Discovering Puerto Vallarta
Two Resorts, Local Flavors & Authentic Mexican Charm
Five nights in Puerto Vallarta with Sunset Travel Advisor Latrissa Fleming-Coles
When planning a vacation to Mexico, Cancun and Cabo San Lucas often top the list. But for travelers looking for beautiful beaches, incredible food, welcoming locals, and a destination that still feels authentically Mexican, Puerto Vallarta deserves a closer look.
Sunset Travel Advisor Latrissa Fleming-Coles recently spent five nights exploring this colorful coastal city, experiencing two very different all-inclusive resorts along the way.
From fresh seafood sold by local beach vendors to oceanfront dining and relaxing spa experiences, Latrissa discovered a destination that combines modern conveniences with the culture and charm that make Mexico so special.
And her biggest takeaway? Don’t spend your entire vacation inside the resort.
Photos Courtesy of Latrissa Fleming-Coles
Puerto Vallarta: A Different Kind of Mexico Vacation
Located along Mexico’s Pacific coast on the beautiful Bay of Banderas, Puerto Vallarta offers a little bit of everything.
Latrissa describes the destination as a wonderful combination of Cancun and Cabo, but with a more relaxed, less commercialized atmosphere. While the city has plenty of modern hotels, restaurants, and attractions, it has also maintained much of its traditional Mexican character.
Puerto Vallarta is known for its welcoming and diverse atmosphere, including a vibrant LGBTQ+ community. Visitors can explore everything from the bustling Hotel Zone and Marina Vallarta to the charming streets of downtown and the lively Romantic Zone.
One of the city’s most recognizable attractions is the Malecón, a waterfront promenade filled with shops, restaurants, public art, and beautiful views of the bay.
For those interested in exploring beyond the main beaches, nearby destinations such as Yelapa, Las Ánimas, and Colomitos offer opportunities for beach excursions, many reached by boat.
Puerto Vallarta is also a popular winter destination. From December through March, visitors have the opportunity to experience whale-watching season in Banderas Bay.
Hacienda Buenaventura: An Affordable All-Inclusive with Local Charm
Latrissa spent the first two nights of her trip at Hacienda Buenaventura Hotel & Mexican Charm, an all-inclusive property located in Puerto Vallarta’s Hotel Zone.
For travelers looking for an affordable all-inclusive vacation with easy access to the surrounding city, this resort is worth considering.
Unlike larger properties that feel somewhat removed from their destinations, Hacienda Buenaventura offers the convenience of resort accommodations while keeping guests close to local shops, restaurants, and everyday life.
The beach is just a short walk away, making it easy to enjoy some time along the water without being limited to the resort grounds.
What Latrissa especially appreciated was the opportunity to experience Puerto Vallarta beyond the typical tourist setting. From purchasing fresh fruit and seafood from local vendors to exploring nearby businesses, staying here made it easy to experience more of the city’s culture.
For budget-conscious travelers who want an all-inclusive stay but also plan to spend time exploring, Hacienda Buenaventura offers an appealing combination.
Hilton Vallarta Riviera: Ocean Views, Excellent Dining & Relaxation
For the final three nights, Latrissa stayed at Hilton Vallarta Riviera All-Inclusive Resort as part of a familiarization trip, giving her the opportunity to experience the property firsthand.
Located along the southern coastline of Puerto Vallarta, the resort offers spectacular views of Banderas Bay and the surrounding landscape. Even the drive to the property provides an opportunity to see more of the city before reaching the resort’s beautiful coastal setting.
Compared to Hacienda Buenaventura, the Hilton offers a more traditional upscale resort experience, with an emphasis on ocean views, on-site amenities, dining, and relaxation.
While there aren’t as many local food vendors immediately surrounding the property, guests can still enjoy experiences along the beach, including massages offered by local providers.
Dining Was a Highlight
Of everything Latrissa experienced at the Hilton, the dining stood out.
Two of her favorite restaurants were Sunan and Cocomar.
Sunan features Southeast Asian-inspired cuisine, offering a flavorful departure from traditional resort dining.
Cocomar specializes in seafood and ceviche, with options featuring ingredients such as shrimp, octopus, and marlin. For seafood lovers, it’s an especially appealing dining option.
The resort also offers additional restaurants, including Maxal, which focuses on Mexican cuisine, and La Luce, an Italian-inspired dining experience.
For Latrissa, the variety and quality of the food were among the property’s strongest features.
Taking Time to Unwind at the Spa
During her stay, Latrissa also had an opportunity to experience the resort’s spa facilities.
Her visit included time in the sauna and hydrotherapy areas, with hot and cold experiences and plunge pools featuring varying water temperatures.
It was a welcome opportunity to relax and enjoy another side of the all-inclusive experience.
What About Evening Entertainment?
While Latrissa thoroughly enjoyed the resort’s dining, views, and relaxation amenities, she found the late-night entertainment somewhat limited.
For travelers who enjoy an active nightlife scene, particularly after 10 p.m., she recommends venturing into the city instead.
The Malecón and Romantic Zone offer additional options for dining, drinks, entertainment, and enjoying Puerto Vallarta after dark.
It’s a helpful consideration when deciding whether this resort fits your personal vacation style.
Eat Like a Local: Puerto Vallarta’s Must-Try Foods
One of Latrissa’s strongest recommendations is to arrive in Puerto Vallarta with an open mind…and an appetite!
While the resort restaurants offered wonderful dining experiences, some of the most memorable food opportunities were found outside the hotels.
Local beach vendors offer a chance to enjoy fresh seafood, fruit, and other regional favorites while supporting the surrounding community.
A few dishes Latrissa recommends trying include:
- Aguachile: A flavorful Mexican seafood dish typically prepared with shrimp, lime, chiles, and fresh ingredients.
- Camarones embarazados: A popular Pacific coast specialty featuring grilled shrimp on skewers, seasoned with a flavorful marinade.
- Ceviche: Fresh seafood marinated in citrus and combined with vegetables and seasonings.
- Marlin tacos: A regional favorite that showcases the seafood traditions of Mexico’s Pacific coast.
Whether dining at the resort or purchasing something from a local vendor, Latrissa encourages travelers to try foods they might not ordinarily order at home. It’s one of the best ways to connect with the destination.
Latrissa’s Insider Tips for Visiting Puerto Vallarta
After five nights exploring the city and its resorts, Latrissa shared several recommendations to help travelers make the most of their visit.
Consider Uber for transportation. Latrissa found Uber to be an affordable and convenient way to get around Puerto Vallarta. Depending on your arrival plans, group size, and destination, it’s worth comparing rideshare options with prearranged airport transfers.
Bring pesos and smaller bills. Having local currency available makes it easier to purchase food, souvenirs, and other items from beach vendors and smaller businesses.
Learn a little Spanish. Even a few basic phrases can make navigating the city easier and show appreciation for the local culture.
Get outside the resort. Puerto Vallarta has so much more to offer than its all-inclusive properties. Explore the Malecón, visit local shops, enjoy the restaurants, and experience the surrounding neighborhoods.
Keep valuables secure. As with any travel destination, use common sense when carrying cash, jewelry, and other personal belongings.
Above all, Latrissa recommends approaching Puerto Vallarta with a willingness to try new things and embrace experiences outside your usual vacation routine.
Thinking about a Puerto Vallarta Getaway?
The travel advisors at Sunset Travel can help you find the right resort, explore your transportation options, and plan a vacation that includes the experiences you want most.
Whether that means relaxing by the ocean, discovering local cuisine, or exploring the city, there’s plenty to love about Puerto Vallarta. Contact us today to start planning your getaway.