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If we travel back to the mid-19th century, to the very beginning of Puerto Vallarta when it was still known as “Puerto Las Peñas,” we would see the first settlers establishing themselves along the Río Cuale, in what is now the Historical Center (Centro Histórico). This waterway, fed by the mountains of the rural community of the same name (Cuale, approximately 60 km from the city), provided the original inhabitants with an optimal natural environment close to the sea for their daily activities, which mainly included fishing, transporting salt to the sierra’s mines, agriculture, and livestock.
As time passed, the community of Puerto Las Peñas grew, the settlement expanded, and on May 31, 1918, it acquired the title of a municipality, changing its name to Puerto Vallarta in honor of Ignacio L. Vallarta, a distinguished jurist and former governor of Jalisco. This date is still celebrated today as the Anniversary of Puerto Vallarta and is the reason for the annual Fiestas de Mayo (May Festivities).
Today, the area surrounding the Río Cuale remains a vital hub for interaction and coexistence among locals and visitors. Both the Center and the Zona Romántica stretch out from the river, supporting a dynamic atmosphere that concentrates local residences, as well as businesses like restaurants, bars, cafés, boutiques, condominiums, and hotels. It truly is the pulsating heart of a city that has embraced modernity and opened itself up to the world, showcasing its best face.
The Island’s Unique Origin and History
Amidst this constant movement, the Río Cuale also offers a green sanctuary for a moment of respite and for enjoying recreation, culture, and community activities: the Isla Río Cuale. This pedestrian promenade, surrounded by lush vegetation, celebrated its 100th anniversary in October 2025.
Its unique origin dates back to 1925, when an unexpected cyclone dramatically altered the river’s course, splitting its channel into two and creating a sizable space between them. For this reason, although it is not a true island, it bears the name.
Initially, the site was known as Isla de Santa Clara, and later as Isla de los Niños (Children’s Island), as local children frequently gathered there to play sports, socialize, and enjoy the games of a recreational park. After a subsequent flood in 1975, the island was restructured to create a more stable and secure surface.
Growing up on Aquiles Serdán street in the Romantic Zone during the 1990s, I vividly remember visiting the island constantly. I enjoyed contemplating the river, playing hide-and-seek with my friends, and even roller-skating across the wooden suspension bridges to the astonished disbelief of tourists.
The Island is part of the identity not only of those who grew up in the area but of all of Puerto Vallarta. It is home to some of the city’s most iconic restaurants and embodies key moments in the city’s history through various sculptures. These include a statue dedicated to film director John Huston, who catapulted the port to international fame with his film The Night of the Iguana (1964), and a bust of Elizabeth Taylor, who resided here with her partner Richard Burton in the 1960s. The Island is also the home of the Vallarta Institute of Culture, which offers artistic training in various disciplines through workshops and organizes cultural events, including festivals and fairs.
Exploring the Island: A Must-Do
The Isla Río Cuale is a destination with activities for everyone.
- Dining: Sample some of the renowned restaurants located along the island, such as River Café, Oscar’s, and Le Bistro.
- Art and Culture: Walk the Island from end to end to appreciate the murals painted by local artists.
- Shopping: Browse the array of handicraft and souvenir stalls.
- Scenic Crossings: Use one of the pedestrian suspension bridges that connect the city’s Center with the Romantic Zone.
- History and Heritage: Visit the Cultural Center of the Vallarta Institute of Culture, and take a moment to admire the colorful tiled pedestrian bridge that connects this space to the elevated Gringo Gulch area.
- Nature: Admire the local wild flora and fauna.
- Sculptures: Check out the various sculptures, including the bust of Elizabeth Taylor, the statue dedicated to filmmaker John Huston, or the Espacio, Tiempo y Movimiento (Space, Time and Movement) monument by Ignacio Granados.
Centenary Commemoration and Future Plans
On October 28, 2025, the Municipal President of Puerto Vallarta, Luis Munguía, unveiled a plaque commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Isla Río Cuale at the Vallarta Institute of Culture facilities on the Island’s northern end. Alongside council members and city officials, he acknowledged its historical significance and its importance to Vallartenses, tourism, nature, culture, and the arts.
“We are celebrating not just an anniversary, but the true essence of our city,” Munguía stated. “The Isla del Río Cuale is the place where history and culture meet, and it is our responsibility to preserve it for future generations.”
As part of this centennial, the Municipal Government plans a comprehensive rehabilitation of the Isla Río Cuale. This project, which will benefit several points along the tourist corridor, will be financed with funds from the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Trust and support from the Secretary of Tourism. The remodel includes the rehabilitation of pathways, reinforcement of slopes, creation of platforms for observing flora and fauna, and the construction of an amphitheater for performing arts.
The Isla del Río Cuale is ready to continue writing its history, welcoming all who wish to admire its open spaces, captivating nature, historical landmarks, and the artistic expressions that have made it a must-see destination in the city.
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