After the pandemic, our family had the pleasure of celebrating two special birthdays in the vibrant, sun-drenched paradise of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. With 20 family members gathered at the luxurious Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa for five unforgettable days, we commemorated my two-year-old grandson’s birthday and his mother’s birthday in grand style. The resort boasts four restaurants, tequila bar, deli/coffee shop and an ice cream shop.
Day 1: Arrival and Warm Welcome
Our adventure began with a warm and sunny welcome at the Puerto Vallarta airport. The Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa, known for its excellent service and beautiful beachfront location, arranged comfortable transportation for our large group. Upon arrival, we were greeted with refreshing drinks and friendly smiles, setting the tone for the rest of our stay.
After settling into our spacious, ocean-view rooms, we gathered for a relaxed dinner at the resort’s flagship restaurant, Las Casitas. With a stunning view of the sunset over Banderas Bay, we enjoyed a variety of local dishes, from fresh ceviche to delectable shrimp tacos. The children delighted in their first taste of authentic Mexican cuisine, while the adults savored the resort’s signature margaritas. As the sunset and the kiddies settled down for the night, the younger crowd headed downstairs to the swanky Ceviche & Tequila Bar for some shots, fresh ceviche and more authentic flavors of Jalisco.
Day 2: Beach Fun and Birthday Celebrations
Our second day was dedicated to enjoying the resort’s swim-up bar and luxurious resort style cabanas as the pristine private beach was closed due to a gator alert. The little ones played in the spacious pools and built fictitious sandcastles, while the adults lounged under the shade of palapas, taking in the spectacular scenery. The resort staff went above and beyond to ensure everyone had a wonderful time, providing beach toys for the kids and refreshing drinks for the grown-ups.
In the afternoon, we celebrated my grandson’s second birthday with a special party by the pool. The resort’s event team decorated the area with colorful balloons and setup a table for the cake. A delightful construction theme cake, custom-made by a local pastry chef, was the highlight of the celebration. Watching his eyes light up with joy as we sang “Happy Birthday” was a moment we will all cherish forever.
Dinner was superb at Mikado’s, where the staff rendered excellent service along with a scrumptious palette of flavors with Asian fusions and the teppanyaki chefs put on a show stopping performance for the two kids in our party.
Day 3: Exploring Puerto Vallarta
On the third day, we ventured beyond the resort to explore the vibrant town of Puerto Vallarta. We took a guided tour of the historic downtown area, known for its charming cobblestone streets and picturesque Malecon boardwalk. The family enjoyed shopping for souvenirs and tasting local street food, from tacos al pastor to sweet churros. Everyone was thrilled by the street performers and the colorful art installations along the Malecon. Lunch was at Nosh Sunset Bar & Bites a beachfront restaurant, where we savored fresh seafood tacos and took in the lively atmosphere.
Our evening at the “Rhythms of the Night” show in Puerto Vallarta was nothing short of magical. Set against the secluded beauty of Las Caletas Cove, the journey began with a scenic boat ride across Banderas Bay. As we arrived, the cove was illuminated by torches, creating an enchanting atmosphere. The dinner buffet, featuring a variety of delectable dishes, was a delightful prelude to the main show. The captivating performance, featuring a mesmerizing blend of music, dance, and acrobatics, left us all in awe. This unforgettable night under the stars was a highlight of our trip, creating lasting memories for the entire family.
Day 4: Adventure and Relaxation
Our fourth day was a mix of adventure and relaxation. Some family members opted for an exhilarating zip-lining tour through the lush jungles surrounding Puerto Vallarta, while others chose to unwind at the resort’s tranquil Ohtli Spa. The spa’s soothing treatments, inspired by ancient Huichol healing practices, provided the perfect escape. The Ohtli Spa has some of the best masseuse in the area. Our masseuse was delightful and very versed in the practice allowing us to unwind and fall asleep to the soothing feel of the deep tissue massage.
In the evening, we celebrated with a fabuleux dinner at Porfirio’s Restaurante known for its vibrant Mexican flavors and accents. The chefs prepared an exquisite multi-course meal featuring local specialties, paired with fine wines. The onsite mariachis and sophisticated upscale environment created a magical ambiance, making the night truly unforgettable.
Day 5: Farewell and Fond Memories
As our five-day celebration came to an end, we spent our final morning enjoying the resort’s amenities. The kids had a blast at the Kid’s Club, while the adults enjoyed one last swim in the infinity pool. Before heading to the airport, we gathered for a family breakfast, reminiscing about the wonderful memories we created together.
Our stay at the Marriott Resort in Puerto Vallarta was nothing short of perfect. The combination of stunning natural beauty, luxurious accommodations, and impeccable service made it an ideal setting for celebrating the birthdays of my grandson and his mother. This trip will forever hold a special place in our hearts, a reminder of the love and joy shared with family in one of the world’s most beautiful destinations.
Until next time … Adios Puerto Vallarta!!!
