Beginning on the north side of the bridge leading out of Zona Romantica is Centro North, the downtown area of Puerto Vallarta including Cinco de Diciembre and Gringo Gulch.
With plenty of shops and restaurants throughout the area, everything you need is within walking distance.
Great restaurants include Barcelona for Tapas, Fei Long for Chinese food, El Barracuda for beachfront fare and great sunsets, and the iconic Pepe’s Tacos. And great new restaurants are popping up all of the time.
The commercial area of Centro North is on either side of the main thoroughfare and extends a couple blocks east. Then comes the residential area with both traditional homes and new developments. New developments tend to be boutique properties with anywhere from 5 to 25 units. On the west side of the main thoroughfare is the beach that runs the entire length of Centro North. Here as well is a mix of traditional and homes and new developments.
Playa Camarones is the most popular beach in Centro North. It is Blue Flag International Certified meaning that it applies best practices in environmental management and quality. Playa Camarones is a great place to spend the day with the family. Bring your towel and Tommy Bahama backpack chair and umbrella and find a spot on the golden sand. Pick up a cooler and your favorite beverages and snacks at OXXO on the way. Or grab a lounge chair at the famous El Barracuda Restaurant or Mangos Beach Club and enjoy drinks and food served to you, right on the beach.
Other amenities in Centro North include the excellent Municipal Mercado, located on San Salvador street. It has everything you need, including fruit, vegetables, meat, fish, seafood, dairy, dry goods, and on. The market typically opens at 6:30 am and closes just before 4:00 pm. Prices are very reasonable and the best part is that everything is fresh!
Ley Supermarket is something like a Mexican Walmart. It is conveniently located in the heart of Centro North.
For fitness enthusiasts, there is the amazing outdoor fitness and sports stadium, located at the north end. It has everything. Basketball, tennis, and pickle ball courts. A huge running track, outdoor weight training equipment. And more. And it is all free.
Property prices in Centro North are lower than in Zona Romantica, yet Centro is so close to Zona that it can be a very affordable, and accessible option.
