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Puerto Vallarta has been a go-to tourist hotspot for decades, attracting travelers with its perfect mix of nature, culture, and luxury.
However, the buzz around this Mexican Pacific beach town has hit an all-time high, evident in the wave of visitors flooding in this December.
In fact, Puerto Vallarta International Airport is expected to break its own record of over 6 million passengers arriving by air by year-end.
Official stats by the Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico show that November recorded 591,400 passengers at the airport.
However, December is set to reach a whopping 669,900 passengers, effectively shattering last year’s record.
More than 300,000 passengers arrived in the first half of the month, and the trend is anticipated to continue, with an expectation of over 700,000 tourists arriving by air by the end of the month.
And this is not a recent phenomenon, as the data from Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico also shows that there has been a steady increase in visitor numbers throughout the year.
So, what exactly are the reasons behind Puerto Vallarta’s surge in popularity, as reflected in the potential record-breaking passenger numbers at Puerto Vallarta International Airport this month?
Let’s find out.
A Convenient Getaway
Puerto Vallarta’s status as one of the top tourist hotspots in Mexico can be explained by its exceptional air connectivity, particularly with the U.S. and Canada.
With direct flights from U.S. cities such as Los Angeles, Atlanta, Seattle, Houston, Chicago and more, it’s easy to see why this Pacific beach town remains a top choice for Americans.
Canadians also enjoy direct flights from major cities with carriers like Air Canada and Westjet.
Moreover, this connectivity is actually increasing, with new routes from Puerto Vallarta to Las Vegas in the U.S. and Calgary and Toronto in Canada.
The Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico notes that the introduction of these new routes during the last three months has certainly contributed to the growing number of visitors Puerto Vallarta is welcoming.
@jet.set.travel Top activities to do in Puerto Vallarta! There’s so much more, but here a few ideas to add to your itinerary! @Kristin & John @Kristin & John #puertovallarta #whattodoinpuertovallarta #fyp #fypシ #travelitinerary #visitmexico #traveltiktok #beachdestinations #lacappella #sunsetlover #vacationactivities ♬ Island In The Sun – Weezer
Exceptional Weather
Puerto Vallarta’s winters boast warm, pleasant weather, making it an ideal retreat for American and Canadian travelers escaping from the freezing temperatures back home.
With dry weather and temperatures ranging from 70-80°F, a stark contrast to scorching summer temperatures, visitors can relish the best Puerto Vallarta has to offer.
This includes exploring beautiful beaches like Playa Los Muertos and Playa Conchas Chinas, famous for their crystal-clear waters and sandy shores, or more secluded gems like the aptly named Hidden Beach and Majahuitas beaches.
As night temperatures hover around 60F, taking some time to explore the city after dark and enjoy its vibrant nightlife is not just a given – it’s a must.
Local authorities have bolstered security efforts during this high season, so you can embark on your nighttime adventures knowing that your safety is well taken care of.
The fact that the Puerto Vallarta municipality stands as one of the safest in the country should also help.
Countless Tourist Attractions
While many might think Puerto Vallarta is just about beach bumming and margaritas – and for a good number of travelers, well, it is – in reality Puerto Vallarta offers a treasure trove of experiences guaranteed to create lifelong memories.
In winter, the humpback whale-watching season kicks off, a major attraction allowing you to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
And that’s just scratching the surface.
Other must-do activities in Puerto Vallarta include strolling along the iconic Malecón pier, visiting landmarks like Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, and soaking up the local culture by trying top-notch tequilas and authentic Mexican food in the Old Zone.
Or, if you’re in the mood for something more fancy, head to Marina Vallarta, where you’ll find a variety of high-end restaurants, bars, art galleries, luxury shops, and more.
For travelers seeking adventure, Puerto Vallarta delivers a wide range of exciting tours, from ATV and zip-lining jungle adventures to sailing, horseback riding, and snorkeling/diving.
So, it’s easy to see why Puerto Vallarta International Airport is set to break passenger records soon, as this stunning beach town has everything you could wish for in a winter getaway.
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