Thinking of visiting Puerto Vallarta with kids and wondering where to stay? This charming Mexican beach town on the Pacific Coast is known for its cobblestone streets, vibrant culture, and breathtaking sunsets. But it’s also a surprisingly great destination for families!
See how we spent our 7 days there, along with all the things we researched and planned to do with our kids (even though we didn’t manage to hit them all!). It’s a mix of real experiences and helpful ideas to make your next family trip to Mexico even better.
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Why Puerto Vallarta is a Great Choice for Families
Puerto Vallarta combines natural beauty, warm hospitality, and modern amenities that make it easy to travel with children. Whether you’re building sandcastles on the beach, exploring the Malecon (a beachside boardwalk with sculptures and street performers), or spending the day playing at the pool and sliding down water slides, there’s no shortage of things to do for kids of all ages.
Plus, with many hotels offering an all-inclusive experience, planning your trip becomes so much easier. Meals, drinks, entertainment, kids’ clubs, and activities are often included, meaning you can focus less on logistics and more on making memories. If you’re looking for a stress-free family getaway, Puerto Vallarta can be one of the easiest and most rewarding destinations to plan.
Getting There
Puerto Vallarta is easily accessible from many major U.S. cities, with plenty of direct flight options available. We personally flew from Seattle on a direct flight, which made the journey especially smooth with kids. Flight times from the U.S. typically range between 3 to 5 hours, depending on your departure city.
Kid-friendly plane ideas
- Download Audible audiobooks (Percy Jackson or Magic Tree House are great series).
- Bring coloring books, snack packs, and a couple of surprise toys.
- Load up tablets with kid movies or educational games to help pass the time.
Amazon Audible is a game-changer for family road trips! With thousands of audiobooks for all ages, Audible keeps kids entertained for hours—no screens needed. From magical adventures like Harry Potter to thrilling quests like Percy Jackson, there’s something for every age and interest. It’s a fun and educational way to pass the miles, spark imagination, and even make those “Are we there yet?” moments disappear.am
Airport Arrival Tips: What to Know Before You Land
Once you land in Puerto Vallarta, be prepared—the airport exit can feel overwhelming. As of recent years, the number of aggressive salespeople pushing timeshares or vacation memberships has noticeably increased.
Here’s what happened to us: even though we pre-booked a private van with Grayline through Costco, we got caught up talking to someone inside the airport while trying to find the right person. Everyone was being pointed in different directions, and it got confusing quickly.
Important tips
- Don’t talk to anyone inside the airport unless you are 100% sure they’re your designated pickup person. (I wish we did this!)
- Walk quickly through the arrival hall and exit the building as fast as you can.
- Once outside, look for official transportation representatives holding signs (ours had a Grayline/Costco sign and was waiting just beyond the exit).
- Alternatively, order an Uber from your phone once you’re outside for a stress-free ride.
In general, Mexico has a strong tourism sales culture, so you’ll encounter lots of people trying to sell excursions, transportation, and timeshares. Stay firm, polite, and keep moving to avoid getting sidetracked.
Choosing Hotels vs. Vacation Rentals
When planning where to stay, we strongly recommend opting for a hotel or an all-inclusive resort over vacation rentals, especially for first-time travelers to Puerto Vallarta.
Why we prefer hotels and all-inclusives:
- Safety: Resorts and hotels typically have 24/7 security, gated entrances, and trusted staff, offering peace of mind for families.
- Convenience: Onsite restaurants, pools, kids’ clubs, activities, and easy beach access mean you don’t have to leave the property often, which can be a huge plus with young children.
- Support: If you need anything (like a doctor, transportation, or childcare), hotels have established services ready to help.
Noticed the Military? Here’s Why That’s (Surprisingly) Reassuring
One thing we noticed during our stay was the visible presence of armed Mexican military personnel patrolling popular tourist beaches and areas near larger resorts. It was initially a bit surprising to see soldiers with large guns walking around, especially when you’re vacationing with kids. However, our hotel explained that these patrols are actually meant to provide added security—they help deter drug-related activity, which in the past had been more common in certain areas.
While the sight of heavily armed guards may feel alarming at first, it can also offer a certain peace of mind knowing that the area is being actively monitored and protected—especially around family-centric resorts. This is another reason we lean toward resorts versus vacation rentals, which may not benefit from the same level of nearby security or emergency support.
Overall, if you’re visiting Puerto Vallarta with kids for the first time, staying at a family-friendly resort or hotel makes the experience smoother, safer, and a lot more enjoyable.
-- Where We Stayed: Dreams Vallarta Bay All-Inclusive --
Why We Chose Dreams Vallarta Bay
This was our first time visiting Mexico, but we were traveling with friends who had been many times before. As we researched where to stay, we quickly realized an all-inclusive resort would be the easiest and most enjoyable option for our group, especially with kids.
Family Must-Haves
One of our daughters had one big request: a resort with a water slide! At the same time, some of the husbands wanted to make sure there was a good selection of whiskey and tequila—and they were thrilled to find that they could order plenty of Johnnie Walker Black and 1800 Añejo Tequila at the resort’s bars.
The moms (myself included!) were focused on finding a place with multiple on-site restaurants. We needed options to satisfy both adventurous foodies and picky young eaters. Whether that meant grabbing burgers and fries poolside or sitting down for sushi or Italian one night, variety was a must.
After looking at several options, we landed on Dreams Vallarta Bay, a higher-end all-inclusive resort that checked all the boxes. One of the husbands had previously stayed at a Dreams resort elsewhere in Mexico and also at Secrets Vallarta Bay (the adults-only side of the same property) and had great memories of the experience.
Another big plus: Dreams is part of Hyatt, a brand we already love and frequently stay with in the U.S.—so we felt confident about the service and amenities even before arriving.
Exceptional Staff and Service
The staff at Dreams Vallarta Bay truly go above and beyond to make your stay special. From the ever-attentive poolside servers—who may or may not have been extra speedy thanks to our friendly tipping—to the cheerful morning barista at Coco Café who, by day two, greeted me with a smile and asked, “Double shot soy lattes again?” before I could even speak.
Tipping Goes a Long Way
While gratuities are technically included in the all-inclusive package, we found that a little extra appreciation made the service feel even more personal. We typically tipped $1 to $5, depending on the situation—$1 for a quick drink by the pool, and more after a wonderful dinner or standout service.
Pools for Every Age (and Vibe)
Dreams Vallarta Bay has multiple pools, and each one seems to serve a specific purpose—which worked out perfectly for our crew.
Kiddie Pool for the Littles
There’s a shallow kiddie pool that’s about 1.5 feet deep, which was absolutely perfect for our 3-year-old. She could splash, float, and wade around comfortably while we relaxed nearby. It was just the right size and depth for toddlers to play safely without needing to be held the whole time.
Waterslide Fun for Bigger Kids
Our 7-year-old basically claimed the pool with the waterslide as her second home. She and her friends ran a loop from the pool to the top of the slide and back again like it was a full-time job. It kept them entertained for hours and gave us a chance to sit back and enjoy.
For Everyone Else (Including Grown-Ups)
In addition to the kids’ favorites, there are two other pools on the property. One has a swim-up bar, which—unsurprisingly—became the husbands’ favorite hangout. Something about sitting waist-deep in a pool while sipping tequila and not having to get out to order another drink just really spoke to them on a spiritual level.
Whether you’re a toddler learning to swim, a kid racing down the slide, or a grown-up pretending the swim-up bar is the height of innovation, there’s a pool for everyone at Dreams.
A Hit with the Kids: The Explorer’s Club
All of the kids in our group absolutely loved the Explorer’s Club. Initially, we sent them there for just two hours while the parents snuck away for a relaxing spa afternoon together. But they had such a blast, they begged to go back again and again!
At one point, our kids were jumping up and down excitedly at the check-in desk, telling the staff they had already been there three times—and couldn’t wait to get in again.
The Explorer’s Club offered:
- Tons of coloring sheets they proudly brought back to us, featuring everything from Pokémon to Disney princesses.
- An outdoor playground, splash pad, rock climbing wall, and even a mini soccer field.
- Face painting, movie time, and planned group activities throughout the day.
- They even take the kids to lunch and dinner if they’re signed in during meal hours.
It was so fun and engaging that we parents didn’t feel guilty dropping them off again after their first fun experience. While they were happily playing and being cared for, we were able to enjoy peaceful spa sessions and even have a quiet, adult-only dinner. It made the trip feel like a true vacation for the parents, too.
Hotel Activities: Fun All Day (and Night)
Dreams Vallarta Bay keeps the schedule full with daily activities that cater to all ages—from sunrise to well past bedtime. Whether you’re into peaceful mornings or upbeat evening fun, there’s something for everyone.
Silent Party (One of the Kids’ Favorites!)
One of the surprise hits of our trip was the silent party held in the main lobby area. After dinner, both kids and adults were handed headphones, each with multiple music channels to choose from. Everyone danced to their own beat—literally. It was hilarious and heartwarming to watch the kids grooving with giant smiles on their faces, switching channels mid-move to see what their friends were listening to. They couldn’t stop talking about it afterward and asked if we could go again every night.
Nighttime Theater Shows
Each evening, the resort also puts on live shows at their outdoor theater. Seating is comfortable, and the shows range from dance performances and cultural acts to musical tributes. It was a fun way to wind down the evening with the family after dinner, and the kids loved the lights, music, and stage excitement.
Morning Wellness and Water Adventures
For the early birds in our group (not us, but definitely some of our friends!), the resort offers morning yoga on paddle boards—yes, floating yoga! It looked peaceful and challenging all at once. There’s also the option to take out kayaks from the beach, great for a calm start to the day if you’re up and energized early.
Dining at Dreams Vallarta Bay
One of the best parts about staying at an all-inclusive resort? You can order what you want, when you want—without worrying about the bill. Don’t feel bad ordering two appetizers and two entrees; portions tend to be on the smaller side, and it’s a great way to try more dishes.
They also have a kids’ menu at most restaurants with the usual favorites—cheeseburgers, hot dogs, corn dogs, mac and cheese, and more. Perfect for picky eaters.
Carnival – The International Buffet
Carnival – This is the resort’s international buffet. It was our go-to for breakfast, with a huge variety from made-to-order omelets to pastries, pancakes, and fresh fruit. During dinner, the buffet features rotating themed nights. We especially loved the BBQ night with a wide variety of grilled meats. The beef short ribs were a crowd favorite!
Tamarindo – Fresh Mexican Flavors
The resort’s Mexican restaurant, a hit with the parents. One of the highlights was the fresh guacamole cart—a staff member rolled it around and made it right in front of us, to our spice and lime preference. The atmosphere was casual but elegant, and the flavors were bold and authentic.
Himitsu – Hibachi & Asian Cuisine
This is the Asian cuisine restaurant, and the kids’ favorite thanks to the hibachi show. The chef cooks right at your table with fun tricks and flames—so much fun for the whole family.
Important tip: Reservations are required for the hibachi tables. You can make them the morning of, starting in the main lobby. We got in line at 9:45 AM and were already 8th in line. Thankfully, since we eat early with the kids, the 5:30 PM time slot was still available. They only have three hibachi tables, with seatings at 5:30 PM, 7:00 PM, and then every 1.5 hours until 10:00 PM.
Capers – Elegant Italian Dining for Adults Only
Capers is the resort’s adults-only Italian restaurant, offering a romantic atmosphere and a refined à la carte menu. It’s perfect for a quiet dinner while the kids enjoy time at the Explorer’s Club. The fresh pasta and wine pairings were a highlight—and just a heads-up, Capers is closed on Mondays, and men are required to wear pants, so pack accordingly!
Coco Café – Coffee, Ice Cream & Midday Treats
Coco became a daily stop for our crew. The kids loved the ice cream, while the parents kept the espresso and latte orders flowing. By day two, the barista already knew our double-shot soy latte order by heart. It’s the perfect grab-and-go spot for a pick-me-up or post-pool snack.
Whether it’s international, Mexican, or teppanyaki-style, there’s truly something for everyone at Dreams Vallarta Bay.
Overall, if you’re visiting Puerto Vallarta with kids for the first time, staying at a family-friendly resort or hotel makes the experience smoother, safer, and a lot more enjoyable.
Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta with Kids
While we spent most of our time enjoying the comforts of Dreams Vallarta Bay, we did manage to venture out for a couple of memorable family-friendly adventures. With young kids in tow, we made a conscious effort to stay closer to the city and avoid venturing too far—definitely a shift from our pre-kid travel style, where day trips and spontaneous excursions were the norm. Being in a new country where we don’t speak the native language, we stuck to easy-to-navigate activities that felt low-stress and doable with little ones.
Here’s what we ended up doing (and a few things we had planned but didn’t quite make it to).
Swim with Dolphins: A Highlight of the Trip
One of the standout activities was our visit to Dolphin Adventure, where our kids got to swim with dolphins up close. There are multiple dolphin swim packages available at different price points. We chose Dolphin Adventure because it was more affordable than similar experiences in Hawaii, but still well-run and professional.
That said, photos and videos can get pricey. Be prepared—if you want the professional shots from your swim, it may cost almost as much as the experience itself. One of the moms in our group who had a baby stayed on the sidelines and managed to take some photos and videos from afar. But keep in mind that this might not always work, depending on which dolphin pool your group is assigned to.
Still, our kids loved the experience. It’s not every day you get to touch, swim, and interact with a real dolphin!
Exploring the Malecón Boardwalk (a Kid-Sized Hike)
Another adventure we tried was walking the famous Malecón Boardwalk. We took an Uber from our hotel to Hotel Rosita, which is a convenient starting point if you want to walk the full stretch. Bonus: they have restrooms inside (which they our kids use), just off the right side of the lobby—essential when traveling with little kids! If that hadn’t worked out, there’s a McDonald’s right outside that was going to be our plan B bathroom and snack stop.
If your kids are up for walking, try to make it to the beautiful Los Muertos Beach Pier at the end. It’s a scenic route with street performers, art sculptures, snack stands, and little souvenir shops along the way.
Note: Our kids were already complaining about the heat about five minutes in—so maybe time this one for early morning or late afternoon when the sun isn’t blazing!
Walking along Nuevo Nayarit Beach
Another option we looked into was spending a morning or afternoon at Nuevo Nayarit Beach, formerly known as Nuevo Vallarta Beach. It’s located north of Puerto Vallarta in the state of Nayarit and is known for its long, flat, and walkable shoreline—ideal for families with strollers or younger kids who want space to run around.
The beach is clean, quiet, and less crowded than the central beaches near the Malecón. It’s lined with resorts, including the Grand Velas Riviera Resort (which we seriously considered staying at), and has easy access points along the hotel zone.
Is Nuevo Vallarta Beach swimmable?
Yes! The beach is swimmable and great for families. The waves are generally gentle and predictable, making it a good spot for wading, swimming, and even beginner-level boogie boarding. Lifeguards are stationed near some of the resort areas, and the water is shallow for quite a distance—just keep an eye on the usual beach flags for safe swimming zones.
If you’re looking for a change of scenery without too much effort, Nuevo Nayarit Beach is a great low-key, swimmable beach option just a short drive from most resorts.
El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary: An Off-the-Beaten-Path Wildlife Adventure
If you’ve got kids who are animal lovers—or if you’re looking to break up beach time with something unique—El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary is a fascinating spot just outside Nuevo Vallarta, about a 30–40 minute drive from central Puerto Vallarta.
This small, locally run conservation center focuses on rescuing, rehabilitating, and protecting crocodiles and other native wildlife. It’s not a big commercial zoo, and that’s part of the charm. The experience feels intimate, educational, and just wild enough to thrill the kids (and honestly, the grown-ups too).
You’ll find a mix of crocs, turtles, parrots, coatis, and other rescued animals, and if you catch one of the guided tours, you’ll hear stories about how they were rescued and how the sanctuary helps reintroduce animals back into the wild when possible.
One of the most exciting parts? Depending on the timing, kids may get to watch the crocodiles being fed—safely, of course, and with a guide explaining what’s going on. The sanctuary also has a small jungle trail you can walk along to see the animals in their more natural habitat.
Good to know:
- It’s best to call or message ahead via their Facebook page, as they sometimes close for weather or staff availability.
- Bring bug spray—this is a tropical environment, and the mosquitoes know it.
- There’s a small entrance fee, and donations go toward animal care and conservation efforts.
Pirate Ship Dinner Cruise: Swashbuckling Fun for the Whole Family
If your kids are into pirates, sword fights, or simply love a good adventure on the water, the Marigalante Pirate Ship Dinner Cruise in Puerto Vallarta might just be one of the most unique evening experiences available.
Yes—kids are absolutely allowed, and in fact, the entire event is designed to entertain both adults and children. It’s part live-action show, part sunset cruise, and part dinner with a view, all rolled into one unforgettable outing.
What to Expect:
The pirate ship sets sail from Puerto Vallarta’s marina in the early evening. Boarding usually begins around 5:30 PM, and the cruise wraps up around 9:30 PM—making it a perfect after-dinner event (or a great substitute for dinner altogether). Exact timing can vary slightly by season, so it’s best to confirm when you book.
Once aboard, guests are greeted by costumed pirates who stay in character the entire time. There are sword-fighting scenes, fireworks, acrobatics, and plenty of audience participation. The humor is cheeky and family-friendly—so while parents will get a laugh, it’s totally appropriate for younger audiences.
Kids even get a treasure map and are included in games and activities during the cruise. Many families say this was one of their children’s favorite parts of the trip!
Food and Drink
The ticket includes a sit-down dinner with your choice of entrée (usually options like steak, chicken, fish, or vegetarian) and open bar for adults. Servers will check in with families during the show, and there’s a kids’ menu available as well.
Tips for Parents
- Bring motion sickness meds just in case—though the bay is generally calm, the ship does move.
- Strollers aren’t ideal on the ship, so consider a baby carrier for younger ones.
- Book ahead! This popular attraction sells out often, especially on weekends and during holidays.
Whether you’re sailing with little buccaneers or just want a family evening that’s different from resort shows and beach bonfires, the Pirate Ship Dinner Cruise delivers adventure, laughs, and a one-of-a-kind night in Puerto Vallarta.
Other All-Inclusive Resorts We Considered
When planning our Puerto Vallarta trip, we knew we wanted something special. Since we love to travel around and explore new places, we figured this might be our first and last time in Puerto Vallarta—not because we didn’t love it, but because there are only so many spring and summer breaks to see the world with kids in tow. So we decided to opt for a higher-end experience this time, one that would give us great memories and check all the boxes for comfort, fun, and family-friendly vibes.
That said, if we do return to Puerto Vallarta in the future, we’d love to try Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit—it’s definitely still on our radar for a more luxurious splurge.
Here are a few other all-inclusive resorts that made our short list:
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit – 5-Star Luxury for Families
If you’re looking to go all out on luxury, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit delivers. This AAA Five Diamond all-inclusivein Nuevo Nayarit is known for top-tier service, fine dining, and a peaceful beachfront setting.
From the moment you arrive—yes, there’s a welcome neck massage—you’ll notice the elevated touches. The spacious ocean-view suites come with thoughtful family amenities like baby gear, nightly turndown treats, and in-room espresso machines.
Foodies will love the seven on-site restaurants, featuring everything from French and Italian to gourmet Mexican and Asian fusion. It’s some of the best food you’ll find at an all-inclusive. And while the experience is upscale, most restaurants still welcome kids with open arms and flexible menus.
And let’s talk about the kids’ perks. There’s a Kids’ Club and Teens’ Club, complete with age-appropriate games, crafts, and activities. Parents can take advantage of the world-class spa (also award-winning), or lounge by the infinity pool while the kids are happily entertained.
It’s definitely a splurge—but if we return to Puerto Vallarta, Grand Velas would be at the top of our list. It’s the kind of place that turns a vacation into something unforgettable.
Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta – Private Cove Feel
Hyatt Ziva was high on our list, especially since it’s part of the Hyatt brand we already love and trust. This resort is tucked into a secluded cove south of downtown Puerto Vallarta, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning ocean views. Its more remote location means it feels peaceful and private, but it’s also a bit farther from the main town area, shops, and Malecon—something to consider if you plan to explore off-property often.
Compared to Dreams and Grand Velas, Hyatt Ziva felt a little smaller in scale. That’s not necessarily a downside—it actually has a more intimate, relaxed vibe that some families may prefer. It still delivers with multiple pools, solid dining options, and family-friendly suites. However, we ultimately picked Dreams for its central location, water slide, and robust kids’ program, but Hyatt Ziva is definitely high on our list for a future visit.
Final Thoughts: A Vacation Worth Repeating
Puerto Vallarta was our first international trip with young kids, and we’re so glad we chose it. Between the all-inclusive ease, the beautiful beaches, and the family-friendly activities, it struck the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure—not just for the kids, but for us parents too.
While we didn’t check everything off our list (thanks to a few heat-induced meltdowns and the undeniable pull of the resort pool), we made plenty of memories, soaked in the sun, and even found time for grown-up moments—something that doesn’t always happen on family vacations.
If you’re considering a tropical getaway with kids, Puerto Vallarta is a fantastic first step into international travel as a family. It’s welcoming, accessible, and full of little surprises that make every day feel like an adventure. We’re already talking about coming back—maybe when the kids can handle a full walk down the Malecón without asking to be carried!
