I absolutely LOVE Amapas! If you are looking for that perfect mix of "jungle vibes" and being just a few steps away from the action, this is your spot. I’ve spent so much time exploring these hills, and I can tell you honestly, it is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Puerto Vallarta.
It’s where the Sierra Madre mountains literally touch the ocean. You get these incredible, lush green views every single morning, and the air just feels fresher up here. But the best part? You are right next door to all the fun of the Romantic Zone/Old Town.
What Makes Amapas So Special?
Amapas is like the quiet, sophisticated sister of Old Town. While the main streets of the Romantic Zone are buzzing with music, street food, and crowds, Amapas sits just slightly above it all. It’s residential, peaceful, and incredibly green.
I always tell people that if they want a local, authentic experience without the constant noise of the bars, they should look at rentals in puerto vallarta specifically in this area. You get to wake up to the sound of tropical birds instead of garbage trucks, and that makes a HUGE difference in your vacation vibe!
The architecture here is also beautiful. You’ll see a lot of traditional white-washed walls and red-tiled roofs tucked into the cliffs. It feels very "Classic Mexico," but many of the buildings have been updated with modern interiors that are perfect for a comfortable stay.
The Hillside Lifestyle (And the Workout!)
Okay, let’s be real for a second: Amapas is on a hill. A big one! When you stay here, you’re going to get your steps in. I personally love the exercise because it means I can eat an extra taco (or three) for dinner without feeling guilty.
The streets are made of traditional cobblestones, which look AMAZING but can be a bit of a challenge in flip-flops. My advice? Wear sturdy sandals if you’re planning to walk down to the beach.
If you are a puerto vallarta digital nomad, this neighborhood is a dream. You can set up your laptop on a balcony with a view of the entire bay, get your work done in total peace, and then walk five minutes down the hill for a happy hour drink. I also love sharing helpful reads like The Solo Digital Nomad’s Guide to Puerto Vallarta Rentals by Owner because this area makes romantic getaways feel so easy.
Beaches: From Busy to Secret
One of my favorite things about Amapas is how close you are to the sand. At the bottom of the hill, you have the famous Los Muertos Beach. This is the heart of the city’s beach scene: full of energy, beach clubs, and the iconic pier.
But if you want something a bit more private, you have to try the "secret" Amapas beach. There is a little coastal path that starts at the south end of Los Muertos. You walk over a few rocks and through some trees, and suddenly you’re in these tiny, beautiful coves with clear water.
It’s much quieter than the main beach and feels like a total hidden gem. I highly recommend bringing a towel and a good book and spending the whole afternoon there. It’s sooooo relaxing!
Where to Stay in Amapas
Because Amapas is so popular, there are some great options for condo and apartment rentals puerto vallarta. Since it’s a residential area, most of the properties are Puerto Vallarta condos for rent by owner, which means you get that personal touch and local knowledge that big hotels just can't offer.
If you want to be right in the middle of it all, I always suggest checking out zona romantica puerto vallarta rentals. It’s a fantastic spot for anyone who wants easy access to both the beach and the best restaurants in town. It’s super comfortable and has everything you need for a solo trip or a couple's getaway.
For those who really want to embrace the mountain views and that peaceful hillside vibe, rental properties in puerto vallarta is just spectacular. The views from here will literally take your breath away every time you look out the window. It’s the kind of place where you just want to sit on the balcony all day and watch the boats go by in the bay.
Dining and Nightlife Nearby
Even though Amapas itself is quiet, you are literally a 5 to 10-minute walk from the best food in the city. I love heading down to Basilio Badillo (known as "Restaurant Row") for dinner. You can find everything from high-end Mexican cuisine to the best street tacos you’ve ever had.
Since we treat Zona Romántica and Old Town as the same area, you’ll find that everything is very walkable. You can wander the streets, browse the local art galleries, and then head back up to your quiet retreat in Amapas when you’re ready to recharge. If you want more ideas on why this style of stay works so well, read Why Zona Romantica Puerto Vallarta Rentals are the Perfect Escape for Couples.
A Few Insider Tips for Your Stay
- Taxis and Ubers: If you’re not in the mood for the uphill walk back home after a big dinner, don’t worry! Taxis and Ubers are everywhere and very easy to use. It’s a short, cheap ride from the center of Old Town back up to the Amapas hills.
- Groceries: There are several small "tiendas" in the neighborhood for basics, but for a bigger shop, you’re just a quick trip away from the larger markets in town.
- Safety: I always feel very safe walking in Amapas. It’s a friendly community where neighbors look out for each other.
Why I Recommend Amapas
If you want a vacation that feels like a real escape but still keeps you close to the heartbeat of the city, Amapas is the winner. It offers the best of both worlds: the beauty of the Sierra Madre mountains and the convenience of being near the beach.
I’ve stayed in many different parts of Puerto Vallarta over the years, but I keep coming back to Amapas. There’s just something about that view and the peace and quiet that makes it feel like home. Whether you are coming for a quick week of sun or staying for months as a digital nomad, this neighborhood will definitely win your heart!
Check us out on X for more local tips and beautiful photos of our favorite spots around town. We can't wait to see you here in paradise!
Amapas is truly a special place, and I am so excited for you to experience it for yourself. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and perfectly located. I highly recommend making it your home base for your next trip to Puerto Vallarta!
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