Two girls, one sunny escape in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

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Puerto Vallarta

Sometimes all you need is a plane ticket, your best friend and a warm place to run away to when the cold sets in. In our case, that place was Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. From the moment we arrived we felt safe and dove into exploring, wandering the Malecon (the city’s scenic boardwalk) and trying every local spot that caught our eye. Puerto Vallarta embraced us instantly and the whole trip became a blend of culture, relaxation and easy adventure we would repeat in a heartbeat.

A taco tour and Malecon photo shoot

Our first full day in Puerto Vallarta was also one of our tastiest, thanks to a day filled with tacos. Our taco tour with Vallarta Food Tours ended up being one of those experiences that feels effortless. Because it was a walking tour, we got to soak up the real spirit of the city—cobblestone streets, street food aromas and colourful murals tucked between shops. Our guide Miel was fantastic. She shared stories about the families behind each spot and described every dish with so much enthusiasm we felt like locals by the second stop.

Our route included some heavy hitters flavour-wise, including El Cuñado for chorizo tacos, Mariscos el Guero for mahi mahi ceviche, La Michoacana for a popsicle break (pineapple with chilli for Sangita and chocolate-covered coffee with coconut shavings for Maria) and Mariscos Cisneros for smoked marlin tacos and blue crab enchiladas. By the end we understood exactly why these spots are beloved local favourites that have lasted decades. We left feeling lucky to have experienced such an authentic slice of Puerto Vallarta.

Sangita and Maria’s highlight: the incredible ceviche

We ended the day on the Malecon where the sky was turning pink, just in time for a little professional photo shoot with a local photographer to commemorate our trip. We took photos at the Matamoros Street lighthouse lookout just off the boardwalk and soaked in the view; laughing, posing and creating memories we will treasure for a long time to come.

Sangita’s highlight: having photos that capture the joy we were feeling

Maria’s highlight: sunset views overlooking downtown

Chocolate, charm and Raicilla in San Sebastián del Oeste

San Sebastián del Oeste is tucked into the Sierra Madre Mountains only a short trip from Puerto Vallarta, yet worlds away in atmosphere. This picturesque colonial town captivates with cobblestone streets, mountain scenery and a timeless charm that makes it the perfect place to experience authentic Mexico. This is one of Mexico’s Pueblos Mágicos or Magic Towns, designated as such for their cultural richness, traditions and history.

A chocolate tour is a delicious way to dive into local tradition here, and a Raicilla experience offers a fascinating look at the region’s signature spirit (sometimes referred to as Mexico’s other mezcal). One of the most memorable parts of the visit was having a chance to ride an ATV through the area. It adds a sense of adventure and gives you a real feel for the rhythms of daily life in this mountain town. Together, these experiences create an unforgettable blend of culture, flavour and discovery that truly showcases the soul of San Sebastián del Oeste.

Raicilla tasting and still enjoying churros

Sangita’s highlight: taking Maria on an ATV ride

Maria’s highlight: fresh crunchy churros

An amazing meal at icú

During a trip filled with great food, a meal at award-winning icú was a particular standout. The name means corn in the language of the Wixaritari people and chef-owner Mauricio Leal uses this staple ingredient in many ways. Dishes change with the seasons and what produce is available, and they have a cellar stocked exclusively with Mexican wines. The contemporary space is filled with trees and our dinner was a five tostada tasting we’re still thinking about. Allergy-friendly options were easy to find and the menu is made up of inventive takes on Mexican classics.

Casitas Maraika

A beach escape at Casitas Maraika

A short drive and a fifteen-minute boat ride brought us to Casitas Maraika, an eco‑luxury retreat set amidst tropical jungle and ocean that also offers day passes for their secluded beach club. The tucked-away spot felt like our own secret hideaway with a stunning beach. The staff were extremely friendly and the on-site restaurant, Ritual Fire Kitchen, was excellent, serving up creative dishes made from local ingredients. The whole experience was a peaceful escape—almost like a getaway within our already relaxing getaway.

Sangita’s highlight: soaking up every moment of the crystal clear water

Maria’s highlight: the great food with those beautiful ocean views

Boutique-style luxury at Casa Velas. Mi casa es su casa!

Casa Velas welcomed us like a secret sanctuary. The adults-only, all-inclusive boutique hotel is located along the fairways of the Marina Vallarta Golf Club and just seconds from the beautiful beach.

Upon arrival the property instantly felt like a home away from home. The intimacy of the resort creates a calm, welcoming energy and the staff treated us with such warmth that settling in was effortless. Our villa was stunning with thoughtful details in every corner, plus a private cold plunge and hot tub we adored from the moment we walked in. The king bed was absolute heaven, and for a girls’ trip, this place was perfect—peaceful, elegant, and wonderfully private.

Casa Velas. Velas Resorts. Photo by: Victor Elias Photography

Just a five-minute shuttle ride away, Tau Beach Club felt like a little pocket of beachy chic. Our first visit was for dinner during the golden hour, when the beach was nearly empty and the water glistened. As the sun melted into the horizon, the sky glowed with rich, warm tones of vibrant orange. Two singers performed while we ate, which completed our perfect evening. It was simple, beautiful, and exactly what we needed. Open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., the beach club offers Bali beds, sun loungers, a full bar and more. We knew we’d be coming back to take full advantage of this prime sunbathing spot.

Spa time at ABJA Spa provided a nice reset for both of us. Ten minutes of red light therapy, a soak in the jacuzzi and our treatments side by side proved to be both fun and restorative. Sangita tried the silk wrap which left her skin glowing, while Maria had her first cupping facial and loved the gentle lymphatic draining.

Casa Velas offers a fantastic gym and a variety of wellness options in addition to their lovely spa. One day during our visit we met in the serene botanical garden for a gentle yoga session that slowly woke everything up, followed by a relaxing guided meditation. Then came a tea blending workshop using traditional Mexican methods. It all felt grounding, cozy, and very Zen, which in a way, sums up our whole stay.

Puerto Vallarta by the pool

Looking back on our experience, this trip became everything two girls escaping the cold could hope for. Puerto Vallarta gave us sunshine, culture, incredible food, and a sense of safety that made everything effortless. Casa Velas wrapped us in comfort and calm, and every local adventure added its own touch of magic. We laughed, explored, rested, and ate our way through some of the best this region has to offer. Most of all, we left feeling connected, restored, and already dreaming about the next sunny escape.

Get a taste of Puerto Vallarta at home with this chef recipe for tuna tostadas.