I have spent a lot of time wandering the cobblestone streets of Puerto Vallarta, and I can tell you that every neighborhood has its own unique magic.
But if you are looking for that perfect balance of peace and proximity, there is one place I always find myself returning to.
Amapas is nestled right on the hillside, just a few steps away from the energy of the city, yet it feels like a completely different world.
When I first stayed here, I was blown away by how much quieter it felt compared to the lower streets.
Most people talk about Old Town and the Zona Romantica as the heart of the action, and while they are exactly the same place, they can get quite noisy at night.
If you want to be close to the best restaurants and the beach but actually get a good night's sleep, Amapas is definitely the place to be.
It is my favorite spot in the entire city for a relaxing getaway.
Why Amapas stands out
The first thing you notice about Amapas is the elevation.
Because the neighborhood climbs up the side of the mountain, almost every rental has a view that will take your breath away.
I remember sitting on my balcony with a coffee, just watching the boats cross Banderas Bay as the sun started to peak over the horizon.
The architecture here is also something special, blending traditional Mexican styles with modern comforts.
You will see beautiful details everywhere, like hand-painted tiles and stone pathways that make you feel like you are in the real Mexico.
It is much more residential than the flat areas of town, which means you aren't constantly dodging crowds when you step out of your door.
If you are a solo traveler or a couple looking for a romantic escape, the privacy you get here is unbeatable.
Modern living with a view
The condo rentals in this area are some of the most impressive I have seen.
I really LOVE how many of the newer buildings have embraced a clean, contemporary design that still respects the local culture.
The interiors are often wide open, with massive windows that make you feel like you are living right in the middle of the jungle and the ocean at the same time.
Everything feels fresh and well-maintained, which is a huge plus when you are on vacation.
In many of these spaces, you will find high-end kitchens and spacious living areas that are perfect for a night in.
I often find that Puerto Vallarta condos for rent by owner offer the best personal touches that make a place feel like a home rather than just a hotel room.
It is the little things, like having a proper blender for your morning smoothie or a comfortable sofa to lounge on after a long day at the beach.
If you want to read more about making your stay special, you can check out Puerto Vallarta Vacation Rentals: Finding Your Perfect Stay for your trip.
Walking and exploring
One thing to keep in mind is that Amapas is on a hill.
I actually enjoy the walk because it keeps me active, and the views along the way are incredible!
But best of all, you are only a five or ten-minute walk from Playa Los Muertos.
You can head down for a day in the sun and then retreat back up to your quiet oasis when the beach starts to get busy.
It is the best of both worlds.
When I am walking through the neighborhood, I am always stopping to take photos of the colorful walls and the lush greenery.
There is a real sense of community here too, with neighbors often waving as you pass by.
It feels safe, welcoming, and authentically Mexican.
Cooking and dining
While there are SOOO many amazing restaurants just down the hill in the Zona Romantica, I often find myself wanting to cook.
The kitchens in these Amapas rentals are usually top-notch.
I have spent many evenings preparing a fresh meal with local ingredients while watching the sunset from the kitchen window.
It is one of the most relaxing parts of my routine when I am in town.
Having that extra space is such a game-changer compared to a cramped hotel room.
You can really spread out and enjoy your time.
If you are planning your stay, finding an apartaento de mi sueno in this neighborhood is easier than you might think.
There are so many options that cater to different tastes, as long as you appreciate a good view and a bit of peace.
We also have a great guide on Local Secrets: The Best Hidden Gems in PV that you should definitely read before you arrive.
Final thoughts on Amapas
I cannot say enough good things about this part of Puerto Vallarta.
It offers a level of comfort and tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere in the city.
The blend of modern interiors and traditional Mexican charm makes it the perfect home base for any vacation.
Whether you are here for a week or a month, you will quickly see why I think this is the best neighborhood in town.
I am so grateful for the experiences I have had staying here, and I know you will LOVE it too!
Amapas is highly recommended for anyone who wants a more relaxed and scenic side of PV.
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