What’s the Best Area to Stay in Puerto Vallarta? A Neighborhood Guide

Need help figuring out the the best area to stay in Puerto Vallarta? I’ve got you covered! Since Puerto Vallarta has several neighborhoods or hotel zones to choose from, picking the right one can be challenging. When I planned my first trip to Puerto Vallarta, I had no clue about the best hotels in Puerto Vallarta or where they were either. Fortunately, after several visits and plenty of exploring, I’ve stayed in four of the five major hotel zones. Researching and knowing where to stay in Puerto Vallarta actually saves time and money because you’ll be in the best neighborhood for you and your needs. Here’s my suggestions.

 What Are the Hotel Zones in Puerto Vallarta?

Puerto Vallarta has five main hotel zones. Many people will list more than five because they mistakenly name “colonias” – which are little sections or even popular streets – within a neighborhood, and count those as a zone. From doing research and talking to many locals and tourism individuals there are really only five zones.

You also might see maps of the zones that include Nuevo Vallarta but technically, it isn’t Puerto Vallarta or even in the state of Jalisco for that matter. On some maps the Hotel Zone is divided into north and south. For simplicity, I have left it all as one zone.

The five main areas or hotel zones in Puerto Vallarta are:

• Marina Vallarta
• The Hotel Zone
• Downtown
• The Romantic Zone
• The South Zone

Marina Vallarta

The Marina Vallarta zone includes the marina neighborhood and the area around the airport. This area also includes the main bus terminal and International Convention center. Even though they are the same zone, the accommodations in the marina are very different from the more chain like hotels around the airport.

Where to Stay in Marina Vallarta

The first time I went to Puerto Vallarta, I traveled by bus from Guadalajara. I knew I would be getting in late. At that point, I didn’t really know what I was going to do while I was there or if I would even like it. So I decided to look for something close by the bus station for the first night. That way if I was delayed – and I was – or really tired, I wouldn’t have to travel far after a long bus ride.

I decided to stay in the City Express hotel for my first night in Puerto Vallarta. This hotel is on the airport side, or the east side of the main road, Mexico Hwy 200. It was perfect for what I needed that night as I was just arriving.

City Express is a chain of Mexican hotels geared more towards the business traveler but are great for anyone. From my room facing the bay – they also have mountain facing rooms – I had a nice view of the water and was even able to see the cruise ships coming in. The hotel is reasonably priced, the rooms exceptionally clean and the bed very comfortable. The hotel has a pool and a continental breakfast that’s included.

Even though it was convenient for a night, I personally wouldn’t stay in this neighborhood long term because I like to to be closer to the beach and the malecón. But if you are just passing through or are planning on exploring the region and day tripping, then it’s an excellent spot to be in.

Another good, affordable hotel option on the airport side of the marina – and that’s also close to the bus station – is the Container Inn.

Getting Around

City Express and this area of Puerto Vallarta is just a quick ride from the airport or bus station. Plus it’s only about ten minutes from downtown. It’s a very practical area to stay for travelers that have a car because most hotels in this area have free parking available onsite.

The Marina area around the airport is best for:

• travelers needing a room for a night
• someone exploring the region and areas north
• travelers with a car

The Marina Side

On the west side or the bay side of Mexico Hwy 200, is the actual marina of Marina Vallarta. This area is it’s own little city. It has restaurants, shops, spas, hair salons, golf courses, a post office and much more.

One of the drawbacks, for me at least, is unless you stay at one of the resorts on the beach, there’s not much beach access. It’s still one of my favorite areas though. Quiet tree lined streets with condos and private homes surround the marina and provide a place to get away from from town but still be close enough to the conveniences in the marina.

My Hotel on the Marina Side

In this residential part of the marina, I stayed at San Tropico Petit Hotel. The the name says hotel but it’s more like a condo or apartment. The property is gorgeous with meticulously kept grounds, vibrant murals and super cute common areas.

As for the rooms themselves – mine had two bedrooms and a full kitchen. One of the best things about the suites is that the entire wall in the living room opens to a huge balcony so it’s like having an entire extra room. They also have luxury studios – with kitchenettes – that face the pool.

Let’s talk about the pool. It’s wonderful! I’m usually a beach girl but the slightly heated pool made cheating on the beach very easy. It’s perfect for those cooler winter Vallarta days. And they have a hot tub too.

There’s a bar onsite by the pool that serves breakfast and drinks throughout the day. You could easily spend all day poolside and never move. However, if you are looking to be a bit active, they do offers yoga in the mornings.

The staff at the hotel was very nice and helpful. When I checked in early, they not only kept my luggage, they let me hang out around the pool even though it was early in the morning.

For more of a resort experience directly on the beach in the Marina Zone, then the Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa might be right for you. The property recently underwent some upgrades and they have one of the prettiest pools in the area.

Getting Around

The marina is about ten minutes from the airport and ten minutes to downtown. While it is a popular area, it was a little more complicated getting a taxi since this area is less commercial and taxis aren’t just driving by. I also had to wait a little longer on an Uber to pick me up as well.

However, if you don’t mind walking, there are plenty of taxis and Ubers in the marina. You can even catch a bus to take you downtown or to head north.

If you are driving and have your own car, parking could be an issue in the marina and even on residential streets. Check with your hotel or property owner to see if there’s parking available on the premises.

Marina Vallarta is best for:

• couples
• families
• snowbirds or long term
• someone who doesn’t mind walking

The Hotel Zone

Many people consider the Hotel Zone to be the best area to stay in Puerto Vallarta. It’s exremely popular. This area is located south of the marina and runs along the beaches of north of downtown. There are some hotels on the city side of the main road but the majority are on the beach side. So, if you are a beach lover, then this area is for you.

The hotel zone is full of all-inclusive hotels and resorts. It’s a great spot for first-timers and the traveler who wants the convenience of a property with plenty of amenities on site.

Unfortunately, it’s the one area I haven’t stayed in because when I travel solo I prefer a smaller more intimate place with a neighborhood feel so all inclusive aren’t really my thing.

Where to Stay in the Hotel Zone

That being said, I research hotels and accommodations everywhere and if I was looking to book a room at one of the resorts in this Hotel Zone, these properties are the ones I like the most.

Hotel Mio – a modern adults only property two minutes from the beach

Fiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta – this luxury property has stunning ocean views in a large resort setting with a spa and a heated pool

Canto del Sol Plaza Vallarta – a smaller more modern all-inclusive resort with lots of Mexican touches, a spa, pool and three on-site restaurants

Friendly Vallarta – all-inclusive resort with a spa and balconies that face a beautiful palm tree lined beach

Villa Premier Boutique Hotel & Romantic Getaway – and upscale 5 star property located right on the beach at the southern end of the hotel zone

Getting Around

The Hotel Zone is approximately fifteen minutes from the airport and transportation is readily available in this area. There’s access to taxis, Uber and public buses that go downtown. If you have a vehicle – most hotels and resorts have parking available.

The Hotel Zone is best for:

• first time visitors
• beach lovers
• families
• couples
• girls trip

Southerner Says: good news for travelers to Puerto Vallarta. The malecón – the boardwalk along the ocean – is being extended about a kilometer, from Downtown north to the hotel zone. Soon, it will be easier than ever to walk into town from the Hotel Zone.

Downtown

If I ranked my favorite areas of Puerto Vallarta, then downtown is my second favorite. Even though I didn’t have the best experience at my hotel there, I love the vibe of the neighborhood. It’s not as touristy as some of the others and there aren’t as many resorts and the malecón starts in this neighborhood.

My Downtown Experience

The very first time I visited Puerto Vallarta, it was February, around Valentine’s Day. The trip was last minute so by the time I booked a room, there weren’t many options available.

Fortunately, I snagged a room at Hotel El Pescador in the 5 de Deciembre neighborhood downtown. The hotel is beautiful on the outside. The common areas are pretty and the pool is very nice. Plus you can’t beat the location. However, the rooms leave a bit to be desired. They are a bit plain and in need of some updating. Since I didn’t plan on being in the room much, plain was okay as long as it’s clean. And it was clean.

But I had an issue in three different rooms. First, it was a white moldy substance that fell from the ceiling and covered everything in my room. They wanted to leave me there but I insisted they move me. Next, it was water. I woke up to about an inch of water on the floor in the next room they put me in. I never even knew where it was coming from.

Finally, after moving me yet again, the room they gave me didn’t have air conditioning. It was February and I didn’t need really need it but considering that’s what I paid for, I expected to get it or at minimum a partial refund.

Honestly, I was so happy to be in Puerto Vallarta that all of this really didn’t bother me too much although, I did spend a good portion of my time waiting around for maintenance and then waiting around while they found a solution and moving rooms. It was frustrating to do that three times.

Ultimately the reason I wouldn’t stay here again is their attitude. They couldn’t have cared less about me. They offered nothing in return for all my troubles – no apology, no discount, not even a meal at their restaurant. After speaking with a manager – by phone because there wasn’t one onsite which I thought odd – I was told I might be eligible for a discount on a future stay. I think I’ll pass.

Where to Stay Downtown

Despite that less than desirable experience, I wouldn’t hesitate to stay Downtown again. I love the 5 de Diciembre area and I think this neighborhood is one of the best areas to stay in Puerto Vallarta for an authentic, less touristy experience. There are plenty of good restaurants, shops and nightlife in this zone.

As far as a beach – Playa Camarones is easily accessible from Downtown. It is a bit more rocky than some of the other beaches in Puerto Vallarta but it’s one of my favorites. If you stay somewhere that’s not oceanfront then you could spend the day at Mango’s Beach Club or rent chairs and umbrellas from local vendors. Here’s a few other hotels I like.

The Paramar Beachfront Hotel – beachfront boutique hotel with breakfast included and private parking

Hotel Portonovo Plaza – propetry near Playa Camarones with a pool and terraces

Hotel Rosita – a timeless classic Mexican style hotel a little further south near the malecón.

Getting Around

Downtown is, give or take, fifteen minutes from the airport. Public transportation, Uber and taxis are plentiful and as long as your hotel has parking you would be fine if you have your own car. It’s also a great walking neighborhood and as I mentioned, just a short distance from the start of the boardwalk.

Downtown is best for:

• solo travelers
• couples
• snowbirds
• exploring the center city
• beach lovers
• returning visitors

The Romantic Zone

If you are looking to capture a piece of old Mexico on your vacation in Puerto Vallarta, then look no further than the Romantic Zone – La Zona Romantica – or Old Town, as it was originally known. This is hands down my favorite area to stay in Puerto Vallarta.

Situated south of the Rio Cuale, the Romantic Zone, is full of smaller, budget friendly hotels, boutique hotels, inns, condos and even a hostel or two. There are a few larger hotels but no mega resorts like in the hotel zone. It also has the highest concentration of restaurants and bars in all of Puerto Vallarta.

All of that in a relatively small space gives this neighborhood a very intimate feel. The beautiful Los Muertos beach, the iconic Puerto Vallarta pier and Malecón are all just steps from the Romantic Zone.

Where to Stay in the Romantic Zone

Hotel Posada de Roger is an adorable little inn with rooms that are built around a courtyard full of flowers and one of my favorite swimming pools. The hotel is just a couple of blocks from the beach. Some of the rooms are on the small side but are just right for the solo traveler or a couple. For families, there are some larger rooms and even a few suites. All rooms have air conditioning and ceiling fans. There’s even a communal kitchen onsite and a restaurant.

Hotel Yasmin is another small hotel I love in the Romantic Zone. (Unfortunately, as of April 24, 2021, Hotel Yasmin is temporarily closed. I keep hoping it will reopen so I’ve left it in the article) The hotel is next to one of my favorite restaurants – Cafe de Olla. I started going to the restaurant and when I found out they owned the hotel too, I decided to stay there.

The property is so charming. It’s decorated with bright cheery furniture and plants around a courtyard in a typical Mexican hacienda style. All the rooms face the inner courtyard overlooking a small pool. Even though the rooms are on the smaller side – it’s perfect for couples and the solo traveler. All of the rooms have ceiling fans and air conditioning as well.

Southerner Says: If you pay at the hotel, Hotel Yasmin is cash only.

For couples, families or larger groups, another one of my favorite hotels in the Romantic Zone is Hotel Los Arcos. It’s not high end luxury but this property is directly on the beach and has recently undergone some upgrades, including adding one of the trendiest new restaurants in all of Puerto Vallarta, Mar y Vino. Additionally, the hotel has a delicious breakfast buffet, amazing pools and is in a stellar location close to the pier and the Malecón. What more could you want?

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Getting Around the Romantic Zone

The Romantic Zone is about fifteen minutes from the airport. If you are driving or have a rental, parking is limited in this area. Unless your hotel or condo has designated parking, it will be hard to find a spot. There is a public, pay for parking lot, across the street from the Parque Lazaro Cardenas.

The good news is you really don’t even need a car if you are staying in the Romantic Zone. It’s very walking friendly, with plenty of restaurants, bars and shopping in a small area. If you don’t want to walk or aren’t able, then there are plenty of taxis and Ubers available. It’s also easy to use public transportation.

The Romantic Zone is the best for:

• couples
• girls trip
• LGBT
• snowbirds
• first time visitors
• returning visitors

The South Zone

The South Zone of Puerto Vallarta is the area along the coastal road that takes you south towards Mismaloya. This area is known for it’s spectacular views. The jungles seem to spill into the ocean.

It’s also where some of the biggest, most luxurious resorts and hotels are located. Many of these properties are perched high on the hillside and have stunning views of the Bay of Banderas. If you like resorts and a quieter vacation, then this might be the best area to stay in Puerto Vallarta for you.

Where to Stay in the South Zone

Unfortunately, I haven’t stayed overnight in the South Zone but I had the opportunity to spend the day and dine at the 5 star, Garza Blanca, an all inclusive luxury resort set in the jungle with gorgeous ocean views. Another property that looks really nice is the Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta. Full disclosure nerd alert – they have a beach webcam that I enjoy checking out from time to time. Yes this is what I do when I’m not traveling. 🙂

Another option in the South Zone, is the Hilton Vallarta Riviera All Inclusive. This is a large luxury property with access to a pristine beach and a large pool. They offer rooms with balconies and even have an airport shuttle.

Most of the resorts in the South Zone have restaurants on site, spa options and can even arrange tours or drivers for you. If you don’t mind being out of the city center, the South Zone may just be the best area to stay in Puerto Vallarta since the water here is so incredibly clear. Anyone who’s interested in water activities will love it. Plus you can snorkel or dive the nearby Los Arcos Marine Park.

Getting Around

Since the South Zone is the farthermost zone from the airport, check with your hotel to see if they offer a shuttle. If not, a private shuttle, taxi or Uber can help you get around. Hotels should have taxis on call to take you back to town or you can make arrangements with your Uber driver if you like their service. In addition to ride shares, public buses are frequent in this zone.

The public buses stop at a few of the resorts on their way to Boca de Tomatlan so you could easily ride a bus to the Romantic Zone or Downtown. You can catch a south bound orange and white bus in the Romantic Zone for around forty cents one way.

This area is best for:

• resort lovers
• romantic getaways
• beach lovers
• visitors who have a car

Homestays in Puerto Vallarta

Because Puerto Vallarta is popular with ex-pats and snowbird communities, there are plenty of of condos and apartments for rent in the city. If you plan on staying awhile, there are some advantages to doing a homestay.

One of the biggest advantages is having access to a kitchen and many properties even have a private pool. VRBO – Vacation Rental By Owner – has a huge list of properties in every neighborhood of Puerto Vallarta. As does Airbnb. I have a personal list of my favorite Airbnb properties. I just don’t post it publicly. If you would like to see the list, feel free to email lori@southernersays.com.

Southerner Says: the longer your stay, the better rate you can negotiate. Also, it’s advantageous to pay in pesos instead of dollars.

When is the Best Time to Visit Puerto Vallarta?

Puerto Vallarta is perfect anytime of the year. I’ve visited in winter, spring and early summer but I wouldn’t hesitate to go any time of the year. Even in the more humid, late summer, you can get some great deals on accommodations. However, there are times that are more popular than others.

High Season

November through mid April is considered high or busy season in Puerto Vallarta. This is when many snowbirds begin to head south to escape winter in their home countries. The weather is Vallarta is wonderful with clear days and cooler nights. Average temperature hover around 82F with no rain.

Easter Week or – Semana Santa – is a busy time for Puerto Vallarta. Many Mexican nationals take the entire week to vacation and spend time with with their families.

Low Season

By May, things have really slowed down. Weather wise, it’s still a great time to visit and you can find good deals on lodging then too. It’s warm but not so humid yet.

June means the beginning of the rainy season. Expect hotter and more humid weather. The average temp is 88F. This continues through about mid October. Fortunately, when it rains it usually only rains in the evening and at night so your days shouldn’t be affected too much. Although it could be a little overcast during the day even when it’s not raining. July through October is still rainy and hurricane season.

The Best Area to Stay in Puerto Vallarta

Honestly, when it comes to where to stay in Puerto Vallarta, I don’t think there’s a bad location. Each neighborhood has it’s own unique vibe, features and advantages AND great restaurants. Check out my Where to Eat in Puerto Vallarta article for suggestions. Wherever you decide to stay – I know you’ll love Puerto Vallarta as much as I do. Are you ready to book your trip?

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