Take Me To The River - Exploring Puerto Vallarta's Isla Rio Cuale

Flowing from the jungle-filled mountains aboveisland's western shore.
Puerto Vallarta, the Rio Cuale cuts right throughWhile the western side of the island seems to
the heart of this majestic city. Before emptyingmatch the energy and excitement of the city, the
into Banderas Bay, this river provides severaleastern end of Isla Rio Cuale serves as a quiet
unique activities to Puerto Vallarta's visitors. Onesanctuary. The narrow paths that wind through
of the most overlooked sites in Puerto Vallarta isthe trees are perfect for bike riding and peaceful
Isla Rio Cuale, a natural island in the middle of thestrolls. Local families are known to relax and picnic
river near the city's downtown area. Though Islain the shade of Isla Rio Cuale's large trees. As the
Rio Cuale is only six blocks long and one blockisland also serves as a refuge for plants and
wide, there is much to do and see any time ofanimals, tourists often try to spot the families of
year.iguanas that reside in the treetops. On the
Though Isla Cuale might not receive much moreeasternmost tip of the island, you will find the
than passing mentions in travel guides, the islandCentro Cultural Cuale - a popular destination for
has become an integral part of Vallartan culture. Itoutdoor performances, film screenings and art
is believed the island was created many yearsclasses.
ago after a strong rainy season caused the riverIn the middle of the island's botanical garden, you
to overflow and sediment to collect in its center.will find the Museum Rio Cuale - a charming
As Puerto Vallarta developed in the mid-20tharcheological museum devoted to local cultures. If
century, the island came to serve as the unofficialpossible, try to visit the museum on a Tuesday at
center of the city's casual pedestrian culture.1 pm when the director offers her free weekly
Bridges were constructed off nearly every sidelecture in English. If you are more interested in the
of the island, connecting Isla Rio Cuale to severalrecent history of Puerto Vallarta, stop by the
of the city's most desirable neighborhoods. Today,John Huston Plaza - the city's dedication to the
the island boasts numerous shops anddirector of "Night of the Iguana." Credited for
restaurants, an archeological museum, a popularputting Puerto Vallarta on the international tourism
nightclub, miles of peaceful trails, amazing scenerymap, Huston and his film are revered to this day,
and one of Mexico's largest public markets - theseveral decades after its release.
Rio Cuale Flea Market. Besides being a distinctiveWith a handful of narrow suspension bridges
tourist destination, the island and its unspoiledconnecting Isla Rio Cuale to the mainland, getting
nature serve as an urban oasis for the city'sto the island is considered by many visitors as
residents.one of the most exciting activities. Beyond Isla
On the western side of the island, bordering theRio Cuale, you will find the Zona Romantica - a
bay and Insurgentes Street, you will find thepopular place for upscale dining and entertainment
incredibly popular Rio Cuale Flea Market. With two- and the Downtown Puerto Vallarta
stories of vendors selling everything fromneighborhoods. The island also connects to El
locally-made leather goods and blankets toMalecon, the city's famed boardwalk along
pottery and jewelry, this market is the best placeBanderas Bay.
to find a bargain in Puerto Vallarta. As you browseBesides being at the heart of the action in Puerto
the stalls, feel free to try out your best bargainingVallarta, Isla Rio Cuale is often referred to by
tactics. You might be surprised to find that mostlocals as "el lugar mas bonito" (the most beautiful
sellers are friendly and receptive. After you haveplace in Puerto Vallarta). Come experience the
finished shopping at the flea market, you can dinemarket and the cafes, but stay for the natural
at one of the small cafes located nearby on thebeauty and solitude.