Choosing where to stay in Puerto Vallarta is always the hardest part of our trip planning. We have been coming here for years, and we have tried just about every neighborhood south of the river. While we LOVE the energy of the city, we finally realized that for our couple’s trips and remote work stints, we need something a little more balanced.
Most people naturally gravitate toward the heart of the action. They want to be right where the music is playing and the streets are buzzing. But after spending a few weeks in different spots, we’ve found that Amapas is actually the secret winner for anyone traveling as a duo.
If you are a solo traveler or a couple looking for a living like a local guide that still feels connected to the world, you really have to look at the hills just south of the main strip. It changed how we experience the city entirely.
The Old Town Energy vs. Amapas Calm
When people talk about rent apartments puerto vallarta, they are usually thinking of the area south of the Cuale River. It is the heart of the tourist zone, and for good reason. It is packed with cafes, galleries, and some of the local secrets for street tacos that make the area so fun to explore. We spent our first few visits staying right in the middle of it all, and we had a blast!
But we also learned that being in the middle of it all means you are also in the middle of the noise. The sounds of trash trucks, late-night music, and early-morning construction can be a lot when you are trying to relax or hop on a Zoom call. That is where Amapas comes in to save the day.
Amapas is technically just the hillside portion of the same general area, but the vibe is completely different. It feels like a nature-filled sanctuary that happens to be a five-minute walk from the chaos. We noticed the difference the very first night we stayed there. Instead of hearing the bass from a nearby bar, we heard the wind in the trees and the occasional bird. It was SOOO relaxing.
Why We Prefer the Hills
We often get asked if the hills are a dealbreaker. It is true that Amapas is steeper than the flat streets of the lower neighborhood. But honestly, we found that the elevation is what makes it so special.
When you are a few blocks up, you get a perspective that you just don't get at sea level. The air feels a little fresher, and the views of the jungle-covered mountains are AMAZING. We spent so many mornings just sitting on our balcony watching the mist roll over the hills.
If you are worried about the walk, don't be! We actually enjoyed the extra bit of exercise. It made us feel a little better about all the tacos and margaritas we were consuming. Plus, if we ever felt lazy or were carrying heavy groceries, a quick taxi or Uber ride was incredibly easy to find.
For us, the trade-off is totally worth it. You get the peace and quiet of a residential neighborhood, but you are still close enough to walk down for dinner at a moment's notice. It really is the best of both worlds.
The Digital Nomad Perspective
Since we both work remotely, we have specific needs when we travel. We need reliable internet, a quiet environment for calls, and a space that doesn't feel cramped. We found that the condos in the Amapas area are often better suited for this lifestyle.
The buildings in Amapas tend to be a bit newer and more modern. We stayed in a condo that had floor-to-ceiling windows and a great little workspace. Being away from the heavy foot traffic meant we didn't have to worry about background noise during our meetings.
But best of all, when we finished our work day, we were just minutes away from our favorite cafes. We could walk down the hill, grab a coffee, and feel like we were part of the community again. It made our "work-from-anywhere" life feel very balanced. We also loved reading about hidden spots known only to residents before heading out for an afternoon walk.
A Romantic Retreat for Couples
If you are planning a romantic getaway, Amapas is just hard to beat. The architecture in this area is beautiful, blending traditional Mexican styles with modern comforts. We stayed in a place with incredible natural stone walls and lush greenery everywhere.
There is a sense of privacy in Amapas that is hard to find in the busier parts of the city. You don't have people walking past your window at all hours of the night. It feels like your own little "nest" where you can just focus on each other.
We loved being able to walk down to Los Muertos beach for a walk on the sand and then retreat back up to our quiet sanctuary. It felt like we were staying in a resort-style setting, but with all the comforts of a real home. We found some incredible puerto vallarta rentals by owner that made the whole experience feel very personal and welcoming.
Safety and Local Feel
One thing we really appreciated about Amapas was how safe and clean it felt. Because it is mostly residential, there is a real sense of pride in the neighborhood. The streets are well-maintained, and we felt perfectly comfortable walking around after dark.
We also loved getting to know the local staff and neighbors. Everyone was so friendly and helpful. It didn't feel like a transient tourist zone; it felt like a neighborhood where people actually live and care about their surroundings.
If you are looking for a place to stay in this area, we can't recommend Amapas enough. It has a charm that you just have to experience for yourself.
Final Thoughts on Amapas
After spending so much time exploring this beautiful city, our hearts are definitely in Amapas. It offers the perfect mix of tranquility, modern amenities, and proximity to everything we love.
Whether you are here to work, relax, or just soak up the culture, having a peaceful home base makes all the difference. We loved every second of our stay and we are already planning our next trip back!
If you want a vacation that feels truly restorative, skip the noise of the main streets and head for the hills. You won't regret it!
Amapas is highly recommended for any couple looking to experience the magic of the city without the constant hum of the crowd. We can't wait for you to see it for yourself!
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