Quinta Maria Cortez is especially appealing to those who appreciate a unique ambiance, a bit of whimsical antiquity by the sea. Here you will find a "Mexatarranean Villa" with a distinct personality, complemented by sunny terraces and spectacular views of the ocean.

The Inn consists of seven levels rising above the white sand beach. The all-suite accommodations feature eclectic European style decor with private bath, and phone. Most include a kitchenette and balcony.

The heart of the Inn features a common area with sitting room, fireplace, terrace and palapa-roofed dining area--all with dramatic ocean views. Relax at the swimming pool and sun terrace.

An eclectic, sophisticated, and imaginative B & B on the beach, this is Puerto Vallarta's most original place to stay - and one of Mexico's most unique inns. Seven large suites, uniquely decorated in antiques, whimsical curios, and original art, all feature a private bathroom, and most include kitchenette and balcony. Sunny terraces, a small pool, and a central gathering area with fireplace and palapa-topped dinning area (where breakfast is served) occupy different levels of this seven-story house. Located on a beautiful cove on Conchas Chinas beach, the rocks just offshore form tranquil tide pools, perfect for wading and snuggling. A terrace fronting the beach supports Roman columns draped in ivy and accommodates chairs for taking in the sunset. (Best Unique Inns Frommers, 1999)

The enticing "Mexatarranean Villa" originally created by "Silver" Alexander has been purchased by a group of Salt Lake City business partners and completely refurbished without having been robbed of its unique atmosphere. Each suite is cluttered with antiques, interesting "junque", and original paintings. The former owner's personal apartment has three fireplaces (one reveals a view of the beach below), and a domed ceiling painted by the late Vallarta artist Manuel Lepe. Most suites have a kitchen and/or terrace, but there are no TV's - just the beach and a pool. Breakfast is included. (Fodors, 1999)

The Malecón is the charming ocean boardwalk along the Paseo (Street) Díaz Ordaz. Combining traditions of yesterday and today-offering tourist entertainment at lively restaurants and bars, and traditional entertainment of watching children play, elders relaxing, and the teenagers "maleconean".

The theater Aquiles Serdan (on one knows its actual name) is a center of activity located at the beginning of the malecón (near the south end of downtown). The theaters four arches made of cantera (quarrystone) are probably one of the most photographed sites in Vallarta. Often over looked is a nearby statue of the archangel San Miguel, also made of cantera.

In town amidst very steep hills covered by a maze of narrow alleyways is Gringo Gulch, which came into vogue when Richard Burton bought a house there for his lover, Elizabeth Taylor. They later bought the house across the street, then built a bridge that connected both homes . This pink lover´s bridge is now a landmark.

Each beach has a sense of being. For solitary, they are ideal havens of peace. For Hollywood they are the mystical stages on which to film their movies, and for those of us who live here, the beaches of Vallarta are our oasis of energy.