Mexico abounds with postcard-worthy beaches and enclaves. But Puerto Vallarta on Mexico’s Pacific coast might be a contender for leader of the pack, as this bustling town beckons travelers from around the world with its expanse of sandy shores, Sierra Madre Mountain vistas and lush jungle.
Puerto Vallarta itself offers a wide array of bars, restaurants and activities. Its all-inclusive resort scene similarly offers variety in terms of experiences, lodging style and dining.
Whether you’re looking for an all-inclusive resort with a side of live music or one that rivals the nicest of ultra-luxury hotels, Puerto Vallarta has something for you. Here are some of our picks for the best all-inclusive resorts in Puerto Vallarta.
Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Best for: Whale-watchers and Hyatt loyalists looking for a quick and easy getaway on points.
Why stay here: A smart, secluded resort with something for everyone at a great price.
Best way to book: Use Hyatt points and any free night certificates you have lying around.
Puerto Vallarta might be popular with those craving sun and fun, but Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta manages to offer a little more seclusion with its private beach — all the better to hear the crashing waves from your oceanfront room. Don’t worry: The garden rooms at Hyatt Ziva are still decadent, but try and splurge for one of the swim-up rooms or suites.
This family-friendly resort is popular for its wide array of swimming pools, including four infinity pools and designated kids’ pools for younger members of the family. Couples have the option of hanging out at the adults-only pools or retreating to their own adults-only swim-up room.
Related: 11 all-inclusive beach resorts families can book with points
On the dining front, the outdoor steakhouse Blaze gets top marks (who doesn’t love their sirloin with a view of dolphins frolicking at sea?) while the sprawling Vivaz Buffet is a great way to start the day with a wide variety of options. Of course, don’t miss out on 24-hour room service delivered to your door, either.
Those looking for a little more wellness and rejuvenation to enhance their trip can check out treatments like palapa massages at the resort’s Vitamar Spa & Fitness for an added cost. Be sure to save time to also lounge in the spa’s hydrotherapy pools for added R&R.
Rates at the Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta start at $411, or 21,000 World of Hyatt points, per night.
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Hilton Vallarta Riviera All-Inclusive Resort
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Best for: Families, friends and couples looking for a good value at a great resort.
Why stay here: Right on the beach but also a 15-minute taxi ride from the city center, this large resort has a lot to offer, including balconies and ocean views from every room.
Best way to book: Book directly with Hilton to earn or redeem points.
There’s no bad view in the bunch at this 444-room all-inclusive resort where each room and suite features a view of the Pacific Ocean. Hilton Vallarta Riviera All-Inclusive Resort strikes the right balance of having all the dining options (five cocktail bars and seven restaurants, to be precise) and amenities of a sprawling resort while also delivering more of an intimate vibe. You can thank the Hilton Vallarta Riviera’s private beach and location in a cove at the base of the Sierra Madre Mountains for that secluded ambience.
Guest rooms and suites are modern and spacious, but added indulgence comes to those who book a Premium category room or suite with Enclave Lounge access as well as added amenities like a more private check-in experience, a welcome amenity, nightly turndown service and a souvenir beach bag. You can also head to the Enclave Lounge for breakfast and an early evening happy hour. Larger Enclave suites feature extras like private terraces with jetted tubs and spacious living rooms.
For meal time, enjoy Hilton Vallarta Riviera’s diverse mix of cuisine, from Oaxacan mole and other Mexican fare at Maxal to hearty curry and Pad Thai at the Asian-inspired Sunan restaurant. Adults in the group should save room for a nightcap at Azulinda, a tequila bar overlooking the ocean. The resort’s pool deck features two oceanfront infinity pools while Eforea Spa offers a quieter way to rejuvenate away from the sun-seeking crowd.
Rates at the Hilton Vallarta Riviera start at $366, or 93,000 Hilton Honors points, per night.
Casa Velas
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Best for: An adults-only getaway where the peacocks roam (no, really) and the food is scrumptious.
Why stay here: Spanish influences, a smaller suite count and attention to detail make this an all-inclusive getaway you won’t soon forget.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Expedia for the best rates and packages.
If the first thing you think of when you think of an all-inclusive resort is a never-ending buffet line or rowdy spring break crowds, Casa Velas is here to luxuriously expunge those preconceived notions from your head. The adults-only getaway feels more like checking into a boutique hotel than an all-inclusive resort thanks to its smaller 80-suite count.
Suites feature Mexican design and artistic touches with pieces from sculptor Sergio Bustamante. You can opt for added luxuries like a private plunge pool, Marina Vallarta golf course or garden views, and extra bedrooms for added elbow room. Molton Brown bathroom products add to Casa Velas’s elevated vibe.
It might be easy to unwind amid the swaying palm fronds, koi ponds and greenery. But be sure to take time to indulge in an al fresco meal at Emilano — pastas, prime cuts of meats or fresh catch of the day are all favorites — or a margarita at Aqua Bar, the resort’s pool and beach bar. Táu Beach Club offers beachfront dining and cocktails to guests and is especially popular at sunset for dinner with a Pacific Ocean view.
Casa Velas also elevates in terms of its activity line-up. The resort offers a wide range of things to do, from yoga and cooking classes to tequila tastings and even guided meditation. We’re partial to the resort’s Abja Spa, where the four-handed herbal ritual (for an added charge outside of the all-inclusive rate) of orange peel, clove, bay leaf and horsetail compresses leave us feeling like a new person after the longer 80-minute treatment offering.
Rates at Casas Velas start at $648 per night.
Hotel Mousai
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Best for: A mix of sleek, modern amenities amid breathtaking natural surroundings.
Why stay here: Coastal and jungle views, a rooftop infinity pool and a decadent spa are only the beginning of Hotel Mousai’s lengthy list of luxe amenities. We’re a long way from wristbands and shots at this all-inclusive getaway.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Expedia for the best rates and packages.
Romance in Puerto Vallarta is practically a brand standard at Hotel Mousai, a sleek, contemporary resort featuring rooftop infinity pools framed by jungle landscapes and Pacific Ocean views.
This adults-only resort features bright, spacious suites with panoramic ocean views and jetted tubs. A designated concierge helps guests throughout the stay with things like reservations and experience planning. With accommodations this nice, it’s no wonder complimentary room service is a popular option for guests looking for a little solitude.
The resort’s newer South Tower includes the Rooftop, a so-called beach club in the sky with a rooftop infinity pool and bar and lounge. For those actually wanting to dip their toes in the ocean, Hotel Mousai offers a 10-minute shuttle service to reach the shore.
Hotel Mousai’s restaurant and bar line-up is impressive, especially for an all-inclusive resort. Bocados Steakhouse as well as the Japanese restaurant, Hiroshi, are popular for couples looking for a decadent date night. Hiroshi gets added high marks for its outdoor seating and views to accompany the sushi. For those looking for something a little more casual, the resort’s Mexican restaurant, Blanca Blue, is a more laid-back setting (but still features ocean views) for feasting on guacamole and spicy grilled octopus.
Before checking out, be sure to head to Spa Imagine for treatments offered at an added charge. Therapy suites include views of Banderas Bay, offering guests the opportunity to enjoy a sunset massage to really unwind for the night.
Rates at Hotel Mousai start at $413 per night.
Secrets Vallarta Bay Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Best for: Fun-loving couples and groups of friends looking for sun, sand, sea and round-the-clock action.
Why stay here: An upscale, attractive resort, this Secrets outpost offers swift access to Puerto Vallarta’s beloved attractions, plus a wealth of on-site sports and superb snorkeling excursions.
Best way to book: Book Secrets Vallarta Bay Puerto Vallarta directly on the Hyatt website with either cash or World of Hyatt points to take advantage of seasonal savings and elite benefits.
This adults-only all-inclusive resort on Puerto Vallarta’s Las Glorias Beach is an inviting waterfront retreat thanks to spacious suites with soaking tubs, private balconies, ocean or garden views and (for those willing to upgrade) swim-up pool access. Guests can also upgrade to Preferred Club suites for added amenities like concierge service and an upgraded minibar.
Secrets Vallarta Bay’s dining scene has something for everyone, from the flip-flop crowd enjoying burgers at the outdoor Barefoot Grill to a more romantic, upscale night out at Bordeaux, the resort’s high-end French restaurant.
Guests also stay busy with a mix of splashing in the resort’s large pools to being more on the go with added-charge tours to places like the Marietas Islands. There are other relaxing offerings, too, from movie nights on the beach or a treatment at Secrets Spa by Pevonia, an expansive facility featuring treatments like a mango-passion body wrap and black caviar facials.
Rates at Secrets Vallarta Bay start at $540, or 21,000 World of Hyatt points, per night.
Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Best for: Families looking for an oceanfront spot in Puerto Vallarta that’s also close to the historic old town buildings and the Malecon boardwalk downtown.
Why stay here: Large private balconies immerse guests in picturesque scenary and, in addition to the beach and pool, there is a splash area for kids with a heated pool and waterslides.
Best way to book: Book directly with Marriott to earn or redeem Marriott Bonvoy points and enjoy any elite benefits.
Marriott Bonvoy members (and even non-members) have plenty of reasons to be grateful the world’s largest hotel company has jumped further into the all-inclusive resort world in recent years. The waterfront property overlooks Banderas Bay and the Pacific Ocean and features a massive infinity pool — complete with a swim-up bar — mere steps from the crashing waves.
Guest rooms and suites all come with a private balcony overlooking either the ocean or surrounding gardens. Those who splurge on a suite can expect added amenities like a whirlpool, spacious living rooms and larger outdoor terraces.
Marriott Puerto Vallarta’s dining line-up includes a sprawling Mexican breakfast buffet (huevos rancheros are just the beginning of this feast) at La Estancia. Save room later in the day for goodies like made-to-order sushi and teppanyaki creations at Mikado restaurant. Of course, indulge in other ways at the resort like with a treatment at Ohtli Spa, which even offers treatment rooms on the beach.
All-inclusive packages at Marriott Puerto Vallarta start at $526 per night.
The Westin Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Best for: Perros and their amigos who love tacos and beach strolls.
Why stay here: Along with 410 feet of beachfront to explore, the Westin Marriott & Spa Puerto Vallarta has 280 rooms with private balconies and ocean views, so even just hanging out in your room is scenic.
Best way to book: Book directly with Marriott to earn or redeem Marriott Bonvoy points and enjoy any elite benefits.
Enjoy the waterfront as well as a slice of the jungle at the Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta, located in Marina Vallarta amid 14 acres of tropical gardens right on the water. Along with Westin’s private stretch of beach, the resort also features an enormous pool deck to lounge under the palm trees or enjoy a cocktail at the swim-up Tlaquepaque Bar.
Pacific Ocean views and private balconies come standard in all guest rooms and suites. Travelers willing to splurge can book rooms and suites with whirlpools or wading pools on their outdoor terrace. Larger groups may want to consider the two-bedroom Heavenly Suite, which also features a kitchenette.
Hunger is never an issue at the Westin Resort & Spa with offerings like Arrecifes Seafood & Steakhouse, an outdoor restaurant popular for its fresh seafood. La Cascada Restaurant & Bar is a lively dinner option for a meal with live music.
On the wellness front, The Spa at the Westin Puerto Vallarta offers a choose-your-own-adventure type of treatment: Whether you want your massage in your suite, in the spa or on the beach, the team is more than happy to oblige with whatever your preferred location might be.
All-inclusive packages at the Westin Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta start at $342 per night.
Marival Distinct Luxury Residences and World Spa
Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico
Best for: Residential-style stays (aka full kitchens) at an all-inclusive resort.
Why stay here: The homey style of Marival coupled with its location a little removed from the hustle of Puerto Vallarta makes this a serene place to recharge during a vacation.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Expedia for the best rates and packages.
Travelers looking for a residential-style getaway with all the amenities of a larger resort are in luck when booking a stay at Marival Distinct Residences.
A 25-minute drive from Puerto Vallarta in Nuevo Vallarta, the resort features accommodations that range from one- to four-bedroom residences, and all include full kitchens and living rooms. Upgrade to units with private pools to have a little more seclusion when it comes time to splash in the sun.
Families will have plenty of fun at the kids pool (the resort also offers an adults-only pool) and kids club. Two tennis courts and activities like kayaking will keep grown-ups busy as well.
The resort’s Insú Sky Bar is a rooftop lounge perfect for sunset cocktails and bar bites like coconut shrimp. Brunello Wine Bar is a more upscale offering for the oenophile of your traveling group, and Lemmon Grass is a more laid-back venue near the pool that’s perfect for all-day fare like sandwiches or seafood.
Rates at Marival Distinct Residences start at $663 per night.
Velas Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Best for: Fun for all ages, especially for those looking for an active itinerary.
Why stay here: There’s something for everyone at this family-friendly resort with plenty of nightlife options for the adult travelers in the bunch.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Expedia for the best rates and packages.
Families or friends looking for a good time in the sun all have reason to book a vacation at Velas Vallarta, a popular option for larger groups of travelers to Puerto Vallarta. The resort features a kids club, babysitting services and residential-style accommodations with kitchenettes.
The all-suite resort features oceanfront views, private balconies, evening turndown service and plenty of living space to unwind after a day in the sun by the pool or at the beach. Family suites get as large as three bedrooms while the four-bedroom Presidential Suite features a wraparound terrace and private plunge pool. Events like Easter egg hunts and Christmas programming make Velas Vallarta a popular getaway with families over the holidays.
For dining throughout the year, La Ribera Restaurant, an oceanfront Spanish and Mexican venue, wows as much for its tamales as its views of the Sierra Madre Mountains. Sunday nights are also popular for the resort’s Mexican fiesta featuring local artisans, a mariachi band and a buffet of regional specialties.
Rates at Velas Vallarta start at $374 per night.
Dreams Vallarta Bay Resort & Spa
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Best for: Picture-perfect views from your own private outdoor space (offered in every suite).
Why stay here: Family-friendly doesn’t mean sacrificing luxury at Dreams Vallarta Bay Resort & Spa.
Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and enjoy any elite benefits.
Couples and families both flock to Dreams Vallarta Bay for its elevated design and attention to wellness and activities.
The all-suite hotel immediately relaxes guests with sprawling accommodations with garden or ocean views from a private balcony (many with hot tubs or swim-up pools). The design of the guest suites is a mix of dark wood and bright upholstery as well as bathrooms featuring walk-in showers and whirlpool tubs — a perfect spot to unwind with a selection from the minibar or in-room dining.
You’ll need the rest that comes with these well-appointed suites, as Dreams Vallarta Bay keeps its guests busy with activities ranging from whale watching to snorkeling and boogie boarding. We don’t blame you if that all sounds fun but also a little tiring. Refuel between sessions at scrumptious dining options like Castaways, an outdoor spot for grilled seafood, or Manatees, a swim-up bar at Dreams Vallarta Bay’s infinity pool.
Rates at Dreams Vallarta Bay start at $493, or 21,000 World of Hyatt points, per night.
Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta
Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico
Best for: Vacationing like a rock star (or at least amid a rock star’s memorabilia).
Why stay here: Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta has all the live entertainment you’d expect from the Hard Rock brand, but it also has more soothing amenities like a popular spa perfect for rejuvenating the day after a concert.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Expedia for the best rates and packages.
Shop Boyz may have crooned about what it’s like to “Party Like a Rockstar,” but the Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta answers that other question: What’s it like to vacation like a rock star?
Guest rooms and suites are brightly decorated and feature private balconies. Splurge on the Rock Star Suite that comes with a dedicated personal assistant (also known as concierge service at other resorts) and memorabilia from Madonna and Shakira — not exactly Puerto Vallarta natives but cool nonetheless.
When it comes time for meals, Hard Rock really excels. Ipanema, a Brazilian grill, is open for breakfast and dinner and features tableside carved meats and seafood platters of lobster, scallops, octopus and shrimp. Zen, an upscale Asian restaurant, features sushi, teppanyaki-style meats and seafood and a variety of rice and noodle dishes — served up in a stylish dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the surrounding gardens.
The all-inclusive resort stands out for amenities like nightly live music performances in the Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta’s amphitheater which features bar service and ocean views. Guests can also relax by the resort’s two pools or get more adventurous with kayaks, paddleboards or a match on the beach volleyball court. Those looking for a more soothing getaway can try out a massage or facial in the sprawling Rock Spa or get glammed up at the Posh Beauty Spa before a night out.
Rates at Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta start at $459 per night.
Best credit cards for booking hotels in Puerto Vallarta
There are over a dozen excellent travel rewards credit cards out there for hotel stays. The right one(s) for you will depend on if you’re loyal to a particular program or chain, whether you want premium perks, and if you value benefits like annual free nights, automatic elite status and lucrative earning rates.
Here are three great credit cards to use for booking stays across a variety of hotel chains and independent properties while still enjoying money-saving features and high-end benefits, though.
The Platinum Card® from American Express
Earning rates: This card earns 5 points per dollar on airfare purchased directly with the airlines or through the Amex Travel portal (on up to $500,000 of airfare purchases per calendar year). Plus, you’ll earn 5 points per dollar on prepaid hotels booked with Amex Travel. All other purchases earn 1 point per dollar. Remember, Amex points transfer to Hilton Honors at a 1:2 ratio, to Marriott Bonvoy at a 1:1 ratio and to Choice Privileges at a 1:1 ratio, and there are sometimes transfer bonuses.
Benefits: This card is absolutely packed with perks, but among the travel-related ones you’ll want to maximize, including some hotel-specific benefits are:
*Enrollment is required for select benefits.
Annual fee: $695 (see rates and fees).
Read our review of the Amex Platinum card.
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
Earning rates: Earn an unlimited 10 miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 5 miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel and an unlimited 2 miles per dollar on all other purchases
Benefits: Cardholders get $300 in credits annually for bookings made through Capital One Travel. Plus 10,000 bonus miles every account anniversary, starting on your first anniversary (worth $100 toward travel). Through the Capital One Premier Collection, cardmembers can enjoy free breakfast, on-property credits and room upgrades (if available) on stays at participating properties booked through Capital One Travel. They also receive up to $100 in statement credits for either TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.
Annual fee: $395 (see rates and fees).
Read our review of the Capital One Venture X.
Earning rates: This card accrues 5 points per dollar on travel booked through the Chase travel portal, on Lyft purchases (through March 2025) and on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases of $150 or more (through March 2025, with a limit of 25,000 bonus points). It also racks up 3 points per dollar on dining, select streaming services and online grocery store purchases (excludes Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs); 2 points per dollar on all travel not booked through the Chase travel portal; and 1 point per dollar on everything else.
Benefits: Cardholders receive a $50 statement credit on hotel stays purchased through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal upon opening the card and each following cardmember anniversary. They also receive a 10% bonus based on their total spending during the account anniversary year at a rate of 1 point for each $10 spent. This card also has some of the best travel protections in the industry, including trip cancellation insurance, trip delay insurance and primary rental car coverage, among other policies.
Annual fee: $95.
Read our review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred.
Related reading:
For rates and fees of the Amex Platinum, click here.
