Best AMResorts in Puerto Vallarta

Barely a fledgling among Puerto Vallarta's established resorts (it opened in April 2012), AMResorts' Now Amber Puerto Vallarta has garnered a loyal fan base for its clean, modern feel. Now Amber's 327 suites boast iPod docks, Jacuzzis and minibars that are restocked daily. For an even more luxurious experience, guests suggest upgrading to a Preferred Club Suite for access to a private lounge, upgraded toiletries and afternoon hors d'oeuvres, among other perks. Now Amber's Unlimited-Luxury all-inclusive package covers the cost of accommodations, meals and drinks at the resort's five bars and lounges along with seven eateries. And with the Sip, Savor & See Dining Experience, adult visitors can try dinner at one of the restaurants at nearby Secrets Vallarta Bay Puerto Vallarta or Dreams Villamagna Nuevo Vallarta. But vacation isn't all about eating, so Now Amber offers plenty of land and water activities – like boogie boarding, yoga and snorkeling – to fill your days. Even younger guests can get in on the fun, whether they're watching a movie on the beach with the Explorer's Club or mingling at the late-night mixers in the teen lounge, the Core Zone.

Like its sister resort, Now Amber Puerto Vallarta, Secrets Vallarta Bay Puerto Vallarta overlooks the Pacific coast and offers guests the same access to El Malecón's entertainment. And along with several gourmet dining venues and a buffet at this AMResorts property, guests can also sample the fare at Now Amber's eateries, thanks to the Sip, Savor & See Dining Experience. However, there is one major difference between these two resorts: Secrets Vallarta Bay is an adults-only property. Guests appreciate this Secrets outpost's elegant yet laid-back vibe and (unlimited) poolside cocktails. The sleek 14,000-square-foot Secrets Spa by Pevonia adds to that effect with its unique body treatments and massages, like seaweed body wraps and hot stone therapies. And the 271 suites stay on-theme with marble floors, satellite TVs, iPod docks and private terraces or balconies. If you upgrade to the Preferred Club, you'll get perks like a spacious sitting area, complimentary newspaper delivery and access to the Preferred Club Lounge, where continental breakfast, afternoon hors d'oeuvres and desserts are served daily.

Dreams Villamagna Nuevo Vallarta, which is situated about 8 miles northwest of the Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR), offers rooms that face either Banderas Bay or the Sierra Madre Mountains. Inside the rooms, you'll find a fully stocked minibar, a cable TV and a furnished balcony or terrace. But according to recent guests, the on- and off-site activities are the real enticement for staying here. Included in the Dreams Unlimited-Luxury all-inclusive package are greens fees at two nearby golf courses and nightly entertainment for adults. Plus, there's plenty of entertainment for younger guests at the Explorer's Club, which invites children ages 3 to 12 to participate in activities like sandcastle building competitions and arts and crafts. Unlimited-Luxury will also grant you access to Dreams Villamagna's six restaurants and five bars. You can even go on biking, kayaking or snorkeling excursions, or indulge in a massage or body treatment at the nearly 9,200-square-foot Dreams Spa by Pevonia (for an additional fee). And while guests consistently applaud the clean and scenic beach, they recommend arriving early to claim a chair.