I have been visiting Puerto Vallarta for years now, and I honestly think it is the most beautiful place on earth.
The first time I landed here, I felt that warm breeze and smelled the salt in the air and just knew I would keep coming back.
But finding the right place to stay can be a bit overwhelming if you don't know the layout of the land.
There are so many neighborhoods and so many options for our essential rental checklist that it’s easy to get lost in the search.
I want to share my personal experience to help you find the absolute best spots for your next trip!
Understanding the Neighborhoods: Old Town is Zona Romantica
One thing that confuses a lot of first-time visitors is the naming of the neighborhoods.
I see people asking about the difference between Old Town and Zona Romantica all the time.
The secret is… they are the exact same place!!
People use the names interchangeably, and it is the heart and soul of the city.
It is where you find the cobblestone streets, the amazing street tacos, and that high-energy vibe that makes Puerto Vallarta so special.
If you are looking for puerto vallarta rentals old town, you are right in the middle of all the action.
It is vibrant, loud, and full of life, which I absolutely LOVE for a night out.
Why Amapas is THE Best Place to Rent
While I love the energy of Old Town, my absolute favorite place to actually stay is Amapas.
I tell all my friends that Amapas is the best place to rent, hands down.
It is tucked just slightly above the main buzz of the Zona Romantica.
This means you get all the quiet and peace of the jungle, but you are still only a 5-minute walk away from the best restaurants and beaches.
Amapas has this incredible residential feel that makes you feel like you actually live here.
The views of the bay from the hills are breathtaking, and the air feels just a little bit fresher when you are surrounded by trees.
My Top Picks for Your Stay
If you are planning a trip, I have two specific spots that I highly recommend.
First up is Casa Hummingbird (also known as Casa Colibri).
This place is a total dream if you want to feel like you are living in a treehouse.
It is a wide-open studio that is just four blocks from Los Muertos Beach.
I stayed there recently and the big glass windows made me feel like I was right in the middle of the nature.
It has a king bed, super fast wifi, and a modern kitchen that has everything you need to whip up a local breakfast.
If you are looking for puerto vallarta mexico condo rentals, this is such a great choice for solo travelers or couples.
Just a heads up, there are about 38 steps to get up there, so it is a bit of a workout, but the peace and quiet at the top is SOOO worth it!
Then there is Casa CC, which is also in the upper Amapas area.
This one is also a 1-bedroom and it is just 5 blocks from the beach.
What I love most about Casa CC is the balcony terrace.
Sitting out there with a coffee in the morning while looking at the panoramic views of the bay and the mountains is just AMAZING.
It has a very modern feel inside and even offers a customized laundry service for a few dollars, which is a total lifesaver on a long trip.
For anyone searching for condo rentals in puerto vallarta mexico, I cannot recommend this building enough.
The building was made by locals, so it has that authentic PV soul.
Finding the Local Secrets
Once you have your home base set up, it’s time to find the hidden gems that the tour buses miss.
I always suggest starting your morning at Daniel’s Olas Altas Juice Stand.
It’s just a tiny little stand on a corner, but the juices are fresh and cheap.
It’s where the locals go, and sitting there watching the city wake up is one of my favorite things to do.
If you want a view without the crowds, skip the main lookouts and head to the Faro de Matamoros.
It’s an old lighthouse in the middle of a residential street.
It is a bit of a climb, but it is much quieter than the famous Mirador de la Cruz.
You get a perfect view of the red-tiled rooftops and the blue ocean.
I also highly recommend taking the coastal walk from Amapas down to Conchas Chinas.
If you go at low tide, you can find a tiny hidden cove called Playa Amapas.
It’s much calmer than the main beaches and is perfect for a quiet swim.
You can find more tips on these quiet spots in this guide to where to find the quietest beaches.
Making the Most of Your Rental
When looking for condos for rent in puerto vallarta, think about what really matters for your comfort.
For me, it’s all about the balance of modern amenities and local charm.
I love having a big king bed with nice linens and a kitchen where I can make my own pico de gallo.
Both Hummingbird and Casa CC have that modern aesthetic while still feeling very much like Mexico.
The filtered drinking water at Casa CC is a huge plus because you don't have to worry about buying heavy jugs of water.
And if you are working remotely like I sometimes do, the high-speed wifi is essential.
But best of all, these places give you a chance to experience the city like a neighbor rather than a tourist.
You’ll hear the birds in the morning and maybe a distant rooster, which I think is just part of the charm!
Simple Tips for a Great Trip
If you are a solo traveler, don't be afraid to wander the side streets of the Isla Cuale.
Most people stay near the market stalls, but if you walk further east, it gets very leafy and peaceful.
There is even a colony of friendly cats that live there!
Always bring bug spray if you are staying in the jungle areas like Amapas, especially for the evenings.
And most importantly, be sure to say "gracias" to the local hosts and staff who work so hard to make these rentals feel like home.
The people here are so kind and welcoming, and expressing a little gratitude goes a long way.
I am so grateful to have found this little slice of paradise and I know you will love it too.
Puerto Vallarta is a place that stays in your heart long after you leave.
Whether you are lounging on your balcony in Amapas or eating tacos on a street corner in Old Town, there is a magic here that you just won't find anywhere else.
If you are planning your next getaway, these spots are highly recommended!
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