When it comes to choosing a vacation destination, it can be hard to decide between Cancun and Puerto Vallarta. Both offer incredible accommodations, fun activities, and beautiful views. But which one is the best for you?Overall, Cancun has a much larger hotel selection.
Cancun
has the edge over most places when it comes to hotels.But Puerto Vallarta has a more authentic Mexican atmosphere: Cancun is very Americanized. Therefore, opt for Cancun if you prefer big resorts and Puerto Vallarta if you prefer boutique hotels. When it comes to nightlife and food, both Cancun and Puerto Vallarta have a lot to offer. However, Puerto Vallarta is more popular in this regard, so if your trip is focused on nightlife and parties, it's your best bet. If you're looking for a warm tropical climate, head to Cancun.
If not, make Puerto Vallarta your vacation paradise. We have found that photovoltaics in winter are less humid than in Cancun, so it feels softer. Every couple is different, but overall, Puerto Vallarta is the best honeymoon destination. It's smaller and less spring break oriented, which means there's less noise and partying. Its idyllic coves and serene jungle-fringed beaches are perfect for romantic evenings, and the numerous charming restaurants are ideal for intimate dinners. Personally, I prefer Puerto Vallarta to Cancun.
But if you want to get to know Mexico's cenotes and historic sites, Cancun might be a better option. Choosing the winning accommodation between Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Maya (and Cancun) is a challenge because it really depends on your travel style. Downtown Puerto Vallarta has all the charm of the colonial atmosphere, with old buildings and cobblestone roads, art galleries and nice shops. Compared to Cancun, accommodations here are a bit cheaper, but most of all you can stay in the charming historic center and vibrant romantic area and yet be within walking distance of the beach. If you want to know common safety tips in Cancun, check out my post on How to Stay Safe While Traveling to Cancun. When you're in Puerto Vallarta, sometimes one of the best things you can do is get out of town and head to the closest special spots that make up the legendary magic of the Mexican Pacific.
Puerto Vallarta also has an international airport, Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR). Secrets Vallarta Bay is a short walk from the El Malecón boardwalk and sits on a pristine Pacific coast beach. Cancun's history dates back to its past as home to the Mayan people, and a trip here should include time spent learning about its history in museums and archaeological parks such as Chichén Itzá. Even though Puerto Vallarta isn't on the Caribbean coast, it's still as picturesque as Cancun. Although Puerto Vallarta isn't as focused on nightlife as Cancun, there are several great places to go out at night. Cancun is located at the tip of the Yucatan Peninsula just after the Gulf of Mexico meets the Caribbean Sea.
In addition to ancient wonders and cosmopolitan delights, the city's 22.5 km or 14-mile beach, underwater wonders across the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, cenotes and inland caves near the city of Cancun are Mother Nature's best gifts for this magical side of Mexico. Cancun, once home to Mayan civilization, is now a perfect gateway to learning more about fascinating Mayan history with many tours and excursions available. So can you swim in the ocean in Puerto Vallarta? Yes, but it won't be as pleasant as swimming in Cancun. After 7 years of living in Cancun I have decided to quit my job and explore my beloved Mexico while sharing my travel stories and offering useful tips for traveling to Mexico on and off the beaten track. In conclusion, both Cancun and Puerto Vallarta are two idyllic beach destinations that offer incredible accommodations, fun activities and beautiful views. It really depends on your travel style which one will be better for you.
