I’ve been renting condos in Old Town for years, and when we travel with kids, the “nice view” stuff matters way less than the “easy, safe, and low-stress” stuff.
If you’re planning a family trip, these are the exact tips we use to pick the right place, get around with strollers, keep everyone fed, and actually enjoy the week.
1) Pick the right part of Old Town for kids (yes, it matters)
Old Town is super walkable, but it’s also hilly.
If you’re traveling with toddlers, a stroller, or grandparents, I aim for a spot where we can walk to the beach and dinner without doing a sweaty stair workout every time we leave the condo.
2) Choose a building you can “come and go” from easily
With kids, you will do quick trips.
We go out for tacos, come back for sunscreen, head out again for a snack, then back for a nap.
That’s why I love old town puerto vallarta condo rentals that have an easy entry, clear directions, and a straightforward check-in.
3) Don’t underestimate hills + cobblestones (pack for it)
This is the classic rookie mistake.
Old Town streets are uneven, and the sidewalks can be narrow.
Bring shoes with grip, and if you’re using a stroller, I’ve had the best luck with one that has bigger wheels (tiny plastic wheels get wrecked).
4) For little kids, schedule your “big walk” early
Mornings feel calmer.
The sun is easier, the streets feel less packed, and our kids are in a better mood.
We do our big walk, grab breakfast, then keep afternoons simple.
5) Build your day around nap time (it saves the whole trip)
I plan one “out” block and one “rest” block.
Old Town is perfect for this because you can actually get back to your condo fast.
Even if your kid doesn’t nap, having quiet time in AC keeps everybody from melting down.
6) Look for family safety basics before you book
I always ask about these, because photos won’t show them:
- Balcony railings (height and spacing)
- Window screens (mosquito help AND kid safety)
- Working door locks and a solid deadbolt
- A safe place to stash passports
- Any steep interior stairs (lofts can be stressful with toddlers)
If anything feels unclear, I keep shopping.
7) Ask about noise—especially weekends
Old Town can be lively.
That’s part of the fun, but if your kids go to sleep early, you want to know what you’re signing up for.
I ask the host: “Is the bedroom on the street side?” and “Can you hear nightlife from the unit?”
8) Make the kitchen work for your family (even if you “won’t cook”)
We still use the kitchen every single day.
Think: breakfast, fruit, sandwiches, and the never-ending snack situation.
I ask if the condo has:
- A full-size fridge
- A blender (smoothies are a lifesaver)
- Basic cookware
- Plenty of cups/plates (kid-proof if possible)
9) Confirm AC in the bedrooms, not just the living room
This one matters.
Kids sleep better when it’s cool.
Make sure the AC actually covers the bedrooms, and ask how it’s controlled (some places have separate units, which is great).
10) Make sure the Wi‑Fi is solid (because rainy moments happen)
Even on an amazing beach vacation, there are “indoor moments.”
A quick cartoon, a downloaded movie, or a video call home can save the day.
I ask the host for the Wi‑Fi speed and whether it’s reliable during busy season.
11) Choose a host who communicates like a pro
With families, small hiccups feel bigger.
I prioritize hosts who answer fast and give clear instructions with photos: how to get in, where to find extra towels, and who to contact if something breaks.
A great host lowers stress immediately.
12) Use a credit card and keep everything in writing
I’m not trying to be dramatic, but family trips cost time and energy to plan.
I always pay in a way that gives protection, and I keep confirmations, rules, and check-in details in one spot on my phone.
13) Pack a simple “first hour” kit in your carry-on
When we arrive, the goal is to settle fast.
I keep these handy:
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray or wipes
- A couple snacks
- One change of clothes for kids
- Swim stuff (if check-in is later, we still head out)
14) For beach days with kids, keep it close and easy
We do short beach visits and repeat them.
Old Town makes this easy because you can walk back for bathrooms, shade, and a reset.
If you’re traveling with very young kids, being “near everything” is the whole game.
15) If you want the calmest family vibe, consider Amapas (my top pick)
Old Town is AMAZING for convenience, but if your family wants a slightly quieter feel while still being right there, I’m a huge fan of Amapas.
I’ve had some of my easiest, most relaxing stays there.
If you want to dig deeper, start here: my guide to finding the perfect condo in Amapas and also check out the best rental condos in the area.
My Final Thoughts
If you’re traveling with kids, your best move is choosing a place that’s safe, easy to access, and built for real life—AC that works, a kitchen that helps, and a host who replies fast.
For a family trip, I highly recommend booking a well-reviewed condo rental in puerto vallarta mexico and keeping your stay centered in Old Town or (best of all) Amapas for a calmer vibe with the same great walkability.
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