We are going to Puerta Vallarta at Christmas and I'm trying to figure out the best area/hotel to stay in. Really would like to be near the nicest beach possible. Any suggestions? Have a 12 year old boy who likes lots of activities. Thanks!

I wouldn't call it the "nicest beach" but Playa Los Muertos which is the main local town beach on the southside of PV is busy with both people and activities. Innertube rentals, boogie boards, banana boats, parasailing. Tons of vendors selling souveniers and food. Palapa restaurants along the beach. I'm not sure a family would want to stay in a nearby hotel (they are fairly basic not fancy resorts here), but it would be a fun way to spend a day.

The most beautiful beaches are the more isolated ones outside of town like Destiladeras and El Anclote to the north. Also the beaches at the Nuevo Vallarta resorts, but this is about 1/2 hour north of PV downtown.

The nicest beaches around PV are either along the south coast - Yelapa, Las Animas but you can only get there by boat - or along the north coast - La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, Bucerias or even further north - Sayulita, San Francisco...

check out www.virtualvallarta.com for info on what to see and do around PV...

Cheers,
Andrew

Better web site for PV: www.vallarta-info.com

also http://www.vrbo.com/

We stayed at Paradise Village a few years ago. My son was loved it and wants to go back all the time!! They have cool waterslides, boogie boards, a small zoo, bike rental.

It's also a timeshare property, so ignore them and their offers and you'll have a good time.