Mexico › Best Places to Stay in Puerto Vallarta
Updated: April 5, 2026
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The Grand Velas is one of our favorite hotels in the Puerto Vallarta area. Fantastic for families.
Best Areas to Stay in Puerto Vallarta
Stretching for miles along the Bahía de Banderas and framed by the lush Sierra Madre mountains, Puerto Vallarta (or simply ‘Vallarta’ to locals) is Mexico’s most vibrant and authentic Pacific coast destination. While many Mexican beach towns feel like purpose-built resorts, Vallarta is a real city with deep history. It first gained international fame in the 1960s during the filming of Night of the Iguana, and today I see it as a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern energy. Visitors come for the golden-sand beaches, a world-class dining scene, and the iconic Malecón (beachfront boardwalk). The city is also the undisputed LGBTQ+ capital of Mexico, with a massive social scene centered in the south.
The city is roughly divided into several distinct zones, each with a different character. Navigating is easy thanks to a constant stream of yellow taxis and Uber, though I find the central neighborhoods are best explored on foot.
El Centro (The Historic Center)
El Centro is the historic heart of Vallarta. It consists of a compact grid of narrow streets, centuries-old plazas, and the city’s most famous landmark, the Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe. This area is highly walkable and home to the main stretch of the Malecón, which is lined with sculptures, bars, and high-end art galleries. If you want to be in the middle of the traditional culture and close to the best sightseeing, I recommend staying here.
Zona Romántica (Old Town)
Located just south of El Centro across the Rio Cuale, the Zona Romántica is the city’s social engine. This is where you’ll find Playa Los Muertos, the busiest and most popular beach in town, as well as the famous pier. The neighborhood is packed with sidewalk cafes, boutique hotels, and craft breweries. It is also the center of the city’s nightlife and LGBTQ+ scene. The streets closer to the beach are bustling and tourist-friendly, while the areas further inland retain a more local, traditional feel.
Amapas and Conchas Chinas
South of the Zona Romántica, the terrain turns steep and rocky. Amapas and Conchas Chinas are upscale residential areas tucked into the hills. These neighborhoods are much quieter and offer some of the most spectacular views of the bay. You’ll find luxury villas and high-end boutique hotels here. While it feels worlds away from the noise of the city, you are still only a five-minute taxi ride from the restaurants of the Zona Romántica.
5 de Diciembre and Versalles
For a more local, bohemian vibe, I suggest 5 de Diciembre. It sits just north of El Centro and features steep, cobbled streets and authentic Mexican life. It is home to Playa Camarones, a Blue Flag-certified beach that is much less crowded than Los Muertos. Just north of here is Versalles, which as of 2026 has become the city’s top culinary hotspot. While it isn’t directly on the beach, Versalles is where I go for the best new bistros, bakeries, and independent cafes.
Zona Hotelera (Hotel Zone)
The Zona Hotelera is a wide stretch of coastline between downtown and the marina. This area is dominated by high-rise hotels and all-inclusive resorts. It is a practical choice for families or travelers who want a classic resort experience with easy beach access and modern amenities. The area also features the La Isla Shopping Village and several excellent standalone restaurants like Campomar and La Leche.
Marina Vallarta
Located near the airport, Marina Vallarta is a self-contained, upscale community built around a massive yacht basin. It is very safe, quiet, and features a flat, pedestrian-friendly boardwalk lined with shops and international restaurants. It is an excellent base for golfers, as it hosts a championship course, and for those who plan on taking multiple fishing or sailing charters.
Nuevo Nayarit (formerly Nuevo Vallarta)
About 20 minutes north of the airport, across the state line in Nayarit, is Nuevo Nayarit. This area is vastly different from downtown Vallarta; it features wide, manicured boulevards, massive luxury resort complexes, and long, flat stretches of sandy beach. It is home to the VidantaWorld theme park and multiple world-class golf courses. It is the best choice for those who want a secluded, high-end resort bubble rather than a city experience.
Best Places to Stay in Puerto Vallarta
The pool and ocean views at Hotel Mousai – a great place to stay for couples.
- Best Luxury Hotels in Puerto Vallarta
Hotel Mousai • Garza Blanca • Grand Miramar • Secrets Vallarta Bay • Westin Resort & Spa • Grand Velas- Best Boutique Hotels in Puerto Vallarta
Casa Velas • Hacienda San Angel • Casa Nicole • Luna Liquida- Best Cheap Hotels in Puerto Vallarta
Casa Anita • Hotel Posada de Roger- Best Hotels for Families in Puerto Vallarta
Grand Velas • Fiesta Americana- Best Hotels for Couples in Puerto Vallarta
Hotel Mousai • Hacienda San AngelWhere to Stay in Puerto Vallarta for…
- Best Neighborhood for First Timers: El Centro & Zona Romántica
For a first visit, stay in either El Centro or the Zona Romántica. El Centro is the historic heart of the city and highly walkable, featuring a mix of traditional cantinas, high-end art galleries, and the famous Malecón. The Zona Romántica, just south across the river, is the center of the city’s social energy with Playa Los Muertos (the most popular city beach), dense nightlife, and a high concentration of restaurants. Since these areas are connected by a pedestrian bridge at Isla Cuale, you can easily experience both on foot regardless of which side you choose.- Best Neighborhood for Families: Zona Hotelera, Marina Vallarta, & Zona Romántica
For a standard beach vacation with all-inclusive resorts and kids’ clubs, the Zona Hotelera is best. The beaches here, such as Playa de Oro, have calmer waves suitable for swimming. Marina Vallarta is a top choice for families wanting a quiet, gated environment; it is very safe and features a flat, stroller-friendly boardwalk with a weekly evening market. If traveling with teenagers, the Zona Romántica is more engaging. It provides more independence, easy access to parasailing at the beach, and the pier for boat trips to Yelapa. El Centro is the best pick for families on a budget, as the nightly free performances on the Malecón provide great entertainment without the cost.- Best Neighborhood for Couples: El Centro & Amapas
While the name implies romance, the Zona Romántica can be too loud and crowded for a quiet getaway. Instead, look at the hills of El Centro. The narrow cobblestone streets and boutique hotels tucked into the hillside offer privacy and panoramic views of Banderas Bay. For modern luxury, head to Amapas. Located on the cliffs south of the main pier, this area features high-end villas and suites with private infinity pools. It offers a secluded, exclusive atmosphere while remaining a short taxi ride from the fine dining in the Zona Romántica.- Best Neighborhood for Food & Restaurants: Zona Romántica, El Centro, & Versalles
You will find excellent food throughout the city, but the Zona Romántica has the highest density of options, ranging from the famous al pastor tacos at Pancho’s Takos to contemporary Mexican at Makal. El Centro is home to the city’s landmark fine-dining spots, most notably Café des Artistes and The Iguana at Casa Kimberly. For 2026, the essential food neighborhood is Versalles. This residential area north of downtown has become a culinary destination with trendy spots like Cha’ for brunch and El Puerco de Oro for specialized pork belly tacos.In the Zona Hotelera, visit Campomar for seafood or the high-concept La Leche. For the best street food, head to the 5 de Diciembre neighborhood for a taco crawl, specifically seeking out Pepe’s Taco and El Carboncito. Marina Vallarta offers a more polished waterfront dining experience with standouts like Tintoque and Portobello.
- Best Neighborhoods for Sightseeing & Activities: El Centro, Zona Romántica, & Marina Vallarta
El Centro is the primary hub for sightseeing. Key landmarks include the Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe (the iconic crown-topped church) and the Malecón, which is lined with unique sculptures. At the north end of the boardwalk, you can watch the Voladores de Papantla perform their traditional ritual. The Museo del Cuale on the island is excellent for a brief history of the region.The Zona Romántica is the best base for water-based activities. The Los Muertos Pier is where you catch water taxis to south-shore beaches like Yelapa or snorkeling tours to Los Arcos Marine Park. For golf and deep-sea fishing, Marina Vallarta is the best choice as most charters depart from its docks. Nuevo Vallarta (now known as Nuevo Nayarit) is worth a visit for the VidantaWorld theme park. Most zip-line and ATV tours provide pickups in the Zona Hotelera.
- Best Neighborhoods for Nightlife: Zona Romántica & El Centro
The Zona Romántica is the center of the city’s nightlife and is world-famous for its LGBTQ+ scene, with high-energy clubs clustered around Calle Lázaro Cárdenas. It is also the best spot for craft beer, specifically at Los Muertos Brewing. El Centro offers a more varied vibe, with cocktail lounges and mezcalerías like El Colibrí hidden in the side streets. For live music and a pub atmosphere, Murphy’s Irish Pub on the Malecón is a staple.Marina Vallarta offers a more relaxed evening with wine bars and sports pubs catering to a more mature crowd. If you want the massive, high-production nightclub experience with DJs and bottle service, the largest venues like Mandala are located in the Zona Hotelera.
Boat tours and water taxis to southern beaches depart from the Los Muertos pier in the Zona Romántica.
- Best Neighborhood for Shopping: El Centro & Zona Romántica
Puerto Vallarta is one of the best places in Mexico to buy Huichol (Wixárika) art, characterized by intricate beadwork and yarn paintings. In El Centro, the Wednesday night Art Walk (October through May) is the best time to visit galleries. Essential stops include Galeria Colectika for indigenous art, Galeria de Ollas for fine ceramics, and Peyote People. For Oaxacan textiles and black clay, visit Caballito de Mar.The Zona Romántica features a mix of art and fashion. Tierra Huichol has museum-quality pieces, while Mundo de Azulejos specializes in Talavera tiles. For modern Mexican apparel, check out Manyana. For affordable souvenirs and local crafts, the Mercado Municipal Río Cuale and the Isla Cuale Flea Market offer the best variety in a shaded, riverside setting.
- Best Neighborhood for a Local Vibe: 5 de Diciembre & Versalles
To get away from the tourist crowds, stay in 5 de Diciembre. It is a steep, traditional neighborhood with a bohemian feel and excellent street food. Playa Camarones here is a great local beach with Blue Flag certification. Versalles is another excellent choice for a modern local vibe. It is located just inland from the Hotel Zone and has evolved into a residential culinary hub filled with independent cafes and bakeries. It lacks a beach but offers better value and a more authentic glimpse into daily life in Vallarta.- Safest Areas of Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is consistently ranked as one of Mexico’s safest cities for tourists. Marina Vallarta and the Zona Hotelera are the most secure areas, featuring resort-style security and well-lit streets. El Centro and the Zona Romántica are also very safe for walking at night due to the high volume of people and frequent patrols by the Tourist Police. As of 2026, Puerto Vallarta remains free of travel restrictions for visitors, though you should always use authorized transportation apps like Uber or official taxi stands rather than hailing random vehicles.- Unsafe Areas of Puerto Vallarta
There are no specific “no-go” zones within the main tourist areas. However, avoid wandering into the unlit residential hills far inland from the coast late at night. The most important safety rule is to strictly avoid any involvement with illegal drugs. Nearly all serious safety incidents in Mexico are related to the narcotics trade, and avoiding this scene significantly reduces your risk profile. Stick to well-trafficked areas and use the same common sense you would in any major international city.The 20 Best Hotels in the Puerto Vallarta Area
1. Hotel Mousai – South Hotel Zone
Five Diamond, adults-only hotel with a rooftop infinity pool overlooking their 85-acre jungle preserve, Garza Blanca Beach, and the Sea of Cortez. All accommodations include outdoor, tile jacuzzis on private balconies. Ultra Suites add upgraded amenities, the hotel’s most expansive views, and unlimited access to the hydrotherapy circuit in their decadent spa. Expect impeccable service along with phenomenal dining and drinks on site or at their sister property, Garza Blanca. Guests may choose to reserve a suite only, or an all-inclusive package. Located just north of Mismaloya, near Los Arcos Park, the Botanical Gardens, and the Puerto Vallarta Zoo. Hotel phone: +52 322 176 07382. Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit – Nuevo Vallarta
Luxurious, all-suite, all-inclusive, family-friendly resort with a multi-tier infinity pool and exceptional family amenities and services. Their enormous two-bedroom, three-bathroom family suites boast a private jacuzzi terrace, a 50 minute massage per person per day, and round-trip airport transfer. Kids’ amenities for all ages include a baby concierge, kids’ pool, kids’ club with culture, nature, and craft activities, and a teen lounge with gaming consoles, a dance floor, and karaoke. A host of gourmet local and international restaurants satisfies even the pickiest eaters. The Grand Velas sits on the powdery white Nuevo Vallarta Beach, near Aquaventuras water park (with dolphins!) and in between two golf courses. Hotel phone: +52 322 226 86773. Hacienda San Angel – El Centro, Old Town
Four romantic, colonial-style villas house 20 total rooms, with a lush garden courtyard overlooking Guadalupe Church and the ocean. All rooms include dramatic Mexican and European antique décor, plus modern marble floors and French windows; Presidential and Royal suites add outdoor terrace jacuzzis. Three pools, a small chapel, and a gourmet restaurant are spread throughout the grounds, linked by ivy-covered terraces and garden paths. Its fine dining restaurant serves sumptuous Mexican and international dishes, with sweeping sea and city views, live mariachi nightly, and seasonal Sunday brunches. The restaurant is popular for celebrations, so reserve in advance, especially during the high season. The hotel sits amid winding cobblestone streets in El Centro, just steps from the Church, the Malecon, and the city’s best dining and nightlife. Hacienda San Angel is the former home of Richard Burton. Hotel phone: +52 322 222 26924. Villa La Estancia – Nuevo Vallarta
Luxury, family-friendly resort with spacious suites, a two-level pool, and exclusive beachfront location. Suites are generous, up to three bedrooms, with a full kitchen, and a washer and dryer. All rooms include a jacuzzi in the master bathroom and a private balcony. Excellent on-site restaurants and bars, plus guests have access to dining options at the sister resort next door. Though this resort is very popular with families, it remains peaceful and quiet: no loud pool parties, and the bars close early, around 10:30. Villa la Estancia sits at the north end of Nuevo Vallarta, on a long, tranquil beach; just a fifteen-minute bike ride to the pueblo magico Bucerias and about thirty-minutes’ drive to Old Town. Hotel phone: +52 800 483 00885. Casa Velas – Marina Vallarta
Luxury, adults-only boutique hotel with a free form pool, a beach club with an infinity pool, and a holistic spa featuring hydrotherapy and ingredients grown onsite in their botanical garden. A wide range of spacious suites are available, many with private jacuzzis or plunge pools. The Presidential suites is the largest and most luxurious with four bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms, free golf, and massage for all guests. Wellness suites add in room jacuzzis, private plunge pools, a massage table, and fitness amenities. Thoughtful perks include a handbag bar and complimentary beach transfer all day. Located in Marina Vallarta, surrounded by the golf course, near sailing, diving, and marine parks. Hotel phone: +52 322 226 86706. Marriott Resort & Spa – Marina Vallarta
Upscale, beachfront resort with infinity, kids’, and lap pools, plus Puerto Vallarta’s largest spa. Family amenities include a kids’ club, teen gaming area, and a sea turtle hatchery and release program (June – November). Its indulgent spa spotlights indigenous Huichol treatments, a hydrotherapy circuit, and in-pool massage. Fantastic restaurants are around every corner here, but the star is their Ceviche & Tequila Bar, offering outstanding seafood and 270 tequilas. Rooms are airy and bright, but average in size; families should opt for a larger suite or connecting rooms. This resort sits right on the Marina Beach, walking distance to the Marina Vallarta Golf Club, boat tours, and marine parks. Hotel phone: +52 322 226 00007. Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa – South Hotel Zone
Sophisticated resort in a jungle mountain preserve with two free-form infinity pools, contemporary dining, and a host of nature activities. All rooms and suites feature a private terrace with a hammock, while suite types one bedroom and up include a full kitchen, washer and dryer, and one extra bathroom per bedroom. Its top-notch kids club gets little ones up close with nature through hiking, planting trees, kayaking, and more. Succulent dining, a tranquil spa, and serene tropical view of Banderas Bay rounds out the experience. Garza Blanca sits on a sugary white sand beach with a rock wall and gentle waves just north of Mismaloya, near the Botanical Gardens, Puerto Vallarta Zoo, and Los Arcos Park. Hotel phone: +52 322 176 07188. Casa Kimberly – El Centro, Old Town
Dramatic and glamorous boutique accommodations, featuring a rooftop al fresco restaurant and bar, cozy spa, and lozenge-shaped pool. This adults-only hotel is comprised of two villas connected by a bridge; the older formerly owned by Richard Burton, and the other built by him for Elizabeth Taylor – each room is named and designed after one of Taylor’s films. Suites all feature indulgent baths and rain shower, plus lavish décor that blends Hollywood glitz with hacienda charm. Most include a private terrace with a whirlpool, plunge pool, or both. Its restaurant, The Iguana, is one of the top in the city, specializing on contemporary Mexican cuisine and a variety of tequilas. Located in El Centro, near Guadalupe Church, the city’s best restaurants and nightlife, and the Malecon. Hotel phone: +52 322 222 13369. Grand Miramar – Conchas Chinas
On the highest point overlooking Banderas Bay, the Grand Miramar offers panoramic views from its rooftop bar, plus three dazzling pools, a pool-sized jacuzzi, and contemporary suites. All suites include a private terrace and a kitchenette with a stovetop. Two- to four-bedroom residences include full kitchen and dining room; many have private terrace whirlpools. The resort offers five great restaurants, but the stars are Casianos, with its three- to five-course surprise dinner menu, and the Gin Joint, especially popular for sunset cocktails and tapas. From its privileged location in Conchas Chinas, the resort is walking distance to two swimmable beaches and near the nightlife and dining in Zona Romantica. Hotel phone: +52 322 221 512010. Velas Vallarta Suite Resort – Marina Vallarta
This family-friendly, all-inclusive, all-suite luxury beachfront resort showcases two free-form pools connected by a lazy river. Spacious, ocean view accommodations with up to three bedrooms, each with a full kitchen, including a stovetop and dishwasher. Its kids’ club offers a third pool, plus activities such as sandcastles, painting, and Summer Camp with beach bonfires. There’s an organic spa, and superb food and drinks on-site, and golf just next door. Velas Vallarta is located on Marina Vallarta Beach, walking distance to boating and marine attractions. Hotel phone: +52 322 226 867311. Villa Premiere Boutique Hotel – El Centro, Old Town
Four-diamond, adults-only, boutique resort, with luxurious rooms and two beachfront pools. Spacious, ocean view rooms and suites are all inclusive of personal butler service; most feature a private indoor or outdoor whirlpool. Sumptuous dining onsite offers the best in Mexican cuisine, whether traditional or contemporary, plus 24 hour room service. Thoughtful amenities include a poolside “Draw Your Moment” art station, in-room pillow and aromatherapy menus, and loaner bikes and kayaks. Their indulgent spa offers hydrotherapy and an oxygen bar. Villa Premiers is well-located on Camarones Beach in El Centro, just a five minute walk to the city’s best restaurants, the Malecon, and Guadalupe Church. Hotel phone: +52 322 226 704012. Pinnacle Resorts 180 – Zona Romantica, Old Town
Family-friendly, stylish condo boutique with ocean views and private balconies. Each suite is uniquely designed, but all are one- or two-bedrooms with full kitchens, washer-dryer units, and private balconies; many have outdoor jacuzzis. Top-tier condos include private plunge pools, plus upgraded features such as wraparound balconies. The cozy infinity pool has swim up access to the main bar with a popular happy hour. These chic condos are located in Zona Romantica, in the heart of Puerto Vallarta’s dining and nightlife district, just five minutes’ walk to Los Muertos Beach and Pier. Hotel phone: +52 322 222 355613. Secrets Vallarta Bay – North Hotel Zone
Romantic, adults-only, all-inclusive resort on Camarones Beach, with gorgeous pools, a full-service spa, upscale dining, and a champagne bar. Suites are intimate yet spacious, many with private terrace jacuzzis or swim up options; Presidential suite adds a private plunge pool and whirlpool bath. Its holistic spa emphasizes indigenous treatments with hydrotherapy pools. Fine dining and casual restaurants offer an array of indulgent flavors, from local Mexican recipes, to Pan-Asian and Mediterranean bites. Guests at Secrets also have full access to the nightclub, casino, and restaurants at Dreams, its sister property next door. The resort sits just south of the North Hotel Zone on a golden sand beach, about thirty minutes walking to the Malecon and all of Puerto Vallarta’s nightlife. Hotel phone: (866) 467-327314. Marival Distinct Luxury Residences – Nuevo Vallarta
All-inclusive, all-suite resort with outstanding services and amenities for families, plus a pool and beach club. Suites are one- to four-bedrooms, with a full kitchen and in room laundry; swim up suites and villas with full sized private pools are also available. Family amenities included in the rate are the kids’ club, free nanny service, and one free tour (options include sea lions, zip lining, pub tours, and more). Add on a “Family Emotions” package for a second tour, customized family picnic, exclusive concierge, and upgraded amenities. There are several restaurants and bars onsite, serving drinks as late as 2 a.m., plus more dining just a three minute shuttle away at their beach club. This secluded hotel is north of Puerto Vallarta in the exclusive Nuevo Vallarta complex, near golf, dining, and a small marina. Hotel phone: +52 322 226 974015. Fiesta Americana – North Hotel Zone
All-inclusive resort with a tropical vibe on a sandy, swimmable beach. The resort offers two pools (one main pool and one adults-only), ten bars and restaurants, excellent family amenities, and club level upgrades for added luxury amenities, top floor rooms, and a private lounge. Family rooms are generously sized, sleeping up to six, with a large private terrace. Presidential suites are the largest and have a separate bedroom and private terrace with a whirlpool. Fantastic little kids club with a playground, plus beach and pool activities; the teen club offers video games and foosball tables. A wide range of restaurants suiting all tastes, with Mexican, pan-Asian, and Italian options, plus great cocktails and 24 hour room service. Located in the North Hotel Zone, walking distance to La Isla Mall and the Marina. Hotel phone: +52 322 226 210016. Hard Rock Hotel – Nuevo Vallarta
Family-friendly hotel with a party vibe. The Hard Rock showcases two pools, fun bars and restaurants, plus their signature music-themed activities and amenities. All rooms come equipped with a two-person jacuzzi bath and a private balcony. Spacious family suites are all two-bedrooms, though larger suites up to three bedrooms are also available. Entertainment for all includes a kids club with a pool, waterslides, and games; an all-ages club with billiards, arcade games, and music; nightly theater, and a decadent spa. Great food and phenomenal cocktails with syrups made onsite from local fruits, plus a nightclub on weekends until 3 a.m. Sound of Your Stay package includes loaner guitars, mixing stations, turntables, and records. Located in Nuevo Vallarta on a shallow, swimmable beach, perfect for boogie boarding. Hotel phone: +52 322 226 847017. Westin Resort & Spa – Marina Vallarta
Exceptional family resort with two free-form pools, a full service spa, and an array of spacious accommodations. Rooms and suites begin at 54 square meters, all with balconies and free-standing bathtubs, and many with jacuzzis or plunge pools. This wellness-focused resort features a full service spa with hydrotherapy, an active kids club with beach and pool games, and tennis and basketball courts. Its long stretch of beach is nearly private, boasting a beach club with attentive service. Great dining onsite features seasonal ingredients, with Mexican and international menus. Located on the southern tip of Marina Vallarta, walking distance to the golf club, Vallarta Adventures, and a mall. Hotel phone: +52 322 226 110018. Dreams Vallarta Bay Resort & Spa – North Hotel Zone
Family-friendly, all-inclusive resort boasting three refreshing pools (one just for kids), kids’ and teens’ clubs, a nightclub, and a casino. Suites all include a freestanding bath and private balcony, some with swim up access or private terrace jacuzzis. Kids as young as three can enjoy activities at the kids club, while teens have their own space for tabletop and video games. Family entertainment includes breakdancing, fire-breathing, and karaoke, while adults can enjoy the brand new casino and nightclub until 1 a.m. Nine bars and restaurants range from casual to fine dining, with food available 24 hours at Coco Café or through room service. Adult guests have access to the spa next door at Secrets Vallarta Bay. Located just south of the North Hotel Zone on Camarones Beach, twenty minutes walking distance to La Isla Mall and thirty to the Malecon. Hotel phone: +52 322 226 290019. Pinnacle Resorts 220 – Zona Romantica, Old Town
Family-friendly, elegant condo boutique with a rooftop infinity pool and well-appointed suites. Each condo is individually owned, so the décor differs, but all have full kitchens, washer-dryer units, and private balconies, some with whirlpools. Spacious one- to three-bedrooms units all offer striking views of the jungle-covered mountains or of Puerto Vallarta’s red tiled roofs and the Sea of Cortez. Its rooftop Sky Bar offers outstanding sunset views and cocktails. Pre-arrival shopping service can be arranged to stock the fridge with personalized foods and drinks. Ideally located in Zona Romantica, the nightlife and dining hub of the city, and walking distance to Los Muertos Beach and the Malecon. Hotel phone: +52 322 222 355620. Vallarta Shores Beach Hotel – Zona Romantica, Old Town
This boutique condo hotel offers large suites (up to four bedrooms), lots of great indoor/outdoor spaces, and an excellent beachfront location. Well-equipped kitchens are featured in all suites, with a private chef included in the rate for larger, three- to four-bedroom suites. Each suite is a little different, but most include one extra bathroom per bedroom, with Sky Suites and Penthouses adding whirlpool baths and private plunge pools. There is a common area with a larger pool, plus a full kitchen, dining room, and living room for all guests to share. Perfectly situated in the nightlife hub of Zona Romantica on Los Muertos Beach with a view of the original “Boy on the Seahorse” statue (the one on the Malecon nearby is a replica). Hotel phone: +52 322 222 3838The Best Areas in Puerto Vallarta for Tourists
1. El Centro
Stretching from the Rio Cuale in the south to the northern end of the palm-lined malecón, El Centro is Vallarta’s historic heart. This busy, walkable neighborhood is packed with excellent restaurants, art galleries, and the landmark Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe. As you move inland, the streets become steeper and more lush, hiding some of the city’s most romantic boutique hotels and high-end dining spots.
The malecón is the center of the action, featuring sand sculptures, street performers, and a rotating collection of contemporary art. At the north end, you can watch the Voladores de Papantla perform their traditional ritual. For high-quality Mexican arts and crafts, El Centro is unbeatable; I recommend visiting during the Wednesday night Art Walk (October through May) to meet local gallery owners. For more affordable souvenirs, head to the Mercado Municipal at the river’s edge. While the waterfront can be loud at night due to several open-air bars, the streets further up the hill are quieter and offer spectacular views of the sunset over the bay.
- Best Hotels: Hacienda San Angel • Luna Liquida • Hotel Rio Malecon • Suite Plaza del Rio
2. Zona Romántica
Bounded by the Rio Cuale to the north and the cliffs of Amapas to the south, the Zona Romántica (also called “Old Town”) is the most popular neighborhood in Vallarta. It perfectly balances historic charm with a high-energy social scene. The western blocks near the beach are home to the city’s best-known beach clubs and boutiques, while the area east of Calle Insurgentes maintains a more traditional Mexican feel with local markets and authentic taco stands.
The neighborhood’s center main attraction is Playa Los Muertos, the most active beach in the city. The iconic, sail-shaped Los Muertos Pier is not just a landmark; it’s the primary hub for boarding water taxis (pangas) to southern gems like Yelapa, Las Ánimas, and Quimixto. At night, the pier lights up in shifting colors, providing a dramatic backdrop for the many beachfront restaurants. For shopping and dining, Calle Basilio Badillo and Calle Olas Altas are the two main arteries, lined with everything from upscale art galleries to sidewalk cafes. On Saturday mornings from November through April, Lázaro Cárdenas Park hosts the popular Olas Altas Farmers Market, a must-visit for local food and handmade crafts.
- Best Hotels: Pinnacle Resorts 180 • Pinnacle Resorts 220 • Playa Los Arcos • Hotel Mercurio • Casa Isabel • Casa Cupula LGBT Boutique Hotel
3. Amapas & Conchas Chinas
Garza Blanca, just south of Puerto Vallarta.
Just south of the Zona Romántica, the shoreline rises into jungle-covered cliffs. This is the quietest and most affluent part of the city. Amapas sits closest to the action, offering a mix of luxury hillside villas and beachfront condos. It is an easy, though very steep, walk or a short taxi ride into the heart of Old Town. If you want a secluded feel while remaining near the city’s best restaurants, stay here.
Farther south is Conchas Chinas, often called the “Beverly Hills of Puerto Vallarta.” This is an exclusive residential neighborhood where the accommodations are primarily high-end villas and a few luxury boutique hotels. The beaches here are smaller, rockier, and much more private than those in town. It remains the top choice for travelers seeking quiet and the most impressive views of Banderas Bay. Continuing south along the highway leads you to the South Zone, home to large-scale luxury resorts like Hotel Mousai and Garza Blanca, as well as Playa Mismaloya – the famous filming location for The Night of the Iguana.
- Best Hotels: Garza Blanca • Hotel Mousai • Almar Resort (LGBT) • Grand Miramar • Hyatt Ziva
4. 5 De Diciembre
A compact grid of streets hemmed in between the Playa Camarones and the mountains, the neighborhood of 5 de Diciembre sits conveniently between El Centro and the Hotel Zone. This up-and-coming area has a bohemian vibe and showcases Vallarta’s traditional architecture, with narrow cobbled streets and brightly painted one and two-story houses. The hillier parts of the neighborhood offer some of the most spectacular sunset views of the coast.
It is quieter and far less “touristy” than the historic center, yet easily walkable to the malecón and the attractions of downtown. The local beach, Playa Camarones, holds Blue Flag certification, making it one of the cleanest and safest swimming spots in the bay. For foodies, this neighborhood is legendary for its authentic street food; some of the city’s most famous taco stands, including Pepe’s Tacos and El Carboncito, are located here. Accommodations in this area range from midrange beachfront hotels to boutique guesthouses and high-value apartment rentals.
- Best Hotels: Villa Premiere Boutique Hotel • Buenaventura Grand • Hotel El Pescador
5. Zona Hotelera
The Zona Hotelera (Hotel Zone) stretches along the coast between 5 de Diciembre and the Marina. This is where you will find the city’s high-rise hotels, large all-inclusive resorts, and modern shopping centers. The neighborhood was designed to handle the bulk of Vallarta’s tourism, leaving the historic downtown architecture intact. The beaches here, such as Playa de Oro, are wide, golden-sand stretches that are frequently awarded Blue Flag status for cleanliness and safety.
While many visitors stay on-property for meals, the area is home to La Isla Shopping Village, an open-air mall with international brands, a cinema, and several good restaurants. For high-end dining, the neighborhood features Campomar and the visually striking La Leche. The Hotel Zone is very well-connected; it is a quick 10-minute bus or Uber ride south to the historic center or north to the Marina. It’s an ideal base for travelers who want easy beach access and resort amenities without being fully isolated from the city.
6. Nuevo Vallarta & Marina Vallarta
At the north end of the city near the international airport, Marina Vallarta is one of the most upscale neighborhoods. It is built around a large yacht marina and features a high-end 18-hole golf course, the city’s cruise ship terminal, and a long boardwalk lined with international restaurants and boutiques. It is a self-contained, very safe area that is well-connected to the rest of the city by public transport and taxis.
Farther north, across the state line into Nayarit, is Nuevo Vallarta (now officially renamed Nuevo Nayarit). This area is home to some of the widest, flattest beaches in the bay, making it ideal for long walks and family swimming. The biggest draw here is VidantaWorld, a massive new theme park and entertainment complex. The neighborhood also features luxury condos, world-class golf courses, and a clean marina where you can frequently spot pelicans and herons. The downside is the distance; Nuevo Nayarit is far from the historic charm and cultural attractions of downtown Vallarta. While you can use Uber or local buses, I recommend having a rental car if you plan to explore beyond the resort gates.
- Best Hotels: Grand Velas • Casa Velas • Paradise Village • Mayan Palace at Vidanta • Occidental Nuevo Vallarta
