Down MEXICO WAY

Vibrant Puerto Vallarta blends beautiful Pacific Coast beaches with wildlife, gardens and food

- SAM MURRAY

Seeking an energy-boosting getaway to bring some brightness to a dull winter? The Mexican city of Puerto Vallarta has all the sun, sand and swaying palms you need... and now's the best time to visit.

From January until March, the sunny season is in full swing, with cloud-free skies, warm water and migratory humpbacks putting on a show for wide-eyed whale-watchers. Not only that, but there are also wild jungles, botanical gardens and the best tacos you'll probably ever eat.

Revive at the beach

Ease your way into your trip by enjoying the shoreline, preferably with a refreshing margarita in hand. Vallarta sits on Bahía de Banderas, the largest bay in Mexico, meaning there are plenty of beautiful sandy stretches to unfurl on.

Some beaches are busier than others. Those by the seafront walkway, or Malecón, are the most popular, but if you're seeking solitude, take a short walk (or taxi ride) to Conchas Chinas, where rocks form natural dipping pools filled with warm seawater.