Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort and Spa just got a major facelift. After closing for several months for an extensive renovation, the resort debuted refreshed guestrooms, a new restaurant, swim-up rooms and an adult-only pool … and I was one of the first to get a look at the revamped resort.

One of Jalisco’s most beautiful beaches lies at the edge of the resort, a short walk from most guestrooms. The beach was a highlight of my trip. I enjoyed morning walks along the Pacific Ocean, sunbathing on the sand with a book in the afternoon and dining by candlelight on the shore.

© Jamie Davis Smith

Downtown Puerto Vallarta is a short and easy ride from the resort, and resort guests have just a short walk to the town’s marina, filled with shops and restaurants. The marina is also a convenient jumping-off point for excursions like snorkeling or sailing.

Another benefit of Marriott Puerto Vallarta’s location is its proximity to Puerto Vallarta airport; I had my toes in the sand within an hour of landing.

During the renovation, the resort resurfaced its family-friendly pool. I loved swimming in the large pool and ordering from the swim-up bar, which serves alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. As part of the refresh, the resort also added an adult-only infinity pool. Because I visited the resort without my children, the adult-only pool was my favorite place to relax during my stay. I loved ordering lunch poolside in a quieter area. Plans are in the works to add a kiddie pool and water park with a lazy river.

I also booked one of the resort’s new swim-up rooms. It was great having a private pool just outside my room, especially for an early morning dip before the main pools opened.

© Jamie Davis Smith

The resort boasts the largest spa in Puerto Vallarta. Ohtli Spa features hot and cold plunges, a sauna, and a tranquil relaxation room. During my visit, I received a fantastic massage, enhanced by time spent in the spa’s hot-cold circuit and on its comfortable loungers.

Who needs a wine vault when Puerto Vallarta is known for its tequila? A unique experience at the resort is its tequila tasting. While many resorts and restaurants boast an extensive wine list, Marriott Puerto Vallarta specializes in tequila and features a dedicated tequila tasting room showcasing regionally produced tequilas. Of course, they also have plenty of wine.

While staying at the resort, I was lucky enough to fulfill a lifelong dream to help release sea turtles. Marriott Puerto Vallarta partners with a conservation organization to help protect the endangered creatures. If conditions are right, hotel guests can watch volunteers release newly hatched baby sea turtles on the shore and cheer them on as they make their way toward the ocean.

© Jamie Davis Smith

Marriott Puerto Vallarta also has special events throughout the year. I visited during Day of the Dead and attended a special dinner that included participating in Day of the Dead traditions.

The resort has eight dining options, including a sports bar, a café, an upscale Japanese restaurant, an ice cream shop, a Mexican breakfast buffet, a beachfront restaurant serving regional dishes and a sunset bar specializing in seafood. They are all delicious.

© Jamie Davis Smith

When Marriott Puerto Vallarta reopened, it unveiled a new Spanish-themed dining concept. Marieta serves tapas and dishes inspired by the south of Spain. This restaurant turned out to be my favorite. Cold gazpacho and olives hit the spot after a long, hot day in Mexico.

Marriott Puerto Vallarta has always been a great escape in Mexico. It’s even better now that it’s been updated and upgraded.

Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa

Av Paseo de la Marina Nte 435,
Marina Vallarta, 48335 Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico
tel 52 322 226 0000