Amapas
The hillside just above Old Town — bay views, quiet streets, and a steep walk home.
Amapas climbs the hillside immediately south of Zona Romántica, between Old Town and Conchas Chinas. It's largely residential — condos and villas stacked up the slope — and prized for one thing above all: the views over Banderas Bay.
What it's like
Quiet, green and vertical. There's little commercial life within Amapas itself; it's a place to stay rather than to visit, with the restaurants and beach of Old Town a walk downhill. Many rentals here have terraces and pools looking straight out over the bay — the sunsets are the selling point.
Staying in Amapas
- Pros: views, quiet, more space for the money, still walkable to Old Town.
- Cons: the walk back is steep. Fine going down, real work coming up — factor in taxis if you're not up for hills.
- Best for: longer stays, couples and anyone renting a condo with a view.
Amapas is where you stay when you want Old Town's food and beach but a quiet terrace to come home to — as long as you're happy with the climb.