Unlike several other popular beach resort areas in Mexico, Puerto Vallarta has an authentic living town at its heart. This is the best and most popular destination for beach holidays on Mexico’s Pacific coast, and it’s loaded with accommodation to meet any budget.
Not even including the new and trendy Riviera Nayarit region that starts just north of Puerto Vallarta, this is a very diverse destination for travel styles. There are multiple hotel zones that don’t feel much like Mexico at all, as well as hotel areas closer to the historical center where bargains can stand alongside 5-star boutique properties. Be aware that hotels in the lower price ranges might not be up to the standards you are used to, so do your homework if you are trying to cut costs.
Food and drinks are generally good value in Puerto Vallarta, as long as you don’t try to consume everything inside a resort hotel on the beach. Even the touristy places in town can be fairly cheap for a beach resort. Flights can be inexpensive as well, even with relatively short notice.