Buying souvenirs for yourself, as well as for friends and family back home, is a vacation rite of passage not to be missed, especially when you visit the splendid resort destination of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Seemingly everywhere you look, there are opportunities to shop and find whichever items you are searching for. You will discover an amazing range of products to choose from, from clothing and jewelry to hand-blown glass and original artwork. Here are some of Puerto Vallarta’s finest places to shop for souvenirs:
Shops Along the Malecon
Walking along the Malecon boardwalk, which boasts panoramic views of the entire Banderas Bay, is one of the most enjoyable things to do while on vacation in Puerto Vallarta. This charming waterfront area in the city’s downtown district is home to a spectacular mix of shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, street performers and food vendors, not to mention several mind-blowing sculptures along the way. You will find a variety of shops and boutiques selling items such as high-end jewelry, handmade leather goods, sophisticated swimwear, souvenirs and trinkets. If you really want something unique, take a look at one of the galleries that offers incredible one-of-a-kind Huichol pieces made by local artisans who produce everything from elaborately beaded figurines to gorgeous and colorful wall hangings.
Flea Market
Get ready to practice your bargaining skills when you make a trip to the flea market, where vendors sell a staggering assortment of goods. There is something for absolutely everyone here! On the very reasonable end, you can pick up t-shirts, small toys, shot glasses and so much more. Or treat yourself to something really special like hand-blown glass pieces such as a margarita set including glasses and a pitcher. Beautiful Talavera tile and pottery is plentiful too, with products ranging from kitchen accessories and house plaques to serving bowls and dishware.
On the Beach
If you are in the mood to shop but just can’t manage to break away from your lounge chair on the beach, you don’t have to worry about a thing; allow the shopping opportunities to come to you! Beach vendors walk along the beach all day long with a wide range of goods, stopping to see if anyone may be interested. Feel free to bargain with vendors as they quote you their prices. Offering everything from wooden carvings and home decorations such as masks and sports-themed goods to vibrant sarongs and silver jewelry, you won’t be disappointed in the selection. Many vendors will even go out of their way to find a specific item if they don’t have exactly what you are looking for on hand.
Onsite Boutique
For your vacation essentials and some small gift ideas, check out the small boutique shop next to the Garza Blanca Lobby.
