I have been living and breathing Puerto Vallarta for quite some time now.
It is my favorite place in the whole world.
Every time I walk down the cobblestone streets of Old Town, I find something new and AMAZING.
If you are a solo traveler or coming with your family, you need to know where the locals go.
Most people stay on the Malecón, but there is sooo much more to see.
We love sharing our favorite spots with friends like you.
It makes our day when you find a quiet corner that feels like your own little paradise.
In this guide, I want to take you through the hidden spots we LOVE.
These are the places that don't always show up in the big brochures.
But best of all, they are easy to reach and totally worth the effort.
The Smallest Beach in Mexico
One of our absolute favorite secrets is Colomitos Beach.
It is often called the smallest beach in Mexico, and it is sooo beautiful!
You have to take a water taxi from Boca de Tomatlán or hike through the jungle to get there.
We usually choose the hike because the views are incredible.
The water is a clear turquoise that you just won't find at the main beaches.
It feels like a secret world tucked away from everything else.
If you are a solo traveler, the hike is very safe and you will meet other adventurers along the way.
Just remember to bring water and some comfortable shoes.
We are so grateful for the locals who maintain these trails so we can all enjoy them.
When we finally reach the sand, we usually just sit and listen to the waves.
It is the best way to spend a morning away from the crowds.
The Magic of Isla Cuale
Right in the heart of Old Town, there is a literal island in the middle of the river.
It is called Isla Cuale, and it is a peaceful escape from the busy streets.
Most people just walk across the bridges, but you should really go down and explore.
There are giant trees that provide the best shade on a hot day.
You can find local artists painting and selling their crafts.
We LOVE the quiet vibe here.
It is a great place to find a unique souvenir that isn't a plastic magnet.
If you are looking for Puerto Vallarta condos for rent by owner, you want to be close to spots like this.
We highly recommend taking an hour just to wander the dirt paths of the island.
You might even see some iguanas hanging out in the trees!
But best of all, there are small cafes where you can get a fresh juice and just relax.
Walking Through Gringo Gulch
If you like history and cool architecture, you have to walk up into Gringo Gulch.
This neighborhood is tucked into the hills behind the main church.
It is where Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton used to live.
The white walls and red tile roofs are exactly what people imagine when they think of Mexico.
The "Bridge of Love" is a famous spot there that connects two houses.
We think it is one of the most romantic places in the entire city.
It is a bit of a climb, but the exercise is worth it for the photos.
You can see the whole city and the bay from some of the higher streets.
We always tell our guests to look for the Puerto Vallarta condo rentals that offer these kinds of views.
Staying in a place like Sueño or The Nest gives you that authentic feeling.
Why Amapas is Our Top Choice
While Old Town is great, we think Amapas is actually the best place to rent.
It is right next to Zona Romantica, but it feels much more private.
Amapas is built into the hillside, which means the views are UNBELIEVABLE.
You get the best of both worlds: peace and quiet, but only a five-minute walk to the beach.
We have spent many evenings watching the sunset from a balcony in Amapas.
The colors in the sky are so vibrant and orange.
If you want to know more, you can read about the secrets of Amapas.
It really is the perfect spot for anyone who wants a more relaxed vacation.
Choosing the right area makes a huge difference in how much you enjoy your trip.
We have found that Amapas is the local secret for your stay that most people miss.
Finding the Best Tacos
You can't come to Puerto Vallarta and not eat the street food.
The locals don't go to the big fancy restaurants on the water.
We go to the taco stands that pop up at night.
Look for the stands with the longest lines: that is how you know it is good!
There is a stand near the corner of Insurgentes that has the BEST tacos al pastor.
The meat is juicy and the salsa has just the right amount of kick.
We are so grateful to the families who have been running these stands for years.
They work so hard to make sure everyone leaves happy and full.
It is a very simple experience, but it is one of our favorite things to do.
If you are worried about where to eat, just follow the locals.
We promise you won't be disappointed!
Practical Tips for Your Trip
Puerto Vallarta is very safe and easy to navigate.
Most people speak some English, especially in the tourist areas.
But learning a few words in Spanish goes a long way.
A simple "gracias" or "por favor" makes everyone smile.
We suggest taking the local buses if you want a real adventure.
They are very cheap and go almost everywhere.
Just be ready for a bumpy ride!
If you prefer more comfort, Ubers are very reliable here too.
We always recommend staying in a place where you can walk to most things.
That is why we LOVE the location of Casa CC.
It puts you right where you need to be to find all these hidden gems.
A Final Note from Jeff
We hope you find these secrets as special as we do.
Puerto Vallarta is a place that stays in your heart long after you leave.
Whether you are hiking to a hidden beach or eating tacos on a street corner, enjoy every second.
The people here are AMAZING and will make you feel right at home.
We are so lucky to call this place home and share it with you.
If you are planning your next trip, we wish you the most wonderful time.
Puerto Vallarta is highly recommended for anyone who wants a mix of culture and relaxation.
Go explore, get lost in the streets of Old Town, and find your own hidden gem!
Don't forget to find us on Facebook to see more of our local life!
About the Author
