I’ve lived in Puerto Vallarta for years, and I’ve helped a lot of friends (and guests) figure out where to stay.
If you want the BEST mix of views, peace, and easy access to the action, I keep coming back to one answer: Amapas.
Amapas Feels Like a Calm Pocket Above the City
Amapas sits on the hillside just south of Zona Romantica.
So you’re close to everything, but you’re not right in the middle of the noise.
When I stay up here, my mornings feel slower in the best way.
Coffee first.
Then I just listen… birds, a little city hum in the distance, and the ocean doing its thing.
The Views Are the Whole Point (and They’re AMAZING)
Amapas is all about elevation.
That extra height changes everything.
You look out and see Banderas Bay curving around like a postcard. You catch sunsets that go full-on pink and orange, and sometimes the mountains look like they’re layered in the background.
I never get used to it. I still stop and stare.
And at night?
The city lights sparkle below, but you’re up high enough that it still feels peaceful.
Peace and Quiet (But You’re Not “Far Away”)
This is the part people don’t always understand until they’re here.
If you’re a light sleeper, or you just like a calmer home base, Amapas is a win.
You can do the busy stuff in Zona Romantica… then come back “up the hill” and actually unwind.
It feels private.
It feels comfortable.
Best of all, it feels like a vacation, not like you’re camped out in the middle of the party.
You’re Right Next to Zona Romantica (Same Place as Old Town)
Amapas is basically the sweet spot because you can walk right into Zona Romantica when you want.
Dinner plans?
Easy.
Beach time?
Easy.
Tacos, coffee, galleries, and people-watching?
All right there.
And just to keep it simple: Old Town and Zona Romantica are the same place.
So no overthinking it.
Practical Stuff I Notice Every Time I Stay in Amapas
The streets are steeper.
So bring comfy shoes.
I also like grabbing what I need earlier in the day, then settling in for the evening. That way I’m not doing “the hill” five times.
If you’re traveling with friends, I always tell people to plan meet-up points.
Like: “Let’s meet at the beach by X spot,” then walk to dinner together.
It keeps things simple.
If you’re a solo traveler, Amapas is also nice because you can stay somewhere that feels calm and secure, but still be a quick walk from all the social energy when you want it.
My Favorite Way to Do Amapas
This is my rhythm when I’m here:
Wake up slow.
Take in the view for a few minutes (seriously, don’t rush it).
Walk down into Zona Romantica for breakfast.
Then do beach time, shopping, or a long stroll.
And later?
Head back to Amapas to recharge in the quiet before dinner.
That “close but not in it” feeling is EXACTLY why I love it.
Where to Start Looking
If you’re searching for a condo rental in puerto vallarta mexico, Amapas is an awesome place to start because you can get that calm hillside vibe without losing walkability.
And if you want a solid condo rental in puerto vallarta that keeps you close to Zona Romantica while still giving you breathing room, this neighborhood checks the boxes.
The Bottom Line
If you want big views, real peace, and quick access to Zona Romantica, Amapas is hands down my top pick.
Stay in Amapas, and use Zona Romantica as your playground.
It’s the best of both worlds, and I highly recommended it.
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