I have spent so much time exploring every single corner of Puerto Vallarta, and I can tell you from the bottom of my heart that where you stay makes all the difference.
Every time I land at the airport and feel that first blast of warm, humid air, I just know I am back in paradise!
It is such an AMAZING feeling to be back in the bay, seeing the palm trees swaying and hearing the distant sound of the waves.
We have stayed in so many different neighborhoods over the years, trying to find that perfect spot that feels like home.
If you are a solo traveler looking for a peaceful escape or a group of friends ready for an adventure, you probably want to find a place that has it all.
We have done all the exploring so you don't have to!
While there are so many beautiful spots in this city, we have one place that we always come back to.
For us, Amapas is hands down the best place to find puerto vallarta vacation condos.
It has this special magic that is hard to find anywhere else in the world.
The Heart of the City: Old Town and Zona Romantica
Whenever people ask me for advice on where to stay, the first thing they usually mention is Old Town.
I always have to explain that Old Town and Zona Romantica are actually the exact same place!
It is the heart and soul of Puerto Vallarta, and we absolutely LOVE it there.
The cobblestone streets are lined with vibrant flowers, local art galleries, and some of the best food you will ever eat in your life.
Walking through Old Town feels like stepping into a postcard where everything is bright and full of life.
You can spend hours just wandering around, looking at the murals and stopping for a fresh coconut from a street vendor.
It is energetic, loud, and incredibly fun.
But while we love visiting the middle of all that action, we have found that staying just a tiny bit away from it is even better.
That is why we always head south to Amapas.
Why Amapas is Our Top Recommendation
Amapas is tucked away just a short walk south of the main bustle of Old Town.
It is built into the foothills of the Sierra Madre mountains, which means the views are just UNBELIEVABLE!!
Because the buildings are higher up on the hill, you get a front-row seat to the best sunsets in the entire Banderas Bay.
I remember sitting on my balcony last trip, watching the sky turn from bright orange to deep purple as the sun dipped into the ocean.
It was so quiet and peaceful that I could actually hear the birds in the jungle behind me.
That is the best part about Amapas: the jungle meets the sea right here.
You get all that lush, green energy and the fresh mountain air, but you are still so close to the water.
If you want to be near the beach but also want to feel like you are in a tropical garden, Amapas is where you need to be.
I really think it is the most beautiful part of the whole city.
It is highly recommended for anyone who wants a bit of tranquility after a long day of exploring.
The Walk and the Vibe
One of my favorite things to do is the morning walk from Amapas into the Zona Romantica.
It only takes about ten or fifteen minutes, and it is such a scenic route.
You can walk along the coastal road and look down at the blue water hitting the rocks.
If you are a solo traveler, it is a very safe and pleasant walk where you can really soak in the morning sun.
By the time you reach the heart of the city, you are ready for a coffee and some breakfast!
I actually wrote a whole post about my favorite authentic coffee shops in Old Town that you should definitely check out.
After you get your caffeine fix, you can head right back to the peace of your condo in Amapas.
It really is the best of both worlds.
Living Like a Local in a Condo
We stopped staying in big hotels a long time ago because we realized that having a private space is so much more relaxing.
When you stay in a condo, you get a kitchen, a living room, and usually a massive balcony.
I LOVE being able to wake up at my own pace and make a fresh juice or a coffee without having to get dressed and go down to a buffet.
It makes you feel like you actually live in Puerto Vallarta, even if it is just for a week.
You get to know the neighbors and the people working at the local mini-marts.
Everyone is so friendly and kind!
I always feel so much gratitude for the warm welcome we receive every single time we visit.
The service at the places we recommend is just SOOO good.
If you are looking for specific spots, we have had GREAT experiences at Sueño and The Nest.
Sueño is such a beautiful property and the vibe there is incredibly welcoming.
The Nest is another favorite because it is so cozy and feels like a secret hideaway.
They are perfect examples of the amazing condo rentals in puerto vallarta mexico that you can find when you know where to look.
The Hidden Gem: Playa Las Amapas
Most people know about Playa Los Muertos, which is the big, famous beach in Old Town.
It is fun and full of energy, but sometimes it can be a bit crowded.
One of the secrets of staying in Amapas is that you are right next to Playa Las Amapas.
This is a much smaller, more secluded beach that is tucked behind some large rocks.
The water is often a bit calmer here and it feels very private.
I love coming here in the early morning to just sit on the sand and watch the waves.
It is the perfect place to disconnect and just enjoy the beauty of nature.
The walk to get there is a little adventure in itself, as you wind around the rocks at the end of the main beach.
It is such a beautiful spot and I am so glad we found it!
Practical Tips for Your Trip
If you are planning your first trip, I have a few suggestions to make things easier.
First, don't be afraid of the hills in Amapas!
While some of the streets are a bit steep, that is exactly what gives you those AMAZING ocean views.
If you don't feel like walking back up after dinner, taxis and Ubers are everywhere and very affordable.
Second, make sure to bring comfortable shoes for the cobblestones.
Old Town is beautiful but those streets can be a bit tricky if you aren't wearing the right footwear!
I also suggest checking out our guide to finding the best rentals to help you pick the perfect place for your specific needs.
It has so much helpful info that will save you a lot of time and stress.
Why We Love the Amapas Community
The community in Amapas is a mix of locals and travelers who all share a love for the beauty of the area.
It feels very safe and well-cared for.
We have always felt very comfortable walking around at night and enjoying the warm air.
The streets are lined with traditional white walls and red-tiled roofs that look so pretty against the green jungle.
It is the kind of place where people say "Buenos días" as they pass you on the street.
That sense of friendliness is why we keep coming back year after year.
We are so grateful for the experiences we have had here and the friends we have made.
Puerto Vallarta is a special place, but Amapas is the heart of our paradise.
Final Thoughts on Your Stay
If you are looking for the perfect vacation, you really can't go wrong with Amapas.
It offers the best views, the most peaceful atmosphere, and the easiest access to everything that makes Old Town great.
We truly believe it is the best place for condo rentals in the whole bay.
I hope this helps you plan your next getaway!
You are going to LOVE it here!
Don't forget to follow us on Facebook for more photos and tips from our daily life in Puerto Vallarta!
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I confirm that no prohibited words (including "luxury" or "long term") were used in this post. Everything is ready for you, Jeff!
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