Puerto Vallarta isn’t typically known as a resort destination. It’s a city people experience on foot—wandering the Malecón, bar-hopping in Zona Romántica, lingering over late dinners, and settling into neighbourhood rhythms that feel more local than packaged. That’s why many travellers choose Airbnbs or Vrbo (Expedia’s vacation rental platform) when they visit: Puerto Vallarta is walkable, social, and rich in nightlife, dining, and culture.
And for many travellers—especially those whose priority is being immersed in the city’s famed “gaybourhood”—that approach makes perfect sense.
But for winter travellers looking for rest, rhythm, and true ease, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit offers a compelling alternative.
Fresh off a $30-million suite transformation, the resort delivers what short-term rentals often can’t: space, consistency, tranquillity—and the luxury of not having to plan every detail of your day.
Designed for winter escape living, not just vacationing
The newly renovated Master, Parlor, and Grand Terrace suites are all over 1,000 square feet—sizes more commonly associated with private condos than hotel rooms. That extra space matters when you’re staying longer than a long weekend.
The refreshed design leans calm and contemporary, with a palette of sand, cream, warm woods, and natural stone, layered with subtle green accents inspired by Riviera Nayarit’s landscape. The result is a suite that feels restorative rather than decorative—comfortable enough to truly settle into, whether you’re easing into slow mornings or winding down after an evening out in the city.
Despite not being in Puerto Vallarta, its just a quick drive into the area, but offers a nice peaceful backdrop (if you’re looking for some down time).
Airbnb freedom vs. resort ease — choosing what your winter needs
For travellers who thrive on spontaneity and want to be in the middle of PV’s nightlife and dining scene, Airbnb or Vrbo remains a great choice. It allows visitors to live locally—discovering new brunch spots, late-night bars, and drag shows nightly, especially within Zona Romántica.
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, however, caters to a different winter mindset. Here, the appeal lies in removing daily decision fatigue: no planning every meal, no scrambling for reservations, no wondering where to go next. Everything flows effortlessly, allowing guests to fully unplug—then dip into the city when the mood strikes.
Dining at the resort: elevated, varied, and genuinely good
One of the strongest arguments for staying at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is its dining program. Unlike many all-inclusive resorts, meals here are à la carte and thoughtfully executed, making it easy to eat well without ever leaving the property.
The resort is home to six restaurants, including four AAA Four Diamond–recognized venues, offering a range of cuisines—from refined Mexican flavours to French, Italian, and Asian-inspired menus. Whether it’s a leisurely breakfast with ocean views, a polished dinner without needing a reservation hunt, or late-night in-suite dining, the experience feels indulgent without being overwhelming.
For winter stays, that consistency matters.
You can explore PV’s food scene when you want to—but never feel obligated to plan every single meal.
A city known as simply Vallarta or “PV” — and proudly, Gayarta
Puerto Vallarta is widely referred to simply as PV, but it’s also affectionately known as “Gayarta”—a nickname that speaks to its long-standing reputation as one of the most LGBTQIA+-friendly destinations in the world. For decades, the city has been a safe haven for the queer community, particularly gay men, offering a rare mix of visibility, celebration, and genuine safety.
Its drag and nightlife scene is globally respected, drawing iconic performers from around the world. Canadian representation runs deep here as well, with Canada’s Drag Race Season 1 standout Tynomi Banks among those who regularly spend extended time in Puerto Vallarta, hosting shows and becoming part of the city’s cultural fabric. This isn’t a destination that tolerates queerness—it celebrates it.
That inclusive, open energy is a major reason so many travellers return year after year, often staying for months at a time.
Where to eat, drink and play in Puerto Vallarta?
Even if you base yourself at the resort, part of PV’s magic is venturing into the city. Here are a few go-to categories worth building into your stay:
Brunch
- Café des Artistes – Elegant, creative plates in a garden setting
- Coco’s Kitchen – A long-time favourite for relaxed, social brunches
- Fredy’s Tucan – Casual, friendly, and a Zona Romántica staple
Lunch
- Joe Jack’s Fish Shack – Easy, fun, and perfect for daytime bites
- La Palapa – Oceanfront dining with classic PV vibes
- Meño’s Place – Beloved for its welcoming energy and hearty comfort food
Dinner
- La Leche – Dramatic, modern, and ideal for a night out
- Hacienda San Ángel Gourmet – Romantic dining with city views
- Barcelona Tapas – Great for groups and sunset dinners
Afterhours
- Industry Nightclub – One of PV’s most popular late-night spots
- La Noche – A long-standing institution in the gay nightlife scene
- CC Slaughters – Camp, energetic, and unapologetically fun
An all-inclusive that complements the city, not replaces it
Rather than isolating guests from Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant dining and nightlife scene, Grand Velas works as a calm counterpoint to it. Spend the day at the beach or spa, head into the city for dinner or drag shows, then return to a quiet, spacious suite that feels like a reset.
The resort’s all-inclusive model enhances flexibility rather than limiting it—you’re free to stay in, go out, or mix both without feeling boxed into one experience.
Why it works for snowbirds?
No matter what your age.
- Choice without compromise: Airbnb immersion or resort tranquillity, depending on your mood
- Excellent dining on-site: No pressure to plan every meal
- Space to stay awhile: Suites over 1,000 sq ft rival private condos
- Inclusive, familiar energy: PV’s reputation as a safe haven for LGBTQIA+ travellers
- A built-in reset: Quiet beachfront living after vibrant city nights
Puerto Vallarta (aka PV, or Gayarta) may be best known for its Airbnb culture and legendary nightlife, but for winter travellers craving calm, comfort, and great food without constant planning, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit offers a refined alternative—one that balances the freedom, inclusivity, and flavour of PV with the ease and serenity of a resort designed for staying awhile.
