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