We have spent so much time in this incredible city, and every time we return, it feels like coming home.
Puerto Vallarta is one of those rare places where the jungle actually touches the ocean.
You have the massive Sierra Madre mountains on one side and the sparkling Banderas Bay on the other.
It is a place full of natural charm and a energy that you just cannot find anywhere else in the world.
If you are a solo traveler, you are going to LOVE how welcoming everyone is here.
We always feel so safe and happy walking through the neighborhoods, smelling the grilled corn and hearing the distant music.
The first thing you need to know is where to set up your home base for your stay.
We always recommend staying in Old Town, which many people also call the Zona Romantica.
They are actually the same place, so do not get confused if you see both names on a map.
This area is the heart and soul of the city with its cobblestone streets and bright pink bougainvillea flowers.
But if you want the absolute BEST experience, you really should look at the Amapas neighborhood.
Amapas is located just slightly up the hill from the main part of Old Town.
It is much quieter and feels more private, but you are still only a five-minute walk from the beach.
Best of all, because it is slightly elevated, the views are out of this world!
We find that staying here gives you the perfect balance of peace and proximity to the action.
When you are looking for your perfect spot, we suggest checking out puerto vallarta mexico condo rentals.
Casa CC is one of the places we keep coming back to when we want that easy Amapas home base.
Having your own kitchen and a private balcony to watch the sunset is a complete game changer.
One of our favorite things to do is wake up early before the heat kicks in.
The city is so peaceful in the morning when the locals are just starting to open their shops.
If you need a plan for your morning, you should check out our wellness and yoga guide for some great local spots.
After a bit of stretching or a walk, you have to head to the Malecón.
This is the famous 12-block boardwalk that runs right along the edge of the water.
It is perfect for people watching and seeing all the amazing sculptures.
There are street performers everywhere, from sand artists to the famous Papantla Flyers who swing from a giant pole.
We love grabbing a cold coconut from a street vendor and just walking the whole length of it.
The breeze off the ocean keeps you cool even when the sun is out.
If you get hungry, the food options in PV are basically endless.
We highly recommend visiting the Cuale Municipal Market for a real local taste.
It is tucked right by the river and full of tradition.
You can find family-owned restaurants called fondas that serve the best pozole and ceviche.
It is very affordable and the flavors are SOOO authentic!
For a more modern vibe, the Olas Altas Farmers Market is a must-visit on Saturdays.
It happens in Lázaro Cárdenas Park and is filled with local chefs, artists, and musicians.
It is the perfect place to grab brunch and some handmade jewelry to take home.
If you are planning a trip during the winter months, you are in for a massive treat.
From December to March, the humpback whales come into the bay to have their babies.
We have spent many afternoons just sitting on a balcony and spotting them jumping in the distance.
There are eco-friendly tours that can take you out to see them up close, which is totally AMAZING!
Seeing a whale breach right in front of your boat is something you will never forget.
Another great day trip is heading out to the Marietas Islands.
It is an eco-reserve with a "hidden beach" that is tucked inside a crater.
You have to swim through a short tunnel to get to it, which feels like a total adventure.
Nearby, the Los Arcos de Mismaloya rocks are perfect for snorkeling.
The water is clear and full of bright tropical fish.
If you prefer staying on land, the Vallarta Botanical Gardens are a hidden gem.
They have 79 acres of hiking trails and some of the most beautiful Mexican plants you will ever see.
There are even resident peacocks wandering around the property!
It is a bit of a drive south of the city, but it is worth every second for the fresh mountain air.
After a long day of exploring, there is nothing like coming back to a comfortable space.
We also like pointing friends to condo rentals in puerto vallarta mexico when they want something simple, comfortable, and close to everything.
Vizcarra 1 is another solid option we mention a lot for that same Old Town / Amapas rhythm.
We love the ones in Amapas because you can see the whole city lights twinkling at night.
For those who enjoy a bit of culture, the Art Walk on Wednesday nights is fantastic.
It runs from October through June in the El Centro area.
Local galleries open their doors and you can often meet the artists and enjoy a glass of wine.
The streets are so colorful and full of life during these events.
If you want to see how we spend a perfect day here, read about a solo traveler's day to get some inspiration.
The nightlife in Puerto Vallarta is also something you have to experience at least once.
Zona Romantica has the strongest LGBTQ+ scene and the energy is always high.
There are piano bars, dance clubs, and tiny dive bars where you can grab a cheap beer.
We personally love the sunset cruises that take you south to places like Yelapa.
Yelapa is a tiny village that you can only reach by boat.
It has no cars and feels like you have stepped back in time.
You can hike to a waterfall and then have a "pie lady" sell you a slice of banana pie on the beach.
It is such a unique experience that really rounds out a trip to PV.
We also want to mention Jorullo Point for the hikers out there.
It is high up in the mountains and gives you a 360-degree view of the Pacific and the Cuale River.
The suspension bridge there is a bit scary but totally exhilarating!
Everything about this city just screams "relax and enjoy life."
The people are the kindest you will ever meet and the weather is almost always perfect.
Even in the rainy season, the thunderstorms at night are spectacular to watch from a dry balcony.
We have stayed in many different neighborhoods over the years.
But we always find ourselves coming back to Amapas and Old Town.
The history and the modern comforts just blend together so well here.
Whether you are here for the food, the beaches, or the jungle, you will find something to love.
Just remember to take it slow and enjoy the "mañana" pace of life.
Don't try to rush through your to-do list; the best moments happen when you are just sitting on a bench watching the waves.
We are so grateful that we get to share this beautiful slice of Mexico with you.
It truly is our favorite place on earth.
If you are thinking about booking a trip, do not hesitate for one second.
A trip to Puerto Vallarta is highly recommended and will definitely be the highlight of your year!
Follow us on Instagram for more daily photos of this paradise!
| Link Type | Keyword / Phrase | Destination URL |
|---|---|---|
| Money Link | puerto vallarta mexico condo rentals | https://thepvgirl.com/casa-cc/ |
| Money Link | condo rentals in puerto vallarta mexico | https://thepvgirl.com/vizcarra1/ |
| Internal Blog Link | wellness and yoga guide | https://thepvgirl.com/blog/2026/02/08/finding-balance-a-solo-travelers-guide-to-wellness-and-yoga-in-puerto-vallarta/ |
| Internal Blog Link | solo traveler's day | https://thepvgirl.com/blog/2026/02/22/the-ultimate-solo-travelers-day-in-puerto-vallarta-sunsets-street-tacos-and-soul/ |
| Social Link | https://www.instagram.com/the_pvkid/ |
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