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Los Angeles, CA, USA to Puerto Vallarta from $87: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Los Angeles, United States of America
to
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

How to Get from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$87 - Train, PlaneBest price
1978 kmDistance
5h 33m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  33m
Estimated price
$131-386
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
8h  6m
Estimated price
$87-306
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1978 km
Duration: 5h 33m

See more options

Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
9h  9m
Estimated price
$182-494
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
7h  53m
Estimated price
$196-1310
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
7h  43m
Estimated price
$231-601
Company
Buses USA Tours
Bus
Average Duration
27h  34m
Estimated price
$1311-1312
Company
Buses USA Tours
Bus
Average Duration
33h  36m
Estimated price
$1313-1314
Company
Buses USA Tours
Bus
Average Duration
37h  56m
Estimated price
$1315-1316
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
26h  30m
Estimated price
$1317-1318

Traveling From Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta

The journey from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta offers a striking contrast, with LA's urban sprawl and vibrant entertainment scene transforming into Puerto Vallarta's picturesque beaches and laid-back charm.

Best Neighbourhoods in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences.

Old Town (Zona Romántica)
• Vibrant nightlife with popular bars and restaurants.
• Charming cobblestone streets lined with art galleries.
Marina Vallarta
• Upscale area featuring luxury resorts and golf courses.
• Scenic marina with stunning waterfront views.
New Town
• Modern development with shopping centers and attractions.
• Family-friendly with activities for all ages.

Best Times To Visit Puerto Vallarta's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your experience in Puerto Vallarta's attractions.

Los Muertos Beach
Visit early mornings or weekdays to enjoy a quieter, relaxing atmosphere.
The Malecon
Evenings on weekdays are ideal for strolling without heavy crowds, enjoying street performances.
El Centro
Mid-afternoons during weekdays provide a chance to explore shops and cafes with fewer tourists.

Puerto Vallarta Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Puerto Vallarta enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, making it a desirable destination. The dry season from November to April is typically the best time to visit, as sunny days enhance your outdoor adventures.

Dining Recommendation

Savor the fresh ceviche at Pipi's, where the vibrant flavors of the sea blend seamlessly with local ingredients, creating an experience that showcases the true essence of Mexican cuisine. Unlike the diverse but often fusion-centric dining scene in Los Angeles, Puerto Vallarta offers an authentic culinary atmosphere that immerses you in the region's rich traditions and flavors.

Los Angeles - Puerto Vallarta operators

Explore transport companies operating between Los Angeles and Puerto Vallarta, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
aa.com

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to Puerto Vallarta (PVR)

Average Duration
2h 56m
Estimated price
$3865-3866

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to Puerto Vallarta (PVR) via Phoenix

Average Duration
5h 51m
Estimated price
$3865-3866
Website
alaskaair.com

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to Puerto Vallarta (PVR)

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
$875-3868

Plane from Ontario/San Bernardino (ONT) to Puerto Vallarta (PVR) via Las Vegas

Average Duration
5h 20m
Estimated price
$876-3868

Plane from San Diego (SAN) to Puerto Vallarta (PVR)

Average Duration
2h 51m
Estimated price
$877-870
Website
jetblue.com

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to Puerto Vallarta (PVR)

Average Duration
3h 5m
Estimated price
$3865-3868
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to Puerto Vallarta (PVR) via Phoenix

Average Duration
4h 50m
Estimated price
$3864-8710

Plane from Ontario/San Bernardino (ONT) to Puerto Vallarta (PVR) via Phoenix

Average Duration
5h 10m
Estimated price
$878-8710

Plane from Santa Ana (SNA) to Puerto Vallarta (PVR)

Average Duration
3h 5m
Estimated price
$879-3060
Website
volaris.com

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to Puerto Vallarta (PVR) via Guadalajara

Average Duration
5h 45m
Estimated price
$3869-3868
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 213 368 1172
Website
busesusatours.com

Bus from Los Angeles to Tepic

Average Duration
25h
Estimated price
$1313-879
Contact phone
800 507 5500
Website
estrellablanca.com.mx

Bus from Tepic to Puerto Vallarta

Average Duration
2h 26m
Estimated price
$1825-4941
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Los Angeles to San Diego

Average Duration
2h 54m
Estimated price
$3066-1319

Train from Los Angeles to San Diego Old Town Transportation Center

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
$3066-1319
Website
metrolinktrains.com

Train from L. A. Union Station to Rancho Cucamonga

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$1826-1827

Train from L. A. Union Station to Tustin

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$1826-4942

Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Los Angeles and Puerto Vallarta offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an epic road trip from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta, covering a distance of 1545 miles. Enjoy the scenic drive and explore the diverse landscapes along the way. 💰 Discover budget-friendly options with prices ranging from $280 to $410 for the journey by car from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta. Plan ahead to find the best deals and make the most of your travel budget. 🏖️ Reach your destination in approximately 26 hours and 30 minutes, ready to soak up the sun, explore the vibrant culture, and indulge in the beauty of Puerto Vallarta.
Average price
$280 - $410
Traveling by train from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta is a scenic and unique way to experience the journey. There are three different routes with varying travel times and transfer points, offering flexibility for passengers. Each route involves multiple bus transfers and a final bus journey to Puerto Vallarta from Guadalajara. The longer routes provide the opportunity to see more of Mexico's landscape and cities, while the shortest route takes approximately 1 day 15 hours. Passengers can enjoy the convenience of online booking and also have the option to select different bus agencies for their journey. Overall, the trip offers an adventure-filled travel experience to reach the beautiful destination of Puerto Vallarta.
🛫 Flying from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta is a quick and convenient option, with a direct flight typically taking just 2 hours and 53 minutes. Several airlines, including Delta, JetBlue Airways, and United Airlines, offer flights on this popular route. 🏖️ Once you arrive in Puerto Vallarta after a comfortable 5-hour and 33-minute flight from Los Angeles, you'll be greeted by the beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere of this Mexican resort town. Prepare to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the sunny weather. 💸 Prices for flights between Los Angeles and Puerto Vallarta can vary, with ticket costs typically ranging from $131 to $386.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Airport
Arrival Point
Puerto Vallarta Airport
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta, you can reach the destination with services that have transfers, taking approximately 27 hours and 34 minutes. Buses USA Tours operate the route from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta. 🌴 Route 1 covers a distance of 1,717 miles and includes four transfers. The journey begins with a bus to Las Vegas, followed by stops at St. George, Culiacán, and Guadalajara before reaching Puerto Vallarta. It's a scenic way to explore different cities along the way. ⏰ Total travel time from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta by bus is estimated to be 27 hours and 34 minutes, offering a budget-friendly way to experience the journey with various stops and opportunities to see diverse landscapes en route. Plan your trip ahead and enjoy the adventure of traveling by bus to reach your destination.
Departure Point
Los Angeles station
Arrival Point
Puerto Vallarta station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta.

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The cheapest way to get from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta is by taking a combination of train and flight. You can take a train from Los Angeles to San Diego, which costs around $10-$25, and then book a flight from San Diego to Puerto Vallarta, which costs approximately $55-$265. The total travel time for this journey is about 8 hours and 15 minutes.
The fastest way to travel from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta is by flying. On average, a flight from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta takes about 5 hours and 51 minutes. Prices for flights can range from $110 to $330, depending on the airline and time of booking. It is recommended to compare prices from different airlines and book in advance to secure the best deal for a fast journey.
The distance from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta is approximately 1229 miles. This is the straight-line distance, also known as the great circle distance. However, the road distance is longer, measuring approximately 1539 miles. It is important to consider the different transportation methods and routes when planning your journey between these two destinations.
The best way to travel from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta without a car is by taking a bus. There are several bus companies that operate direct routes from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta, with journey times averaging around 21 hours and 44 minutes. Bus tickets generally range from $170 to $240, depending on the time of year and the specific bus company. The route is scenic and allows travelers to enjoy the views along the Pacific Coast, making it a convenient and affordable option for those without a car.
To travel from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta there are multiple options available. The cheapest way is to take a train from Los Angeles to the nearest airport, which costs around $65 to $290. From there, you can catch a flight to Puerto Vallarta, which takes approximately 2 to 4 hours. Overall, the journey can take around 8 hours and 15 minutes, depending on the layover times and flight schedules. It is recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel dates.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Puerto Vallarta. With 1383+ hotels to choose from, you'll have no trouble finding a place to stay that suits your preference and budget. Prices for hotels in the area start at $82, providing a range of options for travelers with different budgets. Whether you're looking for a luxurious resort, a cozy boutique hotel, or a budget-friendly guesthouse, Puerto Vallarta has something for everyone.
Yes, it is possible to drive from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta. The driving distance is approximately 1539 miles and the estimated travel time is around 26 hours and 23 minutes. It is important to note that this is a long journey and you will need to have the appropriate documentation, including a valid driver's license and passport, to cross the border into Mexico. Additionally, it is advisable to research and plan your route in advance, considering any border crossing regulations and security checkpoints along the way.
Unfortunately, there is no direct bus from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta. However, you can take a bus from Los Angeles to Tepic and then transfer to another bus to Puerto Vallarta. This journey will take approximately 21 hours and 44 minutes, including the transfers. It is recommended to check the schedules and availability before planning your trip.
You can catch the bus from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta at the Los Angeles station. The bus services are operated by Buses USA Tours.
The Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta bus arrives at the Puerto Vallarta station. The bus service is operated by Pacífico, which is a reputable company for long-distance travel in Mexico. Once you arrive at the station, you will be able to easily navigate the city and explore all that Puerto Vallarta has to offer.
Several airlines offer flights between Los Angeles and Puerto Vallarta. JetBlue Airways, Delta, Southwest Airlines, and five other airlines provide this service. You have a variety of options to choose from when booking your flight.
The fastest way to travel from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta is by taking a direct flight. The quickest flight available takes approximately 2 hours and 57 minutes. There are several airlines, including JetBlue Airways, Delta, and Southwest Airlines, that offer flights between Los Angeles Airport and Puerto Vallarta Airport. The prices for flights between the two destinations range from $111 to $323.
The flight from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta typically takes approximately 2 hours and 57 minutes. This time may vary depending on factors such as the specific airline, any layovers, and weather conditions. It is important to check with the airline for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding flight duration.
The cost of a bus ticket from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta ranges from $172 to $231. Prices can vary depending on the bus company and the time of travel. It is recommended to check with different bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal. Additionally, it is important to factor in the duration of the bus ride, as it can take approximately 24-30 hours to travel the distance between the two cities by bus.
The cost to drive from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta typically ranges from $270 to $410. This estimate includes fuel expenses, tolls, and potential hotel accommodations along the way. The final cost will depend on factors such as the type of vehicle, fuel efficiency, and any additional expenses incurred during the journey.

Trips from Los Angeles

Trips to Puerto Vallarta