I've spent years helping guests choose the perfect vacation rental in Puerto Vallarta, and the most common question I get is about views. Should you go for that dreamy oceanfront balcony or the stunning mountain backdrop?
After managing dozens of properties with both types of views, I can tell you there's no wrong choice. But there's definitely a right choice for YOU.
The Magic of Ocean Views
There's something absolutely mesmerizing about waking up to endless blue water every morning. When you stay in one of our beachfront apartments for rent in puerto vallarta, you're getting front-row seats to nature's daily show.
The sound of waves becomes your natural white noise machine. I've had guests tell me they sleep better here than they have in years! You can literally roll out of bed, grab your coffee, and watch fishing boats heading out for their morning catch.
Beach views give you instant access to Puerto Vallarta's famous sunsets. Every evening becomes a celebration as the sky turns into this incredible canvas of oranges, pinks, and purples. And trust me, you'll never get tired of it.
The practical benefits are huge too. Beach access means you can pop down for a quick swim whenever you want. No packing beach bags or planning transportation. Just grab your towel and go.
For remote workers, ocean views provide the perfect backdrop for video calls. Your colleagues will be SO jealous when they see that sparkling bay behind you during meetings!
Mountain Views: Your Gateway to Authentic Mexico
Now, mountain views offer something completely different but equally magical. When you choose one of our mountain-facing properties, you're getting an intimate look at the REAL Puerto Vallarta.
The Sierra Madre mountains create this incredible green wall of jungle that changes throughout the day. Morning mist rolls through the valleys, afternoon clouds play peek-a-boo with the peaks, and evening light turns everything golden.
You'll see local life unfold below you. Kids playing in neighborhood streets, families gathering for dinner, the rhythm of daily Mexican life. It's this authentic experience you just can't get from beach-only properties.
The views are incredibly dynamic too. During rainy season, you'll watch dramatic storms move across the mountains. In dry season, the clear air reveals layers and layers of ridges stretching to the horizon.
Consider Your Daily Rhythm
Think about how you actually spend your vacation days. Are you someone who wants to wake up and immediately see water? Or do you prefer a more gradual transition from indoor comfort to beach time?
Ocean view properties work best if you're planning to spend most of your time around the water anyway. You can monitor surf conditions, watch for dolphins, and time your beach visits perfectly.
Mountain views are amazing for people who love changing scenery. You get the lush, tropical backdrop for your morning coffee, then you can head down to the beach when you're ready for sun and surf.
Remote Work Considerations
If you're working remotely during your stay, both views have distinct advantages. Ocean views provide that dreamy backdrop for video calls, but they can also be distracting. Some guests find themselves staring at boats instead of focusing on spreadsheets!
Mountain views tend to be less distracting during work hours but equally inspiring. The green, tropical scenery creates a calming environment that many find boosts creativity and focus.
Lighting is important too. Ocean-facing units often get more intense afternoon sun, which can create glare on laptop screens. Mountain-facing properties typically have softer, more filtered light throughout the day.
The Best of Both Worlds
Here's what I love about many of our rental properties: you don't always have to choose! Several of our condos offer both ocean and mountain views from different rooms or angles.
Properties in Zona Romántica often give you ocean views from the living area and mountain glimpses from bedrooms. Some of our higher-floor units provide panoramic vistas that include both bay and sierra.
Making Your Decision
For beach lovers and sun worshippers, ocean views are usually the way to go. You want to maximize your water time and fall asleep to wave sounds.
If you're more interested in culture, hiking, and experiencing local life, mountain views connect you more deeply with Puerto Vallarta's Mexican character.
Couples often love ocean views for romance and relaxation. Families frequently prefer mountain views because kids enjoy watching neighborhood activity and there's less temptation to spend every minute at the beach.
First-time visitors to Puerto Vallarta sometimes think they HAVE to choose ocean views. But honestly, some of my favorite vacation properties have mountain views that showcase the destination's incredible natural beauty in a completely different way.
Practical Tips from Experience
Ocean view properties typically cost 15-20% more than similar mountain view units. If budget matters, mountain views give you incredible value.
Consider the season too. During summer rainy months, mountain views become even more dramatic with clouds and mist. Dry winter months make ocean views especially crystal clear.
Think about photography too. Ocean views give you those classic vacation shots. Mountain views provide more unique, artistic backdrops that really capture Puerto Vallarta's character.
For longer stays (monthly or more), I often recommend mountain views. The changing light and weather keep the scenery interesting week after week.
My Personal Recommendation
After years of experiencing both, I honestly think you can't go wrong either way. But if I had to choose for a first Puerto Vallarta visit, I'd lean slightly toward ocean views. There's something magical about that connection to the water that defines this destination.
However, for repeat visitors or anyone wanting a more authentic Mexican experience, mountain views offer incredible depth and character.
The truth is, Puerto Vallarta's natural beauty is so stunning that whether you're looking at sparkling bay water or misty mountain peaks, you're going to have views that create lasting memories.
Whatever you choose, make sure to spend time enjoying BOTH perspectives during your stay. Head up to the malecón for sunset ocean views, or visit one of the mountain lookouts for panoramic vistas that include everything.
Your perfect Puerto Vallarta view is waiting – whether it's endless blue water or lush green mountains!
About the Author