I have been visiting Puerto Vallarta for a long time now.
It is my favorite place in the world to relax and just enjoy life.
But I know that finding a great place to stay can feel like a huge puzzle.
You see thousands of listings online and they all look pretty good.
How do you actually find the best ones?
I want to share the secrets we have learned after years of searching and staying in the city.
Finding the right rental properties in puerto vallarta does not have to be stressful if you know what to look for.
Start with the Right Neighborhood
The biggest secret to a great trip is the location.
We always tell people to focus on Old Town.
You might also hear it called Zona Romantica.
It is the heart of everything fun in the city.
You have the best tacos, the best shops, and the best energy right there.
But there is a specific spot that we think is even better.
We highly recommend looking at Amapas.
Amapas is tucked right next to the main part of Old Town.
It sits a little higher up on the hill, so you get these AMAZING views of the ocean.
It is much quieter than being right on the main street, but you can still walk to the beach in five minutes.
In our experience, Amapas is the absolute best place to rent in the whole city.
Why We Love Condos Over Hotels
We stopped staying in big hotels a long time ago.
When you get condo rentals in puerto vallarta, you get a real home.
You get a kitchen to make your own coffee in the morning.
You get a living room where you can actually stretch out and relax.
We love having the extra space to just hang out without feeling cramped.
Most of the condos in Amapas and Old Town are kept in great shape.
They feel fresh and modern, but they still have that Mexican charm we LOVE.
Look for Modern Interiors
When we search for a place, we look for bright and airy spaces.
You want big windows that let in all that beautiful Mexican sunshine.
We really appreciate a place that has a nice open flow.
It makes the whole vacation feel more peaceful.
We always check the photos to see if the furniture looks comfortable.
You want a sofa you can actually nap on after a long day at the beach!
The Importance of a Good Kitchen
Even if you plan to eat out every night, a good kitchen is a must.
We love having a fridge for cold drinks and snacks.
Sometimes we just want to buy some fresh fruit from the local market and eat it at home.
Look for kitchens that have modern appliances and a nice breakfast bar.
It makes the mornings so much easier when you aren't rushing out the door.
We have stayed in places where the kitchen was tiny and it just wasn't the same.
A bright, open kitchen makes a huge difference in how the condo feels.
Checking the Reviews Like a Pro
One of our top tips for trip planning is to read every single review.
Don't just look at the star rating.
Look for people talking about how clean the place was.
Check if they mention the air conditioning.
PV can get very warm, and you want a place that stays nice and cool at night.
We also look for reviews that mention the noise levels.
This is why we love Amapas so much.
The reviews for properties in Amapas usually talk about how quiet and peaceful it is compared to the center of the city.
We always feel so much more rested when we stay in that area.
Comfortable Bedrooms for Great Sleep
We have learned that a good bed is non-negotiable.
You are on vacation to relax and recharge.
We always look for photos of the bedroom to see if the bedding looks high quality.
A simple, clean bedroom with a comfortable mattress is what we look for.
We also like when the bedrooms have plenty of storage for our clothes.
Living out of a suitcase for a week isn't fun.
Having a real wardrobe makes you feel like you truly live there.
Balconies and Views
If you are coming to Puerto Vallarta, you need a view.
The bay is so beautiful and the sunsets are legendary.
We always prioritize places that have a private balcony.
There is nothing better than sitting outside with a cold drink and watching the sun go down.
You can see the jungle meeting the ocean and the city lights starting to twinkle.
It is the most relaxing part of our day.
We avoid the places that don't have good outdoor space.
You want to feel the ocean breeze while you are sitting in your living room.
Why Direct Booking Matters
We have found that working with smaller, local businesses is way better.
You get much better service than you do with the giant booking websites.
If you have a question about the area, you can just ask.
We love the personal touch that comes with local vacation rentals.
They know the best taco stands and the quietest parts of the beach.
It makes the whole experience feel more authentic and less like a tourist trap.
We are so grateful for the help we have received from local hosts over the years.
They really go above and beyond to make sure your stay is perfect.
Practical Details to Check
Before you click "book," check for a few more things.
Make sure there is high-speed internet if you need to check your email.
Check if there is a laundry machine in the building or the unit.
Having clean towels and clothes without finding a laundromat is so nice.
We also like to check how many stairs there are.
Amapas and Old Town have some hills, which is why the views are so good!
But it is good to know what the walk back from the beach will be like.
We actually love the walk because it helps us work off all the chips and salsa.
Our Final Recommendation
Puerto Vallarta is a magical place.
If you choose the right home base, your trip will be so much better.
Stick to the areas of Amapas and Zona Romantica.
Look for modern condos with great light and big balconies.
Avoid the big hotel zones if you want a real taste of the city.
We have found that the best memories are made in a comfortable home away from home.
We SOOO love waking up to the sound of the birds and the sight of the ocean.
It is the BEST feeling in the world.
If you follow these steps, you will find a place you absolutely LOVE.
We highly recommend taking your time to find the perfect spot.
It makes all the difference for your vacation!
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