Visiting Puerto Vallarta during one of Mexico’s most iconic celebrations: Día de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, was a longtime dream of mine. When I thought about visiting, I wanted to be respectful of local traditions while experiencing the culture of the holiday. And admittedly, a little beach vacation time was also something I hoped for.
A number of hotels in Puerto Vallarta showcase the traditions and flavors of the Dia de los Muertos for guests. Velas Vallarta, where I stayed for my Day of the Dead trip, gave me the chance for both a deep dive into these local traditions with enjoying its signature all-inclusive experience and friendly service, a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
Dia de los Muertos at Velas Vallarta and in Puerto Vallarta
The holiday festivities at Velas Vallarta kicked off with a colorful and artistic event right on the lawn—painting sugar skulls. These intricately designed skulls, or “calaveras,” are a key symbol of the Day of the Dead, representing loved ones who have passed. Painting sugar skulls is a way to embrace death with humor and color, reflecting the belief that the dead are still a part of the community. As I painted the bright colors and patterns, I couldn’t help but feel connected to this rich cultural ritual. Plus, it was the perfect opportunity to embrace my inner artist.
The main event of my trip was experiencing the Day of the Dead celebrations in Puerto Vallarta. The hotel grounds were alive with colorful altars (ofrendas) decorated with flowers, candles, and photos of loved ones. One of the most captivating experiences was listening to the hotel staff share stories about Catrinas and their various origins. Each Catrina represented more than just a beautiful, skeletal figure—she embodied tales of resilience, humor, and the blending of life and death.
Beyond the holiday: culture and cuisine
Throughout the year, Velas shines a light on Mexican traditions and cuisine. I got a taste of this with a late-afternoon snack of fresh guacamole prepared fresh by the hotel chef right in front of me. Velas Vallarta’s all-inclusive dining felt like a gourmet feast from sun-up to sundown, packed with everything from seafood dishes to traditional Mexican favorites. I especially loved enjoying a candlelit dinner on the beach followed by a performance from an all-female mariachi.
I also got the chance to go on a taco tasting tour through the streets of Puerto Vallarta with Vallarta Food Tours, where I got to sample some of the best street tacos I’ve ever had. Each stop introduced a new twist on the classic dish—whether it was succulent carne asada, marinated al pastor, or fish tacos fresh from the ocean. The vibrant markets and friendly locals made the tour a culinary adventure, and each taco seemed better than the last.
And about that relaxation …
Amid all the adventure and celebration, I made sure to carve out time to relax. The resort’s pool was the perfect escape for lazy afternoons. Lounging under the shade of a palm tree, sipping on a margarita, and dipping into the cool waters—was the ultimate way to unwind.
