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Ocean Colour Scene - The Riverboat Song

25 things you probably missed in the new GTA 6 trailer

Fans will spend hours dissecting every detail of the gta vi trailer. here's what we found that you may have overlooked..

The internet is buzzing with excitement as the much-anticipated trailer for GTA 6 hits the internet. Rockstar Games released its official trailer 15 hours ahead of the originally scheduled time, responding swiftly after the video first leaked on an X account .

The 1 minute and 30 seconds of footage are a treasure trove of details that go beyond the surface impressions of a typical Miami city vibe. The trailer hints at a deep commitment to incorporating pop culture, political undertones, and real-life social aspects. Notably, the State of Florida has been rebranded as the State of Leonida in this upcoming installment.

Here are 25 things that you may have overlooked in the debut trailer of GTA VI.

Radio Broadcast Tower

The opening shot showcases the Vice City skyline with a bridge road resembling the iconic Florida Keys. In the backdrop stands a Radio Broadcast Tower, a clear nod to the Florida Broadcast Tower.

Lucia’s Family Photo

A look into Lucia’s jail cell reveals a family photo, sparking speculation about her familial ties. Past rumors hinted at a child, but the family photo reveals otherwise. She would definitely have a picture of her child in that family photo if she had one, given a child is an important part of a family.

Enriched Marine Life

The transparent waters of Vice Beach reveal marine life, including turtles, sharks, dolphins, and flying ducks.

Returning Air Vehicles

Classic airborne vehicles like the Maverick helicopter and the Dodo Seaplane make a return as seen in the trailer.

In another scene, we can also see The Buckingham SuperVolito and the The Sea Sparrow.

Brickell on the River Condos

We can also see the in-game version of the Brickell on the River condos. It has two towers just like its real life counterpart.

Florida Everglades

GTA 6 introduces Grass Rivers, the game’s equivalent of the Everglades, featuring diverse wildlife like crocodiles, flamingos, deer, ducks, and alligators.

Updated NPC Behavior

Beach activities showcase enhanced NPC artificial intelligence, engaging in actions ranging from sunscreen application to video capturing.

Possible Pets

NPCs jogging with a Chihuahua introduce the possibility of a highly requested pet feature for players.

Patricia & Phillip Frost Museum of Art Recreation

The scene where Jason and Lucia are being filmed shows buildings in the distance with a striking resemblance to the building behind the actual Patricia & Phillip Frost Museum of Art in Florida.

Little Havana

A car meet is being held in Little Havana at a place with walls filled with graffiti.

Venetian Islands

The Venetian Islands shown in the trailer are almost similar to their real life counterparts.

Ocean View Hotel

The iconic Ocean View Hotel returns, radiating nostalgia with an Oceanic sedan parked outside, maintaining the yellow-white color scheme from GTA: Vice City.

Homeless Man with Iguana

We can also see a homeless man on the Vice Beach road with a green Iguana on his shoulders. Iguanas are quite common in Florida, especially during certain seasons where the people of Florida are legally allowed to shoot and kill the invasive reptiles.

Peggy Gou DJ

The trailer also shows a female DJ resembling Peggy Gou, a South Korean DJ and songwriter.

When we look at the Florida Keys replica, we can observe a large white blimp in the distance.

First Person Mode

Bodycam footage capturing cops breaking into an apartment calls for speculation about the return of first-person mode.

Dual Hammer Karen

A scene featuring a woman wielding dual hammers draws inspiration from the real-life “Dual Hammer Karen” incident in 2020.

Florida Joker

A tattooed character’s mugshot, taken by Vice Dale County, pays homage to the real-life “Florida Joker,” who got famous after his arrest in 2017.

Ride Out Customs

The presence of a “Ride Out Customs” sticker suggests that a new vehicle customization and repair shop will be called Ride Out Customs, similar to Los Santos Customs in GTA 5 .

Returning Soda Brands

Familiar brands like Pißwasser, eCola, Benedict, and Logger can be seen in the scene featuring Jason and Lucia in a grocery store.

Cargo Ships

We can now see that cargo ships are also moving. We’ve never had moving cargo ships in previous GTA installments.

Different Gangs Revealed

As per the trailer, we’re assuming there are three main gangs as of now: Thrillbilly Mud Club, High Rollerz street car racing group, and an unnamed biker gang.

Social Media Significance

We can see that Rockstar Games has taken great inspiration from the modern era of social media which is integrated into the narrative as seen in the trailer.

Trailer Song

The choice of the 1989 song ‘Love is a Long Road’ by Tom Petty suggests a Bonnie and Clyde dynamic between Jason and Lucia, hinting at a narrative where trust becomes an important element. According to the song, one of the partners in crime may end up betraying the other for their own safety.

One of the social media posts in the trailer shows what appears to be a Jeff Bezos lookalike partying on a yacht.

GTA 6 is scheduled to release on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S in 2025. There is no mention of a PC release, which in turn has sparked outrage among the PC gamers .

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Puerto Vallarta vs Tulum: Which is Better in 2024?

Planning a trip to Mexico and stuck between visiting Puerto Vallarta or Tulum? You’re in the right place!

As a travel blogger that lives in Playa del Carmen (just north of Tulum) and who has previously lived in Puerto Vallarta, I know all about these two beach destinations.

While both Puerto Vallarta and Tulum are stunning beach vacation spots, there are some key differences between the two.

In this ultimate Puerto Vallarta vs Tulum guide , I’ll share everything you need to know about location and accessibility, cost details, safety concerns, the best activities, and where to stay in each tropical location.

Ready to find out if you’re more suited for Tulum, the small bohemian beach town, or Puerto Vallarta, the lively city on the Pacific Coast? Let’s get started!

Planning a trip to Mexico? Use my favorite travel resources!

🏨 Hotels: Expedia or Booking.com ✈️ Flights: Skyscanner 🚗 Rental Cars: Discover Cars 🤿 Tours & Activities: Viator 🚨 Travel Insurance: Travel Insurance Master

Which is Better Puerto Vallarta or Tulum?

When it comes to choosing between Puerto Vallarta or Tulum, it really depends on what you’re looking for in your vacation.

As one of Mexico’s top beach destinations, Puerto Vallarta is better if you want a more classic Mexican vacation experience .

It’s an older town with a lot of classic Mexican charm, along with vibrant nightlife, a variety of resorts, and a wide range of activities such as zip-lining and whale watching.

On the other hand, Tulum is better if you prefer a more upscale and eco-friendly vacation experience with gorgeous Caribbean beaches.

It has a bohemian vibe with chic boutique hotels and plenty of opportunities for yoga and wellness retreats.

Both are fun places to vacation, so it really comes down to whether you want more luxury or a more classic Mexican vibe for your vacation.

Puerto Vallarta vs Tulum: Overview

Puerto Vallarta and Tulum are two completely different tropical locations with endless appeal.

While I think they’re both worth a visit, the final decision will come down to your preferences.

About Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a vibrant coastal city, situated on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, in the state of Jalisco.

Renowned for its scenic beauty, it offers a unique blend of the azure Pacific Ocean waters and the lush jungle backdrop of the Sierra Madre mountains.

The city’s geographical location gives it a tropical feel with a moderate climate, making it an attractive beach destination all year round.

But it’s not just the beaches and warm weather that draws in visitors–the city itself is one of Mexico’s original beach towns and steeped in classic Mexican charm.

Cobblestone streets wind their way through Spanish colonial architecture, while the stunning hillside offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

Some of Puerto Vallarta’s most famous sites include the impressive beachfront boardwalk known as the “Malecón”, the spiral-shaped Los Muertos Beach Pier, and the beautiful pink-hued Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

Plus, its jungle-covered mountains and sandy beaches make Puerto Vallarta an ideal place for outdoor activities like ziplining, hiking, and water activities.

And with a wide variety of resorts catering to tourists, cruise ship passengers, and local families on vacation, Puerto Vallarta offers a great blend of relaxation and adventure.

About Tulum

Tulum is situated along the Caribbean coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, just an hour south of Playa del Carmen .

This tiny bohemian beach town has gained popularity in recent years for its untouched white sand beaches and turquoise waters.

Tulum is known for being sustainably boho chic, attracting influencers, celebrities, and yogis with boutique eco-hotels, wellness retreats, and Instagrammable spots at nearly every turn.

The town is divided into two distinct areas: the downtown area (also known as “Tulum Pueblo”) and Tulum Beach (also known as the Hotel Zone).

Tulum Pueblo is more local and laid back, offering a lot more affordability and plenty of great restaurants, shops, bars, and nightlife.

Alternatively, the Hotel Zone is where most of the luxury resorts (and their private beaches) are located and where most visitors spend their days and nights.

Tulum is also home to the archaeological site of Tulum, the only beachfront Mayan Ruins in the state of Quintana Roo, as well as numerous freshwater cenotes.

Puerto Vallarta vs Tulum Map

Take a look at the map below to see where Puerto Vallarta and Tulum are located:

Puerto Vallarta vs Tulum: Who Are They Best Suited For?

Puerto Vallarta and Cozumel are beach destinations catering to beach tourism, but they differ in many ways and are suited for different types of travelers.

Who is Puerto Vallarta best suited for?

Puerto Vallarta is a great destination to consider because it’s very well-rounded and caters to many different types of travelers.

Not only does it attract beach and sun seekers, but families will find plenty of family-friendly resorts and fun activities for children including outdoor activities, whale watching, and water sports.

Additionally, couples and honeymooners can book one of the adults-only all-inclusive resorts and take romantic strolls along the Malecón boardwalk or watch the sunset from the Los Muertos Beach Pier.

Plus, Puerto Vallarta can be a very affordable destination and budget travelers will be able to find great deals on dining and accommodation to meet their budget.

LGBTQ+ travelers will appreciate Puerto Vallarta’s growing reputation as an LGBTQ+ friendly destination with its inclusivity and gay neighborhoods.

Finally, for the adventure seekers, the city’s surrounding jungle and ocean provide a huge variety of outdoor activities such as scuba diving, ziplining, and hiking.

Who is Tulum best suited for?

Tulum is best suited for luxury travelers or those with a higher budget as the town is considerably more expensive than Puerto Vallarta.

Now budget travelers can still visit Tulum but you’ll just have to search for more affordable accommodation and dining options.

Tulum is also well-known for its wellness scene with plenty of yoga retreats and holistic healing centers, making it a great destination for yoga enthusiasts and those looking to connect with their spiritual side.

Tulum also attracts vegan and vegetarian travelers since there are many health-conscious restaurants and juice bars that serve up delicious plant-based meals.

And with its many Instagram-worthy backdrops, it’s also a popular destination for influencers and content creators.

Couples looking for a romantic getaway will love the luxury boutique resorts, white sand beaches, and private eco-chic accommodations.

Tulum is not really the best place for families as the hotels and resorts are not super kid-friendly.

Puerto vs Tulum: Pros and Cons

Here’s a look at the Puerto Vallarta vs Tulum pros and cons to help with your decision:

Pros of Puerto Vallarta

• Less expensive
• Large international airport and easy transportation
• Mountains + ocean
• Great for families
• Very LGBTQ+ friendly
• Amazing sunsets

Cons of Puerto Vallarta

• Less beautiful beaches
• No ruins or cenotes
• Larger and noisier city
• Older, more classic Mexican style

Pros of Tulum

• Small, quiet, and relaxing
• Incredible white-sand beaches
• Newer and more stylish resorts
• Focus on sustainability, health, and wellness
• Ancient ruins and cenotes nearby

Cons of Tulum

• Very expensive
• Harder to get to
• Doesn’t have great transportation options
• Poor infrastructure
• Can feel over-stylized

Puerto Vallarta vs Tulum: Safety Comparison

Now, let’s look at a safety comparison between Puerto Vallarta and Tulum.

U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory

The official U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory for Puerto Vallarta is currently “ Level 3 – Reconsider Travel ” due to crime and kidnapping in the state of Jalisco.

The U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory for Tulum is currently “ Level 2 – Exercise Increased Caution ” due to crime in the state of Quintana Roo.

The United States Mexico travel advisory mentions violent criminal activity in Jalisco but references Guadalajara, not Puerto Vallarta.

The same report warns tourists to exercise increased awareness in the tourist areas of Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum.

Crime and Safety Index

Numbeo reports the following crime and safety indices for Puerto Vallarta and Tulum. Basically, you want the crime index to be low and the safety index to be high.

• Crime Index: Puerto Vallarta: 35.70 (Low) | Tulum: 37.26 (Low)
• Safety Index: Puerto Vallarta: 64.30 (High) | Tulum: 62.74 (High)

🚨 Do you need travel insurance for Mexico? Yes! Most insurance plans in your home country will not cover incidents abroad. I recommend using Travel Insurance Master, which is a handy travel insurance marketplace where you can compare policies. Get a FREE quote by clicking here !

Is Puerto Vallarta safer than Tulum?

According to Numbeo, Puerto Vallarta has a slightly higher safety index than Tulum but both cities have very similar statistics when it comes to safety.

It’s important to know that drug crime and cartel activity is present in both cities, as they are popular tourist destinations with a market for drug sales.

However, as long as you don’t buy drugs and avoid any illegal activity, you more than likely won’t have any interaction with the drug scene.

From my experience, both Puerto Vallarta and Tulum feel about the same when it comes to safety, and I’ve never felt unsafe when visiting either destination.

But it’s very important to use common sense and take basic safety precautions such as not traveling alone at night, keeping your belongings close to you, and staying in well-lit areas.

As long as you take basic precautions, most travelers will not have any safety issues as it’s more the late-night illegal activity where most of the safety problems occur.

Puerto Vallarta vs Tulum: Cost Comparison

When deciding a vacation destination, it’s important to know which city is going to be less expensive.

Let’s compare Puerto Vallarta vs Tulum on cost and see which city is the most budget-friendly.

How expensive is Puerto Vallarta?

Puerto Vallarta can be very budget-friendly, as the city has a wide range of accommodation options, from hostels and Airbnbs to luxury hotels.

The average cost of a mid-range hotel in Puerto Vallarta is around $200 USD per night, while luxury resorts can start from $500 USD per night.

Dining out in Puerto Vallarta can start from $2 USD for local street food or more than $30 USD per person for higher end restaurants.

Additionally, Puerto Vallarta has a large international airport (PVR) that’s relatively close to the city center so you can save money on transportation when flying into the city.

Plus, Uber in Puerto Vallarta is available, which is a very affordable and easy way to get around the city.

How expensive is Tulum?

Tulum is much more expensive than Puerto Vallarta, as the city has become a luxury hotspot for travelers.

The average cost of a mid-range hotel in Tulum Pueblo is around $100 USD per night, while a luxury hotel in the Hotel Zone is around $600+ USD per night.

Additionally, most hotels in Tulum are not all-inclusive so you’ll need to factor in food and drinks to your overall costs.

Dining out in Tulum can start from $2 USD for local food or more than $50 USD per person for higher end restaurants in the Hotel Zone.

Airport transportation to Tulum can also be costly. In order to fly to Tulum , you can either fly into the new Tulum International Airport (TQO) or Cancun International Airport (CUN), and then take ground transportation to Tulum.

A private transfer from Cancun to Tulum can cost around $180 USD each way so that’s a considerable cost you’ll need to consider if you fly into Cancun.

Plus, Uber in Tulum is not available so you’ll need factor in costs for taxis or public transportation to get around.

Is Tulum more expensive than Puerto Vallarta?

Yes, Tulum is considerably more expensive than Puerto Vallarta and prices are generally much higher due to the town’s popularity as an exclusive and luxurious destination.

The difference in cost can be quite substantial depending on where you stay and dine. For example, staying the Hotel Zone in Tulum will likely be more than double what you would pay in Tulum Pueblo.

There are ways for budget travelers to save money in Tulum such as staying in the Pueblo, eating local food, and taking public transportation.

But overall, you’ll need to plan and budget a lot more for your stay in Tulum if you want to avoid breaking the bank on your trip.

Puerto Vallarta vs Tulum: Beaches Comparison

Another important difference to consider is the beach comparison between Puerto Vallarta and Tulum.

Beaches in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta beaches are quite different than beaches in Tulum. While still beautiful, the sand is more golden brown and tends to be more rocky and not quite as powder soft.

Plus, the color of the water is more of a deep blue and you don’t have that bright, turquoise blue coloring like the Mexican Caribbean.

The good thing about Puerto Vallarta beaches though is that they are swimmable, as the Bay of Banderas offers protection from rough waters.

Compared to other beach destinations on Mexico’s Pacific coast with rough waves, Puerto Vallarta’s beaches are some of the best in the area.

Beaches in Tulum

Tulum has some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, with powder white sand and that bright, turquoise blue water that you’d expect from a Caribbean beach.

And the great thing about Tulum beaches is that they are much more widespread and untouched and way less crowded than the beaches in nearby Playa del Carmen or Cancun.

The only downsides to Tulum beaches are that there aren’t many public beach access points, meaning you may need to stay at a beachfront hotel or pay for a beach club to gain access.

Additionally, it’s important to know that the beaches in Tulum can have seaweed depending on the weather conditions and the time of year.

Does Tulum have better beaches than Puerto Vallarta?

Yes, Tulum has much better beaches than Puerto Vallarta. Tulum has gorgeous white sand beaches with bright turquoise water. Plus, they are much more untouched and widespread.

However, it is important to know that access to the beaches in Tulum can be limited and that there may be seaweed present at times.

Puerto Vallarta vs Tulum: Hotels Comparison

Here’s a look at how the hotels compare in Puerto Vallarta and Tulum:

Hotels in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta has a diverse range of accommodations to suit various budgets and preferences.

From budget-friendly hostels and homely Airbnbs to extravagant luxury resorts, there’s something for everyone.

Many Puerto Vallarta hotels offer all-inclusive packages, providing you with meals, drinks, and on-site activities in the price, making planning your vacation hassle-free.

Hotels in Puerto Vallarta are also found in various locations, from the walkable Zona Romantica neighborhood to the larger resorts in the Hotel Zone, Marina Vallarta, or Nuevo Vallarta, so you can choose a location that best suits your vacation style.

In general, though, Puerto Vallarta resorts are older and not as modern compared to other beach destinations in Mexico.

Where to Stay in Puerto Vallarta

Here are a few great options for where to stay in Puerto Vallarta:

• Luxury : Hotel Mousai  
• Mid-Range : Vallarta Shores
• Budget : Villa Lola

Travelista Tip: If you’re looking for the best beaches, I recommend staying in the Hotel Zone , as you’ll have several within walking distance. If you want to be near the action and good nightlife, I recommend the Romantic Zone .

Hotels in Tulum

On the contrary, Tulum provides a different kind of experience. Known for its upscale eco-resorts and luxury boutique hotels, Tulum provides a unique blend of luxury and nature that is hard to find elsewhere.

Hotels in Tulum often boast private beach access, yoga classes, and wellness spas, providing a serene and tranquil environment for relaxation.

However, it’s important to know that Tulum’s focus on sustainability means a lot of the hotels may not have all of the comforts and modern amenities of normal luxury hotels, such as air conditioning or televisions.

Mosquito nets and outdoor showers add to the overall design aesthetic, but may not be to everyone’s taste.

Tulum accommodations are also generally pricier, and fewer hotels offer all-inclusive options, meaning you’ll have to plan and budget your meals and drinks separately.

The city is divided into two main areas: Tulum Pueblo, where you can find more affordable accommodations and Tulum Airbnbs , and the Tulum Hotel Zone, which is home to the city’s most luxurious hotels.

Where to Stay in Tulum

Here are a few great options for where to stay in Tulum:

• Luxury : La Valise Tulum
• Mid-Range : Hotel Bardo
• Budget : Latino Hotel Boutique

Travelista Tip: If your budget allows, I would definitely recommend staying in the Hotel Zone , as you’ll have beach access and that’s where all the action happens in Tulum.

Puerto Vallarta vs Tulum: Activities Comparison

Since Puerto Vallarta and Tulum are both tropical beach towns, they offer similar activities. You’ll find snorkeling tours, boat excursions, ziplining, and ATV tours in either destination.

The main difference is that Tulum is home to both Mayan Ruins and cenotes, two activities that Puerto Vallarta does not have.

Visiting the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum is a must-do activity when visiting this part of Mexico and offers a unique insight into the region’s past.

Exploring the cenotes in Tulum is also highly recommended, as these underground sinkholes were once considered sacred by the Mayans and offer a truly unique experience.

Alternatively, Puerto Vallarta does have whale watching tours during migration season, an experience you won’t be able to find in Tulum.

Best Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta

Here are some activity highlights and best things to do in Puerto Vallarta:

• Take a Boat Tour to Islas Marietas National Park: Islas Marietas (The Marietas Islands) is a beautiful group of tiny islands off the coast of Puerto Vallarta. You can take an Islas Marietas boat tour there to visit the stunning Hidden Beach, as well as go snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
• Go Ziplining in the Jungle: Puerto Vallarta’s location in the Sierra Madre mountains makes it the perfect place for ziplining. You can book a fun Puerto Vallarta ziplining tour to soar through the jungle canopy and enjoy the incredible views.
• Go Whale Watching: Whale watching season is between December and March when humpback whales enter Banderas Bay. It’s a really fun activity, perfect for any family vacation.
• Walk the Malecón : Puerto Vallarta’s “Malecón” is a beautiful beachfront boardwalk lined with shops, restaurants, and bars where you can enjoy incredible ocean views.

Best Things to Do in Tulum

Here are some activity highlights and best day trips from Tulum :

• Visit the Mayan Ruins: The ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum are one of the most popular attractions in this part of Mexico. They offer an incredible insight into the region’s rich history and you can explore them at your own pace. The Tulum Ruins can be visited fairly easily on your own or you can book a Tulum private tour to have your own tour guide.
• Explore Freshwater Cenotes: There is an abundance of cenotes near Tulum, which are stunning natural swimming holes formed by underground sinkholes. Visiting a cenote is such a unique experience where you can swim, snorkel, or just hang out in beautiful natural setting. Some of the best cenotes near Tulum are Cenote Taak Bi Ha and Casa Cenote .
• Relax at a Beach Club: Tulum is home to several beach clubs that offer an unforgettable experience. You can chill out on a lounge bed with a refreshing cocktail and enjoy the beautiful Caribbean Sea views.
• Visit an Adventure Park: There are several Xcaret adventure parks near Tulum that offer activities such as zip-lining, rappelling, and ATV tours. The closest adventure park to Tulum is Xel-Ha , which is a stunning natural water park with snorkeling, water ziplines, a lazy river, and high-speed water slides.

Puerto Vallarta vs Tulum: Restaurants Comparison

To be honest, you can find good food in both Puerto Vallarta and Tulum but neither of them are really considered to be food capitals in Mexico.

Puerto Vallarta is known for having good seafood so you can definitely get some delicious fish tacos, ceviche, aguachiles, and other seafood dishes when visiting.

I can still remember an amazing pulpo (octopus) burrito I ate in Puerto Vallarta at a hole-in-the-wall type of place near the airport!

In contrast, Tulum is known for its eco-friendly dining scene with a focus on sustainability and fresh locally-sourced ingredients.

Vegetarians will appreciate Tulum’s abundance of vegan and vegetarian options, including vegan tacos, tempeh burgers, and smoothie bowls.

But probably the biggest difference between restaurants in Puerto Vallarta and Tulum is the atmosphere.

The restaurants in Puerto Vallarta are generally more casual, but what’s great is that a lot of them have incredible ocean views of the Pacific.

Tulum restaurants, on the other hand, are often more upscale outdoor eateries with a jungle-like atmosphere–and a much higher price tag!

Puerto Vallarta vs Tulum: Transportation Comparison

Another main difference between Puerto Vallarta and Tulum is transportation options available.

Puerto Vallarta has a lot more options for getting around, including local buses, traditional taxis, and ride-sharing services.

Uber in Puerto Vallarta is available and is usually much cheaper than taxis, making it a great option for getting around the city.

Plus, Puerto Vallarta International Airport is relatively close to downtown Puerto Vallarta, which makes getting to and from the airport quick and affordable.

On the other hand, airport transportation in Tulum can be very costly depending on which airport you fly into.

If you fly into Cancun, driving from Cancun to Tulum is a 2+ hour long journey that will cost you around $180 USD each way for a private transfer.

Or you can opt for the ADO bus from Cancun to Tulum , which is a charter bus that costs around $25 USD each way.

And to get around Tulum and for short rides around town, you’ll need to rely on bicycles or taxis, which can often be overpriced.

Overall, transportation in Puerto Vallarta is much more convenient and practical than Tulum so keep that in mind when choosing your destination.

Puerto Vallarta vs Tulum: Nightlife Comparison

Both Puerto Vallarta and Tulum have a vibrant nightlife scene and are good destinations for those looking to party.

Overall, Puerto Vallarta has a more casual nightlife scene with plenty of bars and clubs to visit. Plus, a lot of the nightclubs are located along the Malecón, so you get a unique indoor/outdoor nightclub experience.

On the other hand, Tulum has a more upscale and trendy nightlife scene with chic cocktail bars, moody lounges, and unique beachfront parties.

Plus, Tulum is known for its EDM music and techno parties that bring in famous DJs, as well as the full moon party at Papaya Playa Project .

Overall, it really just depends on what kind of nightlife experience you’re after. If you prefer something more casual and affordable, Puerto Vallarta is your best bet.

But if you’re looking for a more upscale and trendy party scene, then Tulum is the place to be.

Tulum vs Puerto Vallarta: FAQs

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Tulum vs Puerto Vallarta:

Absolutely, Puerto Vallarta is worth visiting for its diverse range of activities, stunning ocean and mountain landscapes, whale watching opportunities, ease of transportation, and affordability.

Puerto Vallarta is popular because it’s a well-known beach destination and family vacation spot. There’s a little something for everyone, making it a great place to explore on vacation.

The best months to go to Puerto Vallarta are between December and March, when the weather is cooler and more temperate. You’ll also be able to spot humpback whales during this time.

Yes, the Puerto Vallarta ocean is swimmable. The city beaches are in Banderas Bay, making the water more calm than other west coast of Mexico destinations.

Yes, Puerto Vallarta can feel touristy but it also has a lot of classic Mexican charm. There are plenty of attractions and activities for tourists, but also many local spots for a more authentic Mexican experience.

The best time to visit Tulum is between December and February, when the weather is more dry and less humid. The summer months past June is the rainy season and it can get incredibly hot and humid. But Tulum is warm enough to visit all year round.

Both Tulum and Puerto Vallarta have similar weather patterns and are warm enough to visit all year round. The dry season is during the winter months, while the rainy season is during the summer months. The main difference is that water temperatures in Puerto Vallarta will be much colder during the winter.

Final Thoughts: Which is better to visit Tulum or Puerto Vallarta?

Ultimately, the choice between Puerto Vallarta and Tulum depends on your personal preferences.

If you’re seeking a more affordable vacation packed with diverse activities, incredible ocean views, and a casual dining and nightlife scene, then Puerto Vallarta is a great option.

Plus, what I love about Puerto Vallarta is its classic Mexican charm, cobblestone streets, and walkability, which you won’t find in Tulum.

On the other hand, if you want incredible Caribbean beaches and don’t mind paying more for the experience, then Tulum provides an unforgettable atmosphere with its eco-chic boutique hotels.

You’ll also find stunning cenotes tucked into the jungle near Tulum that you won’t find anywhere else in Mexico.

Both Puerto Vallarta and Tulum have their own unique allure and attractions, making either choice an unforgettable experience!

• Puerto Vallarta vs Cozumel
• Puerto Vallarta vs Mexico City
• Tulum vs Cancun

🇲🇽 Traveling to Mexico soon?

These are the Mexico travel resources I use and recommend:

🏨 Hotels : I always find the best deals for Mexico hotels and resorts on Expedia or Booking.com . If you prefer a vacation rental, check VRBO as they are often cheaper than AirBnB’s added fees!

✈️ Flights : I recommend using Skyscanner for the best Mexico flight deals. Be sure to sign up for their price alerts for your preferred travel dates.

🚗 Rental Cars : I recommend using Discover Cars because you can compare multiple car rental companies and see detailed ratings for overall value, ease of pick-up, efficiency of agents, car condition, and overall time spent.

🚙 Cancun Airport Transportation : I recommend booking a private transfer with Cancun Airport Transportation for the quickest and most hassle-free option!

🤿 Tours & Activities: I always use Viator or GetYourGuide for booking tours and activities in Mexico. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, plus they have excellent customer service if you were to have any issues.

🚨 Travel Insurance: After my Dad broke his hand in a taxi accident in Playa del Carmen, I always recommend buying travel insurance before your trip for added peace of mind! I recommend Travel Insurance Master for short trips or Safety Wing for digital nomads.

☀️ Biodegradable Sunscreen : Don’t forget to add biodegradable sunscreen to your Mexico packing list ! Regular sunscreen is prohibited on most snorkeling tours, so you’ll need to pack some biodegradable sunscreen for sun protection. I recommend Sun Bum Sunscreen , which is reef-friendly, vegan, and cruelty-free.

Allison Sicking is the founder of Viva La Travelista. After moving to Playa del Carmen, Mexico in 2018, she created her travel blog to empower others to travel safely and confidently in Mexico and other Spanish-speaking countries. Using her Spanish language skills and expertise in Mexico travel, she is passionate about teaching others to travel Mexico like a local.