Mirador Cerro de la Cruz
A steep climb rewards with breathtaking panoramic views of Puerto Vallarta, Banderas Bay, and the Pacific Ocean.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds
Mirador Cerro de la Cruz
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A steep climb rewards with breathtaking panoramic views of Puerto Vallarta, Banderas Bay, and the Pacific Ocean.
"The view I'd definitely worth it, so if you are considering it, just do it!"
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Crucial for the steep climb, especially during warmer hours. Stay hydrated!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The hike involves stairs and inclines; good footwear is essential for safety and comfort.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City & Bay Views
Summit
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Puerto Vallarta, Banderas Bay, and the Pacific Ocean.
The Iconic Cross
Summit
A prominent landmark offering a focal point for photos and a symbol of the viewpoint.
Sunset Spectacle
Summit
Witness a magical sunset painting the sky over the ocean, a truly unforgettable sight.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Prepare for the Climb
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Crucial for the steep climb, especially during warmer hours. Stay hydrated!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The hike involves stairs and inclines; good footwear is essential for safety and comfort.
☀️ Go Early or Late
Avoid the intense midday sun and larger crowds by visiting at sunrise or sunset.
🚕 Taxi to the Base
Consider a taxi to the bottom of the stairs to save energy for the main ascent.
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Crucial for the steep climb, especially during warmer hours. Stay hydrated!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The hike involves stairs and inclines; good footwear is essential for safety and comfort.
☀️ Go Early or Late
Avoid the intense midday sun and larger crowds by visiting at sunrise or sunset.
🚕 Taxi to the Base
Consider a taxi to the bottom of the stairs to save energy for the main ascent.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are perfect for photography, especially during golden hour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking panoramic views from Mirador Cerro de la Cruz, calling it a must-see for its stunning vistas of Puerto Vallarta and Banderas Bay. The challenging hike is frequently mentioned, with many advising to go early or late to avoid heat and crowds, and to bring plenty of water. Despite the exertion, the rewarding scenery makes it a highly recommended experience for most.
"Got up early to hike, being July it’s like a sauna, so before sunrise is the best time. I was staying at the Marcela Resort on the south end of the Romantic zone and it took me about 35 minutes to get there. Definitely a little struggle once you get to the stairs, but not as bad as I thought. The view I’d definitely worth it, so if you are considering it, just do it!"
rebecca hodges
"The Hill of the Cross Viewpoint (Mirador Cerro de la Cruz) is a great way to take in the beauty of Puerto Vallarta. Just a short walk from the Centro area, the route winds through quiet, residential streets, giving you a glimpse of everyday local life. The climb takes 15 to 30 minutes and is steep and physically demanding, especially if you’re not in shape.
At the top, you’ll be greeted with panoramic views of Bahía de Banderas and the city, making it all worth it. Highly recommended for first-time visitors and anyone who loves a great view."
Lem Jo
"The Malacon is about 5m above sea level, and the top platform is about 105m. It is, therefore, the equivalent of climbing 30 flights of stairs.
First, you will climb a few roads with a very steep incline. A taxi can take you to the base of the stairs.
Once at the base of the defunct funicular, pick the quirky stairs on the left as they are in the shade.
If you didn't pick a drink on the way up, you'll start wishing that you had. If you feel that it is too much to handle, please take as many breaks as you need.
Once at the top, go to the mountain facing side of the cross. You will need to recuperate in the shade. Along the railings, you may even feel a gush of cool air.
Now that you feel rejuvenated, enjoy the view.
Of course, sunset is the most exciting time to come, and that's when most people will be there.
From the bottom of the sun, the water touches the water to when it vanishes is approximately 2 minutes and 15 seconds. You can time it.
It is time to carefully head back down the stairs and steep roads to the Malecon for well-deserved refreshments."
Valérie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can walk from the Centro area, which involves climbing some roads with steep inclines. Alternatively, a taxi can take you directly to the base of the stairs. The hike itself involves steep roads and then a significant number of stairs.
Yes, it's a well-known landmark. Follow signs or ask locals for directions to the 'Cerro de la Cruz' or 'Hill of the Cross' viewpoint.
Driving directly to the very top is not feasible due to the steepness and pedestrian nature of the final ascent. Taxis can get you close to the base of the stairs.
Many recommend starting from the Romantic Zone and walking through residential streets for a glimpse of local life before reaching the ascent.
While buses go to the general area of Puerto Vallarta, the final approach to the Mirador is best done by walking or taxi from the nearest drop-off point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Mirador Cerro de la Cruz is a public viewpoint and does not require an entrance fee. It's free to visit.
The viewpoint is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, it's recommended to visit during safe hours, typically from early morning to early evening.
Sunset offers spectacular lighting for photos, but early morning provides softer light and fewer people.
There are no specific entry restrictions, but visitors are encouraged to be respectful of the site and the surrounding residential areas.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and lack of lighting on the trails.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The climb can take anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on your fitness level and how many breaks you take. It's equivalent to climbing about 30 flights of stairs.
Yes, the hike is considered challenging due to steep inclines and numerous stairs. It requires stamina and is not for the faint of heart.
Essential items include plenty of water, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the stunning views.
There are no formal facilities like restrooms or shops at the very top. It's advisable to use facilities before you start your climb.
You'll get breathtaking panoramic views of Puerto Vallarta, the Banderas Bay, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding mountains.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Sunset offers dramatic colors, while early morning provides soft, even light and fewer distractions.
You can capture wide-angle shots of the bay and city, close-ups of the cross, and scenic shots of the coastline and mountains.
The area around the cross itself is popular, as are the various viewpoints along the railings offering different perspectives of the bay.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A smartphone with a good camera is also sufficient for most visitors.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in this area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Active Adventurers
📸 Photographers & Sunset Lovers
The panoramic views of Banderas Bay and the city provide endless opportunities for stunning shots. Be prepared for crowds during sunset, but the spectacle of the sun dipping below the horizon is well worth it. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ascent: A Traveler's Challenge
Real traveler advice emphasizes the importance of preparation. Bringing ample water is non-negotiable, as the heat can be intense, especially during midday.
The Reward: Unforgettable Vistas
The viewpoint offers an expansive vista of Puerto Vallarta's cityscape, stretching out towards the shimmering Banderas Bay and the vast Pacific Ocean. The iconic cross at the summit serves as a central landmark and a popular spot for photos.
Many visitors find the experience particularly magical during sunset, when the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors, casting a warm glow over the entire landscape. The sheer scale of the view, combined with the vibrant atmosphere of Puerto Vallarta below, makes the challenging climb entirely worth it. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit