La Palapa’s History

The Beginning

In 1957, my sister Rodelinda and her husband, Guy Dickey, set out to open the first restaurant on the beach in Puerto Vallarta. With the support of an investor, La Palapa became their dream realized — even as many friends called them “crazy” for building so far beyond town.

At the time, there was no bridge across the Río Cuale. Reaching this side required hiring a jeep or one of the town’s two taxis — if the river wasn’t too high.

La Palapa, a beachfront restaurant on Playa Los Muertos, Puerto Vallarta since 1957
The original thatched palapa roof and tropical setting at La Palapa, Puerto Vallarta

An Authentic Tropical Spirit

The original thatched-roof palapa was designed and constructed by Guillermo Wulff using authentic tropical materials. From the beginning, La Palapa was known for exotic drinks served in handblown glassware, freshly caught seafood from the bay, and live music that filled the beachfront air

A Tradition Continued

Over the years, every member of our family has contributed to La Palapa in some way. In 1987, the restaurant was redesigned by my brother, Arq. Salvador Pérez, honoring its roots while shaping its future.

As the youngest brother, many of my childhood memories are centered here. Today, La Palapa remains proudly family-owned, and we look forward to continuing this tradition — sharing our tropical paradise for generations to come.

— Alberto Perez Gonzalez

Family-owned oceanfront dining at La Palapa in Puerto Vallarta's Romantic Zone

1957

Founded on Los Muertos Beach

1987

Redesigned by Arq. Salvador Pérez

Today

Proudly Family-Owned

“Since 1957, La Palapa has welcomed guests to dine where the ocean meets tradition.”

Book a table

Reservations are not required but we do recommend them. La Palapa uses OpenTable for our booking system and you can use the form below to book your experience.