I have spent a lot of time exploring every corner of Puerto Vallarta, but there is one ritual I never get tired of. It is waking up in Amapas. If you haven't stayed in this part of town yet, you are seriously missing out on the best way to start your day in Mexico.
While most people think of Puerto Vallarta for the late-night tacos and the dancing in the streets, my favorite part is the quiet. Specifically, that "Amapas quiet" that you only get when you are tucked into the lush hillsides just above the ocean.
When we stay here, our mornings don't start with an alarm clock. They start with the sun slowly creeping over the Sierra Madre mountains and the sound of the jungle coming to life. It is the most peaceful experience I’ve ever had in a vacation spot.
If you are looking for puerto vallarta condo rentals, you really have to consider Amapas. It is the perfect middle ground between being close to the action and having your own private sanctuary.
The Sound of the Jungle and the Sea
The first thing I notice every single morning is the soundscape. In Amapas, you are surrounded by tropical greenery. Before the city really starts moving, you hear the birds.
There are these loud, funny birds called Chachalacas that like to make a scene early on, and sometimes you can hear the faint squawk of green macaws flying overhead. It feels like you are staying in a treehouse, even if you are in a modern building.
But best of all is the ocean. Because Amapas sits on a hill, the sound of the waves hitting the rocks at the bottom of the cliffs travels upward. It’s a constant, rhythmic low rumble that just melts away any stress you brought with you from home.
I love sitting out on the terrace with a cup of local coffee. The air is still a bit cool and fresh before the midday humidity kicks in. You can just sit there and watch the light change on Banderas Bay. The water goes from a deep, dark blue to a bright turquoise as the sun gets higher.
Watching the Whales from Your Balcony
If you happen to visit during the winter months, like we often do, the mornings in Amapas get even more exciting. I’m talking about the whales.
Humpback whales come into the bay to have their babies, and they are incredibly active in the early morning. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been mid-sip of my coffee and seen a massive splash out in the distance.
You don't even need a boat tour to see them. From the height of an Amapas balcony, you have a front-row seat. Seeing a mother and calf breaching while the rest of the world is still asleep is something I will never forget. It makes you feel so lucky to be exactly where you are.
If you are trying to decide which area fits your vibe, you should definitely check out our post on Finding Your Neighborhood: Old Town vs. Amapas. It really helps break down why we love the hillside life so much.
A Different Kind of Energy
Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE the energy of Old Town and the Zona Romantica. We spend almost every evening there. But there is a huge contrast between the two areas in the morning.
Down in the Zona Romantica, the mornings are about the hustle. You hear the delivery trucks on the cobblestones, the opening of metal shop gates, and the chatter of people heading to breakfast. It’s vibrant and fun, but it isn't exactly "relaxing."
In Amapas, it’s like a different world. It’s a retreat. You get that extra hour of stillness. You can actually hear the wind through the palm fronds. It’s the kind of place where you can finally finish that book you’ve been carrying around for six months.
When people ask me where to rent apartments in puerto vallarta, I always point them toward Amapas. You get the best of both worlds. You are a five-minute walk from the party, but you are miles away in spirit when you need to recharge.
The Morning Walk to the Beach
Once I’ve had my fill of coffee and whale watching, I like to take a walk. One of the best things about Amapas is the access to the "secret" beaches.
While everyone else is heading to the main part of Los Muertos Beach, we usually take the jungle path down to Playa Las Amapas. It’s a small, tucked-away cove with huge rock formations.
In the morning, the water is usually like glass. It is sooooo clear. Taking an early dip in the ocean before the crowds arrive is the ultimate wake-up call. The sand is cool, the water is refreshing, and usually, there are only a handful of other people around.
Walking back up the hill is a bit of a workout, but it’s worth it. The cobblestone streets are lined with bright pink bougainvillea and tall palm trees. Every turn gives you a new view of the ocean. It’s the kind of scenery that makes you want to stop and take a photo every ten steps.
Why Amapas is Our Top Choice
We’ve stayed in a lot of places, but Amapas is where we feel most at home. The condos here are designed to bring the outside in.
Most places have these massive sliding glass doors that stay open all day. You never really feel like you are "indoors." You are just living in the elements, but with a comfortable bed and a kitchen.
The sense of privacy is also a huge plus. Because the buildings are spread out along the hillside, you aren't staring directly into someone else's window. You are looking at the trees, the birds, and the bay.
If you are planning your trip and wondering what else to do, take a look at our guide on Activities in Puerto Vallarta Near Your Rental. There is so much to see just steps away from your front door in Amapas.
Final Thoughts on Amapas Mornings
If you are a solo traveler looking for peace, or a couple wanting a romantic getaway, Amapas is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. There is just something magical about how the day starts here.
It’s not just a place to sleep; it’s an experience. It’s the smell of the salt air, the sound of the jungle, and the sight of the sun hitting the water. It’s the quietest, most beautiful part of Puerto Vallarta, and I wouldn't want to stay anywhere else.
I am so grateful we discovered this little slice of paradise. Every time we leave, I’m already counting down the days until I can have my next Amapas morning.
If you want to see more photos of our favorite views and get daily updates on life in PV, come hang out with us on Facebook. We love sharing the local vibe with everyone!
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