Its location is a peaceful oasis for to get some shade while enjoying the nature and culture the island offers.
The island divides the Romantic Zone and Centro Zone and hosts many restaurants, outdoor craft markets, sculptures, wildlife, and Mexican culture. One of the most notable sculptures it the John Houston sculpture in bronze by Carlos Ramirez in 1988. It’s dedicated to the film “The Night of the Iguana”, a film directed by Houston, and credited for bringing international attention to Puerto Vallarta.
It’s a mysterious place with a great history. Formally known as Santa Clara, it was a major pipeline to the Santa Clara copper mine. Traditional copper work in Mexico has its origins in the pre-Hispanic period, mostly limited to the former P’urhépecha Empire in what are now the states of Michoacán and Jalisco.
Part of the Cuale Island hosts the Cuale Culture Center, sponsored by the Vallarta Institute of Culture. The recreational and educational space was founded in 1983 and currently offers workshops in art, music, photography, and theater.
The Culture Center is equipped for theatrical, musical, and film screening in its performance auditorium, it’s also a meeting place for chess players. Throughout the year, hundreds of cultural events take place here.
Cuale Island is a symbol of diversity in Puerto Vallarta and the venues along the river are a must see for any visitor. The alleys and pedestrian suspension bridges make for great photo opportunities and romantic walks along the river.
