The Best Hotels to Book in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

If it’s sophisticated, adults-only hedonism you’re after, this all-inclusive hotel in Puerto Vallarta has it nailed. The sprawling, polished granite foyer oozes grown-up chic, while the all-suites rooms are a seductive mix of crisp white walls, burgundy velvet and pink linen. No need to get up early to throw your towel on a sun lounger here – the private beach and vast pool area has more than enough for everyone. From its spa to its swim-up bar, everything about this one is pure luxury.

Wafty beach cabanas, hammocks strung across the private patios and infinity pools with Pacific Ocean views: this adults-only resort in Puerto Vallarta ticks all the romantic must-have boxes. It throws in more than a handful of bonus add-ons, too – such as a choice of seven bars and dining spots, from contemporary, colorful Mexican cuisine at Murales, to refreshing, citrusy cocktails at the alfresco Pool Bar. Paddle board and bicycle rentals mean you can explore this gorgeous corner of the world under your own steam, too.

Don’t expect any bingo or pool parties when you check-in at this Puerto Vallarta hotel. Situated in a quiet, residential neighborhood, this intimate, 17-room property with its brightly painted walls, hand-woven rugs and eclectic artwork feels more like staying in a friend’s stylish home than a hotel. The main focus is the beautiful ivy-covered courtyard, where the pool and bar are located. But you can also kick back in the huge, laid-back lobby with its mismatched velvet sofas and framed Frida Kahlo sketches, or enjoy some shade on the back patio, which offers outstanding river views.

This quirky hotel is situated on one of the climbing, windy side streets that give Puerto Vallarta its distinctly Mexican flavor beyond the main malecón and hotel zones, allowing you to truly appreciate the culture and scenery that Vallarta has to offer. Nestled in the jungle that makes Vallarta so unique as a beachside holiday destination, it also has excellent ocean views. Casa Cupula, located on the aptly named Callejón de la Igualdad (Equality Street), is very popular with LGBTQ tourists and the informative and welcoming staff are knowledgeable about the surrounding area. For a romantic getaway, Casa Cupula would be perfect.

If culture to you means celebrities, first class pampering and relaxation, Garza Blanca is the perfect Vallarta hotel. This sprawling haven is regularly frequented by Hollywood’s elite – and was even built on the site of an old Puerto Vallarta hotel that was just as frequently visited by stars of the ’60s. Offering some of the most spacious suites in Vallarta, Garza Blanca is a modern classic: dark wood and hi-tech features, set off by orange and turquoise pops of color. Best of all, most of the rooms offer ocean views, which means you might catch a glimpse of the whales’ migration in late spring.

Luna Liquida Boutique Hotel is all twisting staircases, fresh and airy rooms, and simple design touches – with the added extra of being located up the windy side streets, in the very heart of Puerto Vallarta. Homey and welcoming, it offers views over the ocean, which also take in the magnificent and ornate cathedral tower. Enjoy the rustic touches, such as wooden bridges and quirky, brightly colored giraffe ornaments, while also benefiting from being situated away from the noise of the sometimes loud malecón. The vibrant colors and plants that are dotted around the place really add character, and the infinity pool on the rooftop provides the perfect relaxation spot.

No one under 18 is allowed in this boutique, upscale villa, making it the perfect place to escape to without the kids in tow or for a romantic honeymoon celebration. One of two properties owned by the Villas in Vallarta company – the other being the equally recommendable Casa Tres Vidas – Quinta Maria Cortez is a sprawling spot with everything you could possibly need under one roof. Old world elegance in a contemporary setting, it’s right on one of Vallarta’s most exclusive beaches and within walking distance of the center. You can rent anywhere from one to 10 bedrooms at a time, and each of the three floors has its own pool and jacuzzi. There is also an on-hand private chef available to cook up to two meals a day for the guests.

Luxury and authentic Mexican architecture combined, Hacienda San Angel is a cultural treasure trove with some interesting history. Richard Burton, who so famously filmed Night of the Iguana in Vallarta in the ’60s, was apparently so charmed by the property that he bought it for his final wife as a Valentine’s Day present. Perhaps not so doable nowadays, why not settle for a romantic Valentine’s Day retreat there instead? Aside from the cultural history, Hacienda San Angel Gourmet Restaurant is an excellent and critically acclaimed on site dining venue.

A quiet and peaceful mid-range option in the center of Puerto Vallarta, Hotel Posada de Roger is a long-time favorite among frequent visitors to the region. Giving an Old Town Mexico feel, but also boasting a great location in the midst of all the action, this hotel is a gem of a find in Vallarta. The brightly lit, orange-hued central courtyard – which can be seen from the internal balconies – is incredibly picturesque, with its wrought iron furniture, central water fountain and leafy detailing. One of the best breakfast spots in all Vallarta is also conveniently located in this affordable and authentic posada, so make sure to get in early and grab a table in the morning.