10 Best Boutique Hotels in Puerto Vallarta (By Neighborhood)

Looking for the best boutique hotels in Puerto Vallarta? I’ve got you covered.

Puerto Vallarta has some truly amazing places to stay and if you’re into smaller, more intimate properties like I am, you’ll be happy to know that there’s a solid boutique hotel scene here with a ton of great options to choose from. 

What’s even better is that the boutique hotels here are more conveniently situated to the best parts of town compared to the larger resorts which are set further away from downtown in the hotel zone.

Still, regardless of which part of the city you want to stay in, I’ll cover my top picks for the best boutique hotels in Puerto Vallarta from the North Zone all the way to the South Zone and everything in between, so keep reading!

Don’t have time to read the full post? Here are my top three boutique hotels to stay at in Puerto Vallarta:

1. Hacienda San Angel, for the best accommodation in downtown Puerto Vallarta.
2. Casa Velas, for resort vibes in a smaller boutique hotel setting.
3. Hotel Amaca, for a well designed stay in the Romantic Zone.

Need more help planning your trip to Puerto Vallarta? Make sure to check out my Puerto Vallarta travel guide.

10 Best Boutique Hotels in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Why Stay in a Boutique Hotel in Puerto Vallarta?

Don’t get me wrong, I love all types of hotels big and small, but I’ve found that you get to experience more of the local culture when you stay in a smaller boutique property. And because Puerto Vallarta has such a beautiful and rich history, you’ll want to make sure to soak up as much of the culture as possible. 

I also prefer many of the boutique properties in PV because their smaller size allows them to be tucked into the most convenient parts of the city, whereas the bigger resorts have taken up real estate a bit further away from the best neighborhoods to explore.

There are a lot of different neighborhood options to explore when in Puerto Vallarta. And it’s good to familiarize yourself with the landscape before you pick which hotel you’d like to stay at. Below I’ll break down each neighborhood for you so you can pick the best area for your trip.

Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is made up of a number of different neighborhoods that are referred to as zones. There are six main zones and they span from north of the city all the way to the southern shores. Here’s a brief overview of each area: 

North Zone

This area is pretty much for tourists only and it’s where you’ll find lots of resorts, golf courses, malls, and all-inclusive hotels. 

Marina Vallarta

The marina here has restaurants and shops and some of the nicest hotels and resorts in the area. It’s walking distance or a short Uber ride to the downtown area. But there isn’t a whole lot going on here as far as attractions go. 

Hotel Zone

As you might guess from the name, this area is mostly hotels and malls and big box stores. If you’re looking for local culture, you aren’t going to find too much in this area.

Downtown or “Centro”

This is the historic area of the city and if you want to be in the heart of it all, staying here is a good choice. It’s easy to hop onto the Malecon from here, visit Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, and access tons of restaurants, bars, and nightlife options. 

Romantic Zone

Just a little bit south of the downtown area, the Romantic Zone is considered one of the most charming areas of Puerto Vallarta and it has a similar vibe to downtown; there’s easy access to all the same types of attractions and activities. Los Muertos Beach is here. So if beach time is important, you’ll be close to one of the most popular beaches in the area. 

South Zone

It’s a little bit further from the action here, but if you prefer to dodge the crowds, the South Zone has fewer people and some really incredible beaches to explore in a more peaceful and lush setting. Just know that you’ll likely have to drive or cab it to many restaurants and sites from here.

Best Boutique Hotels in Downtown Puerto Vallarta

Hacienda San Angel

Nestled on a hilltop with breathtaking views of Banderas Bay, Hacienda San Angel is a luxury, 4-star hotel in downtown Puerto Vallarta just minutes from the Malecón and other top attractions like Our Lady of Guadalupe Church.  

The hotel’s luxuriously-appointed suites, beautiful colonial architecture, lush gardens, rooftop restaurant, and top-notch amenities make it one of the best boutique hotels in Puerto Vallarta. This is where we personally stayed during our last trip to PV and I couldn’t get enough of the charming grounds and antique furnishings.

Fun fact for old-Hollywood buffs: Hacienda San Angel was once owned by Richard Burton who bought the property for his wife Susan in 1977. 

Casa Kimberly 

It’s not a list of the best boutique hotels in Puerto Vallarta without mentioning Casa Kimberly, the iconic hotel right in the heart of the city made famous by Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton.

What was once the private residence of the two love birds has since been converted into an intimate, adults-only boutique hotel complete with a restaurant, spa, and striking views of Puerto Vallarta and Banderas Bay.

• Overall Vibe: The vibe here is old-school elegance mixed with traditional luxury. Everything at Casa Kimberly feels extravagant without being over the top. And the rooms are filled with beautiful antique furnishings and high-end design touches.  
• Room Types: There are 9 individually-designed suites here with sweeping views, terraces (some even have jacuzzis), clawfoot tubs or rain showers, and opulent design details like hand-painted murals. Book the Elizabeth Taylor suite for the most luxurious experience of all. 
• Amenities: Notable amenities include a fine-dining restaurant and tequila bar, a spa with a variety of relaxing treatments to choose from, and an outdoor pool. Breakfast is included with your stay. 
• Food: The Iguana Restaurant and Tequila Bar is the hotel’s open-air restaurant that serves contemporary Mexican food with unbeatable views. From November through April they have live mariachi performances a few nights a week. 
• Budget: $$$

BellView Hotel 

Located in “Gringo Gulch” just behind the Guadalupe Cathedral, BellView Hotel is a charming boutique hotel in downtown Puerto Vallarta. There are only seven rooms here so it’s a very intimate setting. And you’re close to everything the downtown area has to offer.  

The rooms are well appointed with beautiful design touches and you can’t beat the views of the city, the bay, the mountains, and the charming tile rooftops covered in bougainvillea vines. 

I was able to spend a dinner here at their stunning restaurant La Capella, and I can tell you the views from this hotel are unbelievable—especially at sunset which provides an extra romantic touch.

• Overall Vibe: The vibe here is charming and romantic. And it’s very small so a great option if you’re looking for a cozy little getaway in a more private setting. BellView is an adults-only hotel so you’ll be sure to get some peace and quiet. 
• Room Types: There are seven suites here, all of which have terraces with incredible views of Banderas Bay and Guadalupe Cathedral. The design is Mexican Colonial and the rooms are filled with high-end furnishings, original artwork, and thoughtful design touches. 
• Amenities: BellView Hotel is light on amenities compared to some of the other boutique hotels in the area. But they do have an excellent rooftop restaurant and bar. 
• Food: La Cappella is the rooftop restaurant and bar on the premises and it’s an upscale Italian spot with amazing food, stunning views, and live instrumental music. Reservations are required and the dress code is formal.   
• Budget: $$

Best Boutique Hotels in Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone

Hacienda Escondida 

A little oasis in the heart of the Romantic Zone, Hacienda Escondida is an adults-only boutique hotel that’s setup hacienda-style with all rooms facing the central gardens. There’s a pool here with lounging chairs to relax in. And the beautiful landscaping and tropical gardens really make it feel like a secluded hideaway in the middle of the city. 

• Overall Vibe: It’s not particularly trendy or luxurious here, but it’s cozy and comfortable and super small so it feels private and relaxed.
• Room Types: There are six private suites all with kitchens which is a pro if you don’t want to eat out for every meal. Rooms are clean, comfortable, and spacious.  
• Amenities: Enjoy the heated pool and jacuzzi, lounging areas for relaxing, daily breakfast, and the most fun amenity: a treehouse overlooking the neighborhood which is where you’ll want to catch the sunset. 
• Food: Breakfast is included but there is no restaurant on site for other meals. Luckily there are plenty of options within walking distance. 
• Budget: $ 

Hotel Amaca

This adults-only hotel is in the heart of the Romantic Zone, just six minutes to the ocean but still feels like a quiet retreat according to guests. With bohemian and traditional Mexican design touches, Hotel Amaca feels clean and modern yet still authentic to the area.

This hotel is one of the best stays for overall value in Puerto Vallarta as the price can’t be beat.

• Overall Vibe: Clean and modern boho design within walking distance to the best places in the Romantic Zone.
• Room Types: There are quite a few different room types here including suites, double rooms, apartment style accommodations and rooms with balconies. The highest tier room is a two-bedroom penthouse apartment.
• Amenities: This property offers a 24-hour front desk, on-site bar, terrace, free parking and a swimming pool.
• Food: There is no restaurant, but there’s an on-site bar and plenty of restaurants within walking distance.
• Budget: $

Villa Lola 

Perched on a hilltop in the Romantic Zone, Villa Lola is a small and peaceful boutique hotel that is only a few blocks from the beach and walking distance to many area attractions. It’s a well-kept, adults-only spot with Mexican charm, modern amenities, and a vibrant and colorful aesthetic.

• Overall Vibe: Vibe is low-key and quiet here and the design is traditional Mexican with beautiful tile and stonework, warm wood tones, and a color palette that balances calming neutrals with vibrant pops of color. 
• Room Types: There are seven well-appointed suites that are uniquely designed and decorated with local art. There’s also the option to rent the entire villa if you’re traveling with a large group. 
• Amenities: Not a ton of amenities here but there’s a rooftop terrace and plunge pool and free breakfast is offered daily.
• Food: There isn’t a restaurant on site, but daily breakfast on the terrace is included in your stay. And there are many options for food and drink within walking distance. 
• Budget: $$

Best Boutique Hotels in Marina Vallarta, Puerto Vallarta

Casa Velas 

Tucked away on the coast north of downtown Puerto Vallarta in the Marina Vallarta area, Casa Velas is an adults-only boutique hotel. You’ll get amazing amenities here like multiple restaurants to choose from, a swim-up bar, golf course, access to a beach club, and a fitness center—and it’s all inclusive meaning you won’t have to worry about a thing because everything is included in the price.  

If you want all the amenities of a big resort but without all the people, Casa Velas combines the best of both worlds.

• Overall Vibe: I’d say the vibe here is upscale all-inclusive with a little Mexican charm. It isn’t hip or trendy, but it’s nice and on the smaller side for an all-inclusive. So you’ll get a more intimate feel here than at other all-inclusive properties.   
• Room Types: There are 80 suites total with seven different suite types ranging in size with different upgrade options if you want more bedrooms, a separate dining area, and private terraces with plunge pools.  
• Amenities: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks at the on-site restaurants are included in the cost, located on the Marina Vallarta Golf Club with golf discounts if you want to play, swim-up bar at the pool, access to transportation to and from the Táu Beach Club, and a fitness center. 
• Food: Emiliano Restaurant is the signature restaurant on-site and they serve gourmet Mexican cuisine. Táu Beach Club is right on the water and offers up slightly more casual fare. And Aqua Bar is the swim-up pool bar you’ll definitely want to grab a cocktail at. You can also eat at the restaurants in Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, Casa Velas’ sister property. 
• Budget: $$$

Hotel San Trópico

Hotel San Trópico is a trendy little boutique hotel in the Marina Vallarta neighborhood of Puerto Vallarta. If you want something more contemporary feeling and hip, this is a good option for something cute and affordable with good amenities. 

It’s only a 10-minute walk to the beach from the hotel and it’s close to the marina too where you can take a waterfront stroll or enjoy the nearby shops and restaurants.

• Overall Vibe: The vibe here is hipster and trendy. And unlike many of the best boutique hotels in Puerto Vallarta, this one is actually kid-friendly. 
• Room Types: The rooms here are simple and stylish, designed with bright colors and modern touches. They offer both suites and studios of different sizes. 
• Amenities: There’s a pool and hot tub, café, poolside bar, fitness club with classes like spin and yoga, a golf course close by, and access to Sabal Beach Club for only about $20 per day.  
• Food: Café San Trópico serves casual and healthy breakfast and lunch options. 
• Budget: $

Best Boutique Hotels in Puerto Vallarta’s South Zone

Villa Lala 

If city vibes aren’t your scene and you’re looking for the best boutique hotels in Puerto Vallarta that are in a more secluded setting, check out Villa Lala. It’s an adults-only spot on the southern coastline of Puerto Vallarta in the quaint town of Boca de Tomatlan. And it’s completely unique to many of the other hotels in the area.

Think tropical treehouse vibes with a more luxurious spin.

Villa Lala is right on the water with its own small private beach and it’s close to some of the most beautiful and popular beaches in the area like Playa Colomitos and Playa Mismaloya. 

• Overall Vibe: The ambiance here is luxury treehouse vibes with a side of boho. It’s relaxing and peaceful in a location that can’t be beat. 
• Room Types: There are 12 spacious suites with three different types: simple Villa Lala Suites, Love Nest Suites with private infinity pools, and Treehouse Love Nest Suites that are private little jungle huts with infinity pools and panoramic views (perfect for a romantic getaway or honeymoon). The design and furnishings are modern with some colorful Mexican-inspired touches. 
• Amenities: Some rooms have private infinity pools. There’s a small sandy beach, and a restaurant on site that serves breakfast (which is included), lunch, dinner, and drinks.  
• Food: The restaurant at Villa Lala serves three meals a day and can accommodate dietary restrictions or special requests. 
• Budget: $$–$$$$

Patio Azul Luxury Hotel

Patio Azul is a boutique hotel in the exclusive Conchas Chinas area a little bit south of downtown Puerto Vallarta (but just a short Uber/cab ride away). It’s an upscale place to stay with affordable prices featuring spectacular views of Banderas Bay. Plus, it’s adults-only, making it super quiet and peaceful. 

The best part of Patio Azul (besides the views) is the modern design that plays on color and patterns for a fresh stay that’s unlike any other spot in PV.

• Overall Vibe: The design here is gorgeous and contemporary-Mexican with trendy touches, bright colors and beautiful use of pattern and texture. Overall the vibe is chic, luxe, and relaxing.  
• Room Types: There are 18 clean and spacious rooms at Patio Azul including nine deluxe suites, five deluxe suites with ocean views, and four penthouse suites with ocean views.
• Amenities: Top amenities are the spa, three different terraces with lounge chairs, an ocean view pool, two bars, and a gym. 
• Food: There’s an open-air restaurant on-site with ocean views. 
• Budget: $

I hope this list of the best boutique hotels in Puerto Vallarta helped you find the best one for you. If you have any questions, drop them for me in the comments!

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