Romantic Zone, the best area to stay in Puerto Vallarta
The Romantic Zone is the southern part of the downtown area of Puerto Vallarta and is bordered by the Rio Cuale to the north. The Romantic Zone is the best place to stay for nightlife and is known to be a gay-friendly area. This is an inviting neighborhood with many places to spend the night out on the town. With the highest concentration of restaurants and bars, it won’t disappoint with its exciting nightlife. Mr. Flamingo is one of the best and liveliest gay bars in the area. For live music, try Incanto Vallarta or Roxy Rock House.
The beaches are also a lively spot to hang out in the Romantic Zone. Los Muertos and Olas Altas are great beaches with outdoor restaurants and shops along the waterfront. A walk along the newly renovated pier with its nautical design and curving path is a must. From the pier you can enjoy the beautiful views of the city and beaches.
Hotels in Romantic Zone
Other areas to stay in Puerto Vallarta
El Centro (Downtown)
As its name suggests, El Centro is located in central Puerto Vallarta across the river and just north of the Romantic Zone. This area is the best place to stay for shopping and dining. You can find great cuisine of all price ranges, as well as tasty street food and cheaper options. Visit Mabel’s Cocina, a popular favorite for margaritas and tacos. Another popular restaurant is No Sé Nada, which has a roof deck with a view where you can enjoy mouth-watering seafood dishes and appetizers. The mile-long Malecon boardwalk, which stretches for 12-blocks, is a top attraction in this area.
Here you can find many arts and crafts shops, as well as a mix of local and international restaurants. The vibrant boardwalk comes to life at night with its lively bar and club scene.
Hotels in El Centro
Hotel Zone
This area is located about three miles north of the Romantic Zone. As its name implies, the Hotel Zone is a neighborhood of many hotels, large resorts and high-rise condos. This is the best place to stay for its wide selection of hotels of all price ranges. In this area you can find fabulous resorts with swim-up bars, restaurants, kids clubs, and all kinds of services, such as spas and massages. There are even “adults only” hotels in this area, such as the Hotel Mio Vallarta, if you wish for a vacation away from children.
The prices in the Hotel Zone vary from inexpensive Holiday Inn accommodations to more expensive boutique hotels, such as Casa Nicole. There are even pet-friendly options, such as the Puerto de Luna, for those who like to bring the family pet along on vacation. For upscale dining, La Leche is a top rated restaurant, and it offers vegetarian and vegan options. Try El Oasis de Holi for cheaper eats on the beach with a spectacular view of the ocean.
Hotels in Hotel Zone
Marina de Puerto Vallarta
Located six miles north of the Romantic Zone, The Marina is a great place to stay for families, as it’s a bit quieter than other areas and it offers a number of all-inclusive hotels. Some of the most popular and kid-friendly places to stay for families are Velas Vallarta, with its many pools and roaming live peacocks, Marriot’s CasaMagna with its turtle sanctuary, or the Westin Resort with its beautiful freeform pools and kids club.
For lower rates, try out the all-inclusive resort Vamar Vallarta, which has a buffet, Italian restaurant and two swim-up bars. The Marina area also boasts a world-class 18-hole golf course if you’d like a change of pace from the poolside.
Hotels in Marina de Puerto Vallarta
Conchas Chinas
Just a little over a mile south of the Romantic Zone, Conchas Chinas is slightly more secluded and removed from Puerto Vallarta. With its picturesque views of the Sierra Madre and coastline, this is a popular place to stay for couples and newlyweds, as well as singles who enjoy the natural beauty of the area. You can be sure that the waters and beaches are clean here, as it is a certified “Blue Flag” beach, which means that it is protected and maintained in a sustainable way. Enjoy the tide pools on the rocky formations of the beach, or try snorkeling or diving in the clear blue waters.
This area is the best place to stay for its exclusive resorts, such as the Villa Divina Luxury Boutique, the Grand Miramar or the Hotel Mondavi. Pamper yourself in deluxe amenities, and you might never want to leave.
Hotels in Conchas Chinas
Boca de Tomatlán
Boca de Tomatlán is a fantastic place to stay for tourists who want to avoid the typical crowds of Puerto Vallarta, whilst experiencing equally stunning scenery. Located 11 miles south of downtown Puerto Vallarta, Boca de Tomatlán is a peaceful fishing village that really provides the authentic Mexican experience!
Here, you can find very budget-friendly hotels, as well as more luxury options with panoramic coastal views. Boca de Tomatlán also boasts some authentic local restaurants with very friendly locals making you feel at home. And if you want to take a trip to downtown Puerto Vallarta, you are a very short local bus or Uber ride away. Boca de Tomatlán is perfect for relaxing and admiring the tranquility of Jalisco’s coastline. However, there are more things to do here. You can participate in diving or snorkeling, visit the local botanical gardens and choose from some great local boat tours.
Hotels in Boca de Tomatlán
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