Other Tourist Scams in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Timeshares, fake police, charity fraud, and miscellaneous scams targeting visitors. Below are the other scams scams reported in Puerto Vallarta — how they work and how to avoid them.
For broader context, compare this scam type with nearby destinations like Las Vegas, Miami, and Tulum.
Last updated: April 2, 2026
3
Other Scams Scams
10
Total in Puerto Vallarta
How it works
Some local car rental companies in Puerto Vallarta note pre-existing damage vaguely or not at all, then charge tourists for it upon return. Some agents call after you leave the lot claiming new damage was discovered.
How it works
Local police occasionally stop tourists driving rental cars or motorcycles and claim a traffic violation occurred, hinting that a cash payment will resolve the situation rather than a formal fine.
How it works
Vendors on Playa Los Muertos sell items claiming to be genuine silver, handmade crafts, or authentic local art at prices suggesting legitimacy, but many items are mass-produced cheap imports.
See all scams in Puerto Vallarta
10 total warnings across all categories