Villas Vallarta by Canto del Sol

Villas Vallarta by Canto del Sol is housed in a series of buildings on grounds that are lush with palm trees. There's an attractive, airy lobby, but most of the activity here takes place around the lovely freeform outdoor swimming pool, situated in a central courtyard. Many Villas guests opt for the all-inclusive plan, which allows them to access the restaurants, pool with swim-up bar, tennis courts, and other facilities at the Canto del Sol Plaza Vallarta. Unlike the party-hardy atmosphere at other Puerto Vallarta resorts, the vibe at the Villas is low-key. It draws tourists, and is especially popular with families. It also attracts travelers on extended stays.

Villas Vallarta by Canto del Sol is situated off Highway 200 in central Puerto Vallarta, in an area with other hotels and resorts. Las Glorias Beach is about a one-minute walk away, and there are numerous shops, restaurants, and bars in the area. There's a bus stop is in front of the hotel, and taxis are easy to get. Plaza Caracol mall is a about a five-minute drive, or a 15-minute walk. The heart of the Centro and old town is an 11-minute drive from the hotel. Here, visitors will find the oceanfront Plaza Morelos square, Los Arcos arches and amphitheatre, the Malecon promenade, Plaza de Armas (the city's main square), and Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Cuale Island Flea Market and Cuala Museum, which documents Puerto Vallarta's archaeological and cultural history, is roughly a 15-minute drive. Puerto Vallarta Airport is a 20-minute drive from the resort. 

Guest rooms, studios, one-, and two-bedroom apartments at Villas Vallarta have dated decor, but they're comfortable and tidy. Expect basic light-wood furniture, terra-cotta tile floors, and drapes and upholstered couches and armchairs in washed-out pastels. All units have air-conditioning, coffeemakers, safes, and TVs, although some are older tube-style, and there's also no in-room Wi-Fi.  Studios and apartments have kitchens with full-size refrigerators, microwaves, two- or four-burner ranges, blenders, toasters, cookware, and tableware, and some have ovens. Larger apartments add dining rooms and living rooms with sofa beds. Some units have private balconies overlooking the pool, and other have direct access. Spacious bathrooms are basic, but they contain showers/tub combos, hairdryers, and toiletries. Two-bedroom units add second bathrooms. Some previous guests have commented that it's a long walk from the hotel's one entrance to rooms. 

Guest with all-inclusive packages at Villas Vallarta have access to facilities at Canto del Sol Plaza Vallarta, but there are a few noteworthy amenities on-site for travelers who opt out. The property's best feature is its pleasant, freeform outdoor pool, with a poolside bar that serves a full lineup of cocktails, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages. There's no full-service restaurant on-site, but the hotel offers a hot buffet breakfast for a fee that includes local fare, with eggs, chilaquiles, pork stew, cereals, and breads. The Villas also has a meeting room and space for events, and underground parking for a fee. Free Wi-Fi is available in the lobby. Canto del Sol Plaza Vallarta has several full-service restaurants, including Mexican, seafood and steak, and Italian eateries, and other facilities and activities, such as tennis courts, a kids' club, a fitness center, and nightly entertainment. There's also water sports and beach volleyball. The vibe at the Canto's main pool, which has a swim-up bar, is a louder scene than at the Villa's pool.