Best Hotels in Marina Vallarta, Puerto Vallarta

The Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa's enviable location gives it an edge over other Puerto Vallarta area resorts. Though situated just south of the airport, this Marriott branch maintains a peaceful atmosphere and pristine beach. If you're looking to hit the links, a stay at the Marriott Puerto Vallarta puts you less than half a mile from Marina Vallarta Golf Club and less than 7 miles from the Vista Vallarta Golf Club. And while the food at the property's four restaurants and two on-site bars garner mixed reviews, guests here are within reach of the many restaurants found at the nearby marina. However, you'll want to stay on the resort's grounds to take full advantage of its multiple pools and whirlpool or relax with a massage or a yoga class at the Ohtli Spa and Fitness Center. Whether you've spent the day lounging on the grounds or swinging on the greens, you can rest your head on a signature Marriott "Revive" bed in one of the Marriott Puerto Vallarta's modern guest rooms and suites. Each room features bright, Mexican-inspired accents and comes outfitted with a private balcony or terrace, a 42-inch TV, an iPod docking station and Wi-Fi access (for an additional fee). And because of this resort's Marriott ties, guests with Marriott Bonvoy points can cash them in here for perks.

The immaculately manicured grounds steal the show at Velas Vallarta. Guests say that peacocks and iguanas roam freely about the property, adding to this Puerto Vallarta's resort's tropical aura – but you're still less than 2 miles southwest of the airport and within easy reach of El Malecón. However, many guests opt to stay on-site with the peacocks, spending their days lounging by the pool or on the beach. For a heightened sense of relaxation, venture to the spa for a beachfront massage or beauty treatment. And if you brought your children along, don't worry – they'll have plenty to do at the Kids Club. You can always rendezvous later for a meal at the chic Andrea Restaurant or the beachfront La Ribera Steakhouse. When you're ready to turn in for the day, rest your head in one of Velas Vallarta's 345 suites; each features a stocked minibar, a plush bed with a goose-down duvet and a kitchen or kitchenette. And while recent guests gush about the "gorgeous" grounds, "perfect" pools and "incredible" food, it was the standout service that received the highest praise; guests say the top-notch treatment from the friendly staff is worth the trip alone.

Travelers praise The Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta's ample on-site amenities. Tennis enthusiasts can hit up the resort's three outdoor courts while gym rats take to the treadmills and cardio machines of the WestinWORKOUT Fitness Studio. Of course, there are plenty of ways to relax here, too. Schedule a massage at the on-site spa, take a dip in one of two pools or rent a beachfront wooden pergola at Las Pergolas Beach Club. Whether you're staying active or catching up on quality R&R, past travelers assure you'll find plenty of diversions to keep you entertained throughout your stay. As for dining, this Westin outpost offers three restaurants to help you satisfy your appetite. And if you wish to sample the fare at local haunts, you're still just a cab ride away from the cafes and restaurants of Puerto Vallarta (and roughly 2 miles from the Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport). At the end of the day, head back to one of the property's 280 guest rooms and suites, where you'll find a cozy Heavenly Bed, a private balcony and a bathroom stocked with Heavenly Bath products. While most guests cite a pleasant stay overall, some do lament the Wi-Fi access fee. But thanks to Westin's Marriott ties, Marriott Bonvoy members can earn and use points here.