We have lived in Puerto Vallarta for years, and if there is one thing we LOVE, it is the quiet magic of the Amapas hillside. When people ask us for the best neighborhoods to stay in Puerto Vallarta, we always point them toward the hills. It is the perfect place for couples who want to slow down and just breathe.
Amapas is where the jungle of the Sierra Madre mountains meets the deep blue ocean. It is peaceful. It is quiet. It is BEAUTIFUL. If you are looking for puerto vallarta condo rentals that feel like a private escape, this is it. You get the best of both worlds because you are so close to the energy of town but far enough away to hear the birds instead of the traffic.
We want to share our guide to slow living in this amazing neighborhood. It is all about morning coffee on the balcony, hidden coastal walks, and finding the best local spots that most tourists miss!
Why We Love the Amapas Vibe
Amapas is like the quiet neighbor of the Zona Romántica. You get all the perks of being near the action without any of the noise. We think it is the most romantic spot for couples. You can spend your morning watching the sunlight hit the mountains and your afternoon wandering down to the sand.
The hills are steep, which means the views are UNREAL. You can see the whole bay from up here. It is one of our favorite things about living here. If you are a puerto vallarta digital nomad, the peace and quiet make it so easy to get your work done before heading out for a taco.
Your Slow Morning Routine
Morning time in Amapas is SOOO special. We recommend waking up early to enjoy the cool mountain breeze. There is something so calming about sitting outside with a fresh cup of Mexican coffee. You can hear the jungle waking up around you. It is the ultimate slow living experience.
Most of our Puerto Vallarta condos for rent by owner have huge windows and private balconies. We designed them this way because the view is the best part of staying here! You don't need a TV when you have the Sierra Madre and the ocean right in front of you.
After coffee, we love to take a slow walk. You can head downhill toward the beach or uphill into the trees. If you are looking for a place to stay that feels this peaceful, you should definitely check out Casa Mi Sueño. It is one of our favorite spots for couples who want that perfect mix of jungle and sea.
Walking the Coastal Path to Conchas Chinas
One of the best things to do in Amapas is the coastal walk. You don't need a car or a bus. You just start walking south from the end of Los Muertos beach. The path winds along the rocks and hidden coves.
This is where you find the tiny, quiet beaches. They are much calmer than the main beach in town. We love to bring a towel and a book and just hang out for a few hours. It feels like you have your own private paradise.
The water here is crystal clear. It is perfect for a quick swim. If you are staying in zona romantica puerto vallarta rentals, you are only a short walk away from this hidden gem. It is one of those local secrets that makes Puerto Vallarta so special.
Hiking the Sierra Madre Trails
If you want a bit more adventure, the Sierra Madre trails are right at your doorstep. We highly recommend taking a morning hike into the foothills. The trails are lush and green, especially during the summer.
You will see tropical plants, colorful birds, and maybe even a few local dogs who like to lead the way! It is a great way to move your body and see a different side of Puerto Vallarta. We love how the air feels cooler and fresher once you get under the canopy of the trees.
Just remember to bring water and wear good shoes. The hills can be a bit of a workout, but the views from the top are AMAZING. It is the best way to connect with nature without having to travel far from your rental.
Dining Like a Local
Slow living also means eating well! While we love a fancy dinner, some of the best food is found at the local stands. We always tell our guests to look for the colorful taco stands in the nearby neighborhoods.
You can find the most delicious al pastor or fish tacos just a short walk or taxi ride away. It is fresh, it is authentic, and it supports our local community. We think it is the best way to experience the real soul of Puerto Vallarta.
If you want to know more about where to stay to be near the best food, you can read our post on which Puerto Vallarta neighborhood is best for your condo rental. We break down all the different vibes so you can find your perfect match.
A Haven for Digital Nomads
If you are working while you travel, Amapas is a dream. We have many friends who are digital nomads, and they all love this area. Why? Because it is quiet enough to focus but close enough to the coffee shops when you need a change of scenery.
Working from a balcony overlooking the ocean is the ultimate "office" goal. We make sure our rentals have great wifi so you can stay connected while enjoying the slow life. You can work for a few hours, then take a break to jump in the ocean or go for a jungle walk.
For more tips on working remotely here, check out our digital nomad's guide to monthly rentals. It has everything you need to know about setting up your remote life in paradise.
Staying at Hummingbird
Another one of our top picks for a slow-living escape is Hummingbird. This property is so special. It is tucked away and offers that cozy, intimate feeling that couples LOVE.
The views of the mountains and the city are just incredible. You can spend your whole day just relaxing on the balcony and watching the world go by. It is clean, modern, and feels very much like a home away from home. We really put our hearts into making these spaces comfortable for our guests.
Our Final Recommendation
We think everyone should experience the "slow living" side of Puerto Vallarta at least once. Amapas is the perfect place to do it. It is quiet, it is beautiful, and it feels like a true escape from the busy world.
If you are planning a trip for two, we highly recommend staying on the hillside. You will get to see the stars at night, hear the jungle in the morning, and enjoy the best views in the city. It is an experience you will never forget!
Don't forget to follow us on X (Twitter) for more local tips and beautiful photos of our favorite spots around town. We can't wait to welcome you to our family-owned rentals and help you discover the magic of the Sierra Madre!
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