I have spent many mornings staring at my laptop screen in Puerto Vallarta. The view of the ocean is always beautiful, but sometimes my brain just needs a break.
Living and working here as a digital nomad is a dream. But let's be honest: we all get "desk fatigue" eventually. When I feel that itch to move, I don't head to a crowded gym. I head south.
Exploring the lush trails of Amapas is my favorite way to reset. It is fast, it is beautiful, and it feels like a secret world right next to the city. If you are staying in the area, you have to try it.
Getting Off the Beaten Path
The best part about these trails is how easy they are to find. You don't need a car or a fancy tour guide. You just need a good pair of walking shoes and a bottle of water.
I usually start at the south end of Playa Los Muertos. You walk past the seahorse statue and keep going until the sand turns into rocks. There is a set of stone stairs: about 100 of them: that lead you up and over the cliff.
It is a short climb, but the reward is instant. Suddenly, the noise of the beach clubs fades away. All you hear are the waves crashing against the rocks below and the birds in the trees.
The Sierra Madre Vibe
This isn't just a walk on the beach. It is a genuine jungle experience. The Sierra Madre hiking trails wrap around the coastline here, giving you incredible views of the mountains meeting the sea.
The trail winds through thick greenery. You will see giant palm fronds, wild hibiscus, and maybe even a few iguanas sunning themselves on the rocks. I LOVE how the air feels cooler under the canopy of trees.
The path can be a bit narrow and rocky in some spots. It definitely keeps you on your toes! But that is part of the fun. It feels like an adventure, even though you are only 20 minutes away from a latte.
Finding Your Flow
For me, this walk is the ultimate way to stay active while working remotely. It is what I call a "LISS" workout: low-intensity steady-state. It gets my heart rate up without making me too tired to finish my afternoon calls.
I usually walk all the way to Conchas Chinas. There are these tiny, hidden coves along the way that are perfect for a quick dip. The water is clear and the tide pools are full of tiny crabs and colorful fish.
It is such an authentic local experience that most tourists miss because they stay on the main beach. If you want to know more about my favorite local spots, check out my Solo Sunday: My Slow Morning in the Romantic Zone post. It’s all about finding those quiet moments in the city.
Vacation and Remote Work-Friendly Accommodations
If you are planning to work from here, you need a home base that supports your lifestyle. We specialize in vacation and remote work-friendly accommodations that give you the best of both worlds.
We are a local, family-run business, and we take pride in our personalized service. We don't just give you a key; we give you the "inside scoop" on where to go.
One of my top recommendations for couples or solo travelers is Opportunity. It is one of our favorite Puerto Vallarta Mexico vacation rentals because it is so close to these trails. You can finish a project, close your laptop, and be in the jungle in minutes.
The views from the balcony are amazing. You get those famous mountain views and the ocean breeze all at once. It makes a huge difference when you are trying to stay productive.
Why We Love Amapas
Amapas is one of the best neighborhoods for Puerto Vallarta condos for rent by owner. It sits just above the Romantic Zone, so you get the peace and quiet of the hillside without being far from the action.
If you are curious about which area fits you best, I wrote a guide on Solo Travel Secrets: The Best Neighborhoods for Puerto Vallarta Condos for Rent by Owner. It breaks down exactly why we love this part of town so much.
Another fantastic choice for your stay is Casa CC. If you are looking for Puerto Vallarta rentals by owner, this spot is a gem. It has a great desk setup for those long work days and is super close to the Amapas trailhead.
I love the light in this apartment. It feels bright and modern, which is exactly what you want when you're spending a few hours on Zoom. Plus, the bed is SOOO comfortable!
My Tips for the Trail
If you decide to head out, here are a few things I’ve learned:
- Go Early: The midday sun can be intense. I prefer hitting the trail before 10:00 AM.
- Wear Real Shoes: Don't try this in flimsy flip-flops. The rocks can be slippery.
- Bring Water: You will sweat! Stay hydrated so you don't crash later.
- Take Photos: The panoramic views of Banderas Bay are SPECTACULAR.
Final Thoughts
Puerto Vallarta is more than just tacos and beaches (though we LOVE those too). It is about the connection to nature. Taking the time to explore the trails in Amapas has changed how I feel about working here. It keeps me grounded and happy.
Whether you are here for a week or a month, make sure you get beyond the desk. The jungle is calling!
I highly recommend taking at least one morning to explore this coastal path. It is the best way to see the "real" Puerto Vallarta.
See more of our daily adventures on Instagram!
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