We have lived in Puerto Vallarta for a long time, and we absolutely LOVE sharing our favorite spots with anyone visiting!
When you first get here, it is SOOOO easy to just stick to the Malecon or the big popular beaches.
But if you really want to feel the magic of this place, you have to dig a little deeper into the neighborhoods.
We always tell our friends that Old Town and Zona Romantica are really the heart of the city.
They are actually the same area, but no matter what you call it, the energy here is AMAZING!!
If you are a solo traveler or coming with a group, finding those quiet, "locals-only" spots makes your trip feel so much more special.
We feel so grateful to call this place home and we want you to love it just as much as we do!
1. The Quiet Side of Isla Cuale
Most people walk across the bridge and see the main market stalls on Isla Cuale.
But if you keep walking toward the mountains, away from the ocean, it gets so quiet and peaceful.
There are these beautiful shaded pathways lined with huge trees and local art.
We love coming here in the afternoon when it gets hot because the river breeze keeps everything cool.
You will see local painters working on their canvases and maybe a few iguanas hanging out in the trees!
It is the perfect place to just sit and breathe for a minute.
If you are looking for the best places to stay nearby, we highly recommend checking out some puerto vallarta vacation condos to be close to the action but still have your own space.
2. Sunset at Faro de Matamoros
Everyone goes to the Malecon for sunset, but it can get really crowded!
If you want a view that will literally take your breath away, you have to walk up to the Faro de Matamoros.
It is an old lighthouse that isn't used anymore, but the platform is still there.
You just walk up Calle Mina from the Malecon for about three blocks.
It is a bit of a climb, but we promise it is SOOOO worth it!
From up there, you can see the whole bay and the crown of the Guadalupe Church.
Watching the sun dip below the horizon from this spot is one of our absolute favorite things to do.
It is quiet, romantic, and feels like a total secret.
We are so thankful for the people who keep this spot clean and open for everyone to enjoy!
3. The 2nd Floor Food Court at Rio Cuale Market
If you are hungry and want real Mexican food without the "tourist prices," you have to go here!
The Rio Cuale Market has been around since the 1950s and it is huge.
But the real secret is the second floor.
There is a little food court where local families cook up the most incredible meals.
We are talking about fresh ceviche, tacos al pastor, and amazing mole.
It is simple, loud, and smells like heaven!
We always tell people that if you want to eat like a local, this is the place.
The ladies running the stalls are so kind and they will make sure you leave full and happy.
If you want to live like a local too, you should definitely rent apartments in puerto vallarta instead of staying in a big hotel.
4. The Magic of Amapas
We have to be honest: Amapas is our absolute FAVORITE place in the entire city!
It is tucked just above the south end of Zona Romantica.
The views from the hills here are just UNBELIEVABLE!!
It is much quieter than the center of Old Town, but you can still walk to everything in five minutes.
We love the winding roads and all the lush jungle plants that grow everywhere.
If you are finding your vibe for your next trip, Amapas is 100% the best place to rent.
It feels private and safe, and the air just feels fresher up there.
Whether you stay at Casa Mi Sueño or The Nest, you really can't go wrong in this neighborhood.
It is the perfect balance of nature and city life.
5. Night Vibes at Plaza de Armas
While the Malecon is great for a stroll, Plaza de Armas is where the real local soul is.
On many nights, especially on weekends, they have live mariachi music or traditional dancing.
You will see grandpas dancing with their granddaughters and kids running around with ice cream.
It is such a wholesome and beautiful experience.
We love grabbing a coffee or a cold drink and just sitting on a bench to watch the world go by.
It makes us feel so lucky to live in a place with such a strong sense of community.
If you want to discover more secret spots in Old Town, you should definitely spend an evening here.
It is the best way to end a day of exploring!
Why We Love Sharing These Tips
Puerto Vallarta has so much more to offer than just what you see in the brochures.
We truly believe that the best memories come from those moments when you step off the beaten path.
Whether it's finding a new favorite taco stand or watching the sunset from a hidden lighthouse, those are the stories you'll tell forever.
We are so glad you are planning a trip to our beautiful city!
If you need any more tips or are looking for the perfect place to stay, we are always here to help.
Our condos like Casa CC and Casa Opportunity are right in the heart of all this magic.
We are so grateful for all the guests who have stayed with us and shared their own hidden gems too.
It is a big, beautiful world, and Puerto Vallarta is one of the best pieces of it!
We highly recommend taking at least one day of your trip to just wander without a map.
You never know what amazing thing you might find around the next corner!
Come hang out with us on Facebook to see more of our daily adventures in PV!
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