Any shopaholic knows that vacation time is shopping time, and it’s key that you have the best selection of bargains… this is why Puerto Vallarta is the destination for shopping enthusiasts of all persuasions. Just remember an extra suitcase for the way back.
Markets, Malls and Hidden Gems
Puerto Vallarta has plenty to offer to you: malls, independent stores and boutiques, high fashion, traditional fashion, jewellery of all descriptions, spice stores, open air flea markets, and piñata and candy shops as well as seasonal farmers markets can be found throughout Banderas Bay. If you need something a little closer to home there is also a Walmart and a Costco to shop in.
Here are our favourite places to shop in Puerto Vallarta.
Basilio Badillo
Over the years Basilio Badillo has changed almost immeasurably; the new theatres, restaurants, stores, and business have really put this street on the map. In fact the huge variety available and its proximity to the Garza Blanca Preserve have made it one of the most popular streets for shopping in the whole city. You can really get anything you need here, from swimwear to evening outfits and jewellery.
The owners of the businesses here know that making sure the street is pretty and interesting is part of what keeps it in this top spot. As such some have banded together to plant Bugambilia and organize weekly street parties on Friday nights which include live music and free drinks outside some stores.
If you want to chat to some of these business owners you should start with the Shaw Sisters, Candace and Cassandra, who own and run Cassandra Shaw Jewellery together as they are friendly, knowledgeable, and always have time to show off their new collection. They might even introduce you to one of the many foster dogs which pass through their store.
The Malecon
Puerto Vallarta has many landmarks, but the most iconic (man-made) one is undoubtedly the cities Boardwalk, otherwise called the “malecon”. This stretch of boardwalk by the sea has many shopping opportunities for people: jewellery stores, boutiques, clothing stores, bars, and great places to eat. Myskova Resort-wear is a great place to get original designer fashion, and it’s very popular with locals and tourists alike. Why not check out a few of the handicraft boutiques before you sit down and enjoy an ice-cream on the boardwalks benches.
There are also specialty leather and tequila shops which really set the Malecon apart from other places and shopping experiences. The evenings on the boardwalk are the best part of the day; the sun isn’t as hot, the breeze is gentle, and the sunsets are gorgeous. We recommend that you try some of the delicious chilli and chips, or thin crepes that you can get here. The local topping on offer are utterly wonderful.
Isla Rio Cuale Flea Market
Isla Rio Cuale is one of the most unique and lovely spots in the city, and better still it is an amazing spot for tourist shopping. This area of Puerto Vallarta can be accessed via two hanging bridges or the stair at Oscars… there is also access by the River Café restaurants. This is a great place to enjoy some open air shopping, a wonderful environment, and even see the iguanas and pelicans here.
Galerias Vallarta
If you’re a lover of a good mall then Galerias Vallarta is definitely for you. This mall has a Casino, movie theatre, food fair, kids area, Liverpool luxury department store, and many beautiful boutiques. This is an air conditioned haven in the heat of the day, and there are various places to eat. Beware! You will not leave Galerias Vallarta mall empty-handed.
Plaza Caracol
Plaza Caracol is very popular with the locals and has been for decades. Situated in the very heart of the Puerto Vallarta hotel zone this is a shoppers haven. You can explore safe in the knowledge that this mall not only has a variety of stores, but that you have the Soriana Superstore as a base for any essentials you might need. From suntan lotion to beachwear and snacks, it’s all here!
The Puerto Vallarta Art Walk
Art lovers who visit Puerto Vallarta should definitely make time to follow the Puerto Vallarta Art Walk as it is one of the best ways to, firstly, see the city and, secondly, to see some of the art which is being produced here. If you see something you like you can buy it and the gallery will ship it to your home, or you could get your airline to assist you in the in-flight art guidelines. The business owner very generously provides wine for these groups each Wednesday, too, so it’s a real night out.
Market Fun
Over the last 3 years or so the market scene in Puerto Vallarta has really grown; farmers markets are now held on a weekly basis during the winter high season. You can find such markets all over the city, but most noticeably in:
Old Town
Marina Vallarta
Bucerias
Nuevo Vallarta
Sayulita
Marina La Cruz.
You can ask your concierge when you arrive what days of the week these markets will be held upon, and how to best get to them from your hotel.
La Isla shopping Mall
Keep your eyes peeled for the La Isla shopping mall which is set to open in Puerto Vallarta’s Hotel zone some time in 2017. This will be an open air shopping heaven.
