across those five trips I came to understand why PV continues to draw me back. It’s a place where surf meets drag, quiet beach mornings meet rooftop dance parties, and a solo traveler can both discover and belong.
While some days I considered staying in an all-inclusive resort just outside Zona Romantica — enjoying the pool, doing nothing — I usually opted against it. The Sheraton and other hotel-district resorts have their appeal for rest days, but you risk missing the pulse of Puerto Vallarta. If you choose all-inclusive, stick as close as possible to Zona Romantica so you’re never too far from the streets, the bars, the beach, the community.
Over those years I gravitated toward modest beachfront hotels like Tropicana and San Marino. They weren’t glamorous, but they delivered the essentials: you stepped from your room directly onto the sand, and though the WiFi only worked in the lobby, that limitation pushed you outside, into the island’s rhythm.
One of the first things you’ll want to do is walk the Malecon. This oceanfront promenade winds through Zona Romantica, lined with food stalls, vendors, street art, and occasional live performances at small amphitheaters. At dusk it glows: twilight, sea breeze, the murmur of locals and travelers mingling side by side. Over the years it became a ritual — early evening or late night, the Malecon was where I felt the city breathe.
Eating in PV rewards the curious soul. Start your day slow at Pages in the Sun, a quiet café tucked away from the noise, perfect for coffee and reflection. Walk toward lunch and you’ll reach Pancho’s Takos — yes, there’s often a line, but the tacos (including veggie versions) are worth the wait. Need something comforting? Derby City Burgers delivers. Want something elevated? Reserve a table at Casa Kimberly, the former home of Elizabeth Taylor — ambiance, fine dining, and history rolled into one. When you want a more casual meal, El Pechugón serves takeout rotisserie chicken and potatoes; it’s simple but deeply satisfying. Coco’s Kitchen, just across from Tropicana, is a hidden gem for garden-style breakfasts. Serrano’s is surprisingly good for breakfast, despite being known as a steakhouse. And when you’re ready for a romantic night by the sea, La Palapa offers beachfront dinner with waves shimmering and the pier lights behind you.
When night descends, Zona Romantica becomes electric. Just across from Tropicana is Blondies, a two-story loft and slushbar with creative frozen cocktails and a relaxed but stylish upstairs lounge. You can check out Blondies’ official site here: Blondies PV (Blondies) or see reviews and details at their TripAdvisor page. (Tripadvisor)
On nights where I wanted a full show atmosphere, Paco’s Ranch was a go-to: drag, loud music, energy, locals and tourists. (Wikipedia) For elegant rooftop cocktails and vibrant evenings, La Noche always delivered. The Corner Bar, perched next to the ACT2 theater, offered cozy martinis and friendly vibes before or after a show. For dance floors and bold beats, CC Slaughters and Industry ramp things up. Before heading deep into the night, Mr. Flamingo served as my warm-up — a small outdoor tiki bar where people meet, chat, laugh, and get into momentum. (Yes, Mr. Flamingo is a staple in PV’s gay nightlife: a mixed crowd, open air, and by nightfall, serious party mode.) (Wikipedia)
If curiosity leads you to cheeky shows, Sixty Nine is an option (tip money recommended). And if you feel bold, Kooky Karaoke (or its newer incarnation) is there to amplify your voice in the streets. For daytime play, Mantamar Beach Club offers a beach-meet-party environment — DJs, sun, music, and people. It’s more indulgent, pricey, and sometimes packed, but perfect when you want to treat yourself. (Wikipedia)
No visit is complete without cabaret and drag theater. ACT2 is grand, Broadway-style, expansive. The Palm Cabaret is more intimate and playful. Miss Conception is a recurring star there, among others. Expect laughter, glitz, and performance that feels both local and polished.
When I wanted a break from beach days and nightlife, I wandered markets and shops. On Saturdays there’s a farmers market in the park — live music, local art, food stalls, and a mellow atmosphere. Along the Rio Cuale river you’ll find souvenir stalls and artisan goods, tucked off the main path, charming and serene. On Basilio Badillo street, Cassandras is a go-to for interesting jewelry. For bigger shopping, Galleria and La Isla malls are about a 250-peso taxi ride away; one is indoor (with a casino), the other is outdoors and breezy.
One of PV’s crown-jewel experiences is Rhythms of the Night. This theatrical dinner show blends acrobatics, dance, storytelling, candlelit ambiance, and open bar in a jungle-beach setting. You board a boat at sunset, sail across Banderas Bay, disembark at the secluded Las Caletas cove, follow torch-lit paths, enjoy a gourmet dinner, and watch the spectacular show. (vallarta-adventures.com) The VIP version offers preferential seating and priority boarding. (graylinevallarta.com) You can see the official listing via Vallarta Adventures here (vallarta-adventures.com) or check options at Amstar DMC. (Amstar DMC)
Another unforgettable outing is sailing aboard Ada Sailing. Occasionally arranged by friends or local hosts, this six-hour sail includes a three-course meal, open drinks, sun on deck, and sometimes even whale sightings when the season is right. It’s the kind of sea day that feels expansive and restorative.
Over the years I gathered a few practical habits that saved time, money, and stress. Always ask taxi drivers up front what the fare will be. From the airport to downtown expect something like 250 to 350 pesos; within Zona Romantica, nothing should cost more than about 200 pesos. If you’re out after 11 PM, I strongly recommend taking a taxi even if it seems walkable. Puerto Vallarta is generally safe, but late at night you want comfort and assurance.
I always pick up a local SIM card at an OXXO soon after arrival (≈ 200 pesos). It gives you data and a Mexican number, and often free calls across Mexico, the U.S., and Canada — incredibly useful for maps, messaging, coordinating meetups, or booking excursions spontaneously.
One caveat: most references I used date to 2022, so expect costs and offerings to have shifted slightly in 2025–2026. A rough trick I used to estimate costs: divide a peso amount by two, then drop a zero to get an approximate figure in Canadian dollars. It’s not exact, but it gives you a ballpark in your pocket.
Through those years, PV evolved: new bars opened, shows changed, hotels refreshed. But the spirit stayed the same. Zona Romantica still pulses with LGBTQ life, friendly nods, shared glances, music spilling into the night, and welcome arms. According to sources, Puerto Vallarta is often called Mexico’s top LGBT destination, and its Zona Romantica remains a hub for gay life, bars, beach clubs, and performance venues. (Wikipedia)
If you’re planning your first solo gay escape, Puerto Vallarta is a rare gem — one city that encourages both introspection and revelry. You arrive on your own, but you’ll leave with stories, new connections, and a sense that this place holds a corner of your heart.
Safe travels, wander well, and let the sea breeze carry you into stories you’ll want to revisit again.
