Best Area to Stay in Puerto Vallarta: 10 Best Areas + Hotels (2023)

Are you planning a trip to Puerto Vallarta and wondering what’s the best area to stay in? Look no further!

As a travel expert that lives in Mexico and has spent ample time in Puerto Vallarta, I’m here to help. 

It can be challenging to know where to stay in a new city, and Puerto Vallarta is no exception. But don’t worry – I’ve got insider knowledge and expertise to share with you.

In this guide, I’ll provide you with all the information you need to choose the best area to stay in Puerto Vallarta including the town’s top 10 areas and neighborhoods.

And for each area, I’ll explain who it’s best suited for, what the overall vibe is like, safety and security, walkability, and more. 

Ready to find out the best area to stay in Puerto Vallarta for you? Let’s get started!

Best Areas to Stay in Puerto Vallarta

These are the best places in Puerto Vallarta to stay:

1. Romantic Zone: Best Area to Stay in Puerto Vallarta for Adults

The Romantic Zone, or Zona Romántica, is the best area to stay in Puerto Vallarta for singles and adults looking to experience the town’s traditional charm. 

Situated within the southern part of Puerto Vallarta’s downtown area, the Romantic Zone is known for its authentic charm, with cobblestone streets lined with artisan cafes, bars, restaurants, stores, and small boutique hotels.

The vibe here is relaxed and inviting, with a vibrant LGBTQ scene, making it a popular destination for couples and adults. You can find everything from street vendors selling local foods to trendy rooftop bars with stunning views of the city.

But one of the best things about the Romantic Zone is its central location in the heart of the lively downtown area. 

It’s situated between the Cuale River and Los Muertos Beach, so you can easily access both. Plus, Puerto Vallarta’s most iconic spots like the Malecón boardwalk and the Los Muertos Beach Pier are within walking distance.

Another great thing about the Romantic Zone is its walkability. The area is relatively small, so you can easily explore it on foot. You’ll find that many of the area’s best attractions and restaurants are just a short stroll away from each other. 

I chose this neighborhood when I lived in Puerto Vallarta and really loved its walkability, authentic vibe, and beautiful mountain backdrop. 

Plus, it feels very safe and it’s easy to get around.  And if you need to venture further, there are taxis, buses, and Ubers that can take you to other parts of the city.

With its convenient location, proximity to attractions and beaches, walkability, and a wide variety of restaurants and bars, the Romantic Zone is the best place to stay in Puerto Vallarta overall.

Where to Stay in Puerto Vallarta Romantic Zone

If you’re looking for the best places to stay in the Puerto Vallarta Romantic Zone, consider the following options:

📍 Villa Lola
📍 Vallarta Shores

2. Marina Vallarta: Best Area in Puerto Vallarta for Boat Lovers

If you’re a boat lover, you simply can’t miss Marina Vallarta during your visit to Puerto Vallarta! 

This area is located at the northern edge of the city, just a quick 5-minute ride from the airport and 10-15 minutes from downtown Puerto Vallarta.

True to its name, Marina Vallarta is home to a 450-slip marina that boasts slips ranging from 30-140 feet in length. It’s the perfect place to admire impressive yachts, sailboats, and charter boats.

​​The Puerto Vallarta marina is a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the views. The boardwalk area is well-paved, making it easy to walk around, and it’s lined with numerous restaurants and shops.

Boat lovers will appreciate the proximity to various water activities available in the area, such as fishing, snorkeling, and diving. 

The marina is also home to the famous El Faro Lighthouse, which has a nice bar/lounge at the top with incredible panoramic views that are particularly stunning at sunset.

With its location outside of the lively area of downtown, Marina Vallarta is a great option for a quieter stay in Puerto Vallarta.  

It’s close to the airport, but still has many nice beachfront hotels and resorts, most within walking distance to the marina.  The area can feel a bit touristy but overall it’s a very relaxed and safe place to stay in Puerto Vallarta. 

Where to Stay in Marina Vallarta

If you’re looking for the best places to stay in Marina Vallarta, consider the following options:

📍 Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort
📍 The Westin Puerto Vallarta

3. Hotel Zone: Best Area in Puerto Vallarta for All Inclusive Hotels

Puerto Vallarta’s Hotel Zone (Zona Hotelera) is a popular area for those seeking an all-inclusive resort experience. 

Located just north of downtown Puerto Vallarta, the Hotel Zone stretches along the coast for several miles and offers stunning ocean views. 

The area is filled with some of the area’s best hotels, resorts, and condominiums, making it a perfect spot for travelers looking for an upscale vacation.

The Hotel Zone’s vibe is tranquil and serene, with most of the focus on relaxation and pampering. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to unwind, disconnect, and indulge in a bit of luxury. 

Many hotels in the area offer direct beach access, and it’s only a short walk or taxi ride to the famous El Malecon boardwalk, where you can find excellent restaurants, bars, and shopping.

The Hotel Zone also offers some walkability, with restaurants and shops that can be reached on foot. The area is also well-connected with public transport, making it easy to explore other parts of Puerto Vallarta. 

Overall, the Hotel Zone is the best place to stay in Puerto Vallarta for those seeking an all-inclusive resort experience and a relaxing getaway, with easy access to the city’s best attractions and beaches.

Where to Stay in Puerto Vallarta Hotel Zone

If you’re looking for the best places to stay in the Puerto Vallarta Hotel Zone, consider the following options:

📍 Secrets Vallarta Bay
📍 Fiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta

4. Nuevo Vallarta: Best Area in Puerto Vallarta for Families

​​If you’re planning a family vacation in Puerto Vallarta, then definitely check out Nuevo Vallarta, located about 25 minutes north of the downtown area. 

With its numerous family resorts and widespread beaches, it’s one of the best places to stay in Puerto Vallarta for families.

The vibe in Nuevo Vallarta is super family-friendly and relaxed. As its name suggests, Nuevo Vallarta is the “New Vallarta”, which was built specifically for tourism and offers better infrastructure, newer resorts, and more widespread beaches.

One of the main attractions of Nuevo Vallarta is its five-kilometer beach. The sandy shores are soft and smooth, with gentle waves that are perfect for swimming, no matter what age. 

Families can enjoy a day out on the beach or take part in water activities like jet skiing or parasailing.

Overall, the vibe in Nuevo Vallarta is more laid-back compared to Puerto Vallarta, making it an ideal place for families looking for a relaxing getaway. 

Plus, the community is safe and has a low crime rate, making it a great place for families to explore and enjoy their vacation.

Where to Stay in Nuevo Vallarta

If you’re looking for the best places to stay in Nuevo Vallarta, consider the following options:

📍 Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
📍 Marival Distinct Luxury Residences

5. Conchas Chinas: Best Area in Puerto Vallarta for Views

Located on the northern edge of downtown Puerto Vallarta, Conchas Chinas is a Puerto Vallarta neighborhood that stands out due to its geography and unique charm. 

It’s located just south of Zona Romantica, and due to its hillside location, it offers some of the most spectacular views of the city. 

The area consists mostly of gated communities, offering a quieter and more exclusive atmosphere. However, it’s still close to popular attractions and beaches, such as Los Muertos Beach and Mismaloya.

Conchas Chinas is easily accessible by car or walking, and there are also bus, taxi, and Uber options available. However, the area is quite hilly so you’ll probably want to opt for a car to get around.

The area has a peaceful and secluded vibe, making it perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. 

While it’s not as close to the restaurants and bars of the downtown area, it offers a private and romantic escape for adults and couples who don’t want to leave their hotel. 

The beach in Conchas Chinas is also a popular local spot and can be reached by walking along the beach.

If you’re looking for breathtaking views of Puerto Vallarta, Conchas Chinas is the best area to stay in. With its hillside location, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Pacific Ocean. 

Where to Stay in Conchas Chinas

If you’re looking for the best places to stay in the Conchas Chinas, consider the following options:

📍 Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta
📍 Grand Miramar Resort & Spa

6. South Zone: Best Area in Puerto Vallarta for Secluded Beaches

The South Zone of Puerto Vallarta is a beautiful and secluded area that is perfect for those looking for a peaceful and relaxing getaway.

The area is known for its rugged jungle scenery, pristine beaches, and some of the best Puerto Vallarta hotels like Hotel Mousai and Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa. 

The South Zone stretches along the edge of the jungle and hills, starting with the highway going south of Conchas Chinas, and includes Mismaloya, Boca de Tomatlán, and beaches that are only accessible by water taxi.

The South Zone offers a stunning and unique natural setting, and is an ideal location for visitors who are looking for a quiet and serene atmosphere away from the crowds of the city. 

While the South Zone may not be as walkable as some other areas of Puerto Vallarta, it offers visitors a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere that is perfect for a secluded getaway. 

The area is ideal for visitors who are looking for a quiet and peaceful place to stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

If you’re looking for a secluded beach vacation with luxury resorts and stunning natural beauty, the South Zone is definitely worth considering.

Where to Stay in Puerto Vallarta South Zone

If you’re looking for the best places to stay in the Puerto Vallarta South Zone, consider the following options:

📍 Hotel Mousai
📍 Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa

7. El Centro (Downtown): Best Area in Puerto Vallarta for Culture Lovers

The El Centro (Downtown) area of Puerto Vallarta is located just south of the Hotel Zone and north of the Rio Cuale.

Also known as “5 de Diciembre” or “Old Town Vallarta”, it is the heart of Puerto Vallarta and offers a unique and authentic experience for visitors. 

The entire area is filled with charming Colonial-era buildings with red-tiled roofs, which adds to the cultural ambiance. 

The vibe of El Centro is lively and bustling, with plenty of street performers, food vendors, and local shops to explore. Plus, it’s home to the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, one of Puerto Vallarta’s most iconic attractions.

The Malecon is a popular oceanfront promenade that is located in El Centro and is one of the most famous places in Puerto Vallarta lined with restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops.

El Centro is a highly walkable area, with many of its attractions located within walking distance of each other. Los Arcos Amphitheater is also located in El Centro and offers open-air performances in the evening. 

El Centro / Old Town Puerto Vallarta is also close to several beaches, such as Playa Los Muertos and Playa Camarones, which are both within walking distance of the area.

Overall, El Centro is the best part of Puerto Vallarta to stay in for culture lovers because of its rich cultural heritage and authenticity.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and experience Puerto Vallarta’s history, architecture, food, and art firsthand.

Where to Stay in El Centro

If you’re looking for the best places to stay in the Puerto Vallarta Old Town, consider the following options:

📍 Casa Kimberly
📍 Hacienda San Angel

Other Areas to Stay Outside of Puerto Vallarta

These are the most popular places to stay just outside of Puerto Vallarta:

8. Punta Mita: Best Area in Puerto Vallarta for Luxury Travelers

Nestled on a beautiful peninsula about 1 hour north of downtown Puerto Vallarta, Punta Mita is a luxurious resort and residential community that offers a laid-back vibe and world-class amenities.

Surrounded by white sand beaches and lush tropical flora, Punta Mita is home to the most luxurious resorts in Puerto Vallarta, offering a private beach escape for luxury travelers.

With two Jack Nicklaus Signature golf courses, tennis courts, and surfing and water sports, there is no shortage of world-class amenities to enjoy.

The stunning views and private resorts in Punta Mita have enticed celebrities, tastemakers, and high-profile executives, making it the perfect destination for those seeking an exclusive retreat.

Surrounded on three sides by turquoise water, the community’s north facing coastline rests along the Litibu Bay. On the west facing coastline, you’ll find a plethora of private villas and resorts that hug the Pacific Coast.

When staying at resorts in Punta Mita, you will need to arrange transportation to get to downtown Puerto Vallarta or nearby destinations. 

Where to Stay in Punta Mita

If you’re looking for the best places to stay in the Punta Mita, consider the following options:

📍 Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita
📍 St. Regis Punta Mita

9. Sayulita: Best Area in Puerto Vallarta for Surfing

Located just north of Punta Mita, Sayulita is a small beach town known for its surfing and bohemian vibes. 

Officially designated as one of Mexico’s “pueblos magicos” (magic towns), Sayulita offers a lot of charm in its colorful “papel picado” lined streets. 

Sayulita has a very laid-back vibe and is popular with surfers and backpackers. The town is walkable and has cute tropical restaurants, lively bars, and boutique shops to explore. Plus, many of the restaurants are vegetarian and vegan-friendly.

Downtown Sayulita is the best neighborhood for travelers, as it offers easy access to the main beach, restaurants, and nightlife. 

Rather than large hotel chains, you’ll mainly find small boutique hotels in Sayulita, adding to its authenticity and charm.

If you’re looking for surfing opportunities, Sayulita is a great area to stay near Puerto Vallarta. The town has plenty of surf schools and rental shops, making it easy to catch a wave.

Where to Stay in Sayulita

If you’re looking for the best places to stay in Sayulita, consider the following options:

📍 Avela Boutique Hotel
📍 Casa de la Ballena

10. Bucerias: Best Area in Puerto Vallarta for a Quiet Beach Escape

Located about 30 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta, Bucerias is a small beach town that’s perfect for those seeking a slower pace. 

With miles of golden sand and crystal-clear waters, Bucerias is known for its beautiful beaches, which are much quieter than those in nearby Puerto Vallarta.

The town of Bucerias itself is a charming mix of traditional Mexican culture and modern conveniences. You’ll find cute boutique hotels and vacation rentals, but at the same time, there’s a large Chedraui grocery store for convenience. 

Visitors can stroll down the cobblestone streets and take in the sights and sounds of local vendors selling handmade crafts, jewelry, and clothing. 

There are also plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars to explore, many of which offer oceanfront views.

Bucerias is a highly walkable town, with many of its best attractions located within easy walking distance of each other. Visitors can spend a day exploring the town’s many galleries and boutiques, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.

With its laid-back vibe and stunning natural beauty, Bucerias is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a quiet beach escape near Puerto Vallarta.

Where to Stay in Bucerias

If you’re looking for the best places to stay in Bucerias, consider the following options:

📍 Refugio del Mar
📍 Aventura Pacifico Boutique Hotel

Map of Best Areas to Stay in Puerto Vallarta

Refer to the map below to give you a rough idea of where these Puerto Vallarta neighborhoods are located and their proximity to nearby attractions.

What is the safest area to stay in Puerto Vallarta?

If you’re looking for the safest places to stay in Puerto Vallarta, you may want to consider staying at a hotel or resort in the Hotel Zone, Marina Vallarta, or Nuevo Vallarta. These areas are known for being secure and well-guarded.

However, if you prefer to stay downtown in El Centro or the Romantic Zone, it’s best to stick close to the Malecon, the popular boardwalk that runs along the beach. This area is well lit and heavily trafficked, making it a safer option for tourists. 

What part of Puerto Vallarta has the best beaches?

With its expansive beachfront area, Nuevo Vallarta has some of the best beaches in Puerto Vallarta where you can walk for miles and escape the crowds. 

Another popular beach is Playa Los Muertos, which is located right in the heart of downtown Puerto Vallarta. This is a popular beach for both locals and tourists, which means it can get crowded and congested with beach vendors. 

If you’re looking for more secluded beaches, the beaches in Puerto Vallarta’s South Zone like Mismaloya and Playa Palmares are more private and picturesque with a stunning jungle backdrop of the Sierra Madre mountains. 

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Area to Stay in Puerto Vallarta

When you’re looking for the best areas in Puerto Vallarta, there are a few factors to consider:

Proximity to attractions and activities

Whether you’re looking for beach days, nightlife, or cultural experiences, you’ll want to choose the best location to stay in Puerto Vallarta that allows for easy access to your desired destinations.

Downtown Puerto Vallarta (El Centro and the Romantic Zone) is very walkable, making it easy to explore on foot. 

Staying near the Malecon is one of the safest areas to be and places in the heart of Puerto Vallarta’s lively city center with restaurants, bars, and shops. 

Safety and security

You’ll want to choose a neighborhood that is known for being safe and where you feel comfortable walking around, especially at night. 

The Puerto Vallarta areas mentioned in this guide are all relatively safe if you stick to the main tourist areas. 

When staying downtown, be sure to stay close to the beach and the Malecon.  Areas further inland typically have higher crime rates.  

And no matter where you stay, avoid illegal activity and staying out late alone to ensure a safe experience.

Accessibility to transportation

Accessibility to transportation can be an important consideration when choosing where to stay in Puerto Vallarta. 

Marina Vallarta is closest to the airport, providing easy access if you’re in town for a short stay. The more remote locations will be a longer journey from the airport.

And while Puerto Vallarta has a good public transportation system, you might prefer to use Uber or taxis to get around. Make sure to choose an area where you can easily access these services.

For example, sometimes it can be difficult to get an Uber at night, so if nightlife is important to you, you might want to consider staying in the downtown area.

Additionally, taxis and Ubers will be more sparse in the more remote locations outside of Puerto Vallarta like Conchas Chinas, the South Zone, and Punta Mita.

Availability of accommodation options

When it comes to accommodations, you’ll want to choose a neighborhood that best suits your budget and travel preferences. 

All inclusive resorts are more abundant in the Hotel Zone, Marina Vallarta, Nuevo Vallarta, and the South Zone.  

On the other hand, in the Puerto Vallarta Romantic Zone, Conchas Chinas, and El Centro, you are more likely to find small boutique hotels and vacation rentals. 

Local food and dining options

You’ll also want to consider proximity to local food and dining options when choosing where to stay in Puerto Vallarta Mexico. 

If you prefer the convenience of staying at an all-inclusive hotel where all of your food, drinks, and alcohol are included, then you won’t need to stay in an area that is close to restaurants. 

However, if you’re someone that likes to dine at local restaurants and get a taste for the local Mexican cuisine, then consider staying in downtown Puerto Vallarta to have the most options within walking distance. 

Best Area to Stay in Puerto Vallarta: FAQs

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the best places to stay in Puerto Vallarta Mexico:

Conclusion: Best Area to Stay in Puerto Vallarta Guide

Choosing the best area to stay in Puerto Vallarta depends on your travel style and preferences. 

In my opinion, the best area in Puerto Vallarta to stay is the Romantic Zone, as it has a great location right in the heart of the city with easy access to beaches, restaurants, and nightlife.

One of the biggest draws of the Romantic Zone is that it’s considered a safe and walkable area, with a wide variety of accommodations to choose from, including cute boutique hotels like Villa Lola.

So if you are wondering where to stay in Puerto Vallarta for the first time, the Romantic Zone is my top pick!

But if you are traveling to Puerto Vallarta with your family, you might want to consider Nuevo Vallarta or the Hotel Zone for family-friendly resorts like Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit. 

And if you’re looking for luxury, Punta Mita is hands down the place to stay with its many 5-star hotels like Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita.

But no matter which of these areas you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable vacation exploring Mexico’s Pacific coast.