Traveling as a family to Puerto Vallarta means one thing: finding the balance between relaxing days at the hotel and adventures the kids will remember for years. At Buenaventura Grand, we know that the perfect family vacation combines both, so here's a plan with the best activities so that, from the smallest pirate to the most curious explorer, no day feels the same as the last.
1. Marigalante Pirate Ship: the adventure everyone will remember
If there's one activity that sums up the magic of vacationing with kids in Puerto Vallarta, it's the Marigalante Pirate Ship. This half-day tour recreates, aboard a replica of a 16th-century galleon, all the excitement of a pirate adventure: hidden treasure hunts, games, shows, and even the chance to dress up as real buccaneers.
The ship sets sail from the Malecón area, and the tour includes entertainment for all ages, so both the youngest kids and preteens have a great time. It's one of those experiences that ends up on the "best of the trip" list when you ask the kids once you're back home.
Tip: book a few days ahead, especially during high season, since spots fill up fast.
2. Kids club and children's pool: fun from day one
Kids don't need to leave the hotel to start having fun. Buenaventura Grand's kids club and children's pool are the perfect option for arrival day, when the whole family is still settling in and the last thing you want to do is plan an excursion.
It's a zero-logistics activity: no transportation, no outside reservations, no schedules to coordinate. Just head down, put on a swimsuit, and let the kids play while the parents relax for a while too.
3. The beach, just steps from the hotel
Unlike other destinations where you have to travel to reach the sea, Buenaventura Grand sits right on the beach. That means sandcastles, dips in the water, and sunset walks with the kids can be part of the day without needing to go anywhere or arrange transportation.
For families, this is a huge advantage: you can switch between the pool and the sea within minutes, depending on what the kids feel like doing in the moment.
4. Vallarta Zoo: a full day of animals
For families staying several nights, the Vallarta Zoo is an excellent full-day option outside the hotel. Kids can get an up-close look at jaguars, monkeys, and a wide variety of species, and some packages even offer the experience of swimming near tiger cubs under supervision.
It's an educational activity that fits well into the rest of the itinerary, especially if you have kids who love animals and want something different from the beach or the pool.
5. Estero El Salado: mangroves, crocodiles, and a little turtle that stays close to your heart
For a different and very photogenic experience, a boat tour through the Estero El Salado mangrove is one of those activities that surprises both kids and parents alike. Along the way, they can spot crocodiles in their natural habitat while learning about the area's conservation efforts.
The most special part: on some tours, kids get the chance to release a baby sea turtle, give it a name, and make a wish before watching it swim out to sea. It's an activity that's as educational as it is moving, and it tends to stay in the whole family's memory.
6. Extra tip: how to plan your family itinerary without rushing
With so many options, it's easy to want to pack everything into just a few days, but the key to a stress-free family vacation is alternating. A good approach is to pair, each day, one "high-energy" activity (like the Marigalante Pirate Ship or the Vallarta Zoo) with a relaxed one (pool, kids club, or beach).
That way you avoid wearing out the younger kids, and you give the whole family time to rest between adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Buenaventura Grand have a beach?
Yes, the hotel is located right on the ocean, so guests have direct beach access without needing transportation.
Is there a kids club at the hotel, and what's the minimum age?
Yes, the hotel has a kids club and children's pool designed for families with young children.
How long is the Marigalante Pirate Ship tour?
It's a half-day tour that departs from the northern hotel zone area and includes games, shows, and a treasure hunt.
Which activities are free at the hotel?
The children's pool, kids club, and beach access are all included at no extra cost for guests.
Are Estero El Salado and the Vallarta Zoo far from the hotel?
Both are a short trip away from Buenaventura Grand, ideal for a half-day or full-day excursion.