I have spent years exploring every corner of this beautiful city. But there is something truly special about Amapas. It is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Puerto Vallarta if you want to feel like you actually live here. It is not just about the views or the proximity to the beach. It is about the rhythm of the day.
When we first started hosting guests at The PVGirl, we wanted to share this specific feeling. It is the feeling of waking up to birdsong instead of traffic. It is the smell of salt air mixed with blooming jasmine. Amapas gives you all of that while being just a short stroll from the energy of the Zona Romántica.
The Charm of the Cobblestones
The first thing you notice in Amapas is the texture. The streets are made of hand-laid cobblestones that have been there for decades. They are beautiful but they definitely give your legs a workout! I always tell our guests to pack comfortable sandals.
Walking these streets feels like stepping back in time. You see white-walled villas with red tile roofs. Giant bursts of magenta bougainvillea spill over every wall. It is incredibly photogenic and feels so authentically Mexican.
Living Among Neighbors, Not Just Tourists
Amapas is a real residential neighborhood. When you stay here, you aren't just in a hotel zone. You are part of a community. I love watching the daily life unfold. You might see a neighbor hanging laundry on their balcony or hear a distant rooster in the morning.
We think of our neighborhood as "away from the city, but still in the city." It is the perfect balance for couples or solo travelers who want peace. You can spend your morning working remotely on a balcony and then walk five blocks to find a bustling taco stand.
If you are planning an epic solo trip to Mexico, this area provides the security and serenity you need. You get to know the shopkeepers at the local tiendas and the taxi drivers who know every curve of the hill.
Finding Your Perfect Home Base
We take great pride in our family-owned rentals here. We were born and raised in Puerto Vallarta, so we know these buildings inside and out.
If you are looking for condos for rent in puerto vallarta, you have to see Casa Mi Sueño. It is a gorgeous one-bedroom apartment that sleeps two. The views of the bay and the mountains are absolutely stunning. It is tucked away in the hills but only four blocks from Los Muertos Beach. It is the ultimate romantic escape for couples who want to feel at home.
For those who prefer a modern studio vibe, The Nest is an incredible choice. These are some of the most comfortable puerto vallarta apartments you will find. It is a spacious studio surrounded by nature. I LOVE the chair swing on the balcony. It is the best spot to sip your morning coffee and look out over the bay.
Both of these spots are perfect for digital nomads too. We make sure the WiFi is high-speed and the atmosphere is quiet enough for focus. I have written many of these blog posts while sitting on those very balconies!
A Day in the Life of a Local
My favorite way to start the day in Amapas is early. The air is cool and the light is soft. I walk down toward Old Town to grab a coffee. There is a local produce market nearby where I pick up fresh mangoes and papayas.
After a few hours of work, I head down to Playa Amapas. This beach is much quieter than the main stretch of Los Muertos. It is tucked between rocks and jungle. It is so serene and perfect for a mid-day swim.
When you choose to rent apartments experience rather than stay in a big resort, your whole vacation changes. You start to notice the small details. You notice the way the light hits the cathedral in the distance. You notice the friendly "Buenos días" from the person sweeping their front step.
Getting Around the Hills
One thing you should know about Amapas is that it is hilly! This is how you get those amazing panoramic views. Walking down to the Zona Romántica is a breeze. Walking back up can be a bit of a challenge in the afternoon heat.
But honestly, that is part of the fun. It keeps the neighborhood quiet because there isn't a lot of through traffic. If I am carrying heavy groceries, I just hop in a quick taxi or Uber. It is very affordable and takes less than five minutes.
Why We Love Amapas
We chose to have our premier condos here for a reason. Amapas represents the heart of what we do at The PVGirl. We want to give you an authentic experience. We want you to see the real Puerto Vallarta, not just the tourist version.
Whether you are here for a week or a month, living in Amapas makes you feel like you belong. You get the beauty of the Sierra Madre mountains behind you and the vast Banderas Bay in front of you.
If you are looking for a place that feels like a home instead of a hotel, Amapas is for you. We highly recommend exploring these winding streets and finding your own favorite hidden corner. It is truly the soul of the city.
Follow us for more local tips on Facebook and X. We can't wait to see you here!
Amapas is waiting for you. It is time to live like a local.
About the Author
