I’ve lived in Puerto Vallarta for years, and people always ask me where the "real" vibe is. They want the convenience of the beach but the quiet of a local neighborhood. For me, that place has always been Amapas. It is tucked right behind the South Side (which we also call Old Town). It’s where the jungle meets the ocean, and the rhythm of life slows down just enough to notice the small things.
When we first started hosting guests in our family owned vacation rentals Puerto Vallarta, we knew Amapas was special. It’s perfect for couples who want romance and digital nomads who need to actually get things done. You aren't just a tourist here. You become part of the hillside. You learn which stairs lead to the best views and which neighbor’s bougainvillea is blooming the brightest this week.
The Slow Morning Routine
My mornings in Amapas usually start with a cup of local coffee and the sound of tropical birds. There is something about being elevated above the city that changes your perspective. You see the bay stretching out in front of you, but you also see the thick green canopy of the Sierra Madre mountains behind you. It is a dual world.
If you are a solo traveler or a couple, this quiet is gold. You can sit on your balcony and plan your day without the noise of the main drag. I love watching the city wake up from here. You see the fishing boats heading out and the first few people walking along the coast. It’s peaceful. It’s the kind of morning that makes you want to stay forever.
Getting to Work: The Nomad Life
As someone who works remotely quite a bit, I know the struggle of finding a good spot. But honestly? The best office is usually right in your rental. Most of our properties, like The PVGirl, are equipped with high-speed fiber internet. I’ve spent many afternoons sitting at a desk with a view of the ocean, knocking out emails while a warm breeze drifts through the room.
If I need a change of scenery, I just walk down the hill. There are so many great cafes in the nearby streets. Places like El Sofa Cafe or Miscelánea are just a short walk away. You get that "work-from-anywhere" feeling without feeling like you're stuck in a sterile office. The mix of local families and other nomads makes for a really cool, productive energy. It’s why I wrote about The Art of Slow Living, because in Amapas, work doesn't feel like a chore.
The "Amapas Workout"
Let’s talk about the hills. Amapas is famous for them. Some people might find the stairs intimidating, but I see them as a free gym pass! Walking up and down the hillside keeps you fit and gives you the best glute workout of your life. Plus, every time you stop to catch your breath, you get a new angle of the bay that you didn't see before.
For couples, these walks are actually really romantic. You’re wandering through narrow, winding streets lined with colorful villas and lush jungle plants. It feels like a secret world. And when you finally reach the bottom? You’re right at the edge of the beach. You can walk along the rocks toward Conchas Chinas or head into the heart of Old Town for a bite to eat.
Chasing Flavors: Taco Stands and Local Eats
One of the best parts about staying in family owned vacation rentals Puerto Vallarta is that you are close to the most authentic food. While the high-end restaurants on the hill are great for a fancy night out, the real heart of the food scene is down the hill.
I have a few favorite taco stands where the salsa is always fresh and the tortillas are handmade. You see the locals lining up, and that’s how you know it’s good. There’s a specific spot near the highway where they do incredible tacos al pastor. I highly recommend grabbing a few and heading back up to your balcony. It’s a million-dollar meal for a few bucks.
Nature is Your Neighbor
Living in Amapas means you are literally steps away from the Sierra Madre. If you enjoy hiking, you don't even need a car. There are trails that wind up into the jungle right from the neighborhood. You can find yourself surrounded by giant palms and hidden streams in minutes. It is a complete escape from the urban hustle.
I often take a morning hike just to clear my head. The air is cooler up there, and the views of the coastline are SPECTACULAR. You get to see how the mountains hug the bay. It’s a reminder of why we love this place so much. It isn't just about the beach; it’s about the raw beauty of the Mexican coast.
Why We LOVE Amapas
Amapas gives you the best of both worlds. You have the privacy and tranquility of a residential neighborhood, but you are never more than 10 minutes away from the excitement of the South Side. It is the perfect home base for a digital nomad couple or a solo adventurer looking for something more than just a hotel room.
We take huge pride in our rentals here. We aren't a big agency; we’re a family business. We greet our guests, we share our favorite secret spots, and we make sure you feel like you belong. If you want to see more of what we do, come say hi on our Facebook page!
Whether you’re here for a week or a month, Amapas will get under your skin in the best way possible. You’ll start recognizing the shopkeepers, you’ll find your favorite "office" cafe, and you’ll learn that the slow rhythm of the hills is exactly what you needed. I’ve shared more about this feeling in my post on Solo Sunday, and it’s a feeling I think everyone should experience.
Amapas is waiting for you. Come find your rhythm!
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