We have spent so much time exploring every corner of Puerto Vallarta, but after years of visiting and living here, we have realized something very important. When you are traveling as a couple and you want that perfect mix of romance, quiet nights, and easy access to the best food in town, there is one neighborhood that stands above the rest. Amapas is our absolute favorite place to stay, and we are so excited to tell you why!
If you are looking for a getaway where you can actually hear the birds chirping in the morning instead of bass thumping from a nearby club, you have to look at Amapas. It is nestled just above the vibrant energy of Old Town, which most people also call the Zona Romantica. While those two names refer to the same amazing area, staying right in the middle of them can sometimes be a bit much if you value your sleep. That is where Amapas comes in to save the day.
The Best of Both Worlds
My partner and I always say that Amapas offers the "best of both worlds." We LOVE being able to walk down a few blocks and be right in the heart of the action. But best of all, we love being able to leave that action behind when we are ready to relax.
In Amapas, the atmosphere changes the moment you start heading up the hill. The air feels a little fresher because of the surrounding jungle, and the noise of the city just seems to melt away. It is remarkably peaceful. We have found that this neighborhood is the best place to rent if you want a more residential, authentic feel without being miles away from the beach.
Why Peace Matters for Couples
When we go on vacation, we want to connect and unwind. It is hard to do that when you are staying in a crowded hotel or a condo right above a busy bar. In Amapas, the nights are quiet. You might hear a local dog or a rooster in the distance: which we think is sooo charming and authentic: but you won't be kept awake by late-night party crowds.
This peace is why we always suggest Amapas for couples. It feels like your own private retreat. We have spent so many mornings just sitting on a balcony with our coffee, looking out at the green mountains and the sparkling blue bay. It is the kind of quiet that actually helps you recharge.
Proximity is Key
Even though it feels like a secluded jungle escape, you are only about four or five blocks away from Los Muertos Beach and the endless restaurants of the Zona Romantica. We usually walk down the hill in the afternoon to grab some lunch or head to our favorite local taco spots to satisfy our cravings.
The walk down is easy and scenic, filled with colorful buildings and lush plants. Coming back up is a bit of a workout because the hills are steep, but it is a great way to burn off those extra margaritas! If we are feeling tired or carrying groceries, we just hop in a quick taxi or Uber. It is very affordable and only takes a couple of minutes to get back to our door.
Staying at Casa CC
One of the places we absolutely adore in this neighborhood is Casa CC. It is such a special spot because it was built by local Mexicans and has a very warm, welcoming vibe. It is a spacious one-bedroom condo that feels much bigger than it is because of the massive, tall glass windows.
We LOVE the king-size bed here. It is so incredibly comfortable that we sometimes find it hard to get out of bed in the morning! The kitchen is fully stocked too, so we often make breakfast and eat it while looking at the panoramic view of the bay. If you are looking for puerto vallarta condo rentals that give you a true taste of local life, this is the one. It is tucked into the upper part of Amapas, making it extra quiet and private.
The Magic of Casa Opportunity
Right in the same building, we also have Casa Opportunity. This place has a completely different but equally amazing feel. The first thing you notice when you walk in is the stunning mural by Jose Baldi. He is a very famous artist here in Mexico, and having his work right on the wall makes the whole condo feel like a piece of art.
But best of all? The bathroom has two shower heads! It sounds like a small detail, but for a couple on vacation, it is such a nice touch. Just like Casa CC, it has a king bed and those incredible views that make Amapas so famous. If you are searching for condo and apartment rentals puerto vallarta, you really can't beat the personality and comfort of this unit.
A Note on Accessibility and Safety
We want to be very clear so you can plan the best trip possible. Amapas is a hillside neighborhood with lots of character, which means there are stairs and steep roads. Our units in particular are not suitable for those with mobility difficulties because of the steps required to access them.
However, for most couples, this is just part of the adventure. We also feel incredibly safe here. The neighborhood is very friendly, and we have never felt anything but welcome. If you want more details on why we feel so secure here, you should definitely check out our safety guide for your trip to get the full scoop on why PV is such a great choice.
Living Like a Local
The thing we appreciate most about Amapas is that it doesn't feel like a tourist trap. When you stay here, you are living among locals and long-term residents. You see people walking their dogs, neighbors greeting each other, and the daily rhythm of a real Mexican neighborhood.
We find that this authenticity makes our vacations so much more meaningful. Instead of being stuck in a generic resort, we are part of the community for a week or two. We get to experience the real Puerto Vallarta, complete with the beautiful sounds of nature and the friendly faces of our neighbors.
Our Top Tips for Your Amapas Stay
To make sure you have the BEST time in Amapas, we have a few simple recommendations:
- Wear comfortable shoes: The cobblestones and hills are beautiful but can be tricky in flip-flops.
- Use the taxis: Don't be afraid to take a cab back up the hill at night. It's easy and saves your legs for more dancing!
- Stock up on snacks: While town is close, having some cold drinks and snacks in your full kitchen is amazing for those quiet nights on the balcony.
- Enjoy the view: Make sure to spend at least one afternoon just sitting and watching the boats in the bay. It is incredibly meditative.
Why We Highly Recommend Amapas
If you are planning a trip with your partner and you want a place that feels romantic, quiet, and uniquely Mexican, Amapas is the answer. We have stayed in many different parts of town, but we always find ourselves coming back here. The combination of being so close to the restaurants and beaches of Old Town while having a peaceful jungle retreat to return to is simply unbeatable.
We are so proud of our condos in this neighborhood and we truly believe they offer the best experience for anyone looking to see the real Puerto Vallarta. Whether you choose the artistic flair of Opportunity or the natural charm of Casa CC, you are going to have an AMAZING time.
Amapas is highly recommended for anyone who wants to skip the noise of the city center but keep the convenience of being just a short walk away from everything that makes Puerto Vallarta special. We can't wait for you to experience it for yourself!
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