Mirador del Cerro de la Cruz, the summit of Puerto Vallarta

At the top of the mountain, you'll find the viewpoint of Cerro de la Cruz, where you can admire the most beautiful bay in all its splendor.

Undoubtedly, a must-see spot in Puerto Vallarta is the Mirador del Cerro de La Cruz; but to talk about it, let's start at the beginning: the ascent. The first thing to clarify is that it's impossible to reach the summit by car. Although you can start the journey on foot from the city center, if you're not athletic, you're with small children, or you're starting to feel the years, it's recommended to go by car to the intersection of Abasolo and Miramar streets. From that point on, a steep pedestrian path begins, followed by stairs with several resting points where you can stop to catch your breath and start appreciating the views of downtown Puerto Vallarta and its red-tiled roofs from various heights.

“From this place, there's no corner that hides, nor sunsets that are forgotten.

Vallarta from the La Cruz Lookout

Upon finishing the climb up the steps, one reaches a clearing. In its center stands a mound upon which rises the iron cross that gives the site its name. From there, one already has excellent views of the bay and the peaks of the Sierra Madre behind. However, it is still possible to gain more height.

At one end of the esplanade stands a tower with stairs to climb a few more meters. Once there, some of the best panoramic views of not only the city but the entire bay unfold before your eyes, allowing you to glimpse from the Mismaloya Arches south of Puerto Vallarta to the Marietas Islands at the northern end of the bay. From this vantage point, no corner remains hidden, nor sunsets are forgotten.