Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

With the ocean, beach, jungle and mountains in close proximity to each other, Puerto Vallarta offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, attractions and entertainment options, including 40 different beaches.

Dolphin Adventure Center is located in Nuevo Vallarta approximately 30 minutes from the pier. It is home to more than 25 Pacific Bottlenose dolphins and was the first facility in the world to train these dolphins for human-interaction programs. The facility offers a variety of tours for people of all ages.

The Lady of Guadalupe Church is the most famous cathedral in Puerto Vallarta and features amazing architecture and beautifully carved interiors. The bells ring every 15 minutes and adds to the tranquility of the peaceful atmosphere. The crown on the top was designed after the one worn by Empress Carlota of Mexico from the late 1860s.

Casa Kimberly is Elizabeth Taylor's former home. Bought by her husband Richard Burton after filming The Night of the Iguana, many of her possessions have been left on display. Part of the home has been converted into a bed-and-breakfast while the rest has become a museum.

Tequila Distilleries are located throughout Puerto Vallarta. Jalisco, the Mexican State of Puerto Vallarta, is the only location where tequila is made. They offer educational tours and samples at the end of the tour.

Playa de los Muertos has a long and wide shore and a gentle surf. Lined with resorts, restaurants and bars, as well as a number of vendors selling crafts and food, it's the most popular beach in Puerto Vallarta.

Playa de Oro is located north of town. It's a great beach for water sports, as it is a wide, sandy beach with few rocky areas.

Playa Mismaloya, located south of town, is the film location of director John Huston's The Night of the Iguana. With crystal-clear blue waters, it's also an ideal beach for snorkeling.