I have spent a lot of time exploring every corner of Puerto Vallarta, but there is one neighborhood that always feels like a deep breath of fresh air. Amapas is like the quiet, sophisticated older sister of the Zona Romántica. It is just a few minutes away from the hustle and bustle, but it feels like a total world apart. If you are looking for a place where you can hear the birds chirping instead of the late-night music, this is it!!
I LOVE staying in Amapas because you get the best of both worlds. You are perched up on the hillside with these incredible mountain views, but you can walk down to the beach in ten minutes. It is the perfect spot for couples who want a romantic escape or solo travelers like me who need a quiet home base to get some work done.
Starting Slow with a Local Brew
My perfect day in Amapas always starts with a walk downhill. I usually skip the big hotel breakfast spots and head straight for the local favorites. My absolute favorite place to grab a coffee is Bean and Brick. It is super modern and the espresso is just AMAZING. It is a great spot to sit with a laptop for an hour and clear out some emails before the sun gets too hot.
If I’m feeling like a beach walk, I’ll head over to Dee’s Coffee Company right by the pier. Their baked goods are sooooo good. Grabbing a cinnamon roll and walking along the water is my version of heaven. If you are planning your trip, you should definitely check out our post on Solo Sunday: My Slow Morning in the Romantic Zone for more morning inspiration.
Beach Vibes and Barefoot Luxury
After coffee, it is straight to the sand. Amapas beach is a little more secluded than the main Los Muertos stretch, which I highly recommend if you want to avoid the crowds. You can tuck yourself into a little cove and just listen to the waves. It is so peaceful.
When people ask me for the best rentals in puerto vallarta, I always point them toward this area. You aren't stuck in a massive, cold hotel. Instead, you get a cozy, authentic feel. If you are looking for a spot that feels like a real home, Casa Vizcarra 1 is right in the heart of the action but keeps that quiet Amapas vibe. It is perfect for a couple who wants to be close to the beach but values their privacy.
The Best Lunch is at a Taco Stand
You cannot visit this part of town without hitting a local taco stand for lunch. Forget the fancy linen tablecloths for a second. The real magic happens on the street corner. I usually look for the stand with the biggest stack of al pastor meat and a line of locals.
The flavors are so bright and spicy. I LOVE the combination of the hot meat with the fresh pineapple and a squeeze of lime. It is cheap, fast, and the most authentic meal you will have all day. I always share my latest taco finds on our Instagram, so make sure you follow us there to see where we are eating this week!!
Afternoon Productivity and Stunning Views
By the afternoon, the heat usually kicks in, and I head back up to the condo. This is when the digital nomad life really shines. Having a dedicated space to work with a view of the mountains makes "the office" feel like a vacation. I spent a lot of time looking for the right puerto vallarta rental condos before I realized that Amapas is the gold standard for remote work.
If you are a solo traveler looking for the best spots to stay, I wrote a whole guide on Solo Travel Secrets: The Best Neighborhoods for Puerto Vallarta Condos for Rent by Owner. It breaks down why we love this area so much. For a truly comfortable stay, Casa Vizcarra 2 is another one of my top picks. The natural light in that place is just incredible, and it makes working through the afternoon feel like a breeze.
Winding Down in Paradise
As the day cools off, I usually just sit on the balcony at The PVGirl properties and watch the sky change colors. We don't need fancy rooftops or crowded pools to enjoy the evening. Just a cold drink, a good book, and the sound of the jungle meeting the ocean.
Amapas is special because it doesn't try too hard. It is just a beautiful, lush neighborhood that lets you experience the real Puerto Vallarta at your own pace. Whether you are here for a week or a month, I cannot recommend this area enough. It is the quiet side of paradise that you have been looking for.
Highly recommended for anyone who wants to see the authentic side of our beautiful city!!
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