Let's be honest - planning that perfect Mexican getaway shouldn't feel like solving a calculus problem. Last time I booked an all-inclusive, I spent three nights drowning in resort websites before realizing half those "infinity pools" were just regular pools photographed with fancy angles. So after visiting Puerto Vallarta six times over the past decade, I'll save you the headache and give it to you straight about the best all inclusive Puerto Vallarta options.
Planning Tip: Don't just look at pretty beach photos. Check what's actually included - some resorts charge extra for premium liquor or à la carte restaurants. Oh, and bring reef-safe sunscreen - they're strict about that here.
What Makes Puerto Vallarta All-Inclusives Different?
Unlike Cancún's massive resorts, Puerto Vallarta properties blend into the landscape. You get jungle-covered mountains meeting the Pacific Ocean instead of flat beaches. The town's got soul - think cobblestone streets, local galleries, and Mariachi bands playing in plazas at sunset. That beach-meets-mountains vibe? It's magical at dawn when whales breach offshore during winter months.
All-inclusive Puerto Vallarta resorts range from adults-only luxury spots to family mega-complexes. Location matters big time:
| Area | Vibe | Travel Time to Town | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marina Vallarta | Upscale marina views, golf courses | 10 mins taxi | Romantic escapes, golfers |
| Hotel Zone | Long beaches, big resorts | 15 mins bus | Families, beach lovers |
| Nuevo Vallarta | Wider beaches, newer properties | 25 mins taxi | Modern amenities, spacious rooms |
| South Shore | Secluded coves, luxury | 30-40 mins | Privacy seekers, honeymooners |
The Absolute Best All-Inclusive Puerto Vallarta Resorts (Tested)
These aren't just pretty names from brochures. I've stayed at them or talked extensively with recent guests to bring you the real scoop.
Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa
Adults-Only Section Infinity Pools Premium Pricing
Perched on cliffs south of town, this place makes you feel like you're floating above the ocean. Seriously, their infinity pools blend right into the Pacific. What you're paying for here is privacy and insane views. Not every room has that million-dollar vista though - insist on oceanfront when booking.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Price Range | $650-$1,200/night (varies by season) |
| Minimum Age | Adults-only in preferred tower |
| Restaurants | 7 including Japanese, Mexican, steakhouse |
| Top Perk | Private yacht excursions available |
| Downside | Steep property, lots of stairs/cliffs |
My take: Worth splurging for honeymoons. Their spa treatments in ocean-view cabanas? Life-changing. But the remote location means $35 taxi rides into town.
Secrets Vallarta Bay
Adults-Only Central Location 24-hour Dining
Right in the Hotel Zone, this adults-only spot gives you walkable access to the Malecón boardwalk. Their rooftop pool has killer sunset views of Los Arcos. What surprised me? The food's actually good - not just resort edible. Try the coconut shrimp at Seaside Grill.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Price Range | $350-$700/night |
| Pool Scene | Lively with pool volleyball and DJ sets |
| Nightlife | Live bands, casino nights, themed parties |
| Room Tip | Preferred Club rooms include private beach area |
| Downside | Small beach, occasional vendor approaches |
My take: Perfect for couples who want convenience. You can literally walk to downtown galleries and taco stands. Just avoid rooms near elevators - noise carries.
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
Kid-Friendly Spa Focus Gourmet Dining
This resort redefines "family-friendly." We're talking baby concierges, teen clubs with VR games, and pools separated by age groups. But here's what blew me away: Their eight restaurants include a French spot that requires reservations weeks ahead. Lobster tails included? Yes please.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Price Range | $800-$1,500/night (kids stay free promo) |
| Sq Ft per Suite | 1,100+ with ocean-view terraces |
| Included Spa | Hydrotherapy circuit access for all guests |
| Unique Feature | Mixology classes and tequila tastings |
| Downside | Massive property requires lots of walking |
My take: The Cadillac of family resorts. Worth every penny if you've got picky eaters or need real babysitting. Their kids' buffet has homemade nuggets - genius.
Budget Gem: Riu Palace Pacifico
Value Pick Kid-Friendly Entertainment
Don't dismiss this because it's a chain. Located in Nuevo Vallarta, they pack serious value. Four pools including a crazy swim-up bar with underwater stools. Shows every night from Michael Jackson tributes to fire dancers. Food's decent - not gourmet, but you won't go hungry.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Price Range | $250-$450/night all-in |
| Beach Quality | Wide, swimmable, minimal waves |
| Room Reality | Clean but basic decor (renovated in 2022) |
| Party Level | Moderate - lively but not chaotic |
| Downside | Standard drinks are mid-shelf |
My take: Great for groups and younger travelers. Those swim-up bars get crowded by 11am though - claim your spot early. Upgrade to premium liquor package if you care about your margarita quality.
Crucial Booking Tips They Don't Tell You
After getting burned by hidden fees myself, here's what actually matters:
Resort Fee Trap: Some advertise $299/night then add $50 "resort fee." Always ask for the total nightly rate including taxes/fees. Garza Blanca's fees add nearly 22%!
Ocean View vs Ocean Front - These mean wildly different things. "Ocean view" could mean glimpsing blue between buildings. If views matter, demand photos of your room category view.
Restaurant Reservations - At premium resorts like Grand Velas, book specialty restaurants before you arrive. I watched couples get turned away from the French restaurant all week.
The Airport Shuttle Scam - Many resorts push $80 private transfers. Truth? Uber costs $15 to most zones. Just walk past timeshare hawkers to the pickup area.
All-Inclusive Planning Calendar
Timing changes everything in Puerto Vallarta:
| Season | Dates | Pros | Cons | Price Trend |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prime Season | Dec-April | Perfect weather, whale watching | Crowded, highest prices | $$$$$ |
| Value Season | May-June, Oct-Nov | Lower crowds, warm temps | Brief afternoon showers | $$$ |
| Rainy Season | July-Sept | Lowest prices, green landscapes | Daily thunderstorms, humidity | $ |
Whale Watching Hack: Book December-February stays on the south shore (Garza Blanca area). From your balcony, you'll see humpbacks breaching while sipping coffee. No tour needed.
Your Burning Puerto Vallarta All-Inclusive Questions Answered
Q: Are Puerto Vallarta all-inclusives safe to drink the water?
Resorts use filtered systems - I've never gotten sick drinking resort beverages. Avoid ice in street tacos though. Stick to bottled water when exploring town.
Q: Can I leave the resort easily?
Depends where you stay. Marina and Hotel Zone resorts are super accessible. South Shore properties? You'll need taxis ($25-40 each way). Nuevo Vallarta has cheap buses running every 20 mins.
Q: What's tipping etiquette?
Service workers earn low wages. Tip $1-2 per drink, $5/day for housekeeping, $10-20 for exceptional dinner service. Bring small USD bills - pesos preferred but dollars accepted.
Q: Are kids really free?
At family resorts like Grand Velas, kids under 12 stay and eat free. But check fine print - some charge for airport transfers or activities. Always ask about child pricing before booking.
Q: How do I avoid the worst crowds?
Spring break (March) and Christmas week are insane. If traveling then, pick adults-only resorts or properties with multiple pool areas. Breakfast before 8:30am feels like having the resort to yourself.
Red Flags That Should Make You Walk Away
Not all "best all inclusive Puerto Vallarta" claims hold water. Warning signs:
Vague Dining Info - If they won't list restaurant names/menus online, expect buffet boredom. Good resorts boast about their chefs.
Zero Recent Reviews - Resorts renovate constantly. That gorgeous 2018 photo? Might be outdated. Filter reviews for past 6 months.
"All-Inclusive" With Asterisks - Some charge extra for steak, premium alcohol, or even room service. Ask: "What costs extra beyond the advertised rate?"
Room Location Trick: At check-in, politely ask "Any complimentary upgrades available?" If they say no, slip $20 with your ID and repeat the question. Works 60% of the time for ocean-view bumps.
What I Wish I Knew Before Booking
After staying at 14 different Puerto Vallarta resorts, here's my raw advice:
Oceanfront > Ocean View - Pay the extra $50/night. Waking up to crashing waves beats squinting at distant blue specks.
Don't Overpack - You'll live in swimsuits and coverups. Dress codes are relaxed except at fancy dinner spots (men need collared shirts).
The Beach Vendor Situation - Yes, they'll approach you. A polite "No, gracias" works. At family resorts, they're less persistent before noon.
Wi-Fi Reality Check - Many resorts still have spotty connections. Garza Blanca and Grand Velas offer strong signals. Budget spots? Prepare for Instagram detox.
Bottom line? Finding your perfect all-inclusive Puerto Vallarta escape comes down to matching the resort's personality to your travel style. Want nonstop action? Secrets or Riu Palace. Craving luxury isolation? Garza Blanca. Traveling with picky kids? Grand Velas is worth every peso. Do your homework, but remember - you're going to Mexico. Relaxation mode starts now.
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