Planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta with your partner is one of the most exciting things you can do. We have spent so many winters here, and every time we come back, we fall in love with the city all over again. There is just something about the air, the food, and the people that makes it the perfect spot for a romantic getaway.
When we first started coming here, we stayed all over the place. But after years of exploring, we found our favorite corners. If you are looking for the absolute best experience, you really want to focus on the south side of town.
One thing that confuses a lot of people is the neighborhood names. You will hear people talk about Old Town and then hear others talk about Zona Romantica. Just so you know, they are the exact same place! It is the heart of the city and where you will find the best restaurants and the most character.
But if you want our honest opinion, the absolute best place to stay is Amapas. It is tucked right next to the main action but feels like a quiet world of its own.
Why We Love Amapas for Couples
Amapas is our top pick every single time. It is a little bit higher up on the hills, which means the views are just incredible. Imagine waking up, having your coffee, and looking out over the entire Banderas Bay. It is so quiet and peaceful compared to the busy streets below.
We love that it is just a short walk down the hill to the beach. You can spend your day at one of the beach clubs at Los Muertos and then retreat back to your quiet condo for a glass of wine at sunset. It gives you the best of both worlds.
The condos in Amapas are generally newer and have a very modern feel. We really appreciate having a big kitchen and a spacious living area when we travel together. It feels much more like a home than a hotel room ever could.
If you are a couple who likes to stay active, you will LOVE the hills here. Walking back up to your condo after a big Mexican dinner is the best way to get some exercise! But don't worry, if you aren't feeling the walk, there are always yellow taxis or Ubers ready to zip you up the hill in two minutes.
Finding the Right Spot
When you are looking for Puerto Vallarta condos for rent by owner, you really want to pay attention to the specific location within the building. We always look for units that face the ocean because those sunsets are something you will never get tired of.
We’ve found that staying in a condo gives us so much more freedom. We can go to the local market, buy fresh fruit and local coffee, and have a slow morning on our terrace. It is much more relaxing than trying to make it to a hotel breakfast on time.
For more advice on what to look for, you should definitely check out The Best Puerto Vallarta Condo Rentals for a Relaxing Stay. It covers a lot of the small details we wish we knew before our first trip!
Exploring Old Town Together
Even if you stay in Amapas, you will spend most of your time in Old Town. Since they are the same area, everything is super close. We love walking through the cobblestone streets and looking at the colorful architecture.
The food scene here is UNBELIEVABLE. You can find everything from high-end dining to the best street tacos you've ever had. We highly recommend trying the taco stands near the pier at night. It is a local tradition and the food is so fresh.
One of our favorite things to do is just wander. You’ll find small art galleries, handmade jewelry shops, and beautiful parks. It feels safe and welcoming, which is so important when you are on vacation.
If you are worried about the logistics of renting, take a look at Local Secrets for Your Next Puerto Vallarta Vacation. We always tell our friends to read up on the basics before they arrive so there are no surprises.
Creating Your Own Retreat
The beauty of a condo rental is that you can create your own little sanctuary. We often look for a place that feels like the apartaento de mi sueno, with high ceilings and beautiful local finishes. Puerto Vallarta is famous for its tile work and woodwork, and seeing those details in your own home makes the trip feel so special.
We always check for things like high-speed internet (since we sometimes have to check in on work) and good air conditioning. Most modern condos in Amapas have everything you need to be perfectly comfortable.
We really can't say enough good things about the Amapas area. It’s where we feel the most relaxed and connected to the beauty of Puerto Vallarta. Whether you are celebrating an anniversary or just need a break from reality, this is the place to be.
If you are looking for a place that combines incredible views, a bit of peace and quiet, and easy access to the best food in Mexico, Amapas is highly recommended. We honestly wouldn't stay anywhere else!
We are so grateful for every trip we get to take to this beautiful city. Every time we leave, we are already planning our next visit. It truly is a magical place for couples.
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