2 Best Hotels in Zona Hotelera, Puerto Vallarta

This storied resort rises above a deep-blue pool that flows beside palm oases. The ocean-view rooms have a modern neutral color scheme, beige marble floors, balconies, and tile baths with powerful showers. The beach is small but bustles with activity and equipment rentals, and the breakwater forms a sheltered nook that's nice for swimming. It's in the Northern Hotel Zone, about halfway between the Marina Vallarta complex and downtown Puerto Vallarta.

Secrets is a fancy all-inclusive, adults-only resort set in the heart of the Hotel Zone. The rooms offer wide, ample space and plenty of little details and luxuries (such as a Jacuzzi on the balcony). Some ground-floor suites include access to a swim-up pool. Public areas include two swimming pools and a large Jacuzzi, seven international restaurants, and a series of top-notch bars.