According to forum posts, Velas Vallarta and Villa Premiere are recommended beachfront hotels in Puerto Vallarta. Velas Vallarta is appreciated for its inclusive amenities and proximity to the Marina area, making it a solid choice for families and couples alike. Villa Premiere is highlighted as a boutique, adults-only hotel with ocean-view rooms, offering a quieter, more intimate experience.

Travelers have also mentioned other options such as the Buenaventura Grand and Hotel Mousai. Buenaventura Grand is noted for its proximity to downtown and consistent food quality, especially in its à la carte offerings. Hotel Mousai, although not directly on the beach, offers luxury accommodations with excellent views and amenities.

According to forum posts, Puerto Vallarta offers a diverse range of dining experiences, with seafood being a prominent choice among travelers. Many users have highlighted the quality of shrimp dishes available throughout the city, particularly praising its freshness and variety of preparations.

Travelers have called out specific restaurants for exceptional dining experiences. Mariscos El Guero and Tuna Azul are frequently recommended for their seafood offerings. For those interested in authentic Mexican cuisine, the Red Cabbage Café is noted for its traditional dishes, although reviews on satisfaction can vary.

Some travelers seek out smaller, lesser-known eateries referred to as hidden gems. Establishments like El Patio and Fred Ts are mentioned for their unique offerings and strong margaritas. Additionally, places like DCortez in Colosio and La Fina have been highlighted for providing exceptional service and a quaint dining atmosphere.

According to forum posts, bus transportation in Puerto Vallarta is widely available and highly affordable, with rides around town priced at approximately 10 pesos. Buses are accessible along the main roads by simply signaling to the driver.

Travelers have called out that buses heading to central areas like Zona Romántica or Centro can be identified by signs such as centro or Olas Altas. It's important to avoid buses marked Pitillal unless that is the intended destination.

Some travelers recommend using taxis for initial trips to familiarize oneself with the area before opting for bus travel. This suggestion is particularly pointed towards first-time visitors to ensure they get a better sense of direction and location layout.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many users advised against using public buses due to safety concerns related to overcrowding and inconsistent mask usage. However, in normal circumstances, buses are regarded as a reliable and economical mode of transport across Puerto Vallarta.

According to forum posts, families visiting Puerto Vallarta can engage in various water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and catamaran rides. These activities are particularly popular in areas like Nuevo Vallarta, where the beaches are well suited for water sports.

Travelers have called out the zoo and turtle release programs as exciting for children. The zoo allows hands-on feeding experiences, while the turtle release at Boca de Tomates offers a unique opportunity to interact with wildlife. Additionally, the Estero El Salado offers boat tours through mangroves, where numerous birds and reptiles can be observed.

For families interested in cultural experiences, some travelers suggested exploring street murals around Puerto Vallarta and visiting art galleries like Galleria Dante. The Malecon area is also noted for its bronze statues and street performers, providing a lively environment for families.

Some users recommended the Vallarta Botanical Gardens for a day trip, which is accessible by bus and offers a serene experience with its lush landscapes and onsite restaurant. For more adventurous families, zip-lining tours and horseback riding in Sierra Madre are popular activities that provide thrilling experiences in nature.

According to forum posts, travelers have various options for airport-to-hotel transportation in Puerto Vallarta. Federal taxis, which can be easily accessed at the airport, offer fixed rates by zone. For instance, a ride to Zone 02 is approximately 380 MXN ($20 USD).

Some travelers prefer pre-arranged transportation. Companies like Superior Tours and Aeromovil offer VIP services, which can be booked in advance. Prices for these services are generally higher than on-the-spot taxi fares but provide a seamless experience.

For those looking for cheaper alternatives, city taxis are available outside the airport premises, which can be accessed by walking across a pedestrian bridge. Additionally, Uber operates in the area but cannot pick up directly from the airport; riders must walk to a designated area outside the airport to use the service.

Travelers have noted that during busy times, waiting for taxis under the sun can be uncomfortable, suggesting the convenience of pre-arranged transport, especially for those carrying more luggage or traveling in groups.

According to forum posts, weather in Puerto Vallarta can vary, with cooler evenings especially around March. Some travelers suggest packing a light jacket or wrap for the evenings, as it can sometimes feel chilly, particularly when on boat rides or strolling along the beach at night.

Travelers have called out that resort casual attire is common, with capris, sandals, and light tops being suitable for women, and Bermuda shorts with polo shirts acceptable for men in most upscale venues. It's recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes for activities like the Rhythms of the Night tour, where paths can be uneven.

For many users, packing a few swimsuits is advisable to avoid the discomfort of wearing a damp suit. Bringing a good sun hat and adequate sunblock is also emphasized due to the sunny and humid weather typically experienced in Puerto Vallarta.

According to forum posts, most travelers recommend using Mexican pesos in Puerto Vallarta. This is echoed by multiple users who state that pesos are the local currency and ensure more straightforward transactions, particularly for smaller purchases like street food, taxis, and tips.

Some travelers mentioned that while U.S. dollars are accepted, the exchange rates provided by local merchants are often not favorable. Using pesos avoids the hassle of figuring out exchange rates on-the-spot and generally offers better value.

For obtaining pesos, several users suggest withdrawing money directly from ATMs at banks in Puerto Vallarta for better exchange rates. It was noted that ATMs might offer a Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) option, which should be declined as it generally involves less favorable exchange rates.

When it comes to tipping, there is a strong consensus that doing so in pesos is more practical and appreciated by the locals, as it saves them the inconvenience of having to exchange currencies.

According to forum posts, Garza Blanca in Puerto Vallarta has limited beach chairs and umbrellas, which can be a concern for some guests. Travelers have called out that even around the pool, umbrellas are scarce. There is an option to request staff to move chairs, which might help secure a good spot.

For families or groups, Garza Blanca offers varied accommodation options, including multi-room or connecting room setups, which are appreciated by visitors for providing both privacy and space. Some travelers said that the resort offers both all-inclusive and non-all-inclusive suite options, catering to different preferences.

From the travelers' experiences, the overall service at Garza Blanca is well-regarded, with mentions of good quality suites and a generally pleasant stay. However, the food receives mixed reviews, suggesting that dining experiences may vary.

Travelers have noted that Garza Blanca is approximately 15-20 minutes south of Puerto Vallarta’s town center, making it relatively easy to access local attractions and dining by a short bus or taxi ride.