Return to Home

Radar: River Cuale Island

Located in the heart of the city, the River Cuale Island is one of the few natural preserves that remain within the tourist area of Puerto Vallarta. Its natural and cultural attractions, along with assorted businesses, make this area one of the most frequently visited places in the city.

Mirador

Many people that stroll the Malecon complete their walk at Los Arcos, where they can watch various free performance at the Aquiles Serdán theater or simply turn around and head back. But if you continue walking toward Los Muertos Beach, you will find a bridge with an observation point from which you can see much of the city and the bay.

Restaurants on the Island

Oscar's. This establishment has been serving quality Mexican food with a hint of high-end international cuisine for the past 11 years. Their specialty is their Surf & Turf , which includes filet mignon, shrimp and lobster. If you would like to accompany your meal with music, Martín Ruiz plays a variety of cover and original tunes during lunch and dinner. One of the special attractions is their privileged beachfront location. The second floor is almost completed and will open this coming October.

La Cuiza. From their tree-filled patio, one can watch iguanas, crabs and turtles swimming in the river, while enjoying your favorite Mexican and international dishes. The bar area is equipped with screens for your sporting event enjoyment as well as 2x1 special offers on several drinks throughout the day. Next to the entrance is a tequila boutique, which offers free sampling of more than 9 varieties.

The River Café. Renowned for their superior service, this international cuisine restaurant offers a menu that includes pasta, fine cuts of beef and sea food. The ambiance is highlighted by jazz bands, which perform live throughout the week. If you are a resident and can provide identification, they will give you a VIP card, which offers a 15% discount. We recommend the campesina soup and the rack of lamb.

Open-Air Market

A lo largo de la isla, entre las calles de Ignacio L. Vallarta e Insurgentes, hay pequeños locales y puestos a ambos lados del andador. En ellos se pueden adquirir gran variedad de mercancías como recuerdos, adornos, artesanías, pinturas, postales, fotos de personajes famosos, ropa, lentes, bolsas para dama, máscaras, juguetes e instrumentos musicales (guitarras, bongos y maracas). No dude en solicitar una rebaja en el precio original de su compra, siempre funciona.

Estatua de John Houston

On the eastern end of the island, beyond Insurgentes Street, the statue of a man sitting on a chair, leaning on his chin and thinking, honors John Huston. A commemorative plaque on its base bears the words the famous director, screen writer and actor dedicated to Humphrey Bogart: “We should not grieve for him, but rather for ourselves at having lost him. He is irreplaceable; there will never be another like him.”

Centro Cultural Cuale

Inaugurated on March 27, 2003, by then Mayor Pedro Ruiz Higuera, this landmark underwent a restoration process by the government of Jalisco, the Federal Government, and the National Council for Culture and the Arts. It is currently houses the City’s Department of Art and Culture, as well as regular workshops such as painting, sculpting, dance, theater and music.

Where to Stay?

Encino Hotel. Named after one of the streets that surround it, this hotel is composed of 75 air-conditioned rooms, which include televisions, telephone and a private balcony with views of the Rio Cuale or the ocean; only a block away. They also offer 24 sprawling one- and two-bedroom suites, which include a living room, kitchenette, ceiling fans, television and telephone. Their swimming pools and restaurant service complete all you need for a pleasant stay.

The Río Cuale Island is one more option to enjoy the city. Don't miss it!