Isla Rio Cuale

Slicing its way through the city, the Rio Cuale divides and surrounds the isla before tumbling into the Banderas Bay. The river at times is peaceful and quiet and at other times, it becomes a raging torrent whirling into the ocean.

This is the Cuale River after a huge rainstorm. It is muddy and is charging into the bay. The island is on the right. See the beautiful Sierra Madre mountains in the background? I love the mountains!

The river meets the Banderas Bay. You can see where the muddy waters stop and the ocean takes over.

The island is located between the centro (center of town) and the Zona Romantica. It is not a very large island, only about 1 block wide and maybe 6 blocks long. Access to the island is gained by wooden and very shaky footbridges on either side of the island or by a cement bridge and stairs on each end of the island! After crossing the wooden bridge once (to say that I did it!) I choose the more sturdy, but less dramatic cement bridge when I go to there! It is a natural island with walking paths through the trees, benches and flora and fauna. Part of the "fauna" includes iguanas climbing through the trees. It is very exciting to see one of them up close.

The island is a favorite place of the local people to come and relax. The market is always full of tourists but the other side of the island is quiet and peaceful. Often kids will swim in the river while parents spread a picnic on the grass.


As you enter the island you come upon a "Peace Park" with lovely flowers and greenery and a fountain. This is the pathway to the area.

Here is a close-up of the sculpture. Can you see what is on top of his head? And notice the stone turtle on the mushroom rock.





The stone iguana waits for you to take his picture!




Passing by the Peace Garden, you spot the archaeological museum---a small but nice museum of local Indian artefacts. It is cool and quiet there and one can learn a little about the history of the area.

Also on that end of the island is a group of artists who exhibit their paintings and photographs. Of course you can buy a special piece to take home. They also give art lessons 2 or 3 times a week.

There are restaurants where you can stop for a limonada, lunch, dinner or a great Margarita.

And then you come to the flea market! Bartering with the locals for a good deal is a great challenge for both you and the vendor! Usually you can go away happy with a wonderful memento to take home! They sell silver, jewelry, pottery, blankets, serapes, leather goods, handmade clothing and purses, as well as many different types of souvenirs too numerous to mention.

I stood on the steps to take this photo of the mercado.




The man in the orange shirt and the man in the white shirt are "deciding" on a price for a gift!

Visiting the island is a great way to spend a morning. You will be amazed at the local vendors speaking English! And once in a while, you might hear the famous phrase: "Almost free for you today!"

When I go to Puerto Vallarta, a visit to the island is a must!

Hasta luego.