If you have ever visited Puerto Vallarta before, you know that the energy of the city is something special. But when it's just the two of you, sometimes you want a little more peace without being miles away from the action.
My partner and I have spent quite a bit of time exploring every corner of this beautiful bay. After trying out several neighborhoods, we keep coming back to one specific spot.
Amapas is that perfect hillside escape. It sits just above the hustle and bustle, tucked into the lush green trees where you can actually hear the birds in the morning.
For us, it's the ultimate spot for condo rentals in puerto vallarta because it feels private but remains walkable. You get the elevation and the views without having to stay in a massive resort.
Why Amapas Beats the Rest
We often get asked about the difference between Old Town and the hills. Honestly, Old Town and Zona Romantica are the same place, and we LOVE being right in the heart of it for dinner.
But when we want to sleep, we want quiet. That is why Amapas is the best place to rent. It’s the "quiet neighbor" that lets you escape the music and the crowds whenever you want.
If you are a solo traveler or a couple looking for a sanctuary, the hillside is where you want to be. The buildings here are modern, and the vibe is much more relaxed.
We found that staying in Amapas allowed us to have slow mornings on the balcony before heading down into the city. It really is the best of both worlds.
The Walk into Town
Many people worry about the hills, but the walk down from Amapas to Los Muertos Beach is only about five to ten minutes. It is a beautiful stroll through winding streets and past some of the most colorful architecture in the city.
We highly recommend walking down for your morning coffee. It’s a great way to wake up and see the local life starting.
But here is a pro tip: take a quick taxi or Uber back up! After a long day at the beach or a big dinner, your legs will thank you.
If you are curious about more local spots, you might want to check out our post hidden local spots to see a few favorites.
Finding Your Dream Space
When we look for puerto vallarta rental condos, we prioritize comfort and a good workspace since we often work while traveling. Amapas condos are generally newer and feature very modern interiors.
We stayed at a place called Sueño recently and the design was SOOO beautiful. It had those clean lines but still felt like Mexico with the pops of color and local art.
The kitchen was fully equipped, which was AMAZING because we love hitting the local markets for fresh fruit and making breakfast at home.
Having a space that feels like a home rather than a tiny hotel room makes a huge difference. You can spread out, relax, and truly settle into the Vallarta rhythm.
Romantic Date Nights Nearby
Amapas is perfectly positioned for some of the most romantic evenings you can imagine. Since you are so close to "Restaurant Row" on Basilio Badillo, the options are endless.
We LOVE walking down to the pier at Los Muertos just as the light starts to change. Even without a sunset, the colors of the ocean and the pier lights are just magical.
One of our favorite things to do is grab some local street tacos and then find a quiet spot on the beach to eat. It is simple, authentic, and honestly one of the best ways to experience the city.
If you prefer a sit-down meal, there are dozens of spots right on the sand where you can have a candlelit dinner. The atmosphere is just so romantic.
Coastal Walks and Hidden Coves
One of the best kept secrets in this area is the coastal path that leads south toward Conchas Chinas. It’s our favorite morning routine.
The path follows the rocky shoreline and leads to these tiny, tucked-away beaches. They are much quieter than the main beach and perfect for a private afternoon of sunbathing.
The water in these little coves is often crystal clear. We spent hours just sitting on the rocks and watching the waves.
It feels like you are a world away from the city, even though you can walk back to your condo in fifteen minutes. This is exactly why we tell everyone that Amapas is the best place to rent.
Practical Tips for Your Stay
Cleanliness and safety are always at the top of our list when we travel. Every place we have stayed in Amapas has been incredibly well-maintained.
The buildings usually have great security, which is important if you are a solo traveler. We always felt very safe walking around, even in the evenings.
If you are planning your first trip, check out our rainy day guide for more practical advice.
We also found that the Wi-Fi in the Amapas area is generally very fast and reliable. For anyone who needs to jump on a Zoom call or get some work done, it's a huge plus.
Why We Highly Recommend Amapas
At the end of the day, a vacation is about how you feel. When we stay in Amapas, we feel rejuvenated.
We LOVE the mix of the jungle sounds and the proximity to the best restaurants in the world. It’s a unique combination that you just don't get in other parts of the city.
If you are looking to rent apartments in puerto vallarta, definitely keep the hillside in mind. Buildings like The Nest offer such a high standard of living that you might never want to leave.
We are so grateful to have found this little corner of paradise. It has made our trips to Mexico so much more meaningful and relaxing.
If you want a romantic, quiet, and beautiful place to call home for a week or a month, Amapas is highly recommended by us!
If you want to see more of our Vallarta favorites, come hang out with us on Facebook!
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