We have spent so much time exploring every corner of Puerto Vallarta.
It is easily our favorite place in the world!
But if you are a solo traveler or even a couple looking for some peace, the main beaches can get a little crowded sometimes.
Playa Los Muertos is AMAZING for people-watching and grabbing a drink, but sometimes you just want to hear the waves and nothing else.
That is why we LOVE finding the secret spots that most tourists walk right past.
You do not have to go far to find them!
In fact, some of the best beaches are just a short walk from where you are probably staying.
If you know where to look, you can find your own little piece of paradise in no time.
The Secret Path Over the Hill
Most people stop walking once they get to the end of the pier in the Zona Romantica.
But the real adventure starts right there at the big rock formation called El Púlpito.
There is a little stone path that goes up and over the hill.
It is a bit of a climb, but the views are sooo worth it!
From the top, you can see the whole bay and the bright blue water stretching out forever.
It is one of our favorite puerto vallarta rentals by owner for getting a great photo without the crowds.
Once you head down the other side, the noise of the city just disappears.
It feels like you have stepped into a completely different world.
Playa Amapas: Our Absolute Favorite
Just on the other side of that hill is Playa Amapas.
We honestly think this is one of the most beautiful spots in the entire Banderas Bay!
It is a small cove with golden sand and these massive, beautiful Amapas trees that give you the perfect natural shade.
We LOVE spending the whole afternoon here.
Since there are no beach clubs or vendors, it is very quiet and peaceful.
You can just bring a towel, a good book, and listen to the emerald-green water hitting the shore.
It is the perfect place to relax if you want to escape the hustle of Old Town for a few hours.
If you are looking for the puerto vallarta rentals old town near here, we always tell people that the Amapas area is the best place to rent.
It is quiet, lush, and so close to these hidden gems!
We have found some incredible Puerto Vallarta vacation rentals right in this neighborhood that make the whole trip feel so much more special.
Exploring the Tide Pools of Conchas Chinas
If you keep walking south along the coast from Playa Amapas, you will hit Conchas Chinas.
This area is often called the "Beverly Hills" of Puerto Vallarta because it is so pretty.
The beach here is very different because it has all these cool rock formations that create natural tide pools.
The water in these pools is crystal clear and super calm.
We LOVE walking through the pools and seeing the little fish swimming around.
It is such a fun way to spend a morning, especially if the tide is low.
The sand is soft and the water is a stunning turquoise color that looks like a postcard.
Because it is a bit of a walk from the main pier, you won't find many people here at all.
It is truly one of the best-kept secret spots in the whole city.
Why You Should Rent in Amapas
When people ask us where they should stay, we always point them toward Amapas.
While Old Town and the Zona Romantica are technically the same area, the Amapas section feels a lot more private.
It is tucked away on the hillside, so you get these AMAZING views of the ocean.
Plus, you are literally steps away from the secret path to Playa Amapas.
Imagine waking up and walking five minutes to your own private beach!
It is way better than staying in the middle of the noisy city streets.
We highly recommend looking for condo rentals in Puerto Vallarta specifically in this neighborhood.
You get the best of both worlds: peace and quiet at home, but you can still walk to the restaurants in Old Town in ten minutes.
It is the most convenient and beautiful part of town to call home for a week or two.
What to Pack for Your Hidden Beach Day
Since these beaches are "hidden" and natural, you won't find any stores nearby.
You have to be a little bit prepared!
We always pack a small bag with plenty of water and some snacks from the local OXXO.
Don't forget your sunscreen and a big beach towel!
Since there are no umbrellas for rent, those big Amapas trees at the beach are your best friend.
We also suggest wearing sturdy sandals or sneakers for the walk over the hill.
The path is paved but it can be a bit uneven in some spots.
But once you get your feet in that warm sand, you won't care about the walk at all!
The Magic of a Puerto Vallarta Sunset
Best of all is staying at these beaches until the sun starts to go down.
The sunsets in Puerto Vallarta are world-famous for a reason.
The sky turns these crazy shades of pink, orange, and purple.
Watching the sun dip below the horizon from a quiet cove like Playa Amapas is an emotional experience.
It makes you feel so grateful to be in such a beautiful place.
We usually stay until the very last light fades before heading back to our condo.
It is the perfect way to end a day in paradise.
Final Thoughts on Your Trip
Puerto Vallarta is a place that keeps on giving the more you explore it.
While the main tourist spots are great, the real magic is found in these quiet corners.
Whether you are swimming in the tide pools of Conchas Chinas or napping under a tree at Playa Amapas, you are going to have the BEST time.
We really think that choosing the right neighborhood makes all the difference for your vacation.
Staying in Amapas is highly recommended if you want to be close to the nature and the beauty of the coast.
It is just so much more relaxing and authentic!
We are so lucky to call this place a second home and we know you will LOVE it too.
If you have any questions about where to go or how to find these spots, just ask!
We are always happy to help a fellow traveler find their way to the best parts of the city.
Safe travels and enjoy the sunshine!
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