Accommodation Types: Puerto Vallarta

Accommodation Types

Variety of Stays

Hostels
Offer budget-friendly dorms and private rooms, often with communal spaces. They concentrate in Zona Romántica and Downtown.
Budget Hotels and Guesthouses
Simple, locally run hotels with basic amenities at affordable prices. Many present an authentic local feel.
Mid-range and Boutique Hotels
Comfortable accommodations with pools, restaurants, and stylish decor. Many boutique options are found in the Zona Romántica.
Luxury Hotels and All-Inclusive Resorts
High-end properties boast extensive amenities, predominantly located in the Hotel Zone and Marina Vallarta.

Specialized Lodging

Condo or Apart-Hotels
Offer apartment-style units with hotel services. They are popular for longer stays, with more space and kitchen facilities.
Vacation Rentals
Platforms like Airbnb and VRBO offer a wide range of options, abundant in Zona Romántica, Amapas, and Conchas Chinas.
Homestay and Community-Based Tourism
Less prevalent options, but possibilities exist through platforms like Airbnb for a cultural connection.
Camping and Outdoor Accommodation
Formal campsites directly in Puerto Vallarta are limited. Some options might be found further north in Riviera Nayarit.

Neighborhood Guide for Stays

Puerto Vallarta's neighborhoods each have a distinct character.

Zona Romántica Old Town

Highlights

Charming, historic area with a bohemian vibe.
Cobblestone streets, art galleries, diverse restaurants, bars.
Welcoming atmosphere for the LGBTQ+ community.
Very walkable. Los Muertos Beach and Pier are here.

Considerations

Can be noisy.
Some streets are steep.
Can be crowded.
Generally safe, but be aware of your surroundings late at night.

Hotel Zone Zona Hotelera

Highlights

Dominated by large all-inclusive resorts and chain hotels.
Direct beach access and extensive resort amenities.
Family-friendly, convenient for shopping at malls.
Very safe due to resort security.

Considerations

Offers less authentic Mexican feel.
Requires taxis or buses to reach Old Town or Downtown.
More modern and spread out.
Good bus routes.

Conchas Chinas and Amapas

Highlights

Upscale residential areas south of Zona Romántica.
Luxury villas, condos, and boutique hotels.
Stunning ocean views. Access to quieter, rocky beaches.
Very safe and secluded.

Considerations

Hilly, requiring walks up steep hills or taxis.
Offers less immediate access to shops and restaurants.
More tranquil than downtown.
A short taxi ride away from Zona Romántica.

Noise Levels and Ambiance

Lively Areas

Zona Romántica and Downtown can be lively and noisy, especially near bars and restaurants at night.

Quieter Retreats

Hotel Zone, Marina Vallarta, and Conchas Chinas are generally quieter and more relaxed.

Booking Strategies

Smart booking helps secure your preferred accommodation at a good price.

Advance Booking Recommendations

High Season (November to April): Book 3-6 months in advance, especially for popular resorts or specific vacation rentals.
Shoulder Season (May-June, November): Book 1-3 months in advance.
Low Season (July to October): More flexibility exists; often book a few weeks to a month out. Last-minute deals are possible.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations: Prices are significantly higher during high season, especially around holidays. They are lower during the wet season.

Trusted Booking Platforms

Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, Hotels.com for hotels and resorts.
Airbnb and VRBO are popular for vacation rentals.
Direct Booking: Many hotels offer best rates when you book directly on their official websites.
Negotiation Customs: Not common for established hotels or resorts. Slight chance for smaller guesthouses for cash payments during low season.

Deposit and Cancellation Policies

Policy Variations

Policies vary by property and booking platform. Always review the specific policy before booking.
Many options offer free cancellation up to a certain date.

Seasonal Considerations

Prices are significantly higher during high season, especially around Christmas, New Year's, Easter, and Spring Break.
Prices are lower during the wet season (July to October).

Affiliate Resources

Hotel & Resort Options

Booking.com (Global), Agoda (Asian strength), IHG Hotels (Chain hotels).

Specialty Stays

Hostelworld (Budget accommodation), Vrbo (Vacation rentals), TrustedHousesitters (House/pet sitting).

More Options

Expedia, Hotels.com (International platforms for hotels and resorts), Airbnb (Vacation rentals).

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some top picks for different needs.

Top Picks for Different Budget Levels

Budget-Friendly

Hotel Posada de Roger, Hotel Rosita.

Hostels in Zona Romántica.
Locally run guesthouses.
Simple, basic amenities.
Often social atmosphere for solo travelers.

Mid-Range and Boutique

Hotel El Pescador, Hotel Tropicana de Vallarta, Villa Mercedes Petit Hotel.

Comfortable rooms with additional amenities.
Boutique options offering charm and character.
Often include pools and restaurants.
Good access to dining and nightlife.

Family-Friendly and Solo Travel Options

Family-Friendly Options

Many all-inclusive resorts in the Hotel Zone (Velas Vallarta, Now Amber Puerto Vallarta) offer kids' clubs, multiple pools, and family amenities.

Vacation rentals with multiple bedrooms and kitchens.
Direct beach access.
Safe resort environments.
Wide range of activities.

Solo Traveler Recommendations

Hostels in Zona Romántica offer social opportunities. Boutique hotels in Zona Romántica provide good access to dining and nightlife.

Communal spaces for meeting others.
Central locations for exploration.
Walkable access to attractions.
Varied dining experiences.

Long-Stay Accommodations

Apartment or condo rentals
Via Airbnb or VRBO are ideal for stays of a month or more.
Monthly Discounts
Many properties offer discounts for monthly stays.
Extended-Stay Rates
Some hotels have extended-stay rates or suites with kitchenettes.
Home-Away-From-Home
Provides a home-away-from-home feel with full kitchens.

Properties with Cultural or Historical Significance

Hacienda San Angel
A luxurious boutique hotel, formerly owned by Richard Burton. It offers stunning views and historical charm.
Casa Kimberley
Elizabeth Taylor's former home, now a boutique hotel. Provides a glimpse into Hollywood history.
Unique Architectural Details
These properties offer unique architectural details.
Immersive Historical Experience
They provide an immersive historical experience.

More Accommodation Picks

Luxury Resorts

Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa, Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta, Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa, The Hacienda at Hilton Puerto Vallarta.

Boast extensive amenities and pampered vacation experiences.
Predominantly located in the Hotel Zone and Marina Vallarta.
Often all-inclusive packages.
Ideal for high-end stays.

Boutique and Unique Stays

Hotel Playa Conchas Chinas (mid-range with stunning views), Hotel Rosita (budget with historical charm).

Smaller, character-rich options.
Offer a more personalized experience.
Blend local charm with comfort.
Often in walkable, neighborhoods.

Strategic Booking Tips

Early Booking

Secure popular accommodations during high season by booking several months ahead.

Flexible Travel

Consider shoulder or low season for better availability and potentially lower rates.

Read Reviews

Check recent reviews on booking platforms to ensure quality and suitability.

Accommodation Types