This useful information takes a better have a look at the place to remain in Puerto Vallarta. When you’re dreaming of stress-free on the seashore, indulging in mouth-watering delicacies, and sipping cocktails whereas watching the sundown, then possibly it’s time to plan a visit to Mexico. PV is the proper vacation spot for the entire above.
Finest Areas to Keep in Puerto Vallarta
Let’s get all the way down to enterprise and work out the place to remain in Puerto Vallarta. Right here’s a fast have a look at the perfect areas in PV for a number of completely different classes:
Are you in search of a secluded all-inclusive resort with a personal seashore? Would you like to be within the heart of the bustling nightlife? Or possibly you’d prefer to expertise a extra native facet of PV? These are vital issues to think about when in search of locations to remain in Puerto Vallarta.
The town extends from the airport south via El Centro and Previous City/Romantic Zone all the way down to Conchas Chinas. With the ocean to the entrance and the Sierra Madre mountains to the again, lots of the finest neighborhoods in Puerto Vallarta are on the hillside.
Despite the fact that it’s not a really huge metropolis, you’ll need to take into account the perfect Puerto Vallarta neighborhoods for you. I’ve spent a number of years dwelling in Puerto Vallarta as a digital nomad and have stayed in many various elements of the town. That is considered one of my favourite locations to go to in Mexico, so I’m excited to share some suggestions with you and enable you to plan the proper journey.
1. El Centro: Finest Place to Keep in Puerto Vallarta for Your First Time
If it’s your first time in PV, I extremely counsel skipping the all-inclusive resort and staying in El Centro. I get the enchantment of the AI keep, however save that for a return go to. Belief me – you’ll be again…
El Centro is the proper place to base your self for a primary go to to the town. To begin with, it’s the central a part of city (therefore the identify). That is the place you’ll discover the Cathedral of our Girl of Guadalupe, which is the image of Puerto Vallarta.
This neighborhood can be the place many of the well-known Malecon is positioned. As the middle of city, this can be a busy business space as properly with loads of choices for procuring and eating. Click on right here to search out El Centro on the map.
Execs of Staying in El Centro
- Most central location in PV
- Good spot to absorb native tradition
- Shut proximity to among the main sights
- Among the finest eating places on the town
- Fairly good nightlife scene
- Very straightforward to get round on foot, by bus, or taxi
Cons of Staying in El Centro
- Busy streets with fixed visitors
- Will be noisy relying on the placement
- Might need to rise up and down a steep hill
- Tight dwelling quarters
- Barely restricted choice for lodging and nightlife
Finest Locations to Keep in El Centro
El Centro may be very a lot a neighborhood ‘hood, so it’s not stuffed with accommodations and all-inclusive resorts. That being mentioned, there are many nice locations to put your head right here.
1. Resort Porto Allegro: This central resort presents nice bang to your buck. There’s a free breakfast and a pleasant terrace with a plunge pool and views of the cathedral. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Casa Kimberly: How would you want to remain within the former house of a few film stars? That’s what you’ll get at this well-known PV resort which additionally has among the best eating places within the metropolis. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Blaze Resort & Suites: The situation of this resort is difficult to beat. You’re simply two blocks from the Malecon however distant sufficient to not hear the noise from the nightclubs. Click on right here for particulars.
Prime Issues To Do in El Centro
There’s a lot to do in El Centro inside strolling distance of your lodging. Many of the high issues to do within the metropolis are positioned on this space. That’s what makes it one of many high locations to remain in Puerto Vallarta for anybody.
1. Stroll the Malecon: Strolling alongside PV’s oceanfront promenade is excessive on each customer’s to-do listing, and for good motive. It’s stuffed with gorgeous sculptures and the people-watching is at all times nice. For a extra adventurous expertise, you possibly can soar on an electrical bike for a tour of El Centro that additionally takes you into the mountains. Click on right here to be taught extra and guide.
2. Hike to the Cross: For among the best views on the town, hike up the hill to the cross (click on right here for instructions). This isn’t a lot a “hike” as it’s a stroll up a steep sidewalk after which some stairs. I’ve made it from the Malecon to the highest in 10-12 minutes strolling at a brisk tempo. You would possibly get a bit sweaty however it’s price it for the view!
3. See the Cathedral and Principal Sq.: The crown jewel of PV is indubitably the Cathedral of Our Girl of Guadalupe. It’s a surprising church with an intricate cupola. One nice solution to discover all that El Centro has to supply is by taking a metropolis tour. Along with the primary sights, it additionally options espresso and tequila tastings. Click on right here to be taught extra.
The place to Eat and Drink in El Centro
El Centro is house to among the very best eating places within the metropolis. Listed here are three that you just’ll undoubtedly need to add to your listing:
1. La Cappella: Whereas I absolutely advocate for consuming the entire native meals (together with avenue tacos), this Italian restaurant is among the finest locations to eat in PV. It has a terrace with the proper view of the church and its cupola, which is the place it will get its identify. When you fancy a sundown dinner right here, you’d higher guide upfront. Click on right here for instructions.
2. The Iguana: As soon as upon a time, film stars Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor fell in love with one another and the town whereas on set in Puerto Vallarta. Their former house is now a resort referred to as Casa Kimberly, which is house to this unbelievable restaurant.
My spouse and I’ve been to loads of good eating places in PV and this one is well within the high three. The menu modifications with the seasons and it’s at all times a fantastic eating expertise. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Cafe des Artistes: Finishing the trio of El Centro eating places is that this absolute gem of a spot. Your complete restaurant is a murals, from the mural that adorns the entrance to the elegant dishes that arrive at your desk.
They’ve a number of completely different areas within the restaurant and the menu is at all times altering. That is one other place you’ll need to reserve upfront to keep away from disappointment. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Previous City: Finest Space in Puerto Vallarta for Nightlife
When you’ve come to PV to social gathering (as many do), you’ll need to keep within the space generally known as Previous City or the Romantic Zone (Zona Romantica in Spanish). That is the place to be after the solar goes down.
After an enormous night time out in town, you’ll need to chill out on la playa. You’ll be in simply the fitting place, as this neighborhood is the house of Los Muertos Seashore – a focus for any customer to Puerto Vallarta.
As well as, there are tons of cafes, spas, eating places, outlets, bars, and nightclubs right here. You’ll by no means run out of choices for the place to buy, eat, chill out, or drink within the Romantic Zone. That is undoubtedly the perfect space to remain in Puerto Vallarta for these seeking to have an excellent time. I’ve spent many an evening on this space! Click on right here to search out this neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta on the map.
Execs of Staying in Previous City
- Easy accessibility to Los Muertos Seashore
- Nice culinary scene, from avenue meals to high-end eating places
- Epic nightlife
- Heart of the LGBTQ scene, AKA the “Gayborhood”
- Handy transportation choices
- Quick journey to seashores south of PV
Cons of Staying in Previous City
- Will be loud… like, actually, actually loud
- Very crowded throughout excessive season, weekends, and holidays
- Extra security considerations than in different areas
- May really feel like a “strolling ATM”
Finest Locations to Keep in Previous City (Zona Romantica)
There’s no scarcity of lodging choices in Previous City and there’s one thing for each funds and magnificence. Listed here are just a few of the perfect selections:
1. Tropicana: If you wish to be proper on Los Muertos Seashore, that is the place for you. Additionally they have an enormous pool overlooking the seashore in order that’s an enormous plus. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Joint Boutique Resort: It is a nice resort alternative for digital nomads because it’s house to one of many finest coworking areas in PV. While you’re able to chill out, you possibly can soak within the sizzling tub or guide a therapeutic massage. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Casa Nicole: Company rave concerning the wonderful breakfast spot at this resort. Additionally they have a fitness center so you possibly can work it off later within the day! Click on right here for particulars.
Prime Issues To Do in Previous City (Zona Romantica)
Whereas Previous City is the perfect place to remain in Puerto Vallarta for nightlife, there’s extra to this neighborhood than simply partying.
1. Los Muertos Seashore: Days in Previous City are finest spent on the seashore. The way you select to spend it’s as much as you… There’s at all times the nice old school solar lounger & umbrella combo, which often results in fish tacos and margaritas in my expertise.
2. Social gathering it Up: As I discussed, Previous City is the place to be in the event you’re seeking to partake within the nightlife. You will discover it right here whether or not you’re in search of a cultured rooftop bar or a dingy dive, a cocktail lounge or a craft brewery, a rowdy nightclub, or quiet cocktails.
3. Boat Journey: When you’re staying proper by the pier, you would possibly as properly add a ship journey to your PV itinerary. There are a number of choices for excursions at sea comparable to this superior journey to Yelapa to hike to a waterfall together with some snorkeling in Majahuitas.
The place to Eat and Drink in Previous City (Zona Romantica)
Previous City has tons of of bars, eating places, and golf equipment. You may keep right here for a number of weeks and check out one thing new for each meal and each Completely satisfied Hour.
1. La Palapa: There’s nothing like having a candle-lit dinner on the seashore and that’s what you’ll get right here. This is among the finest eating places on the town. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Tuna Azul: When you’re in search of some tasty seafood in PV, I extremely suggest this place. The crab tacos are nice, as are the tuna sashimi tostadas. Click on right here for instructions.
3. El Soñador: That is considered one of my favourite bars on the planet. When you’re not into capturing pool downstairs, go to the terrace the place the social gathering’s raging most nights. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Versalles: Coolest Place to Keep in Puerto Vallarta
That is undoubtedly among the best neighborhoods in Puerto Vallarta. It’s turn into considerably of a foodie haven in recent times.
Each time I am going again to Puerto Vallarta, I do know there will likely be a number of new eating places to strive in Versalles. Along with loads of native fare, there’s additionally Greek, Japanese, and even Nashville sizzling rooster.
Staying in Versalles, you’ll doubtless meet a number of digital nomads in addition to full-time residents. It’s an awesome spot to be if you wish to expertise extra of a neighborhood vibe than you’ll discover in Previous City. Click on right here to search out Versalles on the map.
Execs of Staying in Versalles
- Superb culinary scene
- Extra native than touristy
- Easy accessibility to downtown and the airport
- Seashore inside strolling distance
Cons of Staying in Versalles
- Numerous building within the space
- Not many accommodations to select from
- Nightlife choices are restricted
- Will be an costly/lengthy cab journey after an evening out
Finest Locations to Keep in Versalles
As I discussed, there aren’t a ton of lodging choices right here. Many locations are simply flats which might be rented out short-term, however listed below are some good selections:
1. Secrets and techniques Vallarta: This all-inclusive resort is for adults solely. So in the event you’re in search of a soothing seashore trip, look no additional. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Zenharmony Suites: When you’re in search of a bit extra space than a resort room and need to really feel what it’s prefer to dwell in PV, this is a superb alternative. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Resort Suites Mar Elena: This resort on the beachside of the freeway has some strong critiques. They’ve numerous choices together with one-bedroom flats and cheap charges. Click on right here for particulars.
Prime Issues To Do in Versalles
This is among the finest areas to remain in Puerto Vallarta to simply take it straightforward, take pleasure in some good meals, and chill out on the seashore.
1. Take a Meals Tour: When on this foodie neighborhood, you’ll need to strive as many locations as attainable. That’s why it’s price it to go along with a educated native information.
2. Chill on the Seashore: Playa Las Glorias is the native seashore in Versalles. This seashore is extra laid-back than Los Muertos and there aren’t many companies right here, so it’s a great spot to carry an OXXO picnic and some drinks. Click on right here for instructions.
3. See Stay Music: There are just a few good spots to catch some dwell tunes in Versalles, together with Whiskey Kitchen. Click right here for instructions.
The place to Eat and Drink in Versalles
For a small neighborhood, Versalles actually packs a punch with locations to eat and drink. Listed here are only a few of my faves:
1. El Puerco de Oro: These pork stomach tacos are life-changing. That’s all it’s worthwhile to know! Click on right here for instructions.
2. LAMARA: Among the finest ceviche and aguachile in PV is on the menu right here. Order just a few completely different plates and go household type for positive. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Mykonos: When you want a break from Mexican meals, this Greek restaurant actually hits the spot. Click on right here for instructions.
4. Resort Zone: Finest for Households
For these touring with youngsters, the Resort Zone is an effective alternative. Of all of the Puerto Vallarta neighborhoods, that is the perfect guess for households.
Because the identify suggests, this space is stuffed with accommodations. Most of them have facilities like swimming pools and playgrounds, and a few even have daycare choices.
Many of those accommodations are all-inclusive and have loads of kid-friendly meals selections on the menus together with virgin cocktails and the like. For the adults, there are many basic Mexican foods and drinks choices. Click on right here to search out it on the map.
Execs of Staying within the Resort Zone
- Numerous lodging selections
- Child-friendly and adults-only choices
- Easy accessibility to the airport
- An extended stretch of seashore
Cons of Staying within the Resort Zone
- Not many eating places or bars exterior of the resorts
- Overpriced touristy outlets
- Not a lot of a neighborhood expertise
- Will be costly
Finest Locations to Keep within the Resort Zone
You gained’t be shocked to search out out that there are many accommodations on this secure neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta. Listed here are just a few of the perfect choices:
1. Resort Mio: This adults-only resort has an awesome rooftop pool with ocean views. It’s additionally conveniently positioned proper on the primary highway. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Fiesta Americana: This highly-rated all-inclusive resort has one thing for everybody, whether or not you’re touring with youngsters or not. Click right here for particulars.
3. Krystal Grand: Often known as the Hacienda at Hilton, this all-inclusive resort is true on the seashore. Click on right here for particulars.
Prime Issues To Do within the Resort Zone
For a lot of guests to the Resort Zone, a trip right here is all about some good old school R&R. It’s a type of posh areas of Puerto Vallarta the place you simply need to sip a margarita on the seashore. There are nonetheless some adventures available, although.
1. Rhythms of the Night time: This is among the top-rated excursions in PV and for good motive. It’s an excellent enjoyable night with a sundown cruise, open bar, scrumptious dinner, and a tremendous present on a secluded seashore.
2. Hop On Hop Off Metropolis Bus: When you’re staying within the Resort Zone, an effective way to spend a day is by taking this bus with an audio tour up and down the coast.
3. San Pancho and Sayulita: Whereas PV is nice, there’s rather more to discover in Banderas Bay. The cities of Sayulita and San Pancho to the north are properly price a day journey.
The place to Eat and Drink within the Resort Zone
Since many individuals select to go the AI route right here, they have an inclination to stay to their resort. There are nonetheless just a few nice eating places price testing, although.
1. La Leche: Sure, the identify of this restaurant means “the milk,” however don’t let that deter you. It’s a contemporary and classy restaurant with an ever-changing menu that’s at all times ranked among the many finest in PV. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Oasis del Holi: This unassuming native joint on the seashore is a good place for some contemporary seafood, chilly beers, and sundown views. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Cerveceria Chapultepec: A well-liked chain from Guadalajara, this spot churns out small plates and drinks for round 20 pesos ($1 USD) every. It’s a enjoyable place to hang around with locals and pre-game earlier than going out in town. Click on right here for instructions.
5. Marina Vallarta: Luxurious Space to Keep in Puerto Vallarta
Marina Vallarta is unquestionably the flamboyant a part of the town. That is the place the large cruise ships dock, welcoming 1000’s upon 1000’s of holiday makers to PV every year. The town is engaged on an enormous new cruise terminal referred to as Puerto Mágico (Magic Port) that may embrace a tequila museum and an aquarium.
When you’re studying this text, although, you’re in all probability not headed to Puerto Vallarta on a cruise ship. However, this space isn’t only for cruise passengers, because the Marina can be house to a world-class golf course and loads of upscale outlets and lodging.
It’s a very talked-about spot for households or for individuals who search a little bit of peace and quiet (and luxurious) on their trip. Click on right here to search out it on the map.
Execs of Staying in Marina Vallarta
- Luxurious lodging choices
- Quieter than Centro and Romanic Zone
- Pedestrian boardwalk
- 18 gap golf course
- Nice eating
- Many procuring choices
- Near the airport
Cons of Staying in Marina Vallarta
- Dearer than different areas of Puerto Vallarta
- Not as conventional or genuine
- Not the perfect seashores
- Longer journey to get into the middle if you wish to exit for the night time
Finest Locations to Keep within the Marina Vallarta
1. San Tropico: This boutique resort is very rated due to its lovely, peaceable grounds. There are colourful murals everywhere in the property, which is mainly an enormous backyard. Right here you possibly can sit back in a hammock, take a dip within the out of doors pool, and even be a part of a free yoga class. Click on right here for particulars.
2. Velas Vallarta Suites: This high-end resort has just a few completely different swimming pools (one even has a swim-up bar!) in addition to a pleasant beachfront space with solar loungers and cover tents for shade. There’s additionally a spa and a health heart, and it’s positioned proper close to the world-class Marina Vallarta Golf Membership if you wish to hit the hyperlinks. Click on right here to be taught extra.
3. Casa Velas: This resort is unquestionably on the pricier facet, however they’ve received stellar critiques and are adults-only. With regards to Puerto Vallarta accommodations, this one is price splurging on. Click on right here to see the most recent value from Reserving.com.
Issues To Do in Marina Vallarta
- Go {Golfing} at Marina Vallarta Golf Membership (early within the morning or late night, in any other case it’s too sizzling!)
- Go to the El Faro Lighthouse
- Stroll across the marina admiring the attractive yachts
- Go on a luxurious sundown sail that leaves from the Marina. Discover out extra right here.
The place to Eat and Drink in Marina Vallarta
There are many nice meals choices right here, a lot of that are worldwide delicacies.
1. Casa Ritual for Sushi: in the event you like sushi, you gained’t need to miss the genuine sushi at this attractive boutique resort. The small restaurant serves up implausible nigiri and completely introduced plates. It’s costly however price it.
2. Mr. Cream Pancakes and Waffles: this enjoyable restaurant does breakfast excellent. Come right here for pancakes and waffles because the identify suggests, or go for one thing extra native just like the chilaquiles.
6. 5 de Diciembre
I have to admit I’m a fan of the neighborhood generally known as 5D because it’s the place I’ve spent essentially the most time in PV. This native ‘hood is in between the Resort Zone and El Centro, with hilly streets that jut as much as the mountains. It’s house to Playa Camarones, which is a enjoyable native seashore that’s at all times stuffed with the sounds of wandering mariachi bands.
It’s among the best neighborhoods to remain in Puerto Vallarta because it’s nonetheless near all of the motion of El Centro and the Romantic Zone. Staying here’s a bit simpler on the pockets, although, and it’s not fairly as loud at night time.
That being mentioned, that is very a lot a neighborhood Mexican neighborhood. It’s possible you’ll hear canines, roosters, and the occasional mid-week fiesta…
Execs of Staying in 5 de Diciembre
- Very native neighborhood
- Good views from the highest of the hill
- Has a seashore
- Superior eating places and avenue meals
- Cheaper than different areas
Cons of Staying in 5 de Diciembre
- Will be very noisy
- Cobblestone streets and hills will be robust to navigate
- Not many resort selections
- Only some bars to select from
Finest Locations to Keep in 5 de Diciembre
There aren’t a ton of accommodations in 5D, however there are some strong selections close to the seashore. Listed here are a few of my faves:
1. Villa Premiere: This beachfront resort has a pleasant pool, a swim-up bar, a sauna, and extra. Click on right here for particulars.
2. The Paramar: It is a new resort proper on the seashore with ocean views from many rooms. Some associates stayed there not too long ago and actually loved the rooftop pool. Click on right here for particulars.
3. Buenaventura Grand Resort: When you’re seeking to do the all-inclusive factor on this space, then the Buenaventura is your finest guess. Click on right here for particulars.
Prime Issues To Do in 5 de Diciembre
With the ocean to the entrance and mountains to the again, there are many alternatives for adventures when staying in 5D.
1. Horseback Using with ATV and Zipline: Cruising via city and as much as the mountains on an ATV is a enjoyable solution to spend a day in PV. You even have the choice to tack on an ATV journey and a zipline course.
2. Night Taco Journey: A significant motive that 5D is among the finest locations to remain in Puerto Vallarta is all of the superior avenue meals. When you’re not snug simply selecting your individual taco stalls, soar on a tour with a neighborhood information.
3. Tacos & Tequila: These are just a few of my favourite issues and that is the proper nieghborhood to bask in each. This tour is tons of enjoyable and an effective way to kick off an evening in PV.
The place to Eat and Drink in 5 de Diciembre
Consuming and consuming your manner round 5 de Diciembre is a significant spotlight of selecting this as your own home base. These are only a few of the perfect locations within the space:
1. El Barracuda: This beachfront restaurant is at all times a go-to of mine when associates come to go to. The seafood is wonderful right here and there’s an awesome bar subsequent door referred to as El Photo voltaic that you would be able to order drinks from. Click on right here for instructions.
2. Pepe’s Tacos: For tacos al pastor, this is among the finest locations on the town. They’ve loads of different selections as properly. Click on right here for instructions.
3. Gusto Lounge: This may be the one dive bar on the planet the place you will get a lobster dinner. Sergio and Naomi are good associates of ours and among the finest bar homeowners you’ll ever meet. Click on right here for instructions.
Finest Areas to Keep in Puerto Vallarta: FAQs
El Centro and the Romantic Zone are linked by the bridge over the river and collectively they make for the perfect locations to remain in Puerto Vallarta heart.
There aren’t actually any “no go” areas in PV, however for vacationers, you’ll need to stick nearer to the seashore and the central a part of the town for comfort’s sake.
PV is mostly a really secure place to journey. The Resort Zone and the Versalles neighborhood are among the many most secure areas as there isn’t actually a lot nightlife. Most incidents right here happen after midnight within the standard bar and membership areas. Learn extra about security in PV right here.
When you don’t thoughts spending a while & cash getting round city, it doesn’t actually matter. PV isn’t that huge and there are numerous handy choices for transportation from the native bus to rideshare apps.
I’m a fan of the 5 de Diciembre and El Centro neighborhoods as they’ve hills that offer you wonderful views of the palm timber and ocean. That is additionally the place you’ll discover the Malecon, the cathedral, and loads of avenue artwork.
I extremely suggest staying in downtown PV. This places you in a handy location whether or not you need to go on day journeys or simply chill on the seashore. You’ll even have tons of choices for procuring, eating, and nightlife.
For essentially the most half, sure, nonetheless, there are many cobblestone streets right here and a few neighborhoods are fairly hilly. You probably have mobility points, you’ll need to remember to guide a spot that will likely be handy.
To be near all of the motion, you’ll need to keep in El Centro or the Romantic Zone.
PV has an intensive bus system that may get you wherever it’s worthwhile to go. Most rides solely price 10 pesos (about $0.50 USD) and solely barely extra for journeys to locations like Bucerias or Sayulita.
In Conclusion
When contemplating the place to remain in Puerto Vallarta, you may have a number of choices. It’s not an enormous metropolis, however every space has its personal vibe with its personal execs and cons.
No matter which of those neighborhoods you select to base your self in, it’s straightforward sufficient to get between them and to go on day journeys. You’ll even have nice selections for meals irrespective of which space you select.
I hope you discovered this information useful, and most of all I hope you take pleasure in your journey to this little slice of paradise I’ve been lucky sufficient to name house for just a few years.
