Queer travel expert Jack Kenworthy turns 250+ city adventures into your guide for safe, vibrant, and inclusively fabulous global journeys.
Hugging the twinkling blue Bahía de Banderas and backed by verdant palm-covered Sierra Madre mountains, Gay Puerto Vallarta is one of the world’s most famous gay destinations!
A small city with astounding sandy beaches, boutique shopping, world-class dining and a tantalizing malecón (boardwalk), it’s no wonder the gays have made this their home! Puerto Vallarta first burst upon the international jet set scene after the filming of the “Night of the Iguana” with Liz Taylor, but it was not until the 90s that an LGBT industry popped up after the opening of the “Club Paco Paco”.
While originally there was some local resistance, this success spurred to life an entire gay village which continues to grow even today as other traditional gay beach destinations wane – like Mykonos, Key West, Palm Springs, and Fire Island.
There is no shortage of epic gay clubs, laid-back cocktail bars, gay hotels, or sexy hombre in the Zona Romantico, Puerto Vallarta’s Gay District – but today, LGBT travelers will be welcomed almost everywhere in this tolerant and gay-friendly beachside town.
In fact, Mexico, in general, is becoming increasingly gay-friendly as long-ingrained cultural mindsets change, as evidenced by the bustling gay scene in cities like Guadalajara, Monterrey, Queretaro, and Puebla.
Affordable luxury, your global queer family, tropical heat, and wild nightlife are just some of the highlights of Gay Puerto Vallarta, but there are many, many more. After all, there must be a reason why so gay travelers return here year after year after year…
Are you relocating? This guide will help travelers discover the queerer side of the city. However, if you are lucky enough to be considering a move here, we recommend getting in touch with a local gay realtor. They can happily give you no-obligation advice and all the information you'll ever need to know about your new city. And if you then want their help to find your dream home, you are guaranteed fair, equal, and honest representation. No surprises or awkward conversations necessary!
In this article we will cover...
Attractions in Puerto Vallarta
Naturally, being gay does not define which attractions most of us will want to see in each destination, and most queer travelers will simply want to check out the top things to see in Puerto Vallarta during the day!
We found it hard to tempt ourselves away from the fabulous gay beach resort, or our luxurious hotel suites after a long night of partying – but if you’re the active type, there is plenty of things to do in Puerto Vallarta.
Here are just a few of our favorites, most of which you can do with a leisurely tour direct from your resort – or rent a car and make your own adventure!
Things To Do in Puerto Vallarta
Delight upon the fiery flavors of Mexican cuisine as you shop in an energetic market for fresh produce; visit an old-fashioned tortilla factory and gain knowledge of the regional culinary customs. Then, learn the customary cooking techniques with a local chef who will teach you recipes like fish ceviche!
Puerto Vallarta Gay Beach
Just a few minutes’ walks from the Romantic Zone is the legendary Playa Los Muertos, an international party hotspot for gay boys who love to frolic in the turquoise seas or relax in upscale gay beach clubs. Very cruisy and great for people-watching.
Puerto Vallarta City Highlights Tour
Appreciate the tourist attractions of Puerto Vallarta on this comprehensive tour around the downtown, Los Arcos, and Mismaloya Beach. Stroll the Malecón, see the dazzling coastal scenery, and visit an actual tequila distillery for a quick tasting. Perfect for first-time visitors to gay PV.
Get your pulse race with this exhilarating day tip choices packed with extreme activities in the nearby Sierra Madre Mountains ecological jungle park, including UTV, rappelling, and canopy zip line. Or if you are not really an adrenaline hunter, why not try hiking deep into the forest of the mountains and soak in the lush landscape?
This is beautiful Mexico, after all, and it would be a shame to leave without having strayed more than a few blocks from your resort!
Investigate the wonderful marine life of the Mexican Pacific and the Bay of Banderas on this exciting day trip from Puerta Vallarta. Snorkel to witness an unbelievable underwater wonderland, then kayak above it, complete with exotic birds flying overhead. Spot dolphins, whales, giant manta rays, sea turtles and more – Yes, all the wonders of nature are there for you on this eco-adventure.
Engross yourself in the magical mysticism of Las Caletas by night this enchanting evening. Watch the sun drift into the iridescent sea as you sail into a secluded beach for a gourmet 3-course meal complete with romantic candlelight and the renowned Rhythms of the Night show.
Skip town and head off to Toriles and Tequila as you explore ancient Aztec ruins, traditional tequila distilleries, and historic architecture. With expert guidance, you’ll see mysterious buildings and petroglyphs, then study how locally-grown agave plants are transformed into delicious tequila.
Spoil yourself with a tour of Puerto Vallarta’s gourmet scene to unearth progressive dining and award-winning establishments. Try dishes such as mahi-mahi, chicken Asado and slow-roasted pork, as well as several delightful cocktails (because why not!). A novel way to experience authentic Mexican fare with a gourmet twist!
Gay Events in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta Carnival
Previously more gay-focused, but very much now a festival for everyone to celebrate diversity. Gay, straight, male, female, old and young, unicorn or Mormon, everyone gets on this epic party with colorful floats, street performances, dances and plenty of beads! Held annually in March.
The biggest bear gathering in Mexico, and the largest in North America outside of the USA. An entire week of masculine fun with multiple pool parties, night events and a boost cruise. This annual Bear and Leather Party takes place in January and brings all of the bears from Mexico’s northern neighbors out of hibernation.
White Party Thanksgiving Circuit Event
An epic pool party to end the Northern summer in style. The biggest event is the sunset pool party at the Manatamar Beach Club, but plenty of other LGBT clubs in Puerto Vallarta get in on the fun with their own parties. Expect plenty of shirtless, gorgeous men in sexy underwear that does not leave much room for the imagination.
One of the most important annual gay events in Puerto Vallarta, this colorful Pride is held in May when the weather is milder, but the atmosphere is truly electric. The main parade takes place on Saturday night and is attended by upwards of 30,000 people, but there is a whole host of activities throughout Pride Week, including art walks, circuit parties, pool parties and the Lazaro Cardenas Park Party.
Gay-Friendly / Gay Accommodation in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is one of the biggest gay vacation destinations on the planet, and pretty much every hotel and resort in Puerto Vallarta can be considered open and welcome to LGBT travelers. – after all, being gay-friendly is not all about upscale luxury, but about providing friendly service and welcoming guests without prejudice!
However, everybody likes to be surrounded by people with common interests, and as such, there are a few hotels in Puerto Vallarta favored by the gay jet set. The Hotel Zone of Puerto Vallarta offers most of the massive hotel’s all-inclusive resorts, but if you are only in town to experience the gay beach and gay nightlife of Puerto Vallarta, you should stay close to the Zona Romantica gaybourhood.
The following gay-friendly hotels in Puerto Vallarta are only the most popular with gay, but there are hundreds of other hotels in Puerto Vallarta if you don’t find quite what you are looking for. Location here is everything so take a look at our gay map of Puerto Vallarta at the end of this guide to make sure you are where you need to be.
Whether you want a fun and social hostel, a cheap place to crash after a night of partying or a chic designer option to sip cocktails poolside and surround yourself with fabulous people – Gay Puerto Vallarta has something for everyone!
Zona Romantica Gay Hotels Puerto Vallarta
The only gay luxury beachfront hotel in Puerto Vallarta. From luxury suites to libidinous facilities, fabulous pool parties, and sunsets like nowhere else on earth, this unique LGBT resort is one of the world’s best gay party venues – and right in the very famous Zona Romantica Gayborhood Devised with style-conscious in mind and set right in the center of all the action,
Almar Resort certainly knows how to throw a party. Each summer, well-heeled queer partygoers and gay celebrities jet set to Almar Resort for travel in style and comfort – and the parties in variously end up on Tik-Tok!
The property comprises two structures: the independent and slightly quieter Almar Tower – with its gorgeous sea-view rooms, and the happening Mantamar Tower, where the pool parties and special events are right at your door.
The most exceptional luxury boutique hotel in the Zona Romantica and the original gay guest house in Puerto Vallarta now expanded to a 19-room hotel with a worldwide reputation for sophisticated luxury and relaxing hospitality. An anchor of the local LGBT community, this is our favorite Puerto Vallarta gay resort for high-energy DJ pool parties, gourmet breakfast’s in bed or fun gay day tours.
Pinnacle Resort ☆☆☆☆
(Temporarily or permanently closed. If you know something, please suggest an edit.)
A first-class hotel combining the best of two worlds: the colorful qualities of traditional Mexico and the luxury and sophistication of modern services – all right in the heart of the Romantic Zone. Offering stunning views from their superb clifftop location with a wide-ranging variety of suites with unique designs, outdoor jacuzzis and more.
Close to Playa Los Muertos, we are obsessed with this ambitious Boho-contemporary Mexican design hotel. The hotel’s rooftop pool and bar boast panoramic views of the ocean, the Sierra Madre Mountains, Puerto Vallarta’s icon sunsets, and the region’s tropical beaches, while their street-level café and restaurant serve coastal Mexican cuisine amid the vibrancy of the Zona Romantica.
A lush beachfront hotel with a gay beach, Los Muertos, is just steps away. The traditional Mexican-style rooms boast balconies with sea views.; there is a private section of beach to enjoy, an outdoor pool and a relaxed seafood restaurant.
An exclusively all-male hotel in Puerto Vallarta with a clothing-optional pool + hot tub and laid-back rooms featuring (amongst other things) exposed brick walls, designer art, exceedingly comfortable beds, and Dr. Bronner’s organic and fair trade soaps.
There is also a vibrant bar, an open-air gym, regular social events and gay tours – and all are only a short walk from the Puerto Vallarta gay scene. A fabulous example of a boutique gay hotel, custom designed and built by dedicated owners David and Ronny, who want nothing more than to provide their guests with a sophisticated yet fun stay.
A popular gay hotel in Puerto Vallarta with friendly service, exceptional value, gourmet breakfast and an unbeatable location in the heart of the Gay neighborhood (Zona Romantica). The swimming pool is open 24 hours a day; there is a pool bar open until late and clean – if somewhat dated – rooms.
The first gay hostel gay in Puerto Vallarta for youth between 18 – 35 years old and all just minutes from the gay clubs, beach, and bars. Surprisingly clean and modern, with privacy curtains and rain showers, we think Jet’s Gay Hostel is the perfect way to meet cute guys, get info on the local scene and save some pesos while you are at it!
Hotel Zone Gay-Friendly Hotels
A beachfront adults-only resort overlooking the mountains and the bay. The upscale all-inclusive luxury offers stunning rooms – any with terraces, swim-out pool access or even private plunge pools. Among the many amenities are eight restaurants, four bars, an infinity pool, a well-equip gym, spa, theater and off-property three golf courses.
An all-inclusive beachfront resort providing exceptional service and contemporary luxury. The laid-back rooms offer ocean views, and included in the all-inclusive dining package are three international restaurants and a bar. There is also a large outdoor pool, hot tub, rejuvenating spa, tennis court, and gym.
A modern, airy resort with fantastic sea views, a poolside bar, and activities including scuba diving, yoga, and beach volleyball. One of the most popular hotels for gay travelers who choose to stay in the Hotel Zone.
Gay Nightlife in Puerto Vallarta
Those looking for wild nightlife will not be disappointed by Gay Puerto Vallarta – and just need to head to the Zona Romantico, where all the gay bars and clubs are located. Expect plenty of sexy strippers, affordable drinks, and epic music that tempts you to dance until sunrise.
This is one of Gay Mexico’s most desirable and expensive locations, however – and will cost you more than your typical gay beach holiday in Phuket or still cheaper than Cancun, Key West or Mykonos however…
Depending on your mood, you can find anything here, from a relaxed margarita in an upscale bar to a euphoria-inducing rave surrounded by your queer family!
Most bars and clubs are packed from midnight until the early morning, with a mix of tourists and a few locals. Just stay safe, leave any valuables at home and catch ride-shares or taxis between your accommodation and different venues late at night.
Gay Bars in Puerto Vallarta
A stylish gay tiki bar giving us severe Hawaii vibes. This new kid on the block has quickly become one of the go-to spots for gay life in Puerto Vallarta thanks to their daily happy hour from 2 till 7 pm, cute staff and delicious drinks.
God Save the Queen! A royal-themed gay dive bar in Puerto Vallarta – Figure? A fun place to drop by for a few drinks with occasional theme parties and drag queens, who are significantly more fun than Queen Lizzy.
A friendly Mexican gay bar in a central location, making it the perfect place to meet locals, get pointers for Gay Puerto Vallarta or enjoy their all-you-can-drink promotions. Fiesta Bar boasts a long Happy hour daily, and amusing drag shows later in the night. **Fiesta Bar & Lounge is recorded closed at this location. If it’s incorrectly closed, please contact us**
A popular mixed/gay piano and jazz bar, perfect for enjoying a few drinks earlier in the night with live music.
Backstage Martini Bar – Mouth-watering Martinis, hip music, and beautiful waiters are the mainstays of this fun cocktail bar in the heart of the Puerto Vallarta gay zone. Perfect for hanging out or relaxed conversations with friends.
A new gay bar close to the famous La Noche gay club with amazing bartenders and no-attitude vibes. Upbeat music videos play on the wall, and their frozen strawberry margarita is life-affirming. No gimmicks, but a great place to stop off on your Gay Puerto Vallarta night out!
A gay bar with plenty of eye candy and frozen cocktails. There is fun pop art decor matched with Top 40 music, and we loved enjoying the ocean breezes and the sounds of summer from the second-floor loft.
A small, almost hidden gay bar in Puerto Vallarta, giving it a unique neighborhood feel even though it is in the heart of the tourist area. Hunky bartenders, strong drinks, and fun company!
A cantina-style gay bar with a mixed clientele, around 50/50 locals, and tourists. There is sawdust on the floor, a perpetually packed pool table and ice-cold beer served by down-to-earth bartenders – plus plenty of flags, Mexican and gay!
The closest thing to a lesbian bar in Puerto Vallarta since it is lesbian-owned, but the clients are a mixture of gender and sexualities, as everyone is welcome here! Let the friendly bartenders fix you a deliciously sweet yet spicy cinnamon drink, or drop by for their dirt-cheap 2-for-one specials. Definitely is a good place to start before going to the gay clubs or lingering longer for exciting chats with gay locals.
Gay Beach Clubs Puerto Vallarta
The original gay beach club helped to solidify Los Muertos Beach as the gay beach, and it is still going strong today – even if it has somewhat faded from its golden days. Blue Chairs is instantaneously recognizable by its namesake dark blue deck chairs sitting beachfront, which you can rent along with a town for the day as you enjoy food and drinks brought down by the beach waiters.
There are frequent themed gay parties and popular happy hour specials at sunset to enjoy the expansive bay/sea views.
A modern resort and beach club that is very gay-popular thanks to its dipping pool, comfortable lounge chairs and cabañas, towel service, cocktails and modern food menu. Whether soaking up the sun, taking a dip in the pool or mucking around with the funky water toys, a day at Sapphire is never dull. Sunshine, ocean breezes and high standards.
Mantamar Beach Club Bar & Grill
The Best LGBT Daylight Club in Puerto Vallarta, defining the entire experience and kicking Blue Chairs to the curb. Located on Gay Los Muertos Beach, rent a sun lounger on the beach and enjoy the sexy waiter service; slip into the world-class infinity pool or shade under the cabanas.
There is also a locker room to keep your valuables safe and a full restaurant. Sophisticated, chic and oh-so-trendy, this is a gay oasis of fun in a modern atmosphere, full of music, luxury, and VIP services. Manatamar is also renowned for hosting the best entertainment and pool parties in Puerto Vallarta.
Bear Bars in Puerto Vallarta
In the Puerto Vallarta gay area, Zona Romantica, Bar Frida has a strong following as Vallarta’s friendliest cantina, where everyone is welcome – but is it especially bear-popular?
Woof! Drink prices are some of the lowest in town, and daily specials are listed on their site – or just ask the friendly bartenders when you arrive! We loved sharing a fresh squeezed lime margarita with new friends amidst relaxed vibes. There is no attitude at this bar, where everyone shares tables and sings along to music from the Jukebox.
Another popular bear bar in Puerto Vallarta, with simple decor, cheap drinks, a pool table and karaoke nights. A great place to start the night out with bears, cubs, wolves and all their admirers.
Gay Strip Clubs in Puerto Vallarta
An exclusively male strip bar famous for its nude shower shows and cute, young boys who are happy to give you an up-close look with a private lap dance. Fun for a drink or two, with friendly service – as long as you have the cash to splash. Gay strip clubs worldwide are not too common -and Wet dreams are much cheaper than those in Fort Lauderdale or Paris.
The longest-running gay strip club in Puerto Vallarta, and still one of the most popular. If you have pesos to splash, why not treat yourself to a lap dance from the sexiest muscle boys in Mexico? A playground of everything naughty, sweet, fun, Latino and oh-so-gorgeous.
Gay Clubs in Puerto Vallarta
A gay club spread over three levels with a rooftop garden bar offering stunning views. Beloved by gay locals as the premier gay party spot with sexy go-go boys, circus acts and show tunes. A highlight of the Puerto Vallarta gayborhood, and our favorite gay club – not only thanks to the great value of a late-night happy hour, but because of the upscale vibes, frivolous drag show, and friendly service.
One of the busiest gay nightclubs in Puerto Vallarta with two busy dance floors, regular (and fabulous) drag shows and talented DJs playing techno/circuit music to keep the crowd happy until sunrise. Most active after 2 am, so don’t make the mistake of arriving early, with a fun mix of both locals and tourists.
Another extremely popular Puerto Vallarta gay club shows that Mexicans really know how to throw a party. Mostly frequented by local Puerto Vallarta gay boys, so except for cheaper drinks, and a mix of Spanish and English music – although there is a fun cowboy theme, you can find country music and free line dance lessons some nights.
There is a fun English drag show generally at one on the weekends and a Mexican show at 3, and go-go boys most nights.
Cruising & Gay Saunas in Puerto Vallarta
Had enough of gay cruising in Puerto Vallarta – either in the bars or elsewhere? For those who want a bit more guaranteed action, there is now only one gay sauna in Puerto Vallarta, but it can get pretty busy. If you’re getting restless in Gay Puerto Vallarta, we also recommend using a hook-up app, though prostitution is legal in Mexico, and many guys work on hook-up apps such as Grindr or Hornet.
Playa Los Muertos is the unofficial gay beach in Puerto Vallarta, and just beyond that is the more private Playa Conchas Chinas. You might also try the nearby Vallarta Cora Hotel with its cruisy bar and dark room, which is busy after sunset. No matter what you do, always stay safe.
Leave all valuables in your hotel safe and be extremely cautious before going to any local house. It is better to host at your hotel or visit the gay Puerto Vallarta sauna.
The only gay sauna in Puerto Vallarta, but it’s always full of hot and steamy jinx. Found in the Zona Romantica gay area of Puerto Vallarta, this 4,000 sq ft sauna complex is housed over four floors with a large rooftop terrace, pool and palapa thatched roof for sun lovers and nude sunbathing.
There is a dry sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi with massage jets, open showers, cubicles, locker and private rooms for your enjoyment – as well as a bar and male massage services. You will need to bring your ID and flip-flops. Things get busiest here after 7 pm whenever everyone finishes work.
Elizabeth Taylor Theatre
An XXX adult cinema is popular with gay, straight and bi guys. It is busy after work and on rainy days, being open from 2 – 10 pm daily. For the gay action, head to the steamy upper Mezzanine area – there is no air-conditioning here! How much action there is depends on the time and day.
Gay Map Of Puerto Vallarta
Finding it hard to envisage where everything is Gay Puerto Vallarta? Hopefully, this queer-centric map helps where we have marked all the bars, clubs, parties, hotels, saunas, massages and more will help you stay in the spot best suited to you!