The Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort and Spa (formerly the Casamagna) is a lovely resort located in the Marina District. I’ve just returned from a relaxing week long stay and am already excited for a return visit! When they say “welcome home” on your arrival – you know you’re in the right place! 🙂 I stayed in mid June – which is off season in Puerto Vallarta. Our room had an ocean view (highly recommend!) with a fantastic view of the beach and Pacific Ocean. It was an awesome spot to watch the sunset! This hotel is a hot spot for American tourists during the winter and spring months, but we loved our summer stay when it’s more popular with Mexican tourists! It was also fun being there during Mexico’s World Cup run!
1. Friendly Staff
I have stayed at and toured numerous resorts (at all levels) and this is one of the most welcoming I’ve encountered! From the moment of arrival you are greeted with genuine friendliness! Helpful people at check in, a friendly steward showed us to our room, the bartender chatted with us during our first day at lunch, Francisco delivered us daily drinks and lunch at the pool and a wonderful lady stocked our room! You’ll be surrounded by caring people during your stay.
2. Location
You can’t beat the location of this hotel! After landing at the airport it’s a quick (and inexpensive) 10 minute taxi ride to the resort. It’s nice to not have a long transfer before starting your vacation! The Marriott is located on a strip of beach where you can easily enjoy the sunset and walks in the sand! You’re only a few blocks away from the marina where there’s shopping and great restaurants! Getting downtown Puerto Vallarta is also convenient, as it’s about a 15 minute cab ride (June 2018 it was a $7 cab ride/130 pesos).
3. Resort Fees
None of us like the resort fees imposed at larger hotels but this one includes a lot for the $15/day charge. Included are two daily water bottles/coffee, a tequila tasting, free wi-fi, kayak/SUP/bike rentals, basketball/tennis courts, access to the spa wellness areas, beach towels and two welcome drinks.
4. Hotel Lobby
The resort has a pretty, open air, casual lobby (always a nice breeze) that’s a great gathering place any time of day. You can enjoy your ice cream in one of the swings or grab drink at the bar – all while enjoying a beautiful view of the pool and ocean!
5. Restaurants
One doesn’t need to leave the resort for great food! It has 6 restaurants – a sports bar, Japanese, Mexican, ceviche bar, sea food and a deli (along with an ice cream shop!). On our first evening in Puerto Vallarta we dined outside (with the sun setting over the Pacific) on tasty fresh caught sea bass, had lunch delivered pool side every afternoon, ate breakfast daily at the hotel (the fresh juices were a favorite), and ice cream was a frequent evening dessert! 🙂
The Marriott Puerto Vallarta is a great choice for families vacationing in Mexico and groups needing meeting facilities with a close airport location. I enjoyed a getaway with my husband, but know there’s children at this resort year round. 🙂
Until the next adventure – bon voyage!
Kris
