Puerto Vallarta, a popular beach resort on Mexico’s Pacific coast, is generally considered a safe travel destination for international tourists.
Puerto Vallarta is known for its beaches, shopping, restaurants and thriving nightlife. Although known as a beautiful area to visit, it is important to note that local crime rates are high and a travel advisory is in effect for the entire country of Mexico.
The US Department of State includes the state of Jalisco, where Puerto Vallarta is located, in its Mexico Travel Advisory 2023 at Level 3, due to specific cases of crime and kidnapping. Tourists are not considered the target of most crime in Puerto Vallarta, but it is recommended to exercise caution when visiting and be aware that violent crimes and gang activity have occurred in areas frequented by tourists (particularly in Guadalajara) in the state of Jalisco. .
Visitors to Puerto Vallarta often come from the United States or Europe and locals welcome tourists. The police are regularly present at tourist sites and the safety of visitors is a high priority for the local government.
Millions of people come to the beach town every year to take in the scenery and discover its history. The city’s population is relatively small and most crimes there are considered non-violent. Violence between rival gangs accounts for the majority of violent crime in Jalisco state, but injuries to bystanders remain a remote possibility.
When visiting Puerto Vallarta and nearby areas, the State Department recommends exercising caution and taking common sense precautions, such as sharing itineraries with friends and family and making a list of local hospitals and U.S. embassies. When visiting a destination, it can be dangerous to wear expensive jewelry or carry large amounts of cash. Tourists are also often targeted by scams, so caution should be taken to avoid common traps.
