There is something about Sunday mornings in Puerto Vallarta that just hits differently.
The city feels like it’s taking one giant, collective deep breath.
I’ve lived here and visited here for years, and I’ve learned that if you want to find the real magic, you have to wake up before the rest of the world does.
Today was one of those perfect mornings.
I woke up at sunrise, made a quick coffee, and decided I needed some serious solo time.
Being a solo traveler in PV is one of my favorite things because you can move at your own pace.
No schedules. No compromising. Just me and the ocean.
After my Saturday Serenity: My Solo Morning Yoga on the Malecón, my muscles felt amazing, but my soul wanted a bit more seclusion.
So, I headed south.
Leaving the Zona Romántica Behind
I started my walk in the heart of the Zona Romántica.
Most people stop when they hit the end of Los Muertos Beach, right near the famous El Púlpito rock formation.
But if you keep going, that’s where the real adventure starts.
There’s a small set of stone stairs tucked away at the very end of the beach.
If you aren't looking for them, you’ll miss them entirely.
I climbed up the steps, feeling the humidity start to rise, and followed the winding path that hugs the cliffside.
The views from up there are UNREAL.
You can look back and see the entire Bay of Banderas and the Los Muertos Pier.
But I wasn't looking back today. I was looking for Playa Amapas.
Finding My Hidden Gem
Playa Amapas is what I call a "semi-hidden" gem.
It’s not a secret, but it’s just hard enough to get to that most people don’t bother.
That makes it perfect for a quiet Sunday morning.
The path takes you up over the rocks and then back down a slightly steep, rocky slope.
I wore my sturdy sandals, which I SOOO recommend because the rocks can be slippery.
As I descended, the sounds of the city faded away.
No more music from the beach clubs. No more vendors.
Just the sound of the waves hitting the shore and the rustle of the massive Amapas trees.
These trees are incredible. They are huge and provide this deep, cool shade that covers half the beach in the morning.
I found a spot under one of them, spread out my towel, and just sat there.
The sand here is a beautiful golden-amber color, and it’s much coarser than the sand further north.
It feels grounding.
The Peace of Solo Exploration
I spent about two hours at Playa Amapas today, and for most of that time, I was the only person there.
If you are a solo traveler looking for a place to think, write, or just be, this is it.
The water was crystal clear this morning, a perfect turquoise.
I actually saw a school of bright yellow tropical fish swimming right near the rocks without even putting on a mask.
The waves were mild today, which made it great for a quick dip to cool off.
Just a heads up: there are no lifeguards or bathrooms here.
It is 100% natural and rugged.
That’s exactly why I LOVE it.
It reminds me of my walk the other day, which I wrote about in Morning Calm: My Solo Beach Walk to Conchas Chinas.
But while Conchas Chinas is stunning, Amapas feels more intimate.
It’s like having your own private cove.
Why I Stay Nearby
When I’m doing these solo trips, I always want to be close enough to the action but far enough away to sleep in peace.
That’s why staying at a puerto vallarta condo rentals like Casa CC is such a game changer.
You’re literally steps away from the trailheads and the beach, but you have a quiet sanctuary to come back to.
If you prefer something tucked a bit further into the hillside with amazing views, checking out a condo rentals in puerto vallarta like Hummingbird is a great move.
Both spots make it so easy to roll out of bed and be on a hidden beach within 15 minutes.
It makes the whole "solo escape" vibe so much more seamless.
Sunday Morning Reflections
As I sat on the sand, I started thinking about why I love this specific spot so much.
In a world that is always "on," especially in a vibrant city like PV, having a place that is "off" is essential.
Playa Amapas doesn't ask anything of you.
It’s just there.
The rocks, the trees, and the ocean.
I took a few photos for our Instagram, but mostly I just kept my phone in my bag.
I watched a pelican dive for breakfast.
I listened to the tide come in.
I felt the sun get warmer on my skin as it cleared the jungle-covered mountains behind me.
It was absolute stillness.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
If you’re planning to head to Playa Amapas on your next solo trip, here’s what I’ve learned:
- Go early. By 11:00 AM, a few more people start to trickle in. If you want that "private island" feeling, get there by 8:00 AM or 9:00 AM.
- Pack light but smart. Bring water and maybe a piece of fruit. Remember, there are no shops or vendors here. Whatever you bring in, please bring out!
- Wear the right shoes. Flip-flops are okay, but something with a strap is better for the rocky parts of the path.
- Bring a book. This is the ultimate reading beach. No distractions.
The walk back is just as beautiful.
Climbing back over the El Púlpito ridge gives you a different perspective on the town.
You see the red-tiled roofs and the lush green mountains meeting the blue water.
It makes me so grateful to call this place home for a while.
Wrapping Up the Morning
By the time I walked back into the Zona Romántica, the city was starting to wake up.
Brunch spots were filling up, and people were heading to the main beaches with their umbrellas and coolers.
I just smiled to myself.
I had already had my adventure.
I had already found my stillness.
If you’re coming to Puerto Vallarta and you need a break from the crowds, I HIGHLY recommend taking that walk to Amapas.
It’s easy, it’s free, and it’s beautiful.
It’s the best way to spend a Sunday morning.
Go find your own little corner of paradise.
You won’t regret it!
Stay relaxed,
Jeff (the pvkid)
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