Before becoming known as a world-renown beach and vacation destination for travelers from all over the world, Puerto Vallarta was a sleepy little fishing village and port town. The city of Puerto Vallarta is located in the state of Jalisco on the Bay of Banderas on the Pacific Ocean. It was originally founded on December 12, 1851 by Don Guadalupe Sanchez Torres. The village’s original name was “Pierto Las Penas”, meaning “Port of the Rocks”. The village was established initially as a port for the transportation of silver from mines in the area. In 1918, the peaceful fishing village was made into a municipality and renamed Puerto Vallarta after Ignacio Vallarta, a former governor of the state.
Puerto Vallarta garnered international attention in the early 1960’s when film director John Huston made “Night of the Iguana” there. The movie’s star, Elizabeth Taylor, attracted the worldwide press and paparazzi to the area, causing a media frenzy. The publicity led to investor interest in the 1970’s. As a result, Puerto Vallarta was built up and developed into the popular vacation town that it is today. John Huston actually kept a home in the area, and is honored in Puerto Vallarta today with a statue for contributing to the city’s growth and notoriety.
Puerto Vallarta is a favorite vacation destination among spring breakers, honeymooners, the wealthy elite, outdoor adventure lovers, fishermen, and beach bums. There are a number of activities to participate in, including diving, fishing, snorkeling, hiking, and ecotourism. Puerto Vallarta offers its guests a host of lodging and dining options, and a very lively nightlife as well. The diverse landscapes of the region provide constantly changing panoramic views of the ocean, the jungle, and the mountains. Puerto Vallarta is truly paradise.