In a world of huge international chains, Puerto Vallarta’s Buenaventura Grand Beach Resort stands out as a refreshing example of authentic Mexican hospitality. This locally-owned Mexican All-Inclusive Resort has recently undergone a complete renovation, bringing new life into its charming spaces while also maintaining its distinctive character.

Located in one of Puerto Vallarta’s most desirable locations, Buenaventura Grand Hotel & Great Moments offers a perfect blend of comfort, culture, and convenience.

Many thanks to Buenaventura Grand Hotel & Great Moments for hosting my stay. While my experiences were comped by the resort, all of my opinions are true and my own.

Buenaventura Grand Hotel & Great Moments: At a Glance

📍 Location: Central Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

• 15 minutes from PVR Airport
• 5-minute walk to the famous Malecón Boardwalk
• Beachfront property on the Bay of Banderas

💰 Price Point:

• Starting at $180/night (low season, all-inclusive)
• 20-30% lower than chain resorts
• Children under 6 stay free

🏨 Property Details:

• 225 rooms and suites
• Recently renovated
• Locally owned and operated
• 4 restaurants, 3 bars
• 3 pools (including children’s pool)
• Full-service spa

👥 Best For:

• Families seeking cultural experiences
• Couples wanting local charm
• Sustainability-minded travelers
• Multi-generational family trips

⭐ Standout Features:

• Beachfront yoga
• Themed weekly fiestas on the beach
• Ocean-view massage services
• High percentage of multi-cultural guests
• Walking distance to local attractions

⏰ Best Time to Visit:

• Peak Season: December-April
• Best Value: May-June, October-November
• Low Season: July-September

🎯 Quick Takes:

• ✅ Location & Cultural Authenticity
• ✅ Value for Money
• ✅ Family-Friendly Atmosphere
• ⚠️ Limited Premium Beverages
• ⚠️ Smaller Beach Area

As someone traditionally skeptical of all-inclusive resorts, I found Buenaventura to be a refreshing surprise. This locally-owned property offers authentic Mexican hospitality, great beachfront wellness activities, and easy access to Puerto Vallarta’s cultural heart.

While the beverage selection could use improvement, Buenaventura Grand Beach Resort’s commitment to local culture, sustainable practices, and a family-friendly atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for travelers who want the convenience of all-inclusive without sacrificing authentic experiences.

Breaking Down My All-Inclusive Hesitation

I’ve always been the type of traveler who seeks out local experiences, avoiding the typical tourist bubbles that all-inclusive resorts often create. However, when I discovered the locally-owned Buenaventura Resort in Puerto Vallarta, I decided to challenge my preconceptions. What I found was a refreshing balance between convenience and cultural authenticity that made me reconsider my stance on all-inclusive resorts.

Buenaventura Grand Beach Resort is:

• Perfect for testing the all-inclusive waters
• Family-owned and operated establishment
• Recently renovated facilities with traditional Mexican touches
• Notably diverse guest mix, including many Mexican families
• Genuine local atmosphere rather than artificial tourist environment

Buenaventura Grand Beach Resort Location

One of my favorite aspects of Buenaventura was its great location. Unlike other all-inclusive resorts that isolate you from the real Puerto Vallarta, Buenaventura is in the exact right spot to explore the city’s authentic charm. What I loved about Buenaventura’s location:

• Just 15 minutes from Puerto Vallarta International Airport
• Walking distance to the historic Zona Romántica (home of PV’s best tacos, I’m told)
• Five minutes from the famous and beautiful Malecón boardwalk
• Surrounded by authentic local restaurants and shops
• Easy access to public transportation and taxi services
• Direct beach access with views of Banderas Bay

Accommodations at Buenaventura Grand Hotel & Great Moments

Following its recent renovation, the Buenaventura’s rooms showcase a thoughtful blend of modern amenities and traditional Mexican design. Spaces have been carefully updated to meet contemporary standards. Yet, they retain the warm, inviting atmosphere that guests expect.

At Buenaventura, you’ll find:

• 225 newly renovated rooms and suites
• Choice of ocean or garden views
• Modern bathrooms with rainfall showers
• Complimentary high-speed WiFi
• Smart TVs with international channels
• Family suites available with connecting rooms
• Private balconies or terraces in most rooms

My Daily Resort Experience

The resort surprised me with its thoughtful blend of relaxation and activities. Mornings typically start with beachfront yoga sessions, setting a peaceful tone for the day. The wellness offerings were a particular highlight of my stay.

• Rejuvenating morning yoga on the beach (definitely don’t miss this!)
• Excellent spa services, including an unforgettable oceanfront massage
• Three swimming pools with varying atmospheres
• Cultural activities like mixology classes and bikes for touring
• Evening entertainment featuring local performers

Dining and Drinks at Buenaventura: Hits and Misses

My food and beverage experiences were generally positive, though with some room for improvement. The Mexican Night Fiesta was a particular highlight. Eating on the beach was fantastic, offering local cuisine, authentic entertainment, and dancing! I enjoyed sharing a large table with Mexican travelers and the fun beach dancing that ensued was the perfect ending to a fantastic day.

What I Loved:

• Mexican Night Fiesta – don’t miss it!
• Fresh seafood options
• Beachfront dining at Sunset Restaurant
• Local Mexican dishes at Frutas y Flores Restaurant (Main Buffet Restaurant)

What Could Be Better:

• Limited premium alcohol selections
• Disappointing juice options (mostly from concentrate)
• Stronger coffee (personal preference)

Mexican Cultural Immersion

What truly sets Buenaventura apart is its commitment to authentic Mexican hospitality. As someone passionate about cultural tourism, I was pleased to see how the resort integrated local elements into the guest experience.

• Strong presence of Mexican families among guests
• Staff proudly sharing local traditions and customs
• Cultural events featuring local artists and performers
• Easy access to authentic Puerto Vallarta experiences
• Use of locally sourced ingredients and products

Value and Sustainability

From a sustainable tourism perspective, I appreciated how Buenaventura approaches environmental and social responsibility. The resort demonstrates that all-inclusive doesn’t have to mean wasteful or culturally isolated.

• Employs local staff at all levels
• Partners with local tour operators and artisans
• Implements water conservation practices
• Reasonable pricing compared to international chains
• Supports local community initiatives, especially within art and music communities

Tips From My Experience

Having experienced Buenaventura as my first all-inclusive resort, I have some suggestions for like-minded travelers who value authentic experiences:

• Book ocean-view rooms – the sunset views are worth it
• Don’t miss the morning yoga sessions
• Make time to explore the Malecón and surrounding neighborhoods
• Try the spa services, especially the beachfront massage
• Make sure to reserve a place at the Mexican Fiesta
• Consider bringing your own reusable cup for drinks
• Plan for some meals outside the resort to experience local restaurants

Common Questions about Staying at Buenaventura Grand Beach Resort

Is Puerto Vallarta safe for tourists?

Yes, Puerto Vallarta is considered one of Mexico’s safest tourist destinations. During my stay at Buenaventura, I felt completely comfortable walking to the Malecón and exploring nearby neighborhoods, even in the evening. The tourist zones are well-patrolled, and the resort area has security measures in place.

That said, like any tourist destination, it’s important to practice common sense safety:

• Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables in your room safe
• Use official taxi services or resort-recommended transportation
• Stick to well-traveled tourist areas, particularly after dark
• Carry minimal cash and keep important documents secure

The resort itself has 24-hour security, including controlled access points and well-lit pathways. Most guests I met, including many families with children, felt very comfortable both at the resort and exploring the surrounding area. The high number of Mexican families choosing to vacation here speaks to the destination’s safety and appeal.

What’s the beach like at the resort?

At Buenaventura, you’ll find:

• Direct access to a sandy beach
• Beach loungers and umbrellas included
• Beachfront bar service
• Smaller beach area compared to some resorts
• There is a small area of well-maintained sand, but there are also a lot of rocks and many locals walk their dogs on this stretch of beach as well.
• Gentle waves suitable for swimming, but there’s a big drop off so the water gets deep pretty quickly. Also, depending on water conditions, the rocks can pelt you when you’re in the water.
• Spectacular sunset views

What makes this resort different from other all-inclusive resorts in Puerto Vallarta?

Key differentiators include:

• Locally owned and operated
• Smaller, more intimate setting (225 rooms)
• More diverse guest mix, including many Mexican families
• Strong focus on cultural authenticity
• Lower price point than international chains
• Central location for exploring the real Puerto Vallarta
• Recent renovation combining modern amenities with traditional design

Is Buenaventura Grand Beach Resort family-friendly?

Yes, the resort caters well to families and is a great place for a multi-gen trip. You’ll find:

• Dedicated children’s pool
• Kids’ club for ages 4-12
• Family suites with connecting rooms available
• Child-friendly menu options
• Daily activities suitable for all ages
• Children under 6 stay free with parents

What’s the best time of year to visit?

I was happy with our early November weather. Highs were in the 80s and we never needed a jacket. It was humid and sunny. I jokingly refer to myself as a sun-hating vampire, so I can’t image visiting during a hotter time.

We also really enjoyed the Día de los Muertos displays! We missed the festival, but I think the beginning of November is the perfect time to head to Puerto Vallarta!

Consider these seasonal factors when deciding when you want to visit:

• Peak Season (December-April): Perfect weather but highest rates and crowds
• Shoulder Season (May-June, October-November): Best value, good weather
• Low Season (July-September): Lowest rates but hot and humid with occasional rain
• Best deals typically found in May and October

My time at Buenaventura changed my perspective on all-inclusive resorts. While it may not offer the extensive amenities of international chains, it provides something more valuable: an authentic Mexican resort experience that doesn’t isolate you from the local culture.

Yes, there are areas for improvement, particularly in the beverage department, but the resort’s commitment to local culture, sustainability, and genuine hospitality more than makes up for these minor shortcomings.

For travelers who’ve been hesitant about all-inclusive resorts, Buenaventura offers a perfect middle ground. It provides the convenience of all-inclusive amenities while maintaining a strong connection to Puerto Vallarta’s rich cultural heritage. As someone who prioritizes authentic travel experiences, I found it to be an unexpectedly perfect fit for my travel style. I hope you will consider it too!

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