If you find yourself booking your next vacation or strolling down the streets of the popular tourist destination, you might ask yourself “What does Vallarta mean?” While the official Puerto Vallarta meaning is quite simple, Vallarta means different things to different people. Only after you visit the vibrant town on Mexico’s Pacific coast can you truly grasp why it’s a favorite for so many and why so many think of it in different ways.
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The Official Vallarta Meaning
You may wonder what the meaning of Vallarta truly is in English, but it’s hard to pin down, especially because it is actually the last name of former governor of Jalisco, Ignacio Vallarta. As an influential individual in Mexico’s history, Vallarta made a name for himself among citizens who admired his political endeavors and respect for the people. In order to honor him, the city changed its name from Las Peñas (The Rocks), to Puerto Vallarta in 1918. The Vallarta meaning in English is just that, the last name of an influential person. Puerto, on the other hand, means port, or a town with a harbor where ships can load and unload. Together, the Vallarta meaning in English is Port of Vallarta.
The Unofficial Puerto Vallarta Meaning
When answering the question, What does Puerto Vallarta mean?, you may find a wealth of differing opinions. The city has become loved by so many that you may have a hard time getting them all to agree on one Vallarta meaning.
For some, the meaning of Vallarta is blanketed in romance. The city itself grew in popularity after Hollywood elites, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, brought their dramatic love story to Vallarta in the 1960s. Since then, visitors rave about the romantic ambiance that exudes from every inch of the coastal town. It is, without a doubt, a great place to pop the question, vacation with a loved one, or just head out for a romantic evening.
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When you ask others, What does Vallarta mean to you? You’ll often hear fun, adventure, and self-discovery among the answers. The coastal town is bustling with exciting opportunities to explore the mountainous landscapes and warm waters of Banderas Bay. When you vacation in Vallarta, there is an adventure waiting at every turn and the excitement is indescribable. If you’re out on one of the countless Vallarta tours, such as whale watching, ziplining, or ATVing through the jungle, you’re bound to learn just as much about yourself as you are about the meaning of Vallarta.
For some, a Puerto Vallarta meaning includes family togetherness, friendship, and hospitality. Recognized as one of the friendliest cities in the world, it is no surprise that PV is a great destination for family vacations and trips with friends. From one end of town to the other, you can find friendly faces, kid-friendly activities, and a warm greeting from all those who call PV home. It is for that reason that for many, a Vallarta meaning is one that warms the heart.
Whether you’re looking for the Vallarta meaning in English or its symbolic meaning to all those who have vacationed in PV, you’re bound to find a variety of answers. With a city this incredible, it is hard not to feel attached to it in the best way.
Have you ever been to this incredible city? What does Puerto Vallarta mean to you?
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FAQs
The Vallarta meaning in English is just that, the last name of an influential person. Puerto, on the other hand, means port, or a town with a harbor where ships can load and unload. Together, the Vallarta meaning in English is Port of Vallarta.
Where does the name Vallarta come from? ›
But it was not until May 31, 1918, that Las Peñas obtained the title of municipality and with it a new name: Puerto Vallarta, in honor of the governor of Jalisco: Ignacio Luis Vallarta, one of the most learned jurists of the nation.
What do people call Puerto Vallarta? ›
In Spanish, Puerto Vallarta is frequently shortened to "Vallarta", while English speakers call the city P.V. for short. In Internet shorthand, the city is often referred to as PVR, after the International Air Transport Association airport code for its Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport.
Is there a difference between Vallarta and Puerto Vallarta? ›
Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta are located on Mexico's Pacific coast, on the Banderas Bay. The biggest difference is that Nuevo Vallarta has more golf courses, resorts, and vacation rentals. On the other hand, Puerto Vallarta is well-known for its shopping, dining, and culture.
What did Puerto Vallarta used to be called? ›
Puerto Vallarta was originally called Las Peñas in the early 19th century. Its neighboring towns were thriving due to mining and agriculture in San Sebastian del Oeste, Talpa de Allende and Mascota.
What does Vallarta mean? ›
The Vallarta meaning in English is just that, the last name of an influential person. Puerto, on the other hand, means port, or a town with a harbor where ships can load and unload. Together, the Vallarta meaning in English is Port of Vallarta.
Who started Vallarta? ›
The chain's stores are concentrated in southern California but has several as far north as Madera and Fresno counties. Vallarta Supermarkets was founded in 1985 by Mexican émigré Enrique Gonzalez.
Why is Puerto Vallarta so famous? ›
From its gorgeous beaches and stunning sunsets to its delicious cuisine and exciting nightlife, Puerto Vallarta has something for everyone. Puerto Vallarta also boasts some of the best restaurants in the country, featuring delicious traditional Mexican cuisine as well as international fare.
Who owns Puerto Vallarta? ›
Puerto Vallarta is truly a family restaurant organization. It all started in 1977. The founders were Anita Andrade and Clemente Andrade. They originated from a small pueblo outside of the city of Guadalajara, Jalisco called Cuatla.
Who made Puerto Vallarta famous? ›
Yes, PV was a quiet town that was put on the map thanks to a US producer and filmmaker, John Huston, who loved Puerto Vallarta and created the film that gave PV its international fame: The Night of the Iguana, originally by Tennessee Williams.
Spanish is the primary language spoken, but many people – especially those who work in the tourist zone – speak English. It may be both helpful and respectful to know some basic Spanish vocabulary, such as "hello" (hola), "goodbye" (adíos), "please" (por favor) and "thank you" (gracias).
Can you swim in the ocean in Puerto Vallarta? ›
Puerto Vallarta is located on beautiful Banderas Bay where the waters are calmer than the Pacific Ocean. The bay and beaches are perfect for swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayaking. Summers have less wave action and the water is clearer.
Is Puerto Vallarta Mayan or Aztec? ›
This area was actually developed during colonial times which means there are no Aztec or Mayan ruins close to Puerto Vallarta.
How many US citizens live in Puerto Vallarta? ›
According to local government estimates, there are around 35,000 U.S. and Canadian citizens living in Puerto Vallarta, many of them retired like Mike and Sara.
What is a fun fact about Puerto Vallarta? ›
- The largest bay in Mexico
Puerto Vallarta is located in an area called Bahía de Banderas, which encompasses the coast of Puerto Vallarta and the Riviera Nayarit in the neighboring state. What few know is that this bay is the deepest at 900 meters and the longest at 42 km in Mexico.
What native tribe lived in Puerto Vallarta? ›
Centuries of Vibrant Mexican Culture
However, what you will find in Puerto Vallarta are the beautiful expressions of the indigenous Huicholes, also known as Wixárikas, who inhabited the areas.
What nationality is Puerto Vallarta? ›
Puerto Vallarta is located in the state of Jalisco, Mexico.
What language is Puerto Vallarta? ›
Spanish is the primary language spoken, but many people – especially those who work in the tourist zone – speak English. It may be both helpful and respectful to know some basic Spanish vocabulary, such as "hello" (hola), "goodbye" (adíos), "please" (por favor) and "thank you" (gracias).
Why is Puerto Vallarta special? ›
The city's vibrant nightlife includes some of Latin America's best clubs, fiestas, and music festivals. The area's natural beauty is unparalleled. From its blue waters to its lush jungles and majestic mountains, Puerto Vallarta has something for nature-loving travelers.