Finding the perfect balance between authentic Mexican culture and resort amenities can be tricky when traveling with teenagers. Too far into the tourist zone, and you lose the real Puerto Vallarta experience; too far from amenities, and you hear the dreaded “I’m bored” from your teens. After extensive research for a family vacation, I landed on the Buenaventura Grand Hotel, and it turned out to be exactly what I was looking for – a sweet spot that offered both comfort and cultural immersion.
Walking into the Buenaventura Grand’s open-air lobby, the first thing that struck me wasn’t the ocean view (though that came a close second), but rather the sound of multiple generations of Mexican families checking in alongside us.
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Unlike many resorts that cater predominantly to American tourists, the Buenaventura has earned a reputation as a favorite among Mexican families, particularly during holidays and weekends. This mix of domestic and international guests immediately gave the property a more authentic feel than the isolated tourist bubbles found in the hotel zone.
The property’s location is nothing short of perfect for families wanting to experience the real Puerto Vallarta. Situated just south of the Malecón and a short walk from the Zona Romántica, the hotel sits in a vibrant neighborhood where local life continues uninterrupted by tourism. During my stay, I watched families and especially teens gradually abandon their hesitation about being in a “different” environment and began to embrace the authentic atmosphere.
Related: See my 4 or 5 day Puerto Vallarta Itinerary here.
This all-inclusive resort caters to families and seniors. During spring, college spring breakers aren’t allowed at the resort, so families will feel safe and comfortable throughout their stay. The resort completed a recent renovation (within the last four years) with the addition of balconies in 80% of the rooms.
My room, an ocean-view deluxe king room on the 4th floor, offered plenty of space for me on this trip. Plus this room featured this sit in jacuzzi tub overlooking the ocean.
Had my children been traveling with me, the family deluxe room, would be ideal sleeping up to 6 people. I appreciated the reliable WiFi and multiple charging outlets – practical considerations that can make or break a teen’s vacation experience.
What sets the Buenaventura Grand apart from other all-inclusive resorts is its integration with the local community. The hotel is owned by a local family that maintains strong relationships within the community. They are active supporters of the Orchestral School of Puerto Vallarta / Orquesta Escuela de Puerto Vallarta. The program’s core mission is to nurture better citizens through the power of music. It is dedicated to supporting children from underprivileged and low-income communities, helping them develop essential skills to grow into productive, engaged, and contributing members of society.
Entertainment at the Buenaventura Grand strikes a careful balance between traditional resort activities and cultural experiences. Yes, there’s the expected pool volleyball and dance lessons, but there are also evening performances often feature local musicians and dancers. Teens particularly will enjoy the weekly Fiesta Night and Tropical Night celebrations that take place on the beach with authentic food and live entertainment.
The food offerings reflect a commitment to authenticity. While the all-inclusive restaurants cover all the expected bases, including a fantastic breakfast buffet, the standout feature is the quality of traditional Mexican dishes. The Sunday brunch became a particular favorite, as we watched multiple generations of Mexican families gather for their weekly tradition. Fresh-made tortillas and local specialties like aquachiles, similar to a ceviche, were some of my favorites.
The resort’s beach area provides comfortable loungers and attentive service. What makes this beach special is its location – just far enough from the Malecón to avoid the crowds, but close enough to enjoy the energy of local life. Beach vendors offer everything from fresh coconuts to handmade jewelry, adding to the authentic beach experience rather than detracting from it.
The hotel’s proximity to the Malecón proved invaluable for keeping teenagers engaged. Within minutes, we could walk to this famous boardwalk, where street performers, artists, and vendors create a festive atmosphere each day and well into the night.
During the Dia de los Muertos, Day of the Dead, Puerto Vallarta hosts one of Mexico’s most elaborate celebrations complete with the world’s largest regina (statue) and a parade that winds through the city streets. The festivities are a sight to behold, with vibrant costumes, traditional music and dances, and delicious food offerings.
The nearby Zona Romántica, with its charming streets and diverse dining options, became a favorite destination for our family dinners when we wanted to venture beyond the all-inclusive offerings.
Service at the Buenaventura Grand reflects the warmth of Mexican hospitality. The staff, many of whom have worked at the property for years, treat guests like extended family. From the front desk staff to the bartenders and housekeeping, everyone was friendly and accommodating. I especially appreciated the extra effort made by the staff to make guests feel welcome and included in activities.
One of the highlights of our stay at Buenaventura Grand was the variety of activities available for all ages. From water aerobics in the pool to beach yoga, there was never a dull moment. Kids can spend hours playing on the beach with new friends they’ve made from different parts of the world, while the adults lounge in the sun. If you have younger children, there is a dedicated children’s club with supervised activities and games to keep them entertained.
I had the pleasure of visiting the Shakti Spa, where I enjoyed a relaxing full-body massage in a serene outdoor setting, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the ocean. Afterwards, I had use of the quiet whirlpool overlooking the ocean.
The hotel provides convenient excursions to renowned attractions like the Islas Marietas and Sayulita, allowing guests to effortlessly explore beyond Puerto Vallarta. The region is also a prime destination for whale watching, with January and February offering the best chance to spot majestic Humpback whales—and, on rare occasions, orca pods.
From a value perspective, the Buenaventura Grand offers competitive pricing compared to newer, more isolated resorts. While the property is smaller than other area resorts and is regularly at or near capacity during the high season. Regular maintenance and updates keep it comfortable and functional. The hotel’s location eliminates the need for expensive taxis or tours to experience Puerto Vallarta’s culture, as many attractions are within walking distance.
For families seeking an authentic Mexican vacation experience while maintaining the comfort of resort amenities, the Buenaventura Grand hits all the right notes. It’s best suited for families who want to immerse themselves in Puerto Vallarta’s culture rather than those seeking a completely isolated resort experience. The strong presence of Mexican families, the integration with the local community, and the prime location make it an excellent choice for families with teens who are ready to experience the real Mexico.
A few tips for making the most of your stay: request a room on the upper floors for the best views and minimal noise, book during shoulder season to experience a perfect mix of occupancy and weather, and don’t be afraid to venture into the surrounding neighborhood – some of our best memories came from spontaneous explorations of nearby streets and shops.
After my stay at the Buenaventura Grand Hotel, I left with more than just vacation memories. I savored authentic Mexican cuisine beyond tacos, and experienced the warmth of Mexican hospitality. For families looking to balance resort comforts with cultural immersion, the Buenaventura Grand offers that elusive sweet spot in the heart of Puerto Vallarta.
Note: My stay at the Buenaventura Grand Hotel was a hosted stay as part of a media trip. However, all opinions and experiences shared are my own.
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