Isla Cuale (Cuale Island), Puerto Vallarta
Cuale Island is one of Puerto Vallarta鈥檚 most charming hidden treasures. Nestled right in the heart of the city, this narrow island sits between Centro and the Zona Rom谩ntica, accessible via Cuale Rivel Bridge and the pedestrian-only La Iguana Bridge. The island emerged naturally in the river mouth during the 1920s and was later consolidated, now offering visitors a peaceful, traffic-free haven filled with trees, art galleries, restaurants, and a daily craft market. Whether you're strolling among leafy paths or browsing the colorful stalls, Cuale Island provides a relaxed and authentic slice of Puerto Vallarta life.
At the northern edge of the island, you'll find the famous Isla Cuale Flea Market, also known as Cuale River Municipal Market. This bustling two-story indoor market spans a full city block along the riverbanks and offers an impressive array of pottery, jewelry, embroidered clothing, souvenirs, and local crafts at affordable prices. Bargain hunters will enjoy haggling with friendly vendors, and upstairs, you鈥檒l discover food stands serving traditional Mexican snacks.
Beyond shopping and sightseeing, Cuale Island invites visitors to linger in its tranquil atmosphere. Popular restaurants like Le Bistro and River Caf茅 offer perfect spots to dine among the island鈥檚 lush greenery. It鈥檚 a favorite place for locals and tourists alike to relax, listen to the gentle sounds of the river, and escape the busier parts of town without ever leaving the city center. A stroll on Cuale Island captures the very spirit of Puerto Vallarta鈥攁rtistic, vibrant, and intimately tied to its natural beauty.
At the northern edge of the island, you'll find the famous Isla Cuale Flea Market, also known as Cuale River Municipal Market. This bustling two-story indoor market spans a full city block along the riverbanks and offers an impressive array of pottery, jewelry, embroidered clothing, souvenirs, and local crafts at affordable prices. Bargain hunters will enjoy haggling with friendly vendors, and upstairs, you鈥檒l discover food stands serving traditional Mexican snacks.
Beyond shopping and sightseeing, Cuale Island invites visitors to linger in its tranquil atmosphere. Popular restaurants like Le Bistro and River Caf茅 offer perfect spots to dine among the island鈥檚 lush greenery. It鈥檚 a favorite place for locals and tourists alike to relax, listen to the gentle sounds of the river, and escape the busier parts of town without ever leaving the city center. A stroll on Cuale Island captures the very spirit of Puerto Vallarta鈥攁rtistic, vibrant, and intimately tied to its natural beauty.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Puerto Vallarta. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "黑料吃瓜网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Isla Cuale (Cuale Island) on Map
Sight Name: Isla Cuale (Cuale Island)
Sight Location: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (See walking tours in Puerto Vallarta)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (See walking tours in Puerto Vallarta)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Create Your Own Walk in Puerto Vallarta
Creating your own self-guided walk in Puerto Vallarta is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Puerto Vallarta Introduction Walking Tour
Puerto Vallarta is defined by the natural charm of its beaches embraced by the Sierra Madre mountains; the essence of its culture, gastronomy and traditions; and the warmth and hospitality of being welcomed like a friend. This magical destination has an authentic Mexican taste and spirit. ***PH***
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles