My HONEST REVIEW of The Westin Puerto Vallarta (Is It Worth It?)
Want to stay at The Westin Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta?
You’ve come to the right place because I stayed at this hotel — and I’m about to share my honest Westin Puerto Vallarta review.
Located by both the marina and the airport, this resort offers a convenient location and a relaxing atmosphere that’s not far from charming Downtown Vallarta.
However, you might never leave the resort once you relax on the private beach with oceanfront pergolas, swim in the two pools set among acres of swaying palm trees, and eat at the delicious restaurants.
Sound like paradise? For my family, it was!
In this article, I’ll highlight everything else you need to know about staying at The Westin Puerto Vallarta, so you can see if it’s the perfect place for you too — or you can check rates and availability at The Westin Puerto Vallarta here.
Is The Westin Puerto Vallarta worth it?
Want to know what it was like to stay there, but don’t have time to read the whole article? No worries!
In short: We LOVED our stay at The Westin in Puerto Vallarta Mexico, and recommend it for all types of travelers — from couples to friends to solo travelers.
This trip was a family trip with two littles, so if you’re traveling to Mexico with kids, this resort will really WOW you.
Smooth Check-In Process
Something I’ve always loved about many of the resorts in Mexico are their beautiful open lobbies, and The Westin Vallarta Mexico was no different.
Just before entering the property, we passed by a massive waterfall surrounded by palm trees.
This sets the tone, and is always a welcoming treat when visiting the tropics.
Upon entering, you truly feel like you’ve entered luxury thanks to the massive open-air lobby with palm trees, a cocktail bar, and plenty of places to relax and take a load off.
We were greeted by staff immediately, as they grabbed all of our baggage from the shuttle and transferred it onto a luggage cart and up to our room.
We were handed a delicious mocktail as another staff member gave us a rundown of the property.
Since it was approaching dinner time, they also booked us in for our first meal of the trip (more on The Westin Puerto Vallarta restaurants to come).
Rooms at The Westin Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta
The Westin Resort Spa Puerto Vallarta has 280 rooms, spread out over 14 floors. All of them have ocean view rooms with bright colors and tropical Mexican décor.
Our room had a very comfortable plush Heavenly king size bed.
These Heavenly beds are something Westin resorts are known for, and they’re one of the most comfortable beds you’ll ever sleep on.
We also had a private balcony with stunning views — and spent time out there each day.
Our room was almost on the top floor, so the view was spectacular, but so were the sounds from the birdsongs.
After a good night’s sleep, I loved getting up in the morning and sitting on the balcony for a few minutes to listen to the birds and admire the scenery.
Back in the room, we also had a stand-up shower and tub, stocked mini-fridge, Nespresso machine, air conditioner, couch, table, flat-screen TV, and a safe.
The Westin Restaurants & Dining Options
Whether you’re looking for tasty Mexican food or international food, The Westin Resort PV has you covered with three on-site restaurants.
These include El Palmar, Arrecifes, and La Cascada, and we’ll talk about all three in detail below — because food is important on vacation!
El Palmar
⏰ Hours: Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner | 👗 Dress Code: Casual
During our first night, we decided to eat at El Palmar.
Here, you’ll find an expansive breakfast buffet, an equally-expensive dinner buffet, and à la carte options from the menu.
The main eating area is connected to the main building and is surrounded by palm trees, but they also have a rooftop terrace overlooking the resort.
The dinner was delicious. Although the ambience certainly doesn’t compare to Arrecifes Seafood & Steakhouse, we thought the food was better here.
To start, we had the chicharron de ribeye (crispy deep-fried steak cube), which comes with a delicious spicy guacamole. It was delicious.
For our mains, we had the mole de olla, which is a braised short-rib cooked in a mole sauce, as well as enmoladas stuffed with chicken tinga. Both were very good.
For breakfast, this is the only place to go and we found it quite good for a resort buffet. They offer a tremendous amount of choices, some that change daily.
We especially loved the chilaquiles, made-to-order omelets and quesadillas, waffles, Mexican pastries, yogurt parfaits, and fresh-squeezed juices.
Oftentimes, we’re disappointed by the coffee in resorts — but here at The Westin, it was very good. It’s likely sourced locally, as there are several coffee regions in Mexico.
Arrecifes Seafood & Steakhouse
⏰ Hours: Open daily for dinner | 👗 Dress Code: Casual
This open-air restaurant is more of a high-end option at The Westin Resort, offering stunning views of the ocean and sunset as well as fresh-caught seafood that arrives each day.
It was a pleasure to sit outside just steps away from the water and to watch the sun descend as we enjoyed one of the many refreshing cocktails they offer.
We ended up coming here twice for dinner, as the views just can’t be beat.
We tried a variety of tasty meals, including lobster and sweet potato cream soup, milanese-style beef ossobuco, ribeye steak, and seafood risotto.
There were some areas for improvement (as with all restaurants), but the service is attentive, the food is good, and the views can’t be beat.
La Cascada Restaurant & Bar
⏰ Hours: Open daily for dinner | 👗 Dress Code: Casual
This restaurant is located inside the main building of the resort. Sadly, with only three nights at the resort, we didn’t make it here.
It’s more of a gastro pub or bar-style restaurant with a pool table and an international menu. They offer seasonal live music and tropical drinks, too.
Additional Places to Eat at The Westin PV
In addition to the three main eateries, they also have poolside dining with snacks and drinks. These include Cebichería Arrecifes and Tlaquepaque Bar.
🪅 Fun Facts: Tlaquepaque (pronounced tlah-kay-pah-kay) is one of the Mexico pueblos magicos, or magic towns, and located about four hours from Puerto Vallarta.
If you’re hanging around the ocean area, you’ll probably be snacking at Cebichería Arrecifes, and we highly recommend their shrimp burrito.
There’s also a Coffee Shop on-site for those seeking lattes and other snacks, but this is not included in your all-inclusive stay.
Best Things to Do at The Westin Resort PV
While we certainly recommend exploring Puerto Vallarta during your visit, there are lots of things to do at the resort as well — which we’ll detail below.
If you are looking for a list of things to do off-resort, check out this list of 20 Unique Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta Mexico.
1. Swim in the Resort Pools
There are two main pools at The Westin Resort in Puerto Vallarta, each surrounded by palm trees.
Although you can swim in the pools, the shape of them is more geared towards relaxing and hanging out.
The pool closest to the resort is better for families, as it’s shallower. However, it also has a volleyball net that people of all ages enjoyed throughout the day.
Although everyone regardless of age is welcome to use both pools, the pool closest to the ocean is more dedicated to adults.
2. Lounge at Las Pergolas Beach Club
One of the latest offerings at The Puerto Vallarta Westin Resort is Las Pergolas Beach Club. It has oceanfront pergolas that are perched right in front of the beach.
These semi-private pergolas need to be booked in advance for an added charge, but offer a dedicated pergola for you and your family for the entire day.
Not only do you have attentive staff coming around to take your food and drinks order, but you never have to worry about your luxurious lounge chairs being taken.
The pergolas have a latticed roof that gently filters the sunlight, and being right in front of the beach, you can hear the waves crashing into the shoreline.
We had our own pergola for both days, and it was such a great way to relax during the day while taking occasional dips in the sea.
3. Relax at The Westin Puerto Vallarta Spa
For those looking for relaxation, don’t skip The Westin Spa Puerto Vallarta, where relaxation complements refinement.
The spa offers massage (including couples massage), a hydrotherapy pool treatment, facial, manicure, pedicure and more. Or, get an in-suite massage right in your room.
Those wishing to make an appointment can see The Westin Puerto Vallarta spa prices and spa menu here.
4. Workout at the Wellness Center
Although we didn’t have time to enjoy any of the wellness offerings, the resort does offer their WestinWORKOUT Fitness Studio.
The Westin Resort Puerto Vallarta Mexico gym has cardio machines, strength training machines, free weights, locker rooms, a sauna, tennis courts, and basketball hoops.
5. Laze on the Beach
As an oceanfront hotel, the beach is one of the highlights of the resort.
Here, you’ll enjoy nearly half a mile (1 km) of gorgeous private beach along with a nice breakwater feature that helps keep part of the sea calmer, which is great for those with kids.
However, if you’re looking for more action, you can easily book several experiences right on the beach. These include renting a jetski or going parasailing.
My HONEST Westin Puerto Vallarta Review
If you’re looking for a beautiful hotel that is open to all ages, and is within five minutes of the Puerto Vallarta Airport, look no further than the Puerto Vallarta Westin Hotel.
Whether you’re traveling solo, traveling with friends, or traveling with family and kids, it’s a great option for anyone visiting Puerto Vallarta.
One of the first hotels to open in the popular Marina Zone, it’s also popular with golfers thanks to nearby golf courses like the 18-hole Marina Vallarta Golf Club.
In short: You can’t go wrong staying at The Westin Spa and Resort Puerto Vallarta.
With recent updates, the hotel looks new, the staff is wonderful, and it feels like paradise.
Hotel Decor at The Westin Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa
I truly loved the wide open hallways, built-in true Mexican fashion with free-flowing air providing a welcoming breeze as we wandered the resort.
Something I always try to get when I book resorts in Mexico, especially when traveling during the winter back home in Calgary, is an oceanview room.
That was very easy to do at the Puerto Vallarta Westin Resort because all their rooms have an oceanview!
If I’m only spending a few days near the beach, I want to wake up every day looking out over the balcony at the sea. We even spotted whales one day!
In addition to the ocean views, we could also see the town of Puerto Vallarta Jalisco in the distance, as well as dozens of palm trees and the resort pools.
Since we were traveling with two little babies, we would occasionally feed them on the balcony, giving us beautiful and relaxing views while they calmly ate.
Should You Do All Inclusive?
If your budget allows, The Westin Puerto Vallarta all inclusive packages provide a stress-free trip because everything’s included for one price.
For those that opt for an all-inclusive plan, the restaurants offer enough variety to keep you satisfied for a week, and their buffet breakfast is a great way to start the day.
If you don’t pick this option, we found that the prices on the menus were very high for what you get (typical of almost any hotel).
While not as convenient as eating right at the hotel, we would have tried more of the restaurants in Puerto Vallarta’s downtown if we didn’t go for the all-inclusive option.
Looking for more Westin Puerto Vallarta Reviews?
Of course, I’m just one voice, so I’d encourage you to hear from others.
To help you do that, here are some of The Westin Puerto Vallarta reviews I found, both positive and negative.
✅ Positive Reviews
“We stayed at the Westin in January to celebrate my wife’s birthday. The hotel did an excellent job in helping the celebration.
Our room was decorated with balloons, animals, candy, and they sent champagne and chocolate covered strawberries. What a great way to celebrate.” (Lee S., from Tripadvisor Westin Puerto Vallarta)
“I booked this hotel the night before arriving. I was tired and I didn’t want to have to shop around for hotels. I’m so glad I did. The staff was so wonderful.
They were attentive, friendly, and helpful with recommendations.” (Cyn L., The Westin Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta reviews, via Google reviews)
🛑 Negative Reviews
“Pool is designed funny. Only a couple of steps in and out. Some areas are wavy as part of the design, but it makes the pool very slippery.” (Norma, Westin Resort Puerto Vallarta reviews, via Booking.com)
“Many people saved chairs way in advance, making it difficult if you arrive after 9am. Breakfast and buffet were very average for a Westin.” (John, Westin Hotel Puerto Vallarta reviews, via Booking.com)
The Westin Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta Mexico: Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a Westin in Puerto Vallarta Mexico?
Yes — There is one. Its official name is The Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta, and it’s one of the most popular hotels in town.
Where is The Westin Resort and Spa Puerto Vallarta located?
It is in the Marina Vallarta area, and the address is Avenida Paseo de la Marina Sur #205, Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico 48354.
🗺️ The Westin Puerto Vallarta Map
What’s the closest airport to The Westin Hotel Puerto Vallarta?
Puerto Vallarta International Airport (code: PRV) is the closest airport at only about 10 minutes away by rental car, taxi, Uber or shuttle.
Is there a Westin Puerto Vallarta shuttle from the airport?
No — There isn’t a Westin Puerto Vallarta Airport Shuttle available from the Puerto Vallarta Airport provided by the hotel, so I recommend booking this inexpensive private shuttle.
Is The Westin Puerto Vallarta all inclusive?
It has options for all inclusive packages, but you can also just stay at the hotel without buying the packages.
🌮 Pro Tip: For those who choose not to pay for all-inclusive, we recommend eating at the local restaurants in Puerto Vallarta instead of the hotel restaurants.
Don’t miss Panchos Takos, which has the best tacos in town, and Café des Artistes, one of the top-rated restaurants in the area.
Is The Westin Puerto Vallarta Mexico all ages?
Yes — The Westin Puerto Vallarta is NOT adults only, and all ages are welcome.
Is The Westin Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta pet friendly?
Yes — Pets are welcome, but only small dogs of up to 40 pounds (18 kilos).
There are only two pets allowed per room, and you’ll have to pay a non-refundable pet fee of $30 USD per pet, per night.
What are the check-in and check-out times at The Westin Resort & Spa PV?
As is the standard at most hotels, check-in time is 3pm, and check-out time is 12pm.
They can sometimes accommodate a late check-out if requested in advance, but the hotel does not guarantee it.
Is there parking at The Westin Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta?
Yes — For those renting a car in Puerto Vallarta, there is FREE on-site parking.
A unique feature you won’t see everywhere in Mexico, there’s also an electric car charging station for guest use.
Is there a Westin Puerto Vallarta day pass?
Yes — The day passes start at about $68 for adults, and $25 for children ages 0-12, though prices can vary depending on the season.
The pass includes access to the hotel pools, their private beach, The Westin Resort Puerto Vallarta gym, and on-site restaurants.
You can also purchase optional services like a massage or mani-pedi at a discounted rate, and they provide beach towels for use on the property.
Is The Westin Puerto Vallarta accessible?
They have several accessibility measures in place, like elevators and roll-in showers, but for specific information please call the hotel at +52-322-226-1100.
Is The Westin Puerto Vallarta sustainable?
Yes — They have several sustainability measures in place, like guest room recycling, water bottle filling stations, and an on-site electric car charging station.
The Westin Hotel in Puerto Vallarta Mexico also has a Blue Flag Certification and Voluntary Environmental Compliance Certificate from the Mexican government.
The hotel lists their Carbon Footprint at 31.57 kg per room per night, and their Water Footprint at 1,340.45 liters per room, per night.
What’s the best Westin Puerto Vallarta restaurant?
This is probably a matter of opinion, but two standout restaurants at Westin Puerto Vallarta include El Palmar and Arrecifes Seafood & Steakhouse.
Is The Westin Puerto Vallarta beach private?
Yes — The resort has a 410-foot-long private beach (125 m). There’s also pergolas on the beach you can rent at Las Pergolas Beach Club.
Does The Westin Puerto Vallarta use different outlets?
The standard outlets in Mexico (and most of North America) are Type A and Type B plugs.
The Hotel Westin Puerto Vallarta, the city of Puerto Vallarta, and all Mexico, use a voltage of 127V with a frequency of 60 Hz.
🔌 Note: If your plugs aren’t Type A or Type B, you will need this plug converter. It also comes with a built-in currency converter.
Is the spa at The Westin Puerto Vallarta nice?
Yes — The Westin Puerto Vallarta spa menu includes facials, in-suite massages for hotel guests, manicures/pedicures, massages and waxing. It also has a steam room.
Are there Westin Puerto Vallarta wedding options?
Yes — According to The Westin Puerto Vallarta website, they have versatile and customizable wedding venues, as well as wedding planners to help bring your special day to life.
There’s also a business center, and meeting rooms so this hotel can host a variety of events, both large and small.
What is The Westin Puerto Vallarta resort fee?
According to Resort Fee Checker, Puerto Vallarta Mexico Westin Hotel guests are required to pay $23.20 per room, per night in resort fees.
What is Regina Westin Puerto Vallarta?
The Westin Puerto Vallarta is a hotel, and The Westin Club Regina Puerto Vallarta is a time-share located just next door.
They share many of the same facilities, like the restaurants, pools and gym, so there’s some overlap between the two.
Because of this, you might see the time-share side called The Hotel Westin Regina Puerto Vallarta, though it’s not technically a hotel.
Are there Westin Puerto Vallarta time share options?
Yes — There are Westin Puerto Vallarta timeshare options, as well as options at Club Regina Puerto Vallarta at Westin, which offers timeshare rentals and resales.
Are The Westin Marina Puerto Vallarta and The Westin Resort and Spa Vallarta the same?
Yes — Since it’s located near the Marina Puerto Vallarta, you might see this hotel called The Westin Marina Vallarta.
However, the official name of the hotel does not have the word “marina.” It’s official name is The Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta Mexico.
Is there a Westin Marriott Puerto Vallarta Hotel?
Sort of — Westin Hotels & Resorts is owned by Marriott International, so in that sense, they’re the same. However, they operate as different brands.
This means there’s technically no Marriott Westin Puerto Vallarta Hotel, but there is The Westin, and the Marriott Puerto Vallarta Hotel & Spa.
Is there a Westin Nuevo Vallarta hotel?
No — There’s only the Hotel Westin Resort Puerto Vallarta.
However, it’s only about 30 minutes away from the town of Nuevo Vallarta, which is in Nayarit state.
Final Thoughts: Staying at The Westin Puerto Vallarta Mexico
If you’re looking for a beautiful hotel that’s open to all ages and within five minutes of the Puerto Vallarta PVR Airport, look no further than The Westin Resort.
With recent renovations, it feels new. Besides that, the restaurants were delicious, the swimming pools were inviting, and the private beach was beautiful.
It has an added bonus of a rocky breakwater near the shore that helped lessen the waves. If you’re traveling to Puerto Vallarta with kids (like us), this really helps.
Located next to the Puerto Vallarta Marina, it’s a super convenient location that allows you to walk into town, or take a short Uber ride for a local adventure.
If you’re not getting The Westin Resort Puerto Vallarta all inclusive package (like we did), there are plenty of bars and restaurants within walking distance of the resort.
The Best Puerto Vallarta Things to Do
Want to venture off-resort and enjoy the MANY things to see in Puerto Vallarta? I hope you do because this city has so much to offer its visitors.
Here are some additional articles that will show you all the best tours in Puerto Vallarta. These offer the safest, most convenient way to get around.
- 🛥️ Puerto Vallarta Private Boat Tours
- 🛞 Best Puerto Vallarta ATV Tours
- 👍 Best Puerto Vallarta Zipline Tours
- 🌮 Best Puerto Vallarta Food Tours
- 🥃 Best Puerto Vallarta Tequila Tasting Tours
- 🧑🍳 Best Puerto Vallarta Cooking Classes
- 🤿 Best Puerto Vallarta Snorkeling Tours
- 🎣 Best Puerto Vallarta Fishing Charters