My husband and I have spent so much time exploring the cobblestone streets of Puerto Vallarta that we basically feel like locals now.
We have stayed in almost every neighborhood, but we always find ourselves coming back to the same two areas because they are just PERFECT.
If you are a couple looking for a romantic escape or even if you are a solo traveller heading out on a solo adventure, this guide is for you.
We honestly think that booking a huge villa is such a waste when it is just the two of you!
A one-bedroom unit is SOOO much better because it feels intimate and cozy.
You don't need five extra bedrooms and a massive kitchen when you just want to cuddle and enjoy the ocean breeze.
Our absolute favorite place to stay is Amapas.
It is the BEST place to rent because you get the most AMAZING views of the ocean while still being close to everything.
Why We LOVE One-Bedroom Condos
When we first started coming here, we thought bigger was better. We were so wrong!
Now, we only look for one-bedroom units because they are designed for romance.
They are ideal for a romantic escape because they focus on the things that matter: like a great balcony and a comfortable bed.
If you are a solo traveller, these units also feel much safer and more manageable than a giant house.
We have found that the best condos for rent in puerto vallarta are the ones that make you feel at home the second you walk in.
We love having a small kitchen to make coffee in the morning before walking down to the beach.
It is all about that "just us" feeling that you can't get in a big crowded hotel.
Amapas: The Hidden Gem
We always tell our friends to look at Amapas first.
It is tucked just slightly above the main hustle and bustle, which makes it so quiet and peaceful.
The views from the hills in Amapas are just incredible.
You can see the entire Bay of Banderas and watch the sunset every single night from your own private terrace.
We highly recommend staying in this area if you want a bit of a workout with your walk, as the hills are steep but the reward is worth it!
One place we really enjoyed was Sueño. It felt so private and the decor was just beautiful.
When you are looking for puerto vallarta vacation condos, you really can't beat the serenity of the Amapas hillside.
It feels like your own little secret world, far away from the noisy tourist traps.
Old Town and Zona Romantica
If you want to be right in the middle of the action, Old Town (also known as Zona Romantica) is the place to be.
These two names refer to the same wonderful area, and we LOVE it there!
The energy in Zona Romantica is just infectious with all the galleries, cafes, and bars.
We spent so many afternoons just wandering the streets and eating street tacos.
The best part about staying in a one-bedroom in Old Town is that you are steps away from Los Muertos Beach.
You can wake up, grab your towel, and be sitting by the water in five minutes.
We stayed at The Nest recently and it was such a great location for exploring the local nightlife.
If you are planning your next adventure, you definitely need to consider how close you want to be to the restaurants.
Old Town is perfect for couples who want to eat out every night and experience the culture.
Practical Tips for Your Romantic Trip
We always prioritize safety and cleanliness when we book.
Puerto Vallarta is generally very welcoming, but it is always good to be smart about staying safe while traveling.
We prefer condos with 24-hour security because it just gives us that extra peace of mind.
Most one-bedroom units in Amapas and Old Town have great security guards who are always so friendly.
We are so grateful for the staff at the buildings we have stayed in: they always make us feel so welcome.
Also, make sure your condo has good air conditioning!
Even though the ocean breeze is nice, those PV afternoons can get very hot.
Intimate Dinners and Sunsets
One of our favorite things to do is to have an intimate dinner on our balcony.
We go to the local market, grab some fresh shrimp and fruit, and just enjoy the view.
It is so much more romantic than sitting in a crowded restaurant with a hundred other people.
This is why we always look for condos with a private balcony or terrace.
You get to see the stars and hear the waves without any distractions.
It truly makes the trip feel special and unique to us.
Final Thoughts on Finding the Perfect Spot
Finding the right place doesn't have to be stressful.
Just remember to focus on what you actually need: comfort, a great view, and a good location.
Avoid the giant resorts and the huge villas that are made for big groups.
Keep it simple with a beautiful one-bedroom condo in Amapas or the heart of Old Town.
You will have a much more authentic and romantic experience that way.
We honestly think Puerto Vallarta is the most beautiful place in Mexico for couples.
The people are wonderful, the food is AMAZING, and the memories you make will last a lifetime.
We highly recommend booking your next trip in one of these cozy spots!
You will fall in LOVE with the vibe just like we did.
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