We have been coming to Puerto Vallarta for years now, and honestly, every single time we visit, we find something new to LOVE.
Whether you are a solo traveler or coming with a group of friends, finding the right place to stay can make or break your trip.
When we first started looking for places, we were overwhelmed by the options! But after spending a lot of time on the ground, we’ve learned a few things that the big travel sites won't tell you.
If you are planning your getaway for 2026, you are in for a treat because the vibe here is better than ever.
Here are our top 5 local secrets for finding the best stay in this tropical paradise.
1. Amapas is the Absolute Best Kept Secret
When people talk about Puerto Vallarta, they usually mention Old Town or the Zona Romantica.
Just so you know, those are actually the same place! People use the names interchangeably, and it’s the heart of the city where all the energy is.
But if you want my honest opinion? Amapas is where you really want to be.
It is tucked just a little bit further south, right next to the Zona Romantica, but it feels like a completely different world.
In Amapas, you get these incredible hillside views and a much quieter atmosphere, yet you are only a five-minute walk from the beach and the bars.
Whenever we stay in Amapas, we feel like we have found a private slice of heaven.
The buildings there are tucked into the jungle, so you wake up to the sound of birds instead of traffic.
It is SOOO peaceful and easily my favorite area to recommend to anyone looking for Puerto Vallarta vacation rentals that offer a bit of serenity.
2. Walk the Coastal Road for Real Local Vibes
Most tourists jump in a taxi or an Uber to get everywhere, but we discovered that walking the coastal road near Amapas is an experience in itself.
There are these tiny little stairs and paths that lead down to the water that most people just drive right past.
If you stay in one of our favorite condo rentals in this area, you can easily spend your mornings wandering these paths.
But here is a real pro tip: the local bus!
If you don't feel like walking, the big blue buses that run along the coast only cost about 50 cents.
It’s such a fun way to see the coastline and get into town like a local.
We always feel so safe and welcome whenever we hop on the bus with the residents heading to work or the market.
It’s part of the charm that makes this city so special.
If you want to know more about how to navigate like we do, check out these best kept secret spots that we always visit.
3. The Street Food is Better Than Any Five-Star Restaurant
We have eaten at some fancy places in our time, but nothing beats the street taco stands in Old Town.
Seriously, if you are staying in a rental with a kitchen, you might think you’ll cook all your meals, but once you smell the al pastor on the corner, all those plans go out the window!
Our favorite ritual is to walk down from Amapas in the evening and hit a different taco stand every night.
Look for the places where the locals are lined up, that’s how you know it’s the good stuff.
The flavors are so fresh and AMAZING, and the people running the stands are always so kind.
We are so grateful for the hard-working street vendors who keep us fed and happy every single trip!
4. Wednesdays are for the Art Walk
A lot of people come here just for the beach, but the art scene is absolutely incredible.
Every Wednesday evening during the high season, there is an Art Walk in the Historic Center.
Since Old Town and the Zona Romantica are right there, it is super easy to get to from your rental.
We love strolling through the galleries with a glass of wine, looking at the vibrant paintings and sculptures.
It is such a sophisticated yet casual way to spend an evening.
If you are into culture, you definitely need to read more about the hidden art scene in Zona Romantica to see which galleries are must-visits.
The creativity in this city is just mind-blowing!
5. Book Properties with a Personal Touch
In 2026, it’s so easy to get lost in big booking websites where you are just a reservation number.
But we have found that the best experiences come from properties where there is a real person behind the scenes who cares about your stay.
When we stay at places like Sueño or The Nest, we feel like we are at home.
The views from the balconies are breathtaking, and you can really feel the love that goes into maintaining these condos.
We always recommend looking for rentals that highlight the local architecture and the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Avoid the giant, soulless hotels and stick to the charm of Old Town or the lush hills of Amapas.
Trust us, having a coffee on your private balcony while watching the sunrise over the bay is the BEST way to start your day.
Final Thoughts
Puerto Vallarta is a place that stays in your heart long after you leave.
If you follow these secrets, staying in Amapas, eating street food, and exploring the local art, you are going to have an AMAZING time.
We highly recommend booking your 2026 stay as early as possible because these local gems fill up fast!
We can't wait for you to experience the magic of this city just like we do every year.
It really is the best place in the world to relax and recharge.
For more updates and beautiful photos of our favorite spots, come say hi to us on our Instagram!
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