• Introduction
• 1. Aruba
• 2. Barbados
• 3. Key West
• 4. Oahu
• 5. Providenciales
• 6. Puerto Vallarta
• 7. Rincon
• 8. San José del Cabo
• 9. St. Lucia
• 10. St. Martin

Puerto Vallarta

With its cobblestone streets and small-town affability, Vallarta has distinguished itself among Mexico’s other resort locales by retaining authentic charm amid major development. Wedged between a verdant mountainside and the blue Pacific, activities abound—and, of course, there are 34 miles of uninterrupted sand. After sunset, the city jumps to life (in recent years, it’s gained popularity as a gay-friendly destination).

SPLURGE Though not directly on the beach (a set of stairs gets you close enough), the 14-suite Hacienda San Angel is swathed in lush foliage and boasts three separate pools and a star-studded history. There’s also a rooftop Jacuzzi with a stunning view of the city’s famous Guadalupe church (which is particularly striking at sunset). Rooms from $290/night; haciendasanangel.com

VALUE The rooms at the charming Playa Los Arcos are small but sufficient for a weekend visit. The prime location—directly on the beach and near the Zona Romántica restaurants, bars, and shops—cannot be beat for this price. From $116/night after April 1; playalosarcos.com

GETTING THERE Direct flights from Chicago (4.5 hours); Denver (3.5 hours); Houston (2.5 hours); Kansas City (3.5 hours); Los Angeles (3 hours); Phoenix (2.5 hours); San Francisco (3.5 hours); Seattle (5 hours)

See Aspen Travel Guide | See Nantucket Travel GuideSee Maine Travel Guide