We’ve lived in Puerto Vallarta for a long time. We’ve seen the city change, grow, and evolve. But some things never change. The heart of this place is still about family, community, and the incredible nature surrounding us.
When you visit, you have a choice. You can stay in a massive, cold hotel. Or you can choose a local experience. We always tell our friends to stay local. Amapas is one of those neighborhoods where you can actually feel the soul of the city.
It is tucked away just south of the busy Zona Romántica. It is quiet. It is green. And it is perfectly positioned for anyone who wants to support local businesses while enjoying a piece of paradise. If you are a solo traveller or a couple looking for something real, this is it.
The Vibe of the Hillside
Amapas is unique. It sits right on the hills where the Sierra Madre mountains meet the ocean. We love the "jungle vibe" here. You wake up to the sound of tropical birds. Sometimes you might even hear a distant rooster. It feels like a real neighborhood because it is one.
The streets are narrow and winding. The buildings are colorful and full of character. You won't find sterile skyscrapers here. Instead, you get low-rise gems that blend into the lush greenery.
Walking down from Amapas into town is one of our favorite things to do. The views of Banderas Bay are incredible. You see the blue water peeking through the palm trees. It is peaceful. It is romantic. It is exactly what you need to clear your head.
A Digital Nomad’s Tropical Office
If you are working remotely, Amapas is a dream. We know because we see nomads here all the time. Many of our guests are digital nomads. They need two things: fast Wi-Fi and a view that doesn't suck.
Imagine starting your morning on a balcony. You have your coffee. You have your laptop. You are looking at the ocean. The air is warm but fresh. It is much better than a cubicle! We make sure our family owned vacation rentals Puerto Vallarta are set up for this lifestyle.
We focus on making our spaces comfortable for long stays. You get the privacy you need to focus. Then, when the workday is done, you are just a short walk from the beach. It is the ultimate work-life balance. We’ve written about this before in our post on Solo Travel Secrets.
Supporting the Local Economy
When you stay in Amapas, you are supporting local families. This neighborhood isn't dominated by international chains. It is filled with small, family-run shops and restaurants.
We are a family-run business ourselves. We were born and raised here. When you stay with us, your support stays right here in the community. We use local cleaners, local handymen, and we shop at the local markets.
Staying local means you get better service too. We greet our guests personally. We share our "insider" knowledge. We tell you where the best taco stands are. We tell you which tours are actually worth your time. You don't get that at a big resort.
Tacos, Cafés, and Real Food
Speaking of food, Amapas is perfectly located for foodies. You can walk down the hill and be in the middle of some of the best eating in Mexico. We always tell people to follow the locals. If a taco stand is crowded at 8:00 PM, that’s where you want to be.
Don't be afraid to try the smaller spots. The "menu del día" at a local fonda is often the best meal you’ll have all week. And it is a great way to support a family business. We LOVE the small coffee shops in the area too. They are great for a mid-day break or a quick laptop session.
For a deeper dive into the local vibe, check out our thoughts on Art, Culture, and Cobblestones. It captures that special feeling of Old Town that spills right over into Amapas.
Romantic Walks and Secluded Beaches
Amapas is amazing for couples. It is so romantic to just walk. There is a "secret" path that leads from the bottom of Amapas toward Conchas Chinas. You walk along the edge of the ocean. You pass rocky tide pools and tiny hidden beaches.
It is quiet and intimate. You can find a spot to sit and just watch the waves. It feels like you have the whole ocean to yourself. This is why we think Amapas offers the best puerto vallarta condo rentals for couples. You get the luxury of a modern space with the soul of old Mexico.
Practical Living Tips
We want your stay to be perfect. So here are a few tips for living like a local in Amapas:
- Wear good shoes. The hills and cobblestones are no joke. Leave the high heels at home!
- Use Uber for the trip back. Walking down is easy and fun. Walking back up after a big dinner? Not so much. Ubers are cheap and easy.
- Shop at the tiendas. There are small neighborhood stores everywhere. Get your water, snacks, and fresh fruit there.
- Be respectful. Remember, this is a residential neighborhood. People live and work here. A smile and a "Buenos días" go a long way.
Why We Do What We Do
We love Puerto Vallarta. It is our home. We want you to love it as much as we do. By staying in a neighborhood like Amapas and choosing a family-run rental, you are experiencing the real Vallarta.
You aren't just a room number to us. You are a guest in our neighborhood. We want you to see the colorful streets, taste the spicy salsas, and feel the warmth of our community.
If you want an authentic, peaceful, and productive stay, Amapas is highly recommended! Come see why we think it is the best place to call home, even if it's just for a week or two.
Follow us on Instagram to see more of our daily life in PV and get more local tips!
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