Experience the Small Town Charm of El Tuito Sylvia McNamee - VisitPuertoVallarta.com
go to original October 13, 2012

One of the reasons that Puerto Vallarta is such a popular visitor’s destination is that in addition to the amenities that you would expect to find in a world-class tourist resort (fine dining, adventure excursions, golf, spas, shopping, beaches, convention center, cultural activities, etc.), there are many little towns and villages that are close enough to Vallarta to make a great day trip but still feel like you are a million miles away.

El Tuito is exactly one such little town. Located to the south of Puerto Vallarta in Cabo Corrientes at the farthest end of Banderas Bay, El Tuito has a population of just 4,000 and very much feels like a traditional Mexican little town.

The plaza (town square) is surrounded by some beautifully restored homes that all have a striking uniformity due to the particular orange hue of the local clay that is used for building here. There is also a small museum where you can learn about the heritage and origins of El Tuito and its residents.

You will also find little shops selling locally grown and crafted items like handmade cheeses, organic coffee and raicilla, a local liquor similar to tequila that has only recently been made legal for sale.

You can reach El Tuito by car in about one hour from downtown Puerto Vallarta or you can take a public bus marked "El Tuito" or "Botanical Gardens," from the corner of Basilio Badillo at Constitución in Old Town Vallarta.

(Photo Source: luxurybeach.com)