Hilton Puerto Vallarta

Adults can explore both sides of Hilton PV’s two-hotel resort, but kids must stay on what’s known as the oceanside (here’s our feature on the adults-only Hacienda at Hilton Puerto Vallarta). The oceanside is pretty awesome, though, and might even be your preferred side if you want to be near the beach, like a little more action, or if you prefer modern design over traditional.

Opening in 2012, the Hilton Puerto Vallarta’s oceanside resort is on a beautiful beach on the Bay of Banderas, perfect for those who want to take a dip or take a walk in the sand. Of course, the Hilton has several pools too. In the morning they’re tranquil, and as the day goes on you’ll see a friendly game of pool volleyball, some aqua aerobics, and families enjoying the sunshine together.

There are 259 rooms on the oceanside, including 60 suites. Every stay throughout the two hotels is all-inclusive, as this is the only all-inclusive Hilton in all of Mexico. There’s a range of room options, some with swim-out pool. All have Hilton Serenity beds, a balcony or patio, and all the essential room accessories.

The majority of the hotel’s restaurants are on the oceanside too. For perfect views, go up to the Sky Bar with its rooftop infinity pool (have some sushi and a cocktail for the full experience). The Sea Fire is the main restaurant; it’s buffet with eggs, pancakes and French toast cooked to order in the morning, and a wide selection of choices throughout the day. Other restaurants on the oceanside include one serving Brazilian food, another serving French, and a beachside barbecue. There’s even a late-night music lounge. A sports bar is in the breezy main lobby and was packed with cheering fans while Mexico played in the World Cup during my stay.

The kids club is also on this side of the resort, where kids aged 4 to 12 can make crafts, play games and sports, and even bake cookies. Parents will also appreciate the $10/hour babysitting in the evenings if they want to explore some of Puerto Vallarta’s excellent dining, such as the exquisite La Palapa on the beach downtown.

Be sure to stop by the Ki Spa during your stay. There’s a calming Floatarium — Hilton is the only resort on Mexico’s Pacific coast to have one — a 50-minute float in it is said to be the same as a deep four-hour sleep. Unlike a sensory deprivation tank, which can be uncomfortable for the claustrophobic, the floating pool is in a serene high-ceilinged room. The spa also offers more traditional treatments from massage to mani-pedis to facials. Choose to have a massage beachside too, under a gazebo.

Whether you prefer adults-only or kid-friendly, traditional or modern, tranquil or more active, the Hilton Puerto Vallarta’s two side-by-side resorts are ideal for your Puerto Vallarta vacation.