Planning a trip to Gay Puerto Vallarta?Get ready to explore Mexico’s gay beach capital, from the best LGBTQ+ hotels and restaurants to sizzling gay bars, clubs, pool parties, and must-do boat tours. Let’s dive in!
Overview
Puerto Vallarta is a top LGBTQ+ travel and retirement hotspot, drawing visitors from around the world with its breathtaking beaches, thriving gay nightlife, and welcoming community.
The Romantic Zone (Zona Romántica) is the heart of the action, packed with gay-friendly hotels, lively bars, and must-visit restaurants. Whether you're soaking up the sun at Playa Los Muertos, joining a legendary gay boat party, or dancing the night away at one of PV’s many gay clubs, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences.
With incredible weather, stunning sunsets, and an ever-growing LGBTQ+ scene, Puerto Vallarta is a must-visit destination for every gay traveler!
PUERTO VALLARTA TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
Planning your trip to PV? These travel tools and services will save you money and make your visit stress-free:
Travel Insurance – Don’t leave home without it! SafetyWing offers super affordable travel insurance with straightforward pricing and flexible extensions—even if your trip is already underway. Protect yourself from unexpected medical expenses and travel mishaps while you explore Puerto Vallarta and beyond.
Hotel Discounts – Unlock unbeatable deals with Hotels.com. Create a free account to save 10% or more on over 100,000 hotels. Plus, you can snag perks like free room upgrades—perfect for enjoying the city in style.
Foreign Exchange & Money Transfers – Save on foreign exchange and money transfers with Wise. Not only do we use it for sending money between our U.S. and Mexican bank accounts, but its fair rates and transparent fees make it a go-to for travelers everywhere.
e-SIM Cards – Stay connected abroad with Airalo. An e-SIM is the easiest way to avoid hefty roaming charges. Just download the app, purchase a local or regional data plan, and toggle between your plans with ease. We love the convenience!
Surfshark VPN – Safeguard your personal data when using public Wi-Fi and stream your favorite shows abroad with Surfshark VPN. This budget-friendly product lets you bypass content restrictions, avoid censorship, and secure unlimited devices with ease.
🌟 Pro tip – Some links on this page are affiliate links, meaning we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. By booking services or shopping through these links, you’ll save money AND help keep our blog posts and videos coming your way. Thanks for the support!
Almar Resort Luxury LGBTQ+ Beachfront Experience
Where to Stay
Whether you want an exclusively gay resort, a budget-friendly option, or a luxury escape, we’ve got you covered! In our full Gay Hotels in Puerto Vallarta guide, we break down the best LGBTQ+ hotels, men-only hostel, plus gay-friendly alternatives to fit any budget.
Ritmos Cafe aka Green Chairs
Things to Do
Here are a few of our favorite experiences you won’t want to miss:
Relax on the Gay Beach – No trip to PV is complete without a day at Los Muertos Beach, the heart of gay life in the city. Rent a lounger and umbrella at one of the many gay and gay-friendly beach clubs, sip a margarita, and take in the stunning ocean views. Follow the stylish gays to Mantamar Beach Club for a more upscale vibe or join the friendly local crowd at Ritmos, aka Green Chairs, for a more laid-back scene.
🌟 Pro tip – For the best gay and LGBTQ+ friendly beach and pool clubs in Puerto Vallarta, read our full review here.
Party on a Gay Boat Cruise – There’s no better way to meet fellow travelers and locals than on a gay boat party. Puerto Vallarta offers a variety of LGBTQ+ cruises, but our top pick is Jet’s Naked Boat Tour—yes, it’s clothing-optional (90-95% go naked), and yes, it’s an absolute blast! Book ahead, bring sunscreen, and get ready for an unforgettable day of cruising Banderas Bay and beach time with an open bar, dancing, and maybe even some new friends.
Swim Naked at a Gay Pool Party – Puerto Vallarta’s gay pool parties are legendary, and the best of the best happens at Casa Cupula, a boutique luxury gay hotel. Their clothing-optional pool club is open to the public, with themed events throughout the week. Adam and Steve Fridays (men only) pairs perfectly with Jet’s Naked Boat Tour for a full day of uninhibited fun. Even on non-party days, the pool club is a great spot to sip cocktails and socialize.
Hidden Beach on Marietas Islands
Find Love Beach – For a truly unique adventure, visit Playa del Amor (Love Beach)—also known as Hidden Beach—one of the most breathtaking spots in Mexico. Located in the protected Marietas Islands, this secluded paradise is only accessible by boat, followed by a swim through a cave to reach the hidden shoreline. Due to its exclusivity, only 116 visitors per day are allowed, so be sure to book your tour well in advance.
Watch the Sunset from a Fabulous Rooftop – Nothing beats a golden Puerto Vallarta sunset, and Chictini is the place to enjoy it. With a stunning infinity pool, unbeatable ocean views, and expertly crafted cocktails, this newer of the rooftop bars is the ultimate spot for golden hour magic.
See a Show at a Gay Performance Venue – PV’s drag, cabaret, and live music scene is bigger and better than ever! Head to Act2PV for Broadway-style musicals, tribute shows, and live singers, or check out The Palm Cabaret & Bar, where you'll find drag, burlesque, and comedy acts almost every night. Show schedules change frequently, so check their social media or websites for the latest lineup.
La Capella Italian Restaurant
Where to Eat and Drink
From romantic fine dining to casual beachside bites, Puerto Vallarta’s food scene is as diverse as its nightlife. While the Romantic Zone is home to the majority of gay-popular restaurants, Centro and Gringo Gulch are just a short walk away and offer some of the best dining in the city. Whether you're craving Mexican flavors, Italian indulgence, or a sweet treat, here are our top picks for where to eat and drink in Gay PV!
The Iguana Restaurant and Tequila Bar – For a glamorous night at Casa Kimberly and the best dining experience in Puerto Vallarta, look no further than The Iguana. Located in Elizabeth Taylor’s former mansion, this elegant open-air restaurant serves elevated Mexican cuisine, top-notch tequila, and romantic ambiance with live mariachi performances. Reservations are essential, and don’t forget to snap a pic on the Love Bridge, where Liz and Richard Burton once met in secret!
La Capella Italian Restaurant – Our top pick for best special occasion dining. For a stunning sunset dinner with impeccable Italian food and live violinists, La Capella is our go-to for a date night or celebration. Overlooking Puerto Vallarta’s iconic church, this spectacular restaurant serves up handcrafted pasta with exceptional service and sparkling views of the city lights.
Delicious Fajitas and Live Entertainment at Ok Jose!
Ok Jose! – A Puerto Vallarta favorite, Ok Jose! is a fabulous mix of delicious Mexican food and live entertainment. We stumbled in on a show night and were blown away—from table-side Caesar salad preparations to flaming fajitas and a campy, high-energy performance, every moment was pure fun. Come hungry and ready for a show!
Coco's Kitchen
Coco’s Kitchen – Every gay traveler needs a go-to breakfast spot, and Coco’s Kitchen is ours in Puerto Vallarta! This pet-friendly eatery serves hearty breakfasts, fresh juices, and killer coffee in a charming garden setting. We love it so much, we eat here almost every day when in PV.
Daiquiri Dick’s – A Puerto Vallarta institution, Daiquiri Dick’s is the perfect spot for casual beachfront dining with an upscale touch. Located right on Los Muertos Beach, this gay-friendly restaurant offers a fantastic menu of fresh seafood, international flavors, and of course, delicious daiquiris.
Mar y Vino
Mar y Vino – For a super Instagrammable lunch, head to Mar y Vino, where you can dine with your feet in a rooftop pool, all while soaking in stunning views of the Los Muertos Pier. The margaritas are on point, and the guacamole and cauliflower tacos are must-tries.
L’Angolo di Napoli – Craving a break from tacos? Head to this no-frills pizzeria, where wood-fired Neapolitan pies steal the show. It’s an authentic Italian experience in the heart of Mexico, and the friendly atmosphere makes it a favorite among locals and expats alike.
Trattoria Di Nuovo – For a more intimate Italian dining experience, Trattoria Di Nuovo offers handmade pastas, fresh seafood, and cozy garden vibes. This hidden gem is perfect for a relaxed evening away from the bustling nightlife of the Romantic Zone.
Lix Homemade Ice Cream – If you’ve got a sweet tooth, don’t miss Lix Homemade Ice Cream! Their freshly made waffle cones and rich, creamy flavors are the perfect way to cool down after a hot day on Los Muertos Beach. Pistachio is our personal favorite! The pet-friendly outdoor seating makes it a great place to relax and people-watch.
Chachalaca Gay Bar
Best Gay Bars & Clubs
With buzzy open-air bars where you can sip margaritas under the stars to high-energy nightclubs packed with sexy go-go dancers, PV has something for every kind of partygoer. For the best gay bars and clubs to check out in Puerto Vallarta, read our full review here.
Jet's Naked Boat Tour
When to Go
Puerto Vallarta is a year-round gay paradise, but high season runs from December to April, when the weather is perfect—warm, sunny days in the 80s°F (27-30°C) with low humidity. If you love big crowds, vibrant nightlife, and tons of LGBTQ+ events, you’ll want to plan your visit around one of these top gay events in PV:
New Year’s Eve (December/January) – Ring in the new year with epic beachfront fireworks, all-night parties, and packed gay bars and clubs. The celebrations in Zona Romántica rival those of any major LGBTQ+ hotspot in the world!
BeefDip Bear Week(January/February) – One of the world’s biggest bear events, drawing thousands of furry and friendly men for beach parties, boat cruises, bar crawls, and poolside fun. Expect packed beaches, long lines at gay bars and clubs, and nonstop parties—especially at Mantamar Beach Club, Industry Nightclub, and Studs Bear Bar.
Semana Santa(March/April) – While Semana Santa is a major religious holiday in Mexico, it also marks one of the busiest and wildest weeks for gay travelers in Puerto Vallarta. Thousands of national and international visitors flood the city, making it one of the craziest party weeks of the year. Expect packed beaches, long lines at gay bars and clubs, and nonstop parties—especially at Mantamar Beach Club, Industry Nightclub, and Mr. Flamingo.
Puerto Vallarta Gay Pride(May) – A weeklong celebration of love and diversity, featuring parades, drag performances, circuit parties, and beach gatherings. PV Pride keeps growing every year, making it one of the best gay prides in Latin America!
Day of the Dead(October/November) – While not exclusively a gay event, Puerto Vallarta’s Día de los Muertos festivities are absolutely stunning. Expect elaborate altars, lively parades, and themed parties at your favorite LGBTQ+ spots.
White Party Puerto Vallarta(Varies) – This sexy, high-energy circuit party weekend brings top DJs, go-go dancers, and international partygoers to some of PV’s most glamorous venues.
Puerto Vallarta International Airport
How to Get Here
By air – Most travelers fly into Puerto Vallarta International Airport (airport code: PVR), which welcomes direct flights from major U.S., Canadian, and Mexican cities. PVR is just 20-30 minutes from Zona Romántica, making it super easy to get to your hotel or Airbnb.
Getting from the Airport to the Romantic Zone
Uber – The best budget-friendly option. Exit baggage claim, turn left, and cross the pedestrian bridge to find your Uber on the other side of the highway. Fares to Zona Romántica are around $10 USD (200 MXN).
Taxi – Authorized airport taxis can pick you up directly outside baggage claim, but they are more expensive than Uber.
Bus – The cheapest way to get into town! Look for city buses labeled "Centro" for just 10 MXN ($0.50 USD).
Busy ATM in the Romantic Zone
Other Services
Banking & ATMs – Puerto Vallarta has plenty of national and international bank ATMs, making it easy to withdraw Mexican Pesos (MXN) upon arrival. We recommend getting cash at the airport (PVR) or using ATMs from trusted banks like Banorte, HSBC, Santander, and Citibanamex in the Romantic Zone and Centro.
Always DECLINE to SAVE!!!!
🌟 Pro tip – Always pay in pesos when using your credit card or cash. Paying in USD often comes with a 5-10% unfavorable exchange rate. Similarly, when withdrawing cash from ATMs, decline the ATM’s conversion offer—this avoids an extra 5-12% markup on top of the standard fee!
Barbershop – Need a fresh cut before hitting the gay beach? Barber & Booze is a fabulous gay-friendly barbershop just steps from Los Muertos Beach. Enjoy craft cocktails, a relaxing hair wash, and precision cuts in a stylish setting with friendly service.
Gyms & Fitness – Staying fit in PV is easy! The top gay gym in Puerto Vallarta is The Fit Club, offering air-conditioned facilities, top-notch equipment, and daily, weekly, or monthly memberships. If you’re looking for another great LGBTQ-friendly option, Big Apple Gym is just around the corner.
Wine/Liquor store – Stock up on wine, champagne, and premium spirits at Vinos América, a fantastic liquor store on Basilio Badillo No. 284 in the Romantic Zone. With an excellent selection of tequila, mezcal, and bubbly, it's the perfect spot to grab drinks for a sunset toast or a special occasion!
Everyone is Welcome
Frequently Asked Questions & Travel Tips
Is Puerto Vallarta LGBTQ+ friendly?
Absolutely! Puerto Vallarta is the undisputed gay beach capital of Mexico and one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly destinations in the world. The Romantic Zone (Zona Romántica) is home to a growing gay scene, with dozens of gay bars, clubs, and beaches, plus a welcoming local community. Whether you're visiting for Pride, BeefDip, or just a sunny getaway, you'll feel safe and celebrated in PV.
Can I drink on the streets?
Technically, public drinking is illegal in Mexico, but enforcement is relaxed in tourist-heavy areas like the Malecon and Romantic Zone. That said, avoid drawing attention to yourself by keeping drinks in plastic cups or discreet containers. Just be mindful of police, as they can issue fines or confiscate alcohol if they choose to enforce the rule.
What's the best way to get around?
Walking is the best way to explore the Romantic Zone and Malecon, as most bars, restaurants, and attractions are close together. Uber is the safest and cheapest option for longer distances, while local taxis are widely available but typically charge higher tourist rates (always confirm the price before getting in). Public buses are an ultra-cheap option at just 10 MXN ($0.50 USD) per ride.
What's the weather like in Puerto Vallarta?
PV is a year-round tropical destination, but the best weather is from December to April, with sunny days, warm temperatures (80s°F/27-30°C), and low humidity. Rainy season runs from June to October, bringing occasional heavy showers, but it’s also a great time to visit with fewer crowds and lower prices.
What should I pack for my trip?
Light, breathable clothing – PV is warm year-round!
Swimsuits – You’ll be spending a lot of time at the beach and pool parties.
Sunscreen & sunglasses – The sun is strong, even in winter.
Bug spray – Especially if visiting during rainy season (June–October).
Comfortable sandals or sneakers – The Romantic Zone has some steep cobblestone streets.
Waterproof phone case – Essential for beach days and boat tours. I (Trai) dropped my phone in the pool at Mantamar and it never recovered. The closest official Apple store is in Mexico City.
Cash (MXN pesos) – Many smaller shops and taxis don’t accept credit cards.
Can I use US dollars in Puerto Vallarta?
While many businesses accept USD, it's always better to pay in pesos to avoid bad exchange rates. ATMs offer the best rates—just remember to decline the ATM’s conversion offer to avoid extra fees!
Is the tap water safe to drink?
No, tap water is not safe to drink in PV. Stick to bottled or filtered water, which most hotels, restaurants, and Airbnbs provide. Also, avoid ice from unknown street vendors unless you’re sure it’s made from purified water.
Do I need to know Spanish?
Not at all! English is widely spoken in the Romantic Zone, tourist areas, and most restaurants. However, learning a few basic Spanish phrases (hola- hello, gracias-thank you, la cuenta-the check, and por favor-please) will go a long way with locals and help you navigate non-touristy areas more easily.
Is Puerto Vallarta safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?
Yes! PV is one of the safest cities in Mexico for LGBTQ+ travelers, with a strong police presence in tourist areas. Violent crime is rare, but always use common sense—keep an eye on your belongings, avoid excessive public intoxication, and be mindful when using dating apps.
Are there any LGBTQ+ nude beaches in Puerto Vallarta?
There are no official nude beaches, but secluded beaches accessible by boat or hike are popular for clothing-optional sunbathing. See Jet’s Naked Boat Tour for our favorite option.
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Hi gorgeous, and welcome to our LGBTQ+ travel blog! We're Andy and Trai, a gay couple traveling the world with PRIDE 🌈 …and our rescue dog, Pattie!
After meeting in San Francisco in 2018 and later moving to Chicago, we decided to quit our jobs in 2021, sell everything, and become Two Gay Expats. For over two years, we explored the best of gay Mexico while waiting for our house, Casa Cangrejo, to be completed in Tulum. We got married at The Beach Tulum in 2020 and became Mexican permanent residents in 2022.
Today, we continue to travel around Mexico and the world to show you our favorite places. If you'd like to follow our adventures, subscribe on YouTube and join us on Instagram.
