We have been living and breathing the Puerto Vallarta life for a long time now, and if there is one thing we have learned, it is that where you choose to sleep changes everything about your trip.
For us, the choice is always simple.
We absolutely LOVE the south side of the city, especially the area that sits just above the waves.
If you are a solo traveler or a couple looking for that perfect mix of adventure and peace, you have to look at the Amapas neighborhood.
Many people think of Old Town and Zona Romantica as the main spots to be: and they are right, they are the same wonderful place!: but Amapas is like the hidden elevated secret right next door.
It is, in our humble opinion, the absolute best place to rent in the entire city.
But best of all, staying in Amapas doesn't just mean a great room; it means you are in the perfect spot to start exploring the rugged, beautiful coastline that stretches south.
The Amapas Advantage: Your Basecamp for Adventure
When we first started coming here, we stayed right in the middle of the noise.
It was fun, sure, but we quickly realized that we wanted something a little more refined.
Amapas offers exactly that.
You are literally minutes away from the best taco stands and bars in Old Town, but you are also steps away from the jungle trails.
We have found that puerto vallarta condo rentals in this area offer a level of comfort that you just can't find elsewhere.
The buildings are modern, the views of the bay are STUNNING, and the atmosphere is so much more relaxed.
If you are looking for condo and apartment rentals puerto vallarta, starting your search in Amapas is the smartest move you can make.
From your front door, you can walk down to Playa Amapas in about ten minutes.
It is a much quieter beach than the main Los Muertos stretch, making it perfect for couples who want a little privacy.
Heading South: The Boca to Las Animas Hike
One of our favorite weekend escapes is the coastal hike that starts just a short ride away from Amapas.
We usually grab a quick taxi or jump on the orange bus heading south to Boca de Tomatlán.
Boca is a tiny fishing village that feels like it hasn't changed in decades.
From there, you follow a narrow trail that hugs the coastline, winding through the jungle and popping out at hidden beaches along the way.
The first major stop is Playa Colomitos.
It is often called the smallest beach in Mexico, and it is SOOO beautiful!
The water is clear turquoise, and the sand is tucked into a tiny cove surrounded by rocks.
We highly recommend getting there early in the morning so you have the place to yourselves for a bit.
If you are feeling energetic, you can keep going all the way to Playa Las Animas.
The whole hike takes about two hours if you are moving at a steady pace, but we like to take our time and stop for a swim at every cove.
It is a moderate workout, but the views of the ocean through the palm trees are AMAZING!
After a long morning of hiking, there is nothing better than sitting at one of the beachfront restaurants in Las Animas and enjoying a fresh ceviche.
You can even take a water taxi back to the pier in Old Town, which is a great way to see the coastline from the water.
The Nomad Life in Amapas
If you are a digital nomad, Amapas is a total game-changer.
We know how hard it can be to find that balance between getting your work done and actually enjoying the place you are visiting.
In Amapas, you get the best of both worlds.
The internet in the newer buildings is generally very reliable, which is a huge plus.
We LOVE being able to knock out a few hours of work on the balcony while looking at the jungle-covered hills.
It feels so much more inspiring than working from a cramped hotel room!
When you need a break, you can wander down the hill for a coffee.
We actually have a whole list of our guide to local secrets if you need some caffeine inspiration.
Staying in a condo also gives you a full kitchen, which we find essential for longer stays.
Being able to cook your own breakfast or have a quiet dinner at home makes the experience feel so much more authentic.
If you are still debating between a resort or a local spot, you should definitely read about how to choose the right stay to see why we always go the rental route.
Romance and Privacy for Couples
For couples, Amapas is the ultimate romantic escape.
The neighborhood is quiet and residential, which means you won't be woken up by the bass from the clubs in the middle of the night.
But you are still close enough to walk down for a sunset dinner on the beach whenever you want.
We spent one of our favorite weekends just exploring the rocky paths between Playa Amapas and Playa Conchas Chinas.
The tide pools are full of life, and the rock formations make for some incredible photos.
It feels like you have discovered your own private paradise, even though the city is just a few minutes away.
The properties in this area, like Sueño or The Nest, are designed with comfort in mind.
You get high-quality finishes, beautiful tile work, and a sense of privacy that is hard to find in the busier parts of the Zona Romantica.
We are so grateful that we found this little corner of the world.
Practical Tips for Your Escape
If you are planning to do the coastal adventures, make sure you bring good shoes!
The trail from Boca to Las Animas can be a bit slippery and uneven in some spots.
We also recommend bringing plenty of water and sun protection, as the jungle can get quite humid.
Most importantly, don't rush.
Puerto Vallarta is a place that is meant to be savored.
Take the time to talk to the locals, try the street food, and just soak in the atmosphere.
Whether you are hiking through the trees or just lounging on your balcony in Amapas, you are going to fall in LOVE with this city.
We cannot wait for you to experience it for yourself!
For anyone looking for a mix of adventure and a peaceful home base, staying in Amapas is highly recommended!
It is the best way to see the real Puerto Vallarta.
If you want to see more of our daily life in the city, come find us on Facebook.
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