If you have ever spent a night in the heart of Old Town, you know exactly what I’m talking about. I LOVE the energy there, but sometimes the 2:00 AM taco stand cheers and the local roosters don't care that you’re on vacation.
That is exactly why I tell everyone who asks that Amapas is the absolute best-kept secret for anyone looking for a condo rentals puerto vallarta experience.
It is literally right next door to the Zona Romántica, but it feels like a whole different world. We are talking about the "Hill of Airbnbs" as the locals call it. It is where you get the peace, the quiet, and: most importantly: the views that will make your Instagram followers incredibly jealous.
The Best of Both Worlds
Amapas is that sweet spot tucked between the crazy energy of the main town and the super-quiet vibes of Conchas Chinas.
You can walk down the hill and be at the pier in ten minutes, but when you head back up, the noise just… disappears. It is the perfect setup for a condo rentals in puerto vallarta stay because you aren't sacrificing the fun for the sleep.
I have stayed in a lot of spots around here, and there is something special about sitting on a balcony in Amapas with a coffee (or a tequila, no judgment) and just watching the city wake up below you.
Why the Views Here Win Every Time
Most people think you have to be right on the sand to have a good view. They are wrong.
When you are level with the ocean, you see the water. When you are up in Amapas, you see the ENTIRE bay. You see the mountains, the church towers of the city, and the orange glow of the sunset hitting the water in a way that just hits different.
Many of the units here are designed with massive floor-to-ceiling glass walls. I am talking about 150 m2 or more of pure, open-air living space where the breeze just flows right through.
If you want to see what I mean, you have to check out condo rentals puerto vallarta. It perfectly captures that "indoor-outdoor" vibe that makes PV so famous.
The "Amapas Workout"
Let’s be real for a second: Amapas is a hill. A big one.
We always tell our guests to embrace the "Amapas Workout." The cobblestone streets are charming, but they will definitely work your calves. If you aren't into hiking back up after a big dinner, the Uber ride is about three minutes and costs next to nothing.
But walking down? It’s the best. You pass through these lush, jungle-like paths and suddenly you are at Playa Amapas.
Playa Amapas is this tiny, secluded beach right past the big rock at the end of Los Muertos. It is way quieter, the water is usually calmer, and it feels like your own private little slice of paradise.
Finding Your Perfect Space
When you are looking for a puerto vallarta condo rental, size and layout matter.
A lot of the newer buildings in Amapas focus on huge living areas. We’re talking about open-concept kitchens where you can cook while looking at the Pacific.
I’ve found that the condos here tend to feel more like homes than just "rental units." They have personality. You'll find local art, hand-painted murals, and high-end finishes that make you want to stay forever.
We actually put together this helpful stress-free guide to help you navigate all the little details of picking the right place, because trust me, the details matter when you're thousands of miles from home.
Peace, Quiet, and Seriously Good Food
One of my favorite things about staying in Amapas is that you are steps away from some of the best sunset dining in the world.
Places like Vista Grill or Bistro Teresa are right there. You don't have to fight the crowds on the Malecon to get a front-row seat for the sunset. You just walk five minutes from your front door.
And when the sun goes down, Amapas stays chill. You won't have a thumping club bass shaking your windows until 4:00 AM. It’s just you, the crickets, and the sound of the waves in the distance.
Is it Safe?
This is the question I get the most. Short answer: YES.
Amapas is incredibly safe. It’s a very popular area for expats from the US and Canada, so you’ll see people out walking their dogs or heading to the beach at all hours.
Most of the condo buildings have 24/7 security or gated entries anyway, so you can really just relax and focus on which taco stand you’re going to visit next.
If you are a solo traveler or a first-timer, knowing the neighborhood layout is key. I highly recommend checking out our tips on booking smart before you lock anything in. It'll save you a lot of headache!
The Practical Stuff
Getting here is a breeze. It’s about a 30-minute ride from the airport. Once you’re in Amapas, you’re only 15 minutes away from the Botanical Gardens and about 10 minutes from Mismaloya if you want to head further south for some snorkeling.
Everything you need: groceries, pharmacies, ATMs: is right down the hill in the Zona Romántica. You get the convenience of the city without the chaos.
Why We Love It
At the end of the day, vacation is about how you feel.
Staying in Amapas makes me feel like a local who knows a secret everyone else missed. You get the incredible architecture, the lush greenery, and the most stunning sunsets in the bay.
Whether you are looking for a huge 200 m2 penthouse or a cozy studio, this neighborhood has a vibe that you just won't find in the big hotel zones or the flat parts of town.
If you want the real Puerto Vallarta experience: the one with the cobblestones, the ocean breeze, and the hidden beaches: Amapas is the place to be.
It is AMAZING, and I promise you’ll fall in love with the views before you even get your bags unpacked.
If you're planning your next trip and want to see what we're up to in the neighborhood, Catch us on Facebook!
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