Dance Lessons and Cocktails in a Mexican Cantina

Dance Lessons and Cocktails in a Mexican Cantina: A Genuine Look

If you’re dreaming of adding a splash of rhythm and color to your Puerto Vallarta trip, the Dance Lessons and Cocktails in a Mexican Cantina might catch your eye. This experience promises Latin dance classes paired with lively music and complimentary drinks, set in a vibrant, mural-adorned cantina that’s beloved locally. While we haven’t joined personally, this tour offers a snapshot of lively fun that could be just what some travelers are after — especially if you enjoy social nights out with friends or want to try your hand at salsa and bachata in a friendly environment.

What really stands out here are a couple of key features: the chance to learn authentic Latin moves from professional instructors and the welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for social media selfies or just soaking up the colorful ambiance. Plus, the bar’s reputation as the top nightlife spot in the Romantic Zone makes it appealing for those looking to get a feel for local nightlife early in their evening. On the flip side, a potential pitfall is the miscommunication about free drinks and straightforward lessons, which we’ll get into more detail later.

This experience seems best suited for travelers who want a taste of local culture without committing to a full night out, and if you’re curious about Latin dance, it’s a pretty affordable way to dip your toes in. It’s not a formal dance class for serious dancers, but more of a lively, social introduction — which works well for most casual visitors. If you’re looking for a fun, relaxed evening that combines drinks and dance, this might just be worth considering.

Key Points

• Affordable fun at just over $22 per person, with most booking about 11 days in advance.
• Vibrant setting with murals and a lively atmosphere, perfect for photos and social media.
• Includes professional dance lessons in Cuban Salsa and Bachata, suitable for beginners.
• Complimentary drinks include a welcome shot of infused tequila and two cocktails from the “Viva Mexico” menu.
• Limited food options — no dinner included, so plan to eat before or after.
• Small group size (up to 16 people), which keeps things intimate and friendly.

What to Expect from the Experience

When you sign up for this tour, you’re stepping into a lively Mexican cantina famous for its vibrant murals and energetic vibe. Located in Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone, La Catrina Cantina is no hidden corner — it’s a spot many locals and visitors swear by for nightlife, and it’s a great backdrop for your dance adventure.

The experience kicks off with a professional dance lesson, focusing on Cuban Salsa and Bachata. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some dance experience, the instructors aim to get everyone moving. According to one reviewer, Sophie and her assistant Miguel were “excellent teachers” who introduced them to bachata, making it approachable even for first-timers. That said, another reviewer warned that lessons might not be detailed enough for true beginners expecting step-by-step instructions, so keep your expectations in check if you want serious dance mastery.

The lesson usually lasts around 30-45 minutes, after which you’re encouraged to enjoy the live music playing in the background. The lively tunes combined with your new moves make for a fun atmosphere — perfect for letting loose. The bar staff will serve you a welcome shot of infused tequila, along with two cocktails from the “Viva Mexico” specialty menu. It’s a good way to get into the spirit of things, although one review pointed out that the drinks weren’t free as advertised and that guests paid for subsequent drinks. This highlights the importance of understanding what’s included and what isn’t before you arrive.

The dress code is casual, but embracing the festive vibe with costumes or Mexican-inspired attire is encouraged, making the whole experience more immersive and fun. The bar is decorated with murals of “Day of the Dead” Catrinas, which add to the visual appeal and make for some great selfies. Just be aware that dinner isn’t included, so plan ahead for a meal elsewhere — the focus here is on drinks, dance, and lively entertainment.

Venue and Atmosphere

The location, La Catrina Cantina, is known for its vibrant ambiance and top-rated nightlife, which makes it a natural choice for those wanting to combine dance with a taste of Puerto Vallarta’s social scene. The space is lively, with live music transforming the bar into a mini dance floor. The space can host up to 16 travelers, maintaining an intimate environment that encourages mingling and fun.

One aspect that’s worth noting, based on reviews, is that the bar’s nature as a nightlife spot means the environment isn’t a traditional dance studio — it’s a bar first, with dance lessons as a lively addition. Some might find the setting a bit noisy or casual, but if you’re in the mood for a relaxed, social night out, it fits the bill.

Pricing and Value

At just over $22, this experience offers decent value, especially considering the inclusion of a welcome shot and two cocktails. For those interested in a casual introduction to Latin dance, it’s a wallet-friendly way to spend an evening. However, the lack of dinner and additional drinks means you’ll need to budget extra if you want a full night out or substantial food.

One review highlighted that drinks weren’t included in the initial price and that guests paid extra, so be prepared for that. The lessons are brief and designed more for fun than mastery, so if your goal is to learn salsa or bachata in depth, you might find this a bit light. But if your aim is to have fun, take some photos, and enjoy the lively atmosphere, it’s a fair deal.

Real Guest Perspectives

From the reviews, some guests loved the instructors and the vibe. One reviewer praised Sophie and Miguel as “excellent teachers,” which suggests that for beginners, the lessons are engaging and approachable. Others, however, expressed disappointment, noting that the lessons weren’t detailed enough for true beginners and that the advertised free drinks were not provided, which could be frustrating if expectations aren’t managed.

The location, being “good,” was appreciated for its convenience and ambiance, but some felt the venue was more of a bar that just knew it was part of a tour rather than a dedicated dance studio. That’s not necessarily a bad thing — it adds to the casual, social nature of the experience — but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re seeking a more structured dance class.

Practical Tips

• Book in advance — most travelers reserve about 11 days before the experience.
• Arrive dressed casually, but consider a fun or festive outfit to get into the spirit.
• Plan your dinner beforehand, as no food is included.
• Tip your instructors and staff — tipping is encouraged and appreciated.
• Bring your phone or camera — the murals and lively environment are perfect for photos.
• Understand that drinks after the initial included cocktails are paid for separately.
• Be prepared for a lively, informal atmosphere — it’s more of a social event than a serious dance class.

The Sum Up

If you’re after an evening of lively Latin music, fun dance moves, and a great social vibe, Dance Lessons and Cocktails in a Mexican Cantina offers a reasonably priced, approachable introduction to salsa and bachata — especially if you enjoy a festive atmosphere. While it might not be the place to master complex steps, it’s perfect for those wanting to have a good time, sip cocktails, and take some colorful photos.

This experience is best suited for travelers who love casual, social nightlife, and aren’t overly concerned about technical dance instruction. It’s an excellent pick if you want a fun, relaxed night that combines culture, drinks, and a bit of movement, all set in one of Puerto Vallarta’s most iconic local spots.

FAQ

Is the dance lesson suitable for beginners?
Yes, the lessons are designed to be approachable and fun for beginners. The instructors aim to introduce basic salsa and bachata moves, making it a good first experience.

Are drinks included in the price?
The experience includes a welcome shot of infused tequila and two cocktails from the “Viva Mexico” menu, but additional drinks are paid for separately.

Can I enjoy the live music?
Absolutely, the live music is a key part of the experience and plays in the background while you dance and socialize.

Is dinner included?
No, dinner isn’t part of this package, so plan to eat before or after the tour.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 16 travelers, keeping it small and friendly.

Is this experience suitable for kids or families?
This tour is geared toward adults, especially since it involves alcohol and lively nightlife. It’s not suitable for children.

What’s the best time to book?
Most people book about 11 days in advance, but check availability early, especially during peak travel seasons.

Is transportation provided?
No, you meet at La Catrina Cantina; it’s near public transportation, making it easy to reach.

Do I need special attire?
Casual clothing is fine, but dressing festively or in Mexican-inspired outfits can enhance the fun.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience begins, ensuring a full refund if plans change.

If you’re curious about combining this with other Puerto Vallarta adventures, check out similar experiences like boat tours, yacht trips, or ATV rides — all great options to complement your visit.

Happy dancing and cheers to a fun night out in Puerto Vallarta!