My partner and I have spent so many evenings wandering the streets of Puerto Vallarta, but nothing compares to the quiet magic of Amapas. If you are looking for a place to walk that feels more like a private neighborhood and less like a busy tourist trap, this is where you need to be. We have found that the hillside streets here offer the most romantic atmosphere in the whole city.
The first time we took a walk through the upper parts of the neighborhood, I was blown away by the local ambiance. You can hear the ocean waves crashing in the distance, but the streets themselves are incredibly peaceful. It is the perfect way to reconnect after a day at the beach.
The Upper Amapas Hillside Loop
One of our absolute favorite routes starts right where the cobblestones begin to climb. We like to head uphill toward the smaller residential lanes. You won't find loud bars or big crowds here, just beautiful homes and the occasional local walking their dog.
As you wander, keep your eyes open for the small details that make this area so special. We LOVE seeing the intricate tile work on the gateposts and doorways. You will see so many vibrant colors and traditional Mexican motifs that make every corner feel like a piece of art.
If you are looking for condos for rent in puerto vallarta, you will notice that this part of town has some of the most unique buildings. They blend right into the jungle hillside, which gives the whole walk a very tropical, secluded feel. We always feel so relaxed by the time we finish this loop.
The Secret Coastal Path to Conchas Chinas
If you want a walk that stays closer to the water, you have to try the stone path that leads south from the pier. It is a bit more of an adventure with some steps and uneven rocks, but best of all, it leads you to some of the most quiet and intimate beaches in the area.
We like to take this path in the late afternoon. You pass by rocky outcrops and hidden coves that most visitors never see. It feels like you have discovered your own private part of the coast! Just make sure you wear comfortable shoes because those stone steps can be a little tricky.
Along the way, you might see small local stalls or shops tucked away in the lower streets. I always find myself stopping to look at the beautiful hand-woven fabrics. The colors are so AMAZING and they really capture the spirit of the city.
This walk eventually brings you toward Conchas Chinas, which is another beautiful area, but we always find ourselves drawn back to the charm of Amapas. For more details on why this specific area is so great for a trip, you should definitely check out Amapas Hillside secret guide.
Climbing the Amapas Stairs
For a shorter walk that still gives you incredible views, we recommend taking the Amapas stairs. These steps lead from the lower streets near the beach straight up into the hills. It is a bit of a workout, but the view of the bay from the top is sooo worth it!
Once you reach the top of the stairs, the neighborhood opens up into these quiet, wind-swept streets. We love to just wander without a map and see where the cobblestones take us. It is the best way to see the real, local side of the neighborhood.
After all that walking, we usually have quite an appetite. One of the best things about staying in this area is how close you are to some incredible local food. We have had some of the best street tacos and fresh Mexican platters just a few blocks away from our rental.
Why Amapas is the Best Choice
In my experience, Amapas is the absolute best place to rent if you want a romantic escape. You get the best of everything: the peace of the hillside, the beauty of the jungle, and easy access to the water. We have stayed in other parts of the city, but we always come back here because it feels so much more authentic and private.
If you are a solo traveler or a couple, you will appreciate the safety and the friendly neighbors. We have always felt incredibly welcome here. Plus, the elevation means you get a much better breeze than you do at street level!
When you are planning your trip, you should look for rent apartments puerto vallarta that are specifically in the Amapas area. It really changes the whole vibe of your vacation when you can walk home through these quiet, beautiful streets instead of a noisy hotel hallway.
For anyone who wants to dive deeper into why this neighborhood is so perfect for a romantic getaway, I highly recommend reading this post on why couples love the hillside escape.
Amapas is highly recommended for anyone who loves slow evenings and romantic walks. We are so grateful for the time we spend here every year and I know you will LOVE it too!!
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