10 Waterfalls and Hot Springs to Visit Near Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

If you’re planning a trip to Mexico’s pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta will likely be your hub.

Whether you’ve never been to the area or visit every year, there are a multitude of things to do and geological attractions that you can visit besides hanging out on the beach.

There are plenty of things to check out that will get you off the beaten path and satisfy your appetite for adventure.

Puerto Vallarta has no shortage of incredible waterfalls and hot springs nearby.

When you need a break from the beach and want to splash around in some waterfalls or bathe in the healing warm mineral waters, I got you!

In this guide you’ll find information about waterfalls and hot springs to visit in the states of Nayarit and Jalisco, and which tours you can book or directions for finding them on your own.

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Best Waterfalls and Hot Springs to Visit Near Puerto Vallarta:

Aguas Termales Nuevo Ixtlan Hot Springs

In the heart of the jungle you’ll find a rustic yet quaint setting of about a dozen small stone tubs.

Each tub varies in size and can usually fit anywhere between 2-6 people.

You’ll be assigned a pool upon arrival and can adjust the temperature of the water for your preference.

But they are kept around 25°C so that you can enjoy the water all year round.

The pools are drained and cleaned quite often and each has its own pipe to fill it with the thermal waters from the earth.

I highly recommend taking this tour, as you’ll pass through beautiful small villages along the way, a full BBQ lunch, and end with a massage on the beach!

I can’t think of a more perfect way to spend a day outside of Puerto Vallarta.

Jamurrca Auga Termales (Hot Sprrings)

Jamurrca is a little oasis with 4 pools, all of which range in size and temperature.

It will take about 90 minutes to get there from Puerto Vallarta, but the scenery along the way is breathtaking.

There is no restaurant on site, so pack a lunch, snacks and drinks and head out for a full day adventure.

The cost is 70 pesos (about $3.50) per person to enter.

Address: 63713 Nayarit, Mexico

Bosque de la Primavera and Rio Caliente

Located about 5 hours east of Puerto Vallarta is Bosque la Primavera, translated to forest of the spring. Inside the forest you’ll find a hot river!

The source of hot water comes from the underground volcanic activity. According to John Pint:

The “hot river” is born deep inside a narrow canyon where it literally boils out of the walls, sputtering and steaming, a testimony to the continuing presence of magma deep beneath the surface. John Pint, Mexico News Daily

If you can get yourself to Guadalajara, take this night hot spring tour, where your guide takes you to the springs in the dark, under the stars, complete with wine and cheese.