The 8 Best Puerto Vallarta Resorts for an Amazing Mexican Vacation

Puerto Vallarta is a beautiful resort town on Mexico’s Pacific coast. It’s known for its stunning beaches, lush jungle surroundings, vibrant nightlife, and rich culture and history.

Visitors to Puerto Vallarta can enjoy a wide range of activities, from swimming and sunbathing on the beaches to exploring the town’s shops and restaurants. There are also several excellent resorts in Puerto Vallarta, each offering unique amenities and activities.

You will find the perfect Puerto Vallarta resort for your vacation, whether you are looking for a luxurious beachfront property or a more budget-friendly option. This iconic town has everything you need to have an unforgettable vacation in Mexico.

Ready to sink your toes into the sand? Here are eight of the best Puerto Vallarta resorts for your next Mexican vacation.

Dreams/Secrets Bahia Mita Surf and Spa Resort

all-inclusive resort in puerto vallarta
Image Credit: Dreams Bahia Mita Surf and Spa Resort

If you are looking for the perfect Puerto Vallarta resort for multi-generations, the Dreams/Secrets Bahia Mita Surf and Spa Resort is a perfect choice. This combination of Dreams and Secrets resorts in one works surprisingly well, with both sides having their own private access to pools and restaurants.

The service is phenomenal, the food is fresh, and the entertainment team will keep you as busy as you want to be. There are so many different pool options that you can spend the week trying them all out. The infinity pool on the Dreams side is the most popular, and you will need to reserve a pool chair bright and early in the morning if you want to hang out there all day.

There is a Preferred category of accommodation that offers its own expedited check-in, the rooms are located centrally in the resort, and there is a private rooftop pool that looks out over the entire resort and ocean, which is only for Preferred guests.

The elevators are a little tricky to figure out, but you will master them by the end of the week! If you have kids, there are two options for kids’ clubs depending on age, and both are fantastic. This resort really is amazing for meeting the needs of families, couples, grandparents, and more.

You may want to read: 15 Memorable Family Vacation Spots in Mexico

Riu Palace Pacifico All Inclusive Resort

The Riu Palace Pacifico All Inclusive is one of the best Puerto Vallarta resorts for families. This vast resort has plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained, including freshwater swimming pools, a water park, a kids’ club, and a theater.

There are 445 rooms at the Riu Palace Pacifico, and each one comes with a balcony or terrace. You’ll enjoy gorgeous views of the sun setting over the ocean, view the hotel gardens, or see the pool from your room. Stay connected online throughout your stay with free WiFi and share your unforgettable experience at the palace on the go.

You will find enjoyable activities to keep you busy if you want to spend some time outdoors. Take a dip in the beautiful outdoor pool with a swim-up bar, play a game of tennis, or volleyball, go bodyboarding, or book a catamaran. There’s plenty to do at this resort. If relaxation is tops on your to-do list, head to the Renova Spa for some well-deserved pampering. You can also book a beach massage and take full advantage of how relaxing the location is.

After dinner, stop by the nightclub and enjoy a drink and the nightly entertainment. You won’t need to leave the resort since you’ll have everything you need right on-site.

The Westin Resort & Spa

Aerial view over the Westin Resort and Spa, Puerto Vallarta hotel
Image Credit: Shutterstock / fivetonine

The Westin Resort & Spa is a luxurious beachfront property in the heart of Puerto Vallarta. This resort offers stunning ocean views, five outdoor pools, a world-class spa, and several excellent restaurants.

Guests can enjoy a wide range of activities at the Westin Resort, including swimming, sunbathing, windsurfing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The resort also has a state-of-the-art fitness center and offers yoga classes on the beach.

This 14-acre property is one of the best Puerto Vallarta resorts for families, offering a Kids’ Club with daily activities, a children’s pool, and babysitting services. The Westin Resort & Spa is also an excellent option for couples with its romantic beachfront setting and various couples’ activities.

You may want to read: 15 Romantic Getaways Near Mexico City to Enjoy with Your Partner

After a long day exploring Puerto Vallarta or relaxing at the resort, you can enjoy a delicious meal at one of Westin’s three on-site restaurants. Try fresh seafood, a cocktail, or a tropical beverage while listening to live music at the beachfront restaurant La Cascada.

Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa

If you’re looking for a 5-star luxury hotel, look no further than Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa. Located just south of Puerto Vallarta, this resort offers stunning views of Banderas Bay and the Sierra Madre Mountains.

Garza Blanca is 85 acres of pristine jungle, and the resort has a secluded beach. There are three infinity pools on-site, tennis courts, and a spa and fitness center (shared with a sister resort, Hotel Mousai). The resort also offers panoramic ocean views and several fun family activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding, and bird-watching.

There are five towers at Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa, and each room offers breathtaking views. You can choose from different rooms, including suites with private plunge pools, ocean-view, and garden-view rooms. If you stay in the ultra suites, you will get the best views of everything, including the beaches, mountains, and garden.

The Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit Resort

The Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is an all-inclusive luxury resort located just north of Puerto Vallarta. Plenty of activities keep guests entertained, including swimming in one of the three infinity pools, exploring the nearby town of San Sebastian, or taking a dip in the spa.

For those looking for even more adventure, there are zip-lining and ATV tours available. The resort also has several restaurants, serving everything from Mexican to international cuisine with local ingredients. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean from their room or the resort’s private beach.

The Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit also has a kids’ and teens’ club with daily activities, so families can enjoy their vacation without worrying about leaving their children behind. Some fun activities at the clubs include beach games, arts and crafts, movies, karaoke, and video games.

The resort has won numerous awards, including the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award in 2022, and is one of the most popular Puerto Vallarta resorts.

Marriott Resort & Spa

Experience a true taste of luxury at the Marriott Resort & Spa, one of the best Puerto Vallarta resorts. Located on the coast of Banderas Bay, this resort offers stunning beachfront views, an infinity pool, and on-site restaurants.

All the rooms and suites at the Marriott Resort & Spa offer incredible views of the beautiful scenery around the resort. You can enjoy the ocean breeze and sparkling waters from your private balcony or relax in the spacious bathroom.

There are numerous fun activities to keep you entertained if you choose to stay indoors, including Netflix on the ultra HD smart TV. Slip into the complimentary robes and slippers, lie on the cozy pillowtop mattress, and order room service. It’s better than being at home!

Your vacation at the Marriott Resort & Spa would not be complete without experiencing the spa (Ohtli), which offers various treatments, including facials, massages, and body scrubs. If you’re feeling active, there’s also a fitness center on-site.

Casa Velas

Welcome to Casa Velas, an adults-only, all-inclusive resort in Puerto Vallarta. This boutique hotel offers stunning ocean views, world-class cuisine, and an award-winning spa, making it the perfect place for a romantic getaway.

There are only 80 suites at Casa Velas, so you can enjoy a more intimate experience. The suites are inspired by traditional Mexican design, featuring a private terrace with ocean views, plunge pools, and jacuzzi hot tubs.

When it comes to food, Casa Velas does not disappoint. You can dine at Emiliano, the hotel’s gourmet restaurant, which serves French-Mexican fusion cuisine. For a truly romantic dining experience, reserve a table at the beachfront restaurant (Tรกu Beach Club), and dine under the stars with your loved one.

Couples golf and spa packages are also available to enjoy quality time together. And if you’re looking for something to do in Puerto Vallarta, the concierge can help you plan activities, such as zip-lining, snorkeling, and whale watching.

Sheraton Buganvilias Resort

View of the Sheraton Buganvilias Puerto Vallarta Resort, a beach hotel located in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico.
Image Credit: Shutterstock / EQRoy

Right in the heart of Puerto Vallarta, you’ll find the Sheraton Buganvilias Resort. This resort has an ideal location near the city’s best shopping, dining, and nightlife. It is also near Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport, making it a convenient choice for travelers.

Come with an appetite because the Sheraton Buganvilias Resort has six restaurants and four bars on site. Choose from Mexican, Italian, Japanese, and international cuisine, whether you want a casual meal or a fine dining experience. And remember to enjoy a cocktail or two at one of the bars while watching the sunset.

You don’t have to put your fitness activities on hold when you’re on vacation. The resort has a state-of-the-art 24 hours fitness center, four courts for table tennis, and outdoor pools with swim-up bars.

If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll love the Sheratoons Kid’s Club. They’ll make new friends and participate in fun activities like gaming, ecological walks, mini-disco, and kitchen workshops. And the whole family can enjoy the resort’s daily entertainment program, which features live music and shows.

Secrets Vallarta Bay Resort

Explore the ins and outs of Mexico when you stay at Secrets Vallarta Bay. This all-inclusive, adults-only resort is the perfect place to disconnect from the world and reconnect with your partner.

Nestled on a golden sand beach, Secrets Vallarta Bay has stunning ocean views. The resort has 271 spacious suites, each with finely installed marble floors, beautifully decorated interiors, massive windows, free WiFi, daily refreshed mini bars, and private terraces.

At Secrets, you get a complete luxury experience, with all fun activities and privileges bundled in the price. From gourmet dining to top-shelf drinks, everything is included here. There are reservation-free gourmet restaurants on-site, serving everything from Mexican to French cuisine. And you can enjoy your food with a view at the Seaside Grill, which overlooks Banderas Bay.

Take advantage of the resort’s many amenities when you’re not relaxing in your suite. You can lounge by the outdoor pool, take a yoga class, get a massage at the spa, or explore Puerto Vallarta on an excursion.

FAQ about Puerto Vallarta Resorts

Where is the best part of Puerto Vallarta to stay?

The Romantic Zone of Puerto Vallarta is the most popular for couples. For families, I would recommend the outskirts of the city, like the Dreams Resort in Punta Mita.

How many days do you need in Puerto Vallarta?

You can enjoy yourself for a long weekend or three days, but to get the most out of your vacation, I’d recommend staying for a minimum of 5 nights.

When is the best time to visit Puerto Vallarta?

Hands down, the best time to be in Puerto Vallarta is during whale season from mid-December to early March. I see whales all the time in the Pacific Northwest, but it was spectacular seeing so many in Puerto Vallarta every day. This also coincides with the high season, but it is worth it. The summer is extremely hot and muggy, so I would avoid those months.

Start Planning Your Puerto Vallarta Vacation

Experience life on the edge of the Pacific Ocean when you stay at one of these best Puerto Vallarta resorts. With stunning views, world-class amenities, and fun activities to keep you busy, these resorts offer the ultimate vacation experience.

Although these resorts might be expensive, it’s worth every penny. After all, you’re paying for an unforgettable experience you’ll remember forever. Start planning your trip to Puerto Vallarta today, and get ready to enjoy the vacation of a lifetime.

This article originally appeared on Savoteur.

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Karee Blunt is the founder of Our Woven Journey, a travel blog focused on inspiring others to create memory-making adventures with their loved ones. Karee is passionate about encouraging others to step out of their comfort zone and live the life they dream of. She is the mother of six kids, including four through adoption, and lives with her family in the Pacific Northwest. You can learn more about Karee on her about me page.