The sun-soaked Pacific paradise of Puerto Vallarta is a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with its palm-fringed emerald coves, thrilling wildlife-watching opportunities and delightfully walkable downtown. It is one of Mexico’s most popular beach destinations. Here are some of the best things to do on your next visit to Vallarta.

Explore an underwater world at Playa Majahuitas

Snorkelers rave about the clear, wildlife-rich waters at Playa Majahuitas, one of Vallarta’s best beaches. Visibility is excellent in this small protected cove, which teems with parrotfish and angelfish, and its tranquil golden sands make for a great escape from downtown. If you have your own snorkeling gear, water taxis departing from Playa de los Muertos pier will drop you at the beach; if not, numerous tour operators can kit you out with everything you need and ferry you to and from the cove.

Go whale-watching

If you’re visiting from December to March, don’t miss out on the chance to spot 30-ton humpback whales creating almighty splashes as they leap out of the sea. Some tour companies runs four-hour whale-watching expeditions aboard boats equipped with hydrophones–underwater microphones that will let you listen in on the whales’ mesmerizing mating calls.

Take a coastal hike

Starting from Boca de Tomatlán, a fishing village 16km (10 miles) south of Vallarta, a trail traces the coast to a string of quiet jungle-backed coves, some with shady seafood palapas (low-key cafes in thatched huts). You can extend the hike as far west as Playa Quimixto if you’re up for a long hot walk. Buses to Boca de Tomatlán depart from the Zona Romántica at the corner of Constitución and Basilio Badillo.

Explore Vallarta’s food scene

Vallarta’s fabulous foodie scene will have you licking your chops with every mouthful. As well as ubiquitous street stalls slinging delectable fish

and birria (goat) tacos, the city is chock-full of restaurants serving fresh seafood, traditional Mexican staples and innovative international fare. For the ultimate gourmet smorgasbord, Vallarta Eats, a small company runs themed food-focused tours, including a popular taco crawl.

Discover art and crafts on the streets

Art is everywhere in Vallarta. Larger-than-life bronze sculptures dot downtown’s esplanade, while beautiful sea-themed murals add color and

character to the vibrant city center. The Centro is also known for its exceptional art galleries and craft stores–places such as Galería de Ollas and Peyote People–where you can buy unique ceramics and surreal and psychedelic bead and yarn art.

Enjoy a relaxing Isla Cuale river walk

While exploring downtown, linger for a while on Isla Río Cuale, a traffic-free sandbar lined with shady rubber trees, riverside restaurants and stalls hawking everything from colorful Huichol crafts to touristy knick-knacks. On the island’s east end, look for the tiled Iguana bridge and cross over to the upscale neighborhood of Gringo Gulch to roam the old stomping grounds of Hollywood celebrities.

Inputs from Lonely Planet Travel Guide