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This once-secret and magical paradise -- now known throughout the world -- offers a variety of activities and programs for families to enjoy together.

Warmed by the breezes of trade winds filled with the scent of spice and flowers, romantic and exhilarating Puerto Vallarta sits along the silver ripples of the largest natural bay in Mexico, Bahia de Banderas. Set in the heart of the Mexican Riviera, with Mazatlan to the north and Acapulco to the south, it has 100 miles of Pacific Ocean coastline enhanced by the bluest of skies and the lush tropical greenery of the Sierra Madre mountains.

Back in the mid 1800's, Puerto Vallarta was an old mining center for copper, zinc, and iron, and a stop for whaling ships. Though designated a municipality in 1918, it wasn't until the l930's that small groups of international tourists discovered the tranquility of this quaint fishing village.

By the l950's, word was out. As visitors came, the serenity and natural beauty of the sleepy port at Vallarta naturally matured into a charming village. In 1963, the filming of John Houston's "Night of the Iguana," starring Richard Burton (accompanied by Elizabeth Taylor) and Ava Gardner, officially put it on the international tourist map. The Vallarta region is still loved for its natural beauty, crystal waters that flirt with pristine beaches, and unhurried lifestyle, and it continues, despite its popularity, to blend the flavor and charm of a small Mexican town into the amenities of a city.

Historic Sights To Enjoy With The Family

Las Caletas, the secluded beach cove once called home by director John Houston is, today, a full-day sightseeing attraction with petting zoo, snorkel and kayak facilities, restaurants, and a small Aztec pyramid where folkloric shows are held.

In El Centro, the old downtown around the Rio Cuale, whitewashed houses splashed with fushcia bougainvillea and red-tiled roofs, border the cobblestone streets that wind up the hills. In the center of town is the Malécon, a broad tree-lined promenade replete with restaurants, flower-filled patios, tiled floors, chic boutiques and souvenir shops. The lively Plaza de Armas, the town's main square, is at the southern end of the Malécon.

The sculptures of The Dolphins, and The Arches (Los Arcos) are the symbols of the Malécon, but the crown and bell tower of Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe church, make it Puerto Vallarta's most distinct landmark. Alongside the covered market are the traditional government buildings. The Municipal Palace has a mural by Manuel Lepe, Mexico's favorite artist, and the Museum of Archeology, has displays of pre-Colombian artifacts.

In so-called Gringo Gulch, Casa Kimberly, formerly the Elizabeth Taylor-Richard Burton house, looks out over Banderas Bay. A walking bridge to the guesthouse connects the seven-story, nine-bedroom, 12-bathroom abode; Taylor and Burton occupied different buildings since they were both married to others in those years. It was primarily used in 1963 and 1964. It is now a B & B full of the romantic fantasies of one generation and a charming home done in high Mexican style for another. Casa Kimberly can be toured for a nominal fee.