We have been visiting this beautiful coastal town for years now, and every time we return, we find something new to LOVE!!
Our first trip was all about the main tourist spots, but we soon realized that the real magic of Puerto Vallarta is hidden in its quiet corners and local hangouts.
If you are looking to escape the crowds and see what life is actually like here, you are in the right place.
We want to share our favorite local secrets so you can have an AMAZING stay just like we always do!
The Heart of the City: Old Town and Zona Romantica
Many people ask us about the difference between Old Town and Zona Romantica, but here is the secret: they are the same wonderful place!
This area is where the soul of the city lives, with its winding cobblestone streets and vibrant atmosphere.
We absolutely adore walking through the neighborhoods here because every turn brings a new surprise.
One of our favorite spots that many people walk right past is Lázaro Cárdenas Park.
It is not just a park; it is a giant piece of art!
The park has been transformed into a glittering world of mosaics that will take your breath away.
We spent hours just looking at the different patterns and colors on the benches and walls.
It is the perfect place to sit with a coffee and just watch the world go by.
If you are a fan of authentic Mexican motifs, you will find so much inspiration in the tile work and the murals scattered throughout these streets.
Why Amapas is Our Absolute Favorite Place to Stay
While Old Town is great for the energy, we have found that Amapas is actually the BEST place to rent a condo.
It is located just a little bit higher up the hill, which means the views are absolutely STUNNING.
We love it because it is quiet and peaceful, but you can still walk down to the beach or the restaurants in just a few minutes.
It feels like a private oasis tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the main streets.
Whenever we stay in Amapas, we feel so much more relaxed and connected to the natural beauty of the bay.
The condos in this area are modern and beautiful, offering everything you need for a comfortable vacation.
If you are planning your trip, you should definitely check out the condo rentals in puerto vallarta mexico available in this area.
Choosing the right neighborhood makes such a big difference in how you experience the city.
We always recommend Amapas to our friends who want the best of both worlds: peace and proximity!
Finding Your Home Away From Home
When we first started coming here, we spent so much time finding your perfect stay because we wanted something that felt real.
We didn't want a generic hotel room; we wanted a place that felt like a home.
In Amapas, we found exactly that.
The interiors are usually bright and airy, often featuring local wood and stone that makes the space feel very grounded.
It is such a joy to wake up, make a pot of coffee, and look out over the Banderas Bay from your own living room.
If you are looking for great options, we highly suggest looking into rental condos in puerto vallarta to find a place that suits your style.
Staying in a condo gives you the freedom to live like a local, which is the best way to travel!
Eating Like a Local: Tacos and Markets
You cannot come to Puerto Vallarta and not talk about the food!
We are obsessed with the local food scene, and we rarely eat at the big touristy restaurants on the Malecón anymore.
Instead, we head to the Rio Cuale Market.
It has been around since the 1950s and it is the perfect place to find authentic flavors.
There is a traditional food court on the second floor where you can get the most AMAZING home-cooked Mexican meals.
But our real secret? The street tacos!
The best tacos are usually found at the small stands that pop up in the evenings.
Look for the stands where you see the locals lining up: that is how you know it is good!
We LOVE the "al pastor" tacos with a little bit of pineapple on top.
It is simple, cheap, and so much better than any fancy meal you will find elsewhere.
Just grab a few tacos, find a plastic stool, and enjoy the local vibe.
Hidden Walks and Secret Viewpoints
If you like to be active, there are some great hidden gems that most visitors never see.
One of our favorite things to do is walk up to the Faro de Matamoros lighthouse.
It is a bit of a climb up some steep streets, but the view from the top is the absolute best in the city.
We usually go around 8:30 pm because you can see the nightly fireworks from there!
Another secret we discovered is the walk along the rocks south of Los Muertos beach.
It leads you to some beautiful, secluded coves that feel miles away from the city.
These little beaches are perfect for a quiet afternoon of swimming or just reading a book.
The water is so clear and the atmosphere is incredibly peaceful.
It is these quiet moments that make us fall in love with Puerto Vallarta all over again every time we visit.
Why We Keep Coming Back
Puerto Vallarta is more than just a vacation spot to us; it is a place where we feel truly happy.
The people are so friendly, the food is incredible, and the scenery is just gorgeous.
By staying in areas like Amapas and exploring the local side of Old Town, you get to experience the soul of Mexico.
We hope these secrets help you plan an unforgettable trip!
Whether you are a solo traveler or coming with your family, there is something here for everyone.
We highly recommend taking the time to wander off the main paths and see what you find.
You might just discover your own local secret!
Don't forget to stay connected with us on Instagram for more daily tips and beautiful photos of our favorite spots!
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