I have been living the digital nomad life for a while now, and let me tell you, Puerto Vallarta is one of the most incredible places to set up your laptop. Whether you are a seasoned remote worker or just starting your journey, this city has a vibe that just works.
But, like any place, there are things I wish I knew before I landed. It is not all just sun and sand; there is a rhythm to the city you need to understand to really love it.
I’ve spent months exploring the hills, the markets, and the hidden corners of this beautiful bay. Here are the 10 things you absolutely need to know before you book your stay.
1. Amapas is the best place to rent
If you are looking for the perfect balance of peace and proximity, Amapas is where you want to be. I tell everyone this: it is the absolute best area to stay in.
You get these incredible views of the ocean and the hills, but you are still just a short walk away from the action. It feels a bit more secluded and quiet than the center, which is a lifesaver when you have a 9:00 AM Zoom call and don't want to hear a parade going by your window.
The condos here are modern and beautiful, offering exactly the kind of workspace you need. It is my favorite part of the city, hands down!
2. Old Town and Zona Romantica are the same place
Don't let the different names confuse you. People use "Old Town" and "Zona Romantica" interchangeably.
I remember being so confused when I first arrived, trying to figure out which one was better. Turns out, they are one and the same!
This area is the heart of the city. It is where you will find most of the cafes, the best food, and the most vibrant energy. It is super walkable, which is great because you probably won't want to deal with driving here.
3. The internet is actually good (mostly)
One of the biggest worries for any digital nomad is the Wi-Fi. In my experience, the internet here is pretty solid, especially if you are staying in a newer building.
Many places now have fiber optic connections that are fast enough for heavy video editing or constant calls. However, I always recommend asking for a speed test before you commit.
Most owners are happy to send you a screenshot of a speed test. If they hesitate, that might be a red flag. Always have a backup plan, like a local SIM card, just in case a tropical storm decides to knock out the power for an hour!
4. Market days are your best friend
If you want to live like a local and save some money, you have to hit the markets. The colors alone are worth the trip!
I LOVE wandering through the stalls and seeing the piles of fresh mangoes, giant papayas, and avocados the size of your head. You can find everything from fresh produce to hand-woven textiles and rugs.
Shopping at the markets instead of the big grocery stores makes a huge difference in your budget and the quality of your meals. Plus, the people are so friendly and it is a great way to practice your Spanish.
5. It can get loud in the center
Puerto Vallarta is a city that loves to celebrate. If you stay right in the middle of Old Town, be prepared for some noise.
Between the occasional fireworks, the music from the bars, and the trash trucks at 2:00 AM, it can be a lot. This is another reason why I think Amapas is so much better for working.
If you are sensitive to noise, definitely look for a place a few blocks back from the main beach drive. You’ll thank me when you’re trying to sleep after a long day of work!
6. Booking directly is a game changer
While the big booking sites are easy, I’ve found that working with local owners or small management companies is so much better.
You get a more personal touch, and often, you can find much better deals. If you are looking for the best Puerto Vallarta condos for rent by owner, you should definitely do some digging beyond the usual apps.
It feels more like you are part of a community rather than just another tourist in a hotel room. I’ve met some of my best friends here just by talking to my neighbors and building owners.
7. You don't need a car
Seriously, save yourself the stress. The city is incredibly walkable, and when you do need a lift, Ubers are cheap and plentiful.
The local buses are also an experience, they are loud, colorful, and will get you almost anywhere for just a few pesos. It’s a great way to see parts of the city you might otherwise miss.
Walking everywhere also helps you discover those little hidden coffee shops that have the best espresso and the fastest Wi-Fi. I’ve found so many "office" spots just by wandering around.
8. The community is amazing
There is a massive nomad and expat community here. If you are feeling a bit lonely, just head to a local cafe or a coworking spot.
There are Facebook groups for everything, from hiking meetups to tech talks. People are very welcoming and always willing to share their "secret" spots.
Don't be afraid to reach out and say hi! We have all been the "new person" at some point, and most nomads are happy to give you the lay of the land. It’s one of the things I love most about this city.
9. Safety is about common sense
I’ve always felt very safe here, but you still have to use your head. Don't go walking around late at night in areas you don't know, and don't flash your expensive gear.
The locals are generally very protective of the tourists because they know how important we are to the economy. But like any city, petty theft can happen.
If you want to know more about my experiences, check out this insider guide to renting apartments like a local for some practical tips I’ve learned over the years. It’s all about being aware of your surroundings and respecting the local culture.
10. Embrace the "Manana" vibe
Things move a little slower here, and that is okay! Sometimes the repairman says he will be there at 10:00 AM and shows up at 2:00 PM.
Instead of getting frustrated, just lean into it. This is why you came here, right? To escape the frantic pace of the corporate world.
Grab a taco, watch the sunset, and remember that you are working from paradise. Once you stop stressing about the small stuff, you will truly start to enjoy the magic of this place.
I’ve had such an AMAZING time living here, and I honestly think finding your own apartaento de mi sueno is the first step to falling in love with PV just like I did. If you want more advice on how to settle in, you can read this post about hidden gems for condo and apartment rentals in my other post.
Puerto Vallarta is a dream for remote workers if you do it right. If you are looking for a place that has soul, culture, and a great community, I highly recommend making this your next stop.
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