Long a destination in itself, the Malecon meanders along the edge of Banderas Bay. And now it’s possible to stroll this “boardwalk” from the historic Hotel Rosita at the north end of town past the Los Muertos pier and farther south – all without having to shake sand out of shoes. An attractive new addition now links the Rio Cuale pedestrian bridge in front of the new amphitheatre at the converted Lazaro Cardenas Park with the existing charming walkway and its gently arched bridges over the old streets.

Saunter this famous promenade in the early morning when the smell of coffee wafts from many restaurants and the vendors are anxious for that first sale, or wander it in leisure in the evening and enjoy a spectacular sunset. Saturday and Sunday evenings join the town – señoritas happy to have pavement for their high-heeled sandals and the caballeros who escort them, with much of the rest of the family along. Pause for a margarita or dinner any evening, or just watch the children on the beach making that last sandcastle in the purple dusk and breathe in the life of Vallarta.