A Local’s Guide To Puerto Vallarta Nightlife: Best Bars, Clubs, Happy Hours & More!

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Last updated on December 1, 2022 by Wandering our World

Welcome, party animals! Puerto Vallarta’s nightlife scene is definitely the place to be if you’re looking for an epic night out. With beautiful beaches, a vibrant culture, and tons of bars and clubs, you’re sure to have a good time. 

With a wide variety of bars, clubs, and nightlife options, you’re sure to find something that suits your style. Whether you’re looking for a chilled-out beach bar, a hidden cocktail joint, or a wild nightclub, PV has something for everyone. 

In Puerto Vallarta, every night has the potential to be a big one! Of course, you can plan your vacation to line up with all the biggest parties, but you can also tailor it to your own tastes. If you’re looking for something wild, there are plenty of options – but if you want a relaxed evening by the beach, you can find that too. As we will show you right here.

We know this place well, so in this guide we’ll take a look at the best places to enjoy a night out. We’ll share with you the best bars, nightclubs, live music joints, gay-friendly bars, happy hours, and even where to grab late night food.

So put on your dancing shoes and let’s get started!

CONTENTS:

  1. The Eight Best Bars In Puerto Vallarta
  2. The Five Best Nightclubs in Puerto Vallarta
  3. Four Places To Check Out For Live Music & Entertainment
  4. Happy Hours to Enjoy in Puerto Vallarta
  5. Satisfy Your Cravings: Places To Grab Late Night Food
  6. Where You Should Stay According to Your Budget
Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/bernardbodo

The Eight Best Bars In Puerto Vallarta

There are so many Puerto Vallarta bars to choose from, but these are the ones you simply cannot miss.

1. Bar La Playa

If you’re looking for some delicious cocktails after a day at the beach, stop by La Playa. They have some of the best cocktails in town, and they’re much cheaper than what you’ll find at a hotel bar. 

The margaritas, mojitos, and mezcals are all made with premium mixers, freshly squeezed juices, and herbs and spices that are cut right on the spot. Plus, they have live music on some nights!

This place is awesome because the bartenders are super friendly and they make some delicious cocktails. It’s also right next to Lazaro Cardenas Park, so you can enjoy the fresh air.

It can be a little hard to find a seat here as it’s a popular spot, but that just means you’ll make more friends quickly. After a few of their famous cocktails, you’ll be ready to start any Puerto Vallarta nightlife adventure!

Address: Lázaro Cárdenas 179, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Fabio Principe

2. Piano Bar & Jazz Garbo

If you’re looking for a place to enjoy some live music and sip on a martini, Puerto Vallarta’s Piano Bar & Jazz Garbo is the place for you! This gay-friendly venue has excellent acts that play from 10 p.m, and the stylish décor and even more stylish regulars will make you feel at home.

This Puerto Vallarta bar is a true Puerto Vallarta gem. Garbo attracts an eclectic crowd who love to socialize, listen to live music and have some delicious drinks.

Their signature drink called “El Jaguar” tastes like pineapple juice with a hint of chili, and is perfect for cooling down after a day on the beach. The bartenders are super friendly, the music is great, and there’s lots of space to hang out with friends – what more could you ask for?

Address: Púlpito 142, Zona Romántica, Amapas

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/sarra22

3. Twisted Palms Rooftop Lounge

The Twisted Palms is a stylish venue in Puerto Vallarta known for its rooftop bar and beautiful setting. The mixologists here are welcoming and knowledgeable, and they prepare some of the best martinis around. 

But it’s not just the drinks that make this place special – the rooftop terrace offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and ocean. So even if you’re not in the mood for a wild night out – this place still provides you with an unparalleled experience. They sometimes project movieson a wallon the rooftop too, so you can drink cocktails while watching classics.

This bar has an excellent atmosphere, with friendly staff and tropical drinks that are perfect for a vacation. They also have great food, so if you get hungry, order some guacamole nachos!

Address: Ignacio L. Vallarta 228, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Alessandro Biascioli

4. Apaches Martini & Cocktail Bar

Apaches Martini & Cocktail Bar is Puerto Vallarta’s only exclusively gay cocktail bar. With an excellent mix of music, friendly atmosphere, and blue drinks that are so delicious they have no name, this Puerto Vallarta gem will give you the night of your life!

Apaches Bar has a relaxed atmosphere with great drinks, delicious Mexican food, and entertainment. And happy hour runs from 2pm to 7pm!

The staff are friendly and the bartenders will make whatever drink your heart desires. With live DJs, karaoke nights, theme parties, pool tournaments, and much more – Apaches never disappoints! The fun, friendly atmosphere is what makes Apaches so charming.

Address: Olas Altas 439, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Gulcin Ragiboglu

5. Bar Morelos Mezcaleria 

If you want to discover a new way of enjoying mezcal, then Bar Morelos is the place for you! This Puerto Vallarta bar serves up delicious cocktails that mix traditional Mexican flavors with cutting-edge mixology.

You’ll love this Puerto Vallarta bar because it’s casual and stylish at the same time – the perfect place to start a night out in the city. It gets rowdy and energetic late on, and definitely has a nightclub feel to it as well as a bar.

Their famous Rose Petal Mezcal is their most popular drink, and it’s not hard to see why. With fresh grapefruit juice, pomegranate extract, rose petals, lavender extract, and chili salt; it’ll take your taste buds straight to heaven.

The bartenders are all from Guadalajara and Puebla, two of the biggest mezcal hubs in Mexico, so they know what they’re doing!

Address: Morelos 589, Centro

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/iMaximFesenko

6. Devil’s Bar

Devil’s Bar is a classic Puerto Vallarta nightlife destination near the beach that lives up to its name. This Puerto Vallarta beachside bar offers cheap drinks, loud music, and fun times every night of the week.

A “Devilishly Good Time” is what they call it – and if you’re looking for lavish décor or fancy cocktails, then this Puerto Vallarta nightlife destination isn’t for you.

This bar is a great place to start your night as they offer the best drink deals in town with their famous “Peligroso”. They also have a happy hour, so it’s the perfect spot to have a drink after work.

Address: Malecon II s/n, Local 39, Centro

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/santypan

7. La Bodeguita del Medio

This place is pretty neat! Not only do they have salsa dancing and excellent mojitos, but they’ve also got live music every night starting at 9 p.m. If you’re looking for a great time and some authentic Cuban vibes, you definitely need to check out La Bodeguita del Medio.

If you’re a fan of Cuban culture, then this Puerto Vallarta bar is a must-visit. The music and dancing will transport you to another time and place where everyone cares about cigars, rum, and happiness! As an added bonus it’s right by the beach!

Address: Paseo Díaz Ordaz 858, Centro

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/bhofack2

8. La Cantina Margarita Bar

La Cantina is a Puerto Vallarta bar that is famous for its delicious margaritas. Not only are they strong, but they’re also made with top-class tequila and fresh juice. They have a great location, and a fun, laid-back atmosphere. So, it’s a perfect place to unwind after a long day of sightseeing or shopping.

If you’re not in the mood for a tequila-based drink, then try one of their frozen daiquiris instead!

Address: Lázaro Cárdenas 257, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/NikiLitov

The Five Best Nightclubs in Puerto Vallarta

If you love to party until the sun comes up, then Puerto Vallarta has some nightlife venues that are guaranteed to make your jaw drop.

Whether you want to dance all night with hot club-goers or chill out with friends at a sophisticated lounge bar, there’s something for everyone in PV! Here are the best nightclubs in town:

1. La Santa

La Santa is one of the hottest nightclubs in Puerto Vallarta, and it’s easy to see why. This club has everything you could want: an amazing selection of drinks, DJs that know how to get a party started, and lights that will dazzle you all night long.

Head to La Santa Puerto Vallarta if you’re looking for a high-end experience with pulsing music, extravagant lights, and delicious cocktails.

This top Puerto Vallarta nightclub is also known for its world-renowned DJs and for playing the hottest Latin, hip-hop, and top 40 hits. The drinks are exquisite and include a variety of local flavors and top-shelf alcohol. Make sure to reserve a VIP table for an even more luxurious night!

Address: Av. Francisco Medina Ascencio 2468, Fluvial Vallarta

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/alexkoral

2. Mandala

Mandala Puerto Vallarta is a world-class nightclub that offers a bit of everything for everyone. With a relaxed dress code, a variety of music, and delicious cocktails, this club is perfect for a night out with friends or loved ones. The atmosphere is fun and inviting, and the staff are attentive and welcoming. 

It is one of the most happening clubs in town, and it’s perfect for tourists and locals alike. With an expansive drink menu, international DJs, and an inclusive vibe, there’s something for everyone there. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away or just relax with a good drink, Mandala Puerto Vallarta is the place to be.

The only thing you need to worry about is getting in line early enough to get a spot on the dance floor as this place gets busy!

Address: Paseo Díaz Ordaz 633, Centro

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/shironosov

3. Roxy Rock House

The Roxy Rock House is the perfect place to go for a night of live music, good vibes and something a little different. This dive bar has a lively and often inebriated clientele. So it’s perfect for those who want to let loose and have some fun. 

The rock and reggae music at this venue is fantastic, so be sure to check it out if you’re into those genres. Just be prepared for the party to start around midnight – it can get pretty loud in there!

It’s one of our favorite Puerto Vallarta nightlife spots to drink and dance the night away with friends.

Address: Ignacio L. Vallarta 217, Zona Romántica, Centro

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/DisobeyArt

4. La Vaquita

La Vaquita, the warehouse-turned-funhouse of all things dance! With splashes of color and a wacky, design, this is the place to be for a night out that’s lighthearted, fun, and attracts the young crowd.

DJs play top hits, House, EDM, and more, while bartenders keep the crowds on their feet with a wide array of pyrotechnics. This is a popularPuerto Vallarta nightlife spot for those in their 20s looking for fun.

If you need a rest from PV’s raucous dance floor, go up to the upper level and relax while watching Banderas Bay’s beautiful scenery.

Address: Paseo Díaz Ordaz 610, Centro

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/MaximFesenko

5. Strana

Strana is the ultimate spot for those who like to party hard. This Puerto Vallarta nightclub has everything you could want: high-end cocktails, amazing music, and otherworldly lights that will make you feel like you’re on another planet. You’ll love this classy club if you feel like partying under the stars with delicious drinks, good friends, and fun music.

If you’re looking for a nightclub that will take your breath away, Strana is the place for you. This Puerto Vallarta hotspot is like nothing you’ve ever seen before. With its towering cathedral-like ceilings, chandeliers, and epic open space, it’s perfect for letting loose and having a good time. 

So dress to impress and make your way to the dance floor – you’re in for a night you’ll never forget.

Address: Blvd. Francisco Medina Ascencio 2125, Zona Hotelera, Las Glorias

Photo only for illustrative purposes: iStock.com/bhofack2

Four Places To Check Out For Live Music & Entertainment

Puerto Vallarta’s sparkling coastline and festive atmosphere makes it the perfect place to enjoy live music, performances, and other forms of entertainment. 

1. Incanto

Incanto is one of the best bars in Puerto Vallarta if you’re looking to get away from the noise and crowds. It’s at a beautiful location overlooking the Cuale River with a greatoutside patio. It really does feel worlds apart from the more raucous nightlife just down the street.

This is the perfect location for music enthusiasts. It’s a piano bar, but they also have open mic nights, salsa lessons, musicals, and so much more on their schedule. Check out the events on their calendar to see what’s playing while you’re in town!

Address: Calle Insurgentes 109, col. Emiliano Zapata

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Vershinin

2. La Bodeguita del Medio

La Bodeguita del Medio is one of the most popular Cuban hotspots on the Malecon boardwalk! This place is a favorite for tourists and locals alike, thanks in large part to their live Cuban band and refreshing mojitos. Sit at the bar and take in the sights, or head upstairs to the balcony for a better view. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, join in the action on the dance floor and practice your salsa skills! This place can get pretty busy on weekends, so be sure to come early or late to avoid the crowds.

Address: Paseo Díaz Ordaz 858, Centro

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Pro2sound

3. Kooky Karaoke

Kooky Karaoke is a great place to end your night in Puerto Vallarta. It’s always a blast to sing your favorite songs on the karaoke machine with your friends, and Kooky has everything you need to make that performance extra special. They have props like neon wigs and air guitars, and they can find any song you want!

If you’re feeling particularly daring, you can even try singing in another language! Kooky Karaoke has a huge selection of songs in English, Spanish, French, Italian, and more.

So if you’re looking for a place to let loose and have some fun, be sure to head along.

Address: Lázaro Cárdenas 315A, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Boris_Kuznets

4. El Solar

El Solar is a great place to unwind. It’s situated close to the downtown district, but it has a mellow beachfront location that makes it feel worlds away. 

If you’re looking for a place to listen to some live music, they’ve got Wednesday and Saturday nights covered. If you’re feeling like dancing, swing by on Friday – the DJs will be spinning the tunes! 

Listening to live music with your feet in the sand is a magical feeling, and El Solar is the perfect place to experience just that.

Address: Paraguay 1294, 5 de Diciembre

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/David-Prado

Happy Hours to Check Out in Puerto Vallarta

When you’re out and about in Puerto Vallarta, the last thing on your mind might be finding a good happy hour. 

Thankfully Puerto Vallarta’s nightlife scene is full of bars and restaurants that offer drink specials during happy hour – perfect for relaxing with friends or getting an early start to a big night out! Here are a few places in Puerto Vallarta to check out:

1. Joe Jack’s Fish Shack

If you’re looking for a good time and some fantastic seafood, Joe Jack’s Fish Shack is the place to be! Especially as the happy hour runs from midday to 7pm!

This PV hotspot has everything you need for a perfect night out – great vibes, delicious food, reasonable prices, and amazing drinks. The only catch is that it can get quite busy, but with a little patience you’ll be able to snag a table and start enjoying yourself. 

And don’t forget to try one of their delicious margaritas – the passion fruit variety is amazing! The staff here are fun and attentive, so you’re sure to have a great time. 

Address: Basilio Badillo 212, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Petrenkod

2. Mr. Flamingo

What’s not to love about Mr. Flamingo? This Puerto Vallarta gay bar is always lively and fun, with pop music blasting out into the streets and couples and friends dancing the night away inside. Head along for happy hour which runs from 5-7pm every day!

Sing along to your favorite hits while dancing with your friends or partner – it feels like one big party with all the neon, tropical decor and tiki bar vibe. It’s the perfect place to head out for a night of dancing that’s lively and inclusive.

Address: Lázaro Cárdenas 247, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/nastco

3. COEXISTbistro

If Puerto Vallarta nightlife sounds a bit too crazy for you, head to COEXIST for a laid back and casual vibe. They even have a swimming pool!

Happy hour is a great time to hit up this place – not only does COEXIST have discounted drinks, but they also have three-for-one specials! If you have more than one friend with you, that will definitely come in handy. 

Address: Agustín Rodríguez 175, Centro

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Drazen Zigic

Satisfy Your Cravings: Places To Grab Late Night Food In Puerto Vallarta

If you’re looking for Puerto Vallarta restaurants that are open late, check out these places. They all serve tasty food that’s perfect for satisfying your cravings after a long night of drinking and partying! 

1. El Carbocito

If you’re looking for some late-night Mexican grub, head on over to El Carbocito in Puerto Vallarta. This taco stand is famous for its delicious authentic Mexican recipes, which are perfect for soaking up the night’s beer. And they’re open until 4am!

Along with traditional tacos, El Carbocito also serves up some delicious baked potatoes stuffed full of cheese, meat, and homemade salsa. The perfect cure for a heavy night.

The taco stand is located close to ‌Malecón, the beach, and one of the main roads into town. It’s easy to find, with both inside and outside seating as well as personal delivery to close locations. A great place to end any Puerto Vallarta nightlife adventure!

Address: C. Honduras 127, 5 de Diciembre

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Elihu Castillo Ramirez

2. Taqueria Mendoza

At Taqueria Mendoza, you can find some of the best tacos in Puerto Vallarta. This late-night spot is open until 6am and serves up delicious dishes for cheap! If you’re looking for a place to end your night, then look no further than Taqueria Mendoza. 

With its amazing pastor tacos, quesadillas, and salsa bar, this spot will surely satisfy your cravings.

Address: Lázaro Cárdenas 400, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata

3. Cocina Economica

Cocina Economica is a well-known restaurant in Puerto Vallarta that serves up some of the best Mexican cuisine in town, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

This 24/7 restaurant is always a good idea no matter what time of night it is and is perfect for a meal after a night out on the town. 

Whether you’re stumbling home from clubbing or just wrapping up your evening walk on Los Muertos Beach, Cocina Economica is always a great option for some late-night sustenance. With delicious pozole and machaca tacos on the menu, you can’t go wrong!

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/LarisaBlinova

4. Pancho’s Takos

Pancho’s Takos is a Puerto Vallarta favorite, serving up delicious tacos and quesadillas until midnight, and sometimes up to 2am. 

Their menu will appeal to all types of customers – they even serve pork chops and cheese fondue – so no matter what your tastes are, there should be something on offer for everyone. And if that weren’t enough already, their mango habanero salsa is not only a delicious option but a must-try as well!

Address: Basilio Badillo 162, Zona Romántica, Emiliano Zapata

Where You Should Stay According to Your Budget

Shoestring: For what you get for the price, Hotel Luxury Patio Azul is a steal. Tastefully decorated rooms with ocean views, an outside swimming pool and bar that looks out on the ocean, and just a ten minute walk to the beach. This may just be the cheapest five-star hotel we’ve come across in Mexico.

Budget: Set in downtown close to all the action, BellView Hotel Boutique is a little different – you’ll be staying in a room with one of the best city views imaginable – just look at that view of the bell tower from the private terrace! The decor is stylish, and despite being in town this hotel is still only 200m from the beach. 

Luxury: The adults-only Hotel Mousai is the first-ever five diamond resort in Puerto Vallarta, so when we say this place is luxurious you know we aren’t lying! Just a couple of minutes walk to the beach, this hotel has everything you’d want and expect for the price. But the real show-stealer is the roof-top infinity pool.

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/grinvalds

Puerto Vallarta Nightlife: Go Have Some Fun!

Puerto Vallarta nightlife is all about living it up – and there are plenty of Puerto Vallarta bars ready to make your evening one to remember. So, grab some friends or come solo – either way, Puerto Vallarta will be sure to leave you feeling on a high note! 

And don’t forget – you can enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s nightlife without spending a lot of money! Look for Puerto Vallarta bars with happy hour specials, or Puerto Vallarta bars that offer different discounts on certain days of the week! You can always find a great happy hour or bar special to match your budget. Go and have some fun!

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  • Wandering our World

    Hi and welcome to Wandering our World! This article was written by one of the Wandering our World team - a team of travel enthusiasts who live around the globe.