Where to Stay in Puerto Vallarta
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by Daniel Stewart
- January 31, 2021
- Puerto Vallarta News
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One of the reasons Puerto Vallarta is so appealing is that it is very diverse. There is a little something for everyone in this beautiful Banderas Bay.
The town of Puerto Vallarta is relatively small however as a tourist destination we tend to include surrounding areas in the North. No matter where you choose to stay in the bay it is easy to see many different areas via a short car or even boat ride. It is difficult to get lost as the whole bay is connected by a main road that runs from north to south. There are many hotels and resorts available ranging from “rustic” to the exclusive Four Seasons in Punta Mita. The problem with staying in a resort is that they are designed so that once you are inside you do not wish to venture out and explore the local surroundings.
There are many popular areas and choosing where to stay will depend on budget and expectations. You will find a large selection of rental properties for short & long term vacations located throughout the bay ranging from simple rustic dwellings to the exclusive and luxurious. It is possible to stay beachfront or high on the hills with amazing views or tucked away in a local neighbourhood.
Marina Vallarta is one of the most poplar neighbourhoods located within walking distance from the airport, for those that don’t mind a 15 minute stroll or a quick 5 minute drive. This area has properties available on the golf course, beachfront and overlooking the yachts inside the marina. Choose from available condominiums or complete houses.
Marina Vallarta is extremely safe and peaceful environment with flat paved roads it is easy and secure to walk around day or night to see visit the restaurants or stores located on the marina boardwalk.
The Hotel Zone begins just south of Marina Vallarta and extends south down the coast until reaching 5 de Diciembre just before Centro/Down Town Vallarta. Most of this area is a mix of beachfront resorts and condominiums. There are also large shopping centres such as La Isla, Plaza Galerias & Plaza Caracol. This is the place to be if you enjoy modern style condo vacations with large swimming pools and beach access at your doorstep.
Cinco de Diciembre
The 5 de Diciembre neighbourhood begins at the municipal sports stadium just before the downtown or Centro Vallarta. Beachfront is the same style as the rest of the hotel zone but you can also find rental properties on the inland side of things that are generally more affordable. Here you are in walking distance to the Malecon or boardwalk and you can find many local style tacos stands and restaurants scattered about. As you move further inland the terrain becomes mountainous with some stunning views available.
El Centro / Downtown Vallarta
Downtown is the beginning of the historical neighbourhood in Puerto Vallarta. Here you enter the hustle and bustle of Vallarta and can find more traditional style of resorts and buildings. The Malecon or Board Walk runs south along the seaside over the Rio Cuale into the Romantic Zone. There are many things to see during the day & also at night. You are close to all the action and can safely walk around, just be aware of busses while crossing the streets. If you don’t mind a bit of a walk up hill or a short taxi/Uber ride there are many hillside properties that boast spectacular views of the city and bay.
Zona Romantica / Old Town Vallarta
This where you want to be if you enjoy being close to the night life as well as having a nice mix of traditional and international style restaurants. Various local markets as well as beach access. This is a fun part of town that is famous for gay tourism as well as a very popular with a mix of national and international guests. There are many new high rise apartment buildings as well as more traditional accommodations. Safe and fun to walk around and people watch, there is always something happening. There are many art galleries & boutiques