By Beth Whitman, on July 31, 2013

Top hotels in Puerto Vallarta

Who doesn't love a warm weather vacation? The popular resort city of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico has it all: tropical climate; fantastic restaurants; adventure activities; and world-class hotels. But if you're wondering how to book one of those amazing hotels in Puerto Vallarta, look no further. Expedia has recently released the 2013 Insiders’ Select™ List of The World’s Best-Reviewed Hotels, an exclusive list of Expedia's top 650 properties worldwide, selected from more than 150,000 hotels. The list is a combination of verified guest reviews, Expedia’s expert hotel input, and overall value.

1. Capella Ixtapa Resort & Spa (Hotel Rank: #6). Located close to the beach, this 5-star hotel is near Playa Quieta, Marina Ixtapa, Playa Linda, Marina Ixtapa Golf Club, and Delfiniti. It has three restaurants, two outdoor swimming pools, a full-service spa, and a poolside bar, with guest rooms coming equipped with private plunge pools.

2. Casa Velas Hotel Boutique & Beach Club (Hotel Rank: #8). This posh all-suite hotel exudes a refined hacienda aura and is located on the exclusive Marina Vallarta. The resort features a world-class spa, exclusive pool, and gourmet Mexican cuisine. The suites are designed in a mix of contemporary and colonial Mexican style.

3. Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa (Hotel Rank: #36). This beach resort features guest rooms with stunning ocean views from private balconies. Within the 5-star property are three restaurants, an outdoor pool, a full-service spa, and a beach bar. In close proximity are Playa Gemelas, Los Arcos, El Eden, Playa Mismaloya, and Nayar Golf Course.

4. Marival Residences & World Spa in Nuevo Vallarta (Hotel Rank: #46). This resort features luxury residences that are 1,400 square feet with stylish bedrooms, marbled baths, full living room entertainment centers, and oversized balconies. Its all-inclusive package features free select tours, golf, gourmet dining, 24/7 room service, an international wine bar, private full-service VIP Beach Club, and access to the World Spa.

5. Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit in Nuevo Vallarta (Hotel Rank: #52). This luxury all-inclusive oceanfront resort features a private sandy beach and a world-class spa. Amenities include use of water sports equipment, fitness classes, personal training, dining at its four award-winning gourmet restaurants, kids club programs, premium-brand liquors, and live music.

6. Villa La Estancia Beach Resort & Spa Riviera Nayarit in Nuevo Vallarta (Hotel Rank: #121). This newest property on Riviera Nayarit on the shores of Banderas Bay offers relaxation in style with a full-service spa featuring three spa tubs, beachfront access, and jetted bathtubs in guest rooms. The furnished balconies or patios provide ocean, garden, or pool views. 

7. The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort (Hotel Rank: #171). With a private beach and a full-service spa, this resort also offers easy access to the Pacifico Golf Course, Playa Punta De Mita, and Destiladeras Beach. The resort also features a full-service spa and kayaking.

Hotel images courtesy of Garza Blanca Preserve Resort and Spa.