I've spent countless evenings chasing the perfect sunset in Puerto Vallarta. And honestly? I'm still not tired of it.
There's something about watching the sky turn into liquid gold over Banderas Bay that never gets old. My partner and I have made it our ritual to seek out different spots around the city, some buzzing with energy, others so quiet you can hear the waves breathing.
If you're planning a romantic escape here, you absolutely need to experience at least one sunset. Trust me on this.
Los Muertos Beach: Where the Magic Happens
This is our go-to spot when we want that classic Puerto Vallarta sunset vibe.
Los Muertos Beach stretches along the southern edge of the Zona Romántica, and it's got everything you need. We usually grab a couple of beach chairs from one of the vendors and order margaritas from the nearest bar.
The sand is warm under your feet. The sky starts shifting through shades of orange and pink around 6:30 PM. And there's this incredible energy as everyone, locals and travelers alike, pauses to watch nature do its thing.
What I love most is how the atmosphere builds. Street vendors wander by with fresh coconuts. Musicians set up near the pier. And when that sun finally dips below the horizon, you'll hear spontaneous applause ripple through the crowd.
It's communal but still intimate somehow.
Pro tip: arrive around 6 PM to claim your spot and order that first round of drinks. The show usually starts around 6:45 PM, depending on the season.
The Malecon: A Sunset Stroll
When we're feeling more like wandering than sitting, we head to the Malecon boardwalk.
This iconic stretch runs along the bay and connects you to the heart of downtown. We love starting our walk near the Zona Romántica and making our way north as the light gets softer.
The sculptures along the way make great photo ops. And honestly? There's something romantic about just walking hand-in-hand while the sky transforms above you.
We usually stop at one of the cafés or bars with ocean-facing seating. Order some ceviche and a couple of cold beers. Watch the pelicans dive for their dinner while the sun paints everything gold.
After the sun sets, the Malecon comes alive in a different way. Street performers start their acts. The restaurants light up. It's a whole different vibe that seamlessly flows from day into night.
If you're into exploring more of the local art scene, check out our Art & Romance guide to the ArtWalk in the same area. It's another perfect couples' activity.
Mirador de la Cruz: Our Secret Spot
Okay, it's not actually secret. But it feels that way.
Mirador de la Cruz sits up on a hillside, and you'll need to hike a bit to get there. But trust me, it's worth every step.
We bring a picnic blanket and a bottle of wine. The view from up there is panoramic. You can see the entire sweep of Banderas Bay, the mountains rising behind the city, and the whole sky spreading out above you.
It's quieter here. More intimate. Perfect when you want to escape the crowds and just be together.
The hike takes about 20-30 minutes from the base, depending on your pace. Wear comfortable shoes. Bring water. And time it so you're up there at least 30 minutes before sunset to catch the full color progression.
The best part? After dark, the city lights twinkle below you like a constellation. We usually stay up there for a while after the sun goes down, just soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
Beachfront Dining: Sunset with a Side of Romance
Sometimes we don't want to work for our sunset. We want it served with fresh seafood and a good bottle of wine.
That's when we book a table at one of the beachfront restaurants.
There's something luxurious about watching the sunset from a comfortable chair with a plate of grilled fish in front of you. The restaurants along the Malecon and in the Zona Romántica have upper-level seating with unobstructed ocean views.
We've had some of our most memorable evenings this way. The soft lighting as dusk falls. The sound of waves mixing with quiet conversation. The way the servers move gracefully between tables.
If you're staying in one of the puerto vallarta holiday rentals with ocean views, you've got another option, watching from your own private balcony with wine and takeout. We've done this more times than I can count, and it never disappoints.
Beyond the Shore: Sunset Cruises
I'll be honest, we're not huge cruise people. But a sunset sail on Banderas Bay? That's different.
The perspective from the water is incredible. You're watching the sun sink behind the mountains while the city skyline glows in the foreground. The bay stretches out around you for nearly 300 square miles.
Most cruises include drinks and light snacks. Some have dinner. The vibe is relaxed and romantic without being cheesy.
We've done this once for a special occasion, and I'd definitely do it again. Just make sure you book with a reputable company and check reviews first.
Timing Is Everything
Here's what I've learned after dozens of sunsets here.
Arrive early. Like, 30-45 minutes before the actual sunset time. This gives you time to find your perfect spot, order drinks, and settle in. Plus, the color show starts well before the sun actually touches the horizon.
The best months for clear sunset skies are November through April. That's dry season here, so you're less likely to have clouds blocking your view.
In summer and early fall, you might get dramatic cloud formations that can actually make the sunsets even more spectacular. Or you might get rain. It's a gamble.
One more thing: keep your eyes open for the green flash. It's this optical phenomenon that happens right as the sun disappears below the horizon. We've seen it twice in all our time here, and it's genuinely magical.
Making It Your Own
Every couple is different. Some of you will love the energy of Los Muertos Beach. Others will prefer the quiet intimacy of Mirador de la Cruz.
We've done both. We've watched sunsets from our rental balcony in our pajamas. We've gotten dressed up for fancy dinners with ocean views. We've hiked. We've strolled. We've simply sat on a beach towel with fish tacos and cold beer.
The point isn't where you watch from. It's that you're watching together.
Puerto Vallarta gives you this incredible backdrop of mountains meeting ocean, and twice a day the sky puts on a show. All you have to do is show up.
If you're looking for more romantic spots to explore as a couple, our Morning Magic coffee nooks guide has some great suggestions for starting your day right before you end it with a sunset.
Finding Your Home Base
Having the right place to stay makes all the difference when you're planning romantic evenings.
We always look for puerto vallarta condo rentals with good locations and authentic character. Being within walking distance of the beach means you can catch impromptu sunsets without planning.
And there's something special about coming home after a sunset stroll to your own space. No hotel lobby to navigate. No rushing. Just you, your partner, and whatever you want to do with the rest of your evening.
The magic of Puerto Vallarta sunsets isn't just in the colors. It's in how they make you slow down. How they give you a reason to pause whatever else you're doing and just be present together.
That's the real golden hour glow: not just in the sky, but in the moments you create underneath it.
Follow along with more of our Puerto Vallarta adventures on Instagram where I share sunset photos that never quite capture how beautiful it really is in person.
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