The best gay-friendly hotels in Puerto Vallarta

Immerse yourself in the extravagant celebrity lifestyle with a stay at Casa Kimberly, an ultra-luxe nine-suite boutique housed in the former homes of Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor. It’s no secret that the beloved 1960s film The Night of the Iguana—and the passionate Elizabeth Taylor – Richard Burton love story that followed—catapulted Puerto Vallarta from a sleepy fishing village to sought-out paradisiacal getaway. Notable winks to the Burtons feature heavily throughout the massive villa, from the unmissable portrait of Taylor to the restored Puente del Amor (a bridge connecting the two houses and which the couple often used to secretly rendezvous during their long-standing affair.) Practically speaking, everything about Casa Kimberly screams stylish opulence. Think glittering Banderas Bay views, indulgent private Jacuzzi tubs, and a chandelier-laden open-air restaurant. For a real treat, opt for the Elizabeth Taylor Suite, once the actresses’ personal quarters.

Just 500 meters from action-packed Los Muertos Beach—and in the heart of Puerto Vallarta’s thrumming gayborhood—Piñata PV Gay Hotel is for those discerning travellers after an all-male boutique hotel experience. Rooms feel decidedly trendy, with exposed brick and designer artwork adorning the spaces. The clothing-optional pool and hot tub are open 24-hours, a perfect respite before or after a hedonistic evening spent checking out the gay Puerto Vallarta nightlife scene. Regular evening social events and a buzzing bar make this an ideal place to meet and mingle with other discerning gay travellers.

Casa Velas is an adults-only, all-inclusive Puerto Vallarta boutique hotel nestled inside the peaceful Marina Vallarta Golf Club. Verdant botanical gardens, swaying palms, and quaint koi ponds punctuate the impeccably landscaped grounds, while the scintillating pool and swim-up Aqua Bar provide a refreshing escape from the intense Mexican sun. In terms of aesthetics, expect upscale takes on traditional Mexican decor, including fabulous statues by Mexican sculptor Sergio Bustamante. Casa Vela’s Four Diamond-rated restaurant Emiliano is the go-to when hunger strikes; the restaurant specializes in gourmet Mexican cuisine elevated by vibrant local spices and fresh regional ingredients.

Part serene fishing town, part affluent resort destination, Punta de Mita is somewhat of a contradiction. This sun-dappled town is not necessarily a hidden gem, but it certainly does feel like one. And with the cosmopolitan highlights of Puerto Vallarta just around the bend, Punta de Mita makes an ideal base for those seeking the utmost in secluded romance and lavish accommodation. Of the high-end resorts in Punta de Mita, none shine quite like Casa de Mita. Though unassuming from the outside, this extravagant all-inclusive beachfront boutique exudes pure luxury on the inside. Each of the eight rooms makes use of bespoke Mexican design elements like colourful hand-painted tiles and custom-crafted wood furniture. Dine on contemporary Mexican cuisine, daily-caught lobster, and top-shelf cocktails, then end the evening with a nightcap at the wonderfully decadent self-serve tequila lounge. A glimmering pool with swim-up bar and striking beachfront views round out this next-level gay Puerto Vallarta vacation.

Many Puerto Vallarta hotels feature glittering ocean views, but Grand Miramar’s unrivalled location in Conchas Chinas takes the prize for the highest lookout point to Banderas Bay. Soak in panoramic views of the entire bay while sipping the imbibement of your choice at the swanky rooftop bar. Or, cool off in any one of the three refreshing infinity pools. Suites are appointed with kitchenettes and stovetops, but with four sumptuous restaurants and bars on the property, you’ll likely prefer to save all that cooking and cleaning for when you’re back home.