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If Puerto Vallarta has caught your eye as a Spring Break destination in 2025, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve been traveling to Puerto Vallarta for the past 30 years and even lived there for nine months during college. So, suffice it to say, I know PV well. Also, as someone who’s been to Cancun and Playa del Carmen, I feel strongly that Puerto Vallarta is the better Mexico destination. Plus, the airport customs lines are way more efficient in PV than at Cancun airport.
Okay, let’s jump into it with my top Puerto Vallarta hotels for Spring Break 2025. I want to emphasize that I’ve stayed at each of these spots during personal family trips, so I’m giving you my genuine, honest take on these places. Learn More: Best Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta in 2025
Best Hotels in Puerto Vallarta for 2025
1. Buenaventura Grand Hotel and Great Moments - Best Downtown Puerto Vallarta Hotel
That's me having lunch at the Buenaventura Grand's beachside restaurant.
My husband and I honeymooned here, and of all the all-inclusive resorts I’ve stayed at, this is my top pick in terms of food and location. Located in downtown Puerto Vallarta, just a 10-minute walk from the city’s famed Malecon, the Buenaventura is great for those who want the benefits of an all-inclusive with the vibrance of being in the heart of the city. As hinted above, the food here is unbelievable, though my favorite is their beachside restaurant, which makes for a delicious lunch spot by day and a romantic dinner at night. For reference, you have to make a reservation for dinner here since it’s one of their specialty options and isn’t open every night. However, it’s open each day for lunch. Plus, you’re right on the beach, overlooking the ocean, so the views are fantastic. While the nighttime entertainment at the Buenaventura isn’t the best, it’s not necessarily a dealbreaker since you can just walk around town to different bars and nightclubs. Pros
Possible Drawbacks
Find out more in my full-length Buenaventura Grand Hotel and Great Moments Review
2. Hotel Encino - Best Affordable Puerto Vallarta Hotel
Out to dinner with my mom at one of the many local restaurants near the Hotel Encino in Puerto Vallarta
The Hotel Encino is located in downtown Puerto Vallarta at the beginning of the city’s beloved romantic zone. A traditional hotel rather than an all-inclusive, this place is perfect for those who want to stay in Puerto Vallarta but prefer to eat at local restaurants. And since you’re right in town, there are lots of great restaurants to choose from.
I stayed here with my parents, and while the hotel is older, it’s in immaculate condition and has a charming, authentic aesthetic. If you’re on a budget and looking for something other than a traditional ‘tourist’ experience, this is a fantastic hotel. There’s even a local cat who loves to hang out in the lobby. Pros
Possible Drawbacks
3. Hotel Friendly - Best Puerto Vallarta Hotel for Families
In the Hotel Friendly's lobby with some friends we made from Canada
The Hotel Friendly is an all-inclusive resort in Puerto Vallarta’s hotel zone, and I stayed here with my parents and my cousin, Nicha. The hotel zone is great for folks who still want to be around the ‘action’ but not necessarily downtown. That said, you can easily hop on a bus that takes you into town.
The Hotel Friendly Puerto Vallarta is a fantastic choice for families; their activities program always has plenty going on, both during the day and at night. This was the last resort I stayed at, where I had a full entertainment team that organized daytime activities and performed in elaborate nightly shows. I think kids and teens would enjoy the Hotel Friendly’s fun and vibrant atmosphere. Pros
Possible Drawbacks
Frequently Asked Questions Do Spring Breakers go to Puerto Vallarta? Yes, absolutely! While Cancun might be considered a notorious spot for college spring breakers, Puerto Vallarta has the advantage of being fun for both college spring break and families. Plus, I consider Puerto Vallarta much safer than Cancun and easier to navigate. How busy is Puerto Vallarta during Spring Break? Puerto Vallarta can get busy during Spring Break, especially if your trip coincides with Semana Santa, when many families from nearby cities like Guadalajara vacation there. Is March a good time to go to Puerto Vallarta? Yes, March is a great time to go to Puerto Vallarta because it’s not during the unbearably hot and muggy rainy season. Prices might be slightly higher because it’s a busier time, but there are many accommodation options here, including Airbnb, so you’ve got plenty of choices. Transparency Disclosure — The opinions on this website are independent and based on my own personal experiences. I may receive a referral fee for stays booked through the links on this site. 
Downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan
Are you feeling stuck on how to spend Valentine’s Day in Grand Rapids this year? I've got you covered with some great GR date ideas. From budget-friendly to creative and romantic, Grand Rapids has plenty to offer for couples celebrating Valentine's Day in 2025. Most of these date spots can work for newer couples and long-term pairs, so pick what sounds most appealing to you and your significant other. Keep reading to find your perfect Grand Rapids Valentine’s Day date ideas.
Top 5 Valentine's Day Date Ideas in Grand Rapids, MI
1. Staycation at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel A downtown staycation is a great way to celebrate your love for each other and the city of Grand Rapids. Be a tourist for a day by booking a hotel in downtown GR, and if you're looking for luxury, I recommend the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel specifically. This date idea is especially great for those who rarely spend time downtown and want to get reacquainted with all the new restaurants, bars, and activities happening here. For those who are keen on staying inside the hotel, the Amway has some luxurious amenities as well. Book a couples massage at the hotel’s spa. Get dinner at MDRD, a newer Spanish-inspired restaurant with incredible views. Or grab drinks at the chic Lumbar Baron Bar. 2. Ice Skating at Rosa Parks Circle Ice skating on Valentine’s Day is both cute and romantic. Not everyone has the budget for a lavish Valentine's Day night, but ice skating in the heart of the city is actually a sweet way to celebrate that won't cost you a fortune. Ice skating at Rosa Parks Circle is scheduled to remain open through February 22. According to the city's website, tickets for adults 18 and older are $6 or $3 for anyone 17 and under. A pair of ice skates is included with your admission. 3. Grand Rapids Art Museum The Grand Rapids Art Museum is perfect for those who have a more creative side and want to do something other than a traditional dinner-and-drinks date. Plus, the museum is in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, so you have your pick of restaurants and bars if you want to continue the date afterward. Just be sure to check the museum's hours before planning your date! 4. World of Winter Festival Another great art-inspired date idea is the World of Winter Festival in Grand Rapids, which is happening now through March 2. It's full of art installations that are fantastic for sparking conversation, making it a great choice for couples who are newly dating. Make a list of the outdoor art installations you want to see or pick one of the special festival events to partake in. Once you’re done catching your favorite art pieces, head indoors to warm up with some hot cocoa. 5. GR Noir Wine & Jazz If you're in a long-term relationship, you're past the stage of getting to know each other and can just move into enjoying each other's company without always having to do a lot talking. This means that date ideas where you can watch something together, such as a live performance, can be a lovely way to spend a romantic evening together. On the same note, couples who've been together a while may need to find ways to mix up their date nights. GR Noir Wine & Jazz is an excellent way to have a unique date night where the two of you can get dressed up and have a fun night out enjoying some great live jazz music. I would recommend making reservations on GR Noir's website ahead of time just in case. Transparency Disclosure — The opinions on this website are independent and based on my own personal experiences. I may receive a referral fee for stays booked through the links on this site. |
About the author
Jill Zwarensteyn is a writer and comedian who has been featured on Amazon, truTV, The New York Times, Matador Network, BUST Magazine, Sleep Advisor, Tiplr, ARTRPRNR Magazine, YourTango, Thought Catalog, GoMad Nomad, Mashable, The Daily Mail UK, the Cannes Film Festival, LaughFest, Women's Lifestyle Magazine, and the Funny Women Festival LA. Archives
March 2025
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