We have spent more time than I care to admit scouring every corner of Puerto Vallarta to find the absolute best spots for a getaway. After years of visiting and living the dream here, we’ve learned a thing or two about how to vacation like a total pro.
If you are a solo traveler or coming with your favorite person, you probably want more than just a place to sleep. You want the vibe, the views, and that feeling of being right in the heart of the magic without the constant noise of the party.
One thing we always tell our friends is that Old Town and Zona Romantica are actually the same place! People get so confused by the different names, but whether you call it the Romantic Zone or Old Town, you are in the historic, cobblestone heart of the city.
It is a fantastic area, but if you want to level up your stay, you have to look just a little bit further south. For us, Amapas is the absolute best place to rent because you get those jaw-dropping hillside views while still being a five-minute walk from the center of everything.
Why Amapas is Our Top Choice
When we first started staying in PV, we thought we had to be right on the beach in the middle of the noise. But best of all is having a quiet retreat to go back to after a long day of exploring the markets or lounging by the waves.
Amapas offers that perfect balance where you are elevated above the street level, giving you a perspective of the bay that is simply UNREAL. We LOVE waking up, opening the floor-to-ceiling glass doors, and just watching the jungle meet the ocean.
If you are choosing the best neighborhood, you really can't beat the proximity to Los Muertos Beach while enjoying a much more peaceful atmosphere. The buildings in Amapas tend to be a bit more modern and spacious too, which makes a huge difference for longer stays.
We recently stayed at a place called Casa Opportunity, and it was such a game changer. It’s located in Amapas, just a few blocks from the beach, and the view of the bay from the balcony is something I will never forget!
Picking the Perfect Rental
Finding the right spot isn't just about the location; it's about the details that make your life easier. We always look for places that have high-speed WiFi and solid air conditioning because, let’s be honest, the humidity here is no joke!
For those who want to be right in the mix but still have a modern sanctuary, we found that checking out puerto vallarta vacation condos is the best way to secure a professional-grade experience. Our experience at Casa Opportunity taught us that you don't need a massive resort to feel like you've truly arrived in paradise.
If you need a bit more space or a different vibe, Sueño is another fantastic option we've come across. It’s all about finding those rentals in puerto vallarta that offer that authentic Mexican feel combined with the modern comforts we all crave.
Professional Tips for Your Stay
One of our biggest pro tips is to ignore the "resort vs. rental" debate. A high-quality condo gives you so much more freedom to live like a local, cook your own breakfast with fresh fruit from the market, and truly soak in the culture.
Before you book, make sure to read our guide to the perfect rental so you know exactly what to look for in terms of building security and local noise levels. Even though Amapas is quieter, you are still in a vibrant city, so expect the occasional sound of a rooster or a distant firework!
We also highly recommend checking the walking distance to your favorite spots. While Amapas is close, some of the hills can be a bit of a workout, so if you aren't a fan of stairs, look for buildings with easy street access or budget for a few quick taxi rides.
Making the Most of Old Town
Since Old Town and Zona Romantica are the same, you’ll spend most of your time wandering these streets anyway. We spend hours just walking through the art galleries and stopping for tacos at the street stands: sooo good!
The food scene here is honestly the best in Mexico, in our humble opinion. You can get a world-class meal one night and the best street taco of your life the next afternoon for just a few pesos.
If you are looking for a measured and factual take: the infrastructure in this part of town is very reliable. You’ll have great cell service, plenty of ATMs, and most people speak at least a little bit of English, making it super easy to navigate.
Final Thoughts on Your PV Trip
We are so grateful that we get to share these finds with you because Puerto Vallarta is a place that stays in your heart forever. It isn't just a vacation destination; it’s a community that makes you feel welcome the moment you step off the plane.
Whether you are looking for the incredible views of Amapas or the bustling energy of Old Town, there is a perfect condo waiting for you. We have seen so many places, but the ones that focus on local charm and modern aesthetics always win our hearts.
If you are planning your next trip, we say go for Amapas: it is AMAZING and truly the best way to see the bay! We highly recommended booking early, especially for the high season, because the best spots like Casa Opportunity and Sueño fill up fast.
We hope this helps you plan the trip of a lifetime. Puerto Vallarta is waiting for you, and we can’t wait for you to experience the magic of the Pacific coast just like we did!
See you on X!
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