I have spent so much time in Puerto Vallarta that it honestly feels like my second home.
Every time I touch down at the airport, I feel that warm breeze and immediately know I am back where I belong.
But for a long time, I was doing it all wrong.
I used to stay in the big resorts or the busy hotel zones, thinking that was the only way to do it.
I quickly realized that if I really wanted to feel the soul of this city, I had to move closer to the heart of things.
That is when I discovered the magic of Old Town, which everyone also calls Zona Romantica.
It is the exact same place, just two different names for the most vibrant part of town.
But if you want to truly live like a local, there is one secret I always tell my friends.
You have to stay in Amapas.
Amapas is nestled right next to Zona Romantica, and in my opinion, it is the best place to rent.
It gives you the peace and quiet of a residential neighborhood while being just a five-minute walk from the action.
When you stay here, you aren't just a tourist anymore; you become part of the neighborhood.
Start Your Day at the Local Markets
One of the BEST things about living like a local is skipping the hotel breakfast buffet.
Instead, I love waking up early and walking down to Lazaro Cardenas Park.
On Saturdays, the Old Town Farmers' Market is the place to be.
The smells are just incredible: fresh baked bread, spicy salsas, and sweet tropical fruits.
I usually grab a big bag of passion fruit and some handmade tortillas to take back to my condo.
When you are looking for apartments for rent in puerto vallarta, having a kitchen is a game changer.
It lets you cook up a fresh breakfast while looking out at the ocean.
I love staying at Sueño because it feels so authentic and cozy.
Getting your groceries from the local stands instead of a big supermarket is such a simple way to connect.
You start to recognize the vendors, and they start to recognize you.
It is those little interactions that make a trip feel special.
If you want more tips on where I hang out, check out my other post on Secrets of Old Town: My Favorite Local Spots.
The Magic of the Amapas Hills
Walking the hills of Amapas is my daily workout and my favorite part of the day.
The cobblestone streets are lined with the most beautiful, colorful flowers you’ve ever seen.
Lush green jungle plants spill over the walls, and the birds are always singing.
It is so quiet up here compared to the main streets of Zona Romantica.
I often find myself just stopping to take photos of the red-tiled roofs and the blue bay.
When I stay in this area, I feel like I am in a hidden world.
There are some great puerto vallarta rentals by owner that really give you that homey feel.
I stayed at Casa CC recently and the views were just AMAZING!!
I would sit on the balcony for hours just watching the boats go by.
If you are a solo traveler, this area feels very safe and welcoming.
You see the same neighbors walking their dogs every morning.
It is easy to forget you are on vacation and start feeling like you actually live there.
Eat Where the Locals Eat
After a morning of exploring, I am always hungry.
While the beach clubs are fun, the real local food is found a few blocks back.
Basilio Badillo is known as "Restaurant Row," and it is filled with gems.
I love finding those small, family-run spots where the menu is written on a chalkboard.
The tacos are always better, and the service is so much more personal.
I am always so grateful for the kindness of the people who work in these restaurants.
They really treat you like family once you visit a couple of times.
Don't be afraid to try the street food either!
The taco stands that pop up at night are where the real magic happens.
If you see a line of locals waiting, you know it’s going to be good.
I wrote a whole guide on Finding the Perfect Zona Romantica Puerto Vallarta Rentals that helps you stay close to all these food spots.
Embrace the Art and Soul
One thing that surprised me about living in Zona Romantica was the art.
It is absolutely everywhere!
From the huge murals on the sides of buildings to the tiny galleries tucked into side streets.
I love taking "art walks" in the afternoon when the sun starts to go down.
The colors are so vibrant and they really reflect the spirit of Mexico.
Living like a local means taking the time to appreciate these details.
Instead of rushing to the next tourist attraction, I just sit on a bench and watch the world go by.
The Malecon is great for people-watching, but the side streets are where you find the real character.
You’ll see kids playing, neighbors chatting over fences, and the general rhythm of life.
It is a slow, beautiful pace that I wish I could bottle up and take home with me.
Why Amapas is the Best Choice
I keep coming back to Amapas because it offers the best of both worlds.
You get the authentic "Old Vallarta" feel without the constant noise of the bars.
It is tucked away on the hillside, so you get those incredible ocean breezes.
But you are still just a short walk away from Los Muertos Beach.
When you rent a condo here, you get space, privacy, and a real sense of place.
I LOVE waking up to the sound of the ocean and the jungle.
It is sooo peaceful and exactly what I need to recharge.
If you are looking to escape the typical tourist experience, this is the way to do it.
I have stayed in many different areas, but Amapas always wins my heart.
It is the only place where I feel like I am truly living the Vallarta lifestyle.
Everything about this neighborhood is just SOOO GOOD.
From the friendly faces to the hidden paths, it is a dream come true for any traveler.
Staying in a local rental instead of a hotel makes all the difference in the world.
You get to set your own schedule and live by your own rules.
I can't imagine staying anywhere else now.
If you want an authentic, vibrant, and unforgettable experience, staying in Amapas is highly recommended.
If you want to see more of my daily adventures and local tips, come hang out with me on Facebook!
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