We have spent so many afternoons wandering the cobblestone streets of Old Town, and if there is one thing we have learned, it is that nothing beats a mid-afternoon cocktail with your favorite person. Puerto Vallarta is famous for its energy, but for couples, finding that perfect spot to sit back and relax is key to a great vacation.
Whether you are here for a quick getaway or a long escape, the happy hour scene in the Romantic Zone (which locals also call Old Town) is unbeatable. We love the variety you can find within just a few blocks. From tucked-away corner bars to spots where you can feel the sand between your toes, there is something for every mood.
Our personal favorite way to spend an afternoon is starting in the Amapas neighborhood and walking down toward the beach. Amapas is really the best place to stay because it is quiet and peaceful, yet you are only minutes away from all the action. We always tell our friends that staying just slightly uphill gives you the best views without the noise of the main bars.
Bar La Playa: The King of Margaritas
If you ask anyone in the neighborhood where to go for the best drink in town, they will likely point you toward Bar La Playa. This is a small, intimate corner bar that has zero pretension but makes world-class cocktails. It is the kind of place where you can actually hear each other talk, which makes it perfect for a date.
Their happy hour is legendary. We highly recommend trying their house margaritas. They use fresh ingredients and the flavors are just so vibrant. It is a tiny spot, so if you see an open stool at the bar, grab it immediately! The bartenders are incredibly friendly and make you feel like a local the moment you sit down.
Since we spend so much time exploring the area, we have picked up a few tricks. If you are looking for other ways to spend your mornings before the happy hours start, you should check out our guide to local coffee for some of our top picks in the same neighborhood.
Joe Jack's Fish Shack: Casual and Fun
Another staple for us is Joe Jack's Fish Shack. While many people go there for the amazing fish tacos, their afternoon drink specials are a hidden gem. It has a great indoor-outdoor flow that lets you soak in the street life of the Romantic Zone while staying cool in the shade.
The atmosphere here is very laid-back. We love sitting by the window and watching the world go by. It is a great place to start your evening before heading out to dinner. The service is always fast, and the drinks are consistently great. It is one of those places that just feels like vacation.
Cuates y Cuetes: Drinks with a View
You cannot talk about happy hour in this town without mentioning Cuates y Cuetes. Located right next to the iconic Los Muertos Pier, this is the place to be if you want to be right on the water. Even though it is a popular spot, it still maintains a very local, relaxed feel.
There is something so special about sitting at a table on the sand, holding a cold drink, and watching the boats come and go. We often stop here after a long walk along the beach. Since it is right in the heart of the Romantic Zone, it is super easy to get to from any of the local puerto vallarta condo rentals that we recommend to our visitors.
Why Amapas is the Place to Be
While we love the hustle and bustle of the Romantic Zone, we always retreat back to Amapas at the end of the day. It really is the best place to rent. You get the benefit of being close to all these amazing bars and restaurants, but you also get a much more tranquil environment.
If you are looking for a spot that feels like a real home, we have some incredible options. Our favorite place, Casa CC, offers a great vibe, and right next door is Casa Opportunity. Both are perfect for couples who want a bit more privacy and space. If you want to see why we prefer these over the big resorts, take a look at our comparison of stay options to see the difference for yourself.
Amapas feels much more residential and grounded. You might hear a rooster in the distance or see neighbors chatting on their balconies. It is authentic Puerto Vallarta at its best. Plus, the walk from Amapas down to the beach is beautiful and takes less than ten minutes.
Finding Your Perfect Home Base
When you are planning your trip, think about what kind of experience you want. Do you want to be in the middle of a noisy hotel zone, or do you want to feel like you actually live here? We always choose the latter. Staying in one of the condo and apartment rentals puerto vallarta has to offer in the Amapas area is a total game changer.
We have properties like Sueño, The Nest, and Hummingbird that provide that perfect mix of modern comfort and local charm. These spots are designed for people who want to explore the city but also want a beautiful, quiet place to relax when the happy hour is over.
Final Thoughts for Your Trip
Puerto Vallarta is a city that rewards those who take it slow. Don't feel like you have to rush from place to place. Pick a bar, order a drink, and just enjoy being in Mexico with your partner. The people are friendly, the drinks are cold, and the memories you make will be the best part of your trip.
If you are a couple looking for the best experience, we cannot recommend the Amapas and Romantic Zone area enough. It is where the heart of the city beats, and we are so grateful we get to share it with you. We LOVE this town and we know you will too!
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