By Marissa Willman
Traveling with a toddler can turn even the most beautiful destinations into a logistical puzzle. Finding a hotel that makes things feel easy isn’t just a bonus—it’s everything.
During a recent trip to Puerto Vallarta, my toddler and I checked in to Buenaventura Grand Hotel & Great Moments for a few nights, and it quickly became clear: this is the kind of place that takes the stress out of traveling with little ones.
From the moment we arrived, the experience felt seamless. The staff was warm, attentive, and always one step ahead—whether that meant helping with our bags, accommodating a crib, or simply greeting my toddler with a smile. That level of care carried throughout our stay and set the tone for what would become an easy, relaxed few days by the beach.
Even more impressive was how smoothly everything ran behind the scenes. Our visit came shortly after a hurricane had impacted parts of Puerto Vallarta, yet any disruptions at the hotel were handled so efficiently that we barely noticed them at all. If anything, it highlighted just how thoughtful and responsive the team truly is.
Buenaventura sits right on the beach, with sweeping views of Banderas Bay and cool ocean breezes flowing throughout the four-story property. The hotel features 233 rooms and suites, yet still manages to maintain the feel of an intimate boutique experience. Amenities include an onsite spa overlooking the ocean, a gym, kids club, bicycle rentals, and multiple dining options with three restaurants and four bars included in the all-inclusive experience.
Our room featured a private balcony overlooking the ocean, which was perfect for slow mornings with a cafecito while watching the waves roll in. The space felt comfortable and well-appointed, even with a toddler and a rollaway crib (provided by the hotel). After long days in the sun, it became a welcome place to recharge.
The heart of the resort is its pool and beachfront setting. The pool offers a lively yet relaxed atmosphere that works especially well for families, never too crowded or too loud, but still full of energy and with plenty of space to spread out. My toddler happily rotated between splashing in the water and taking snack breaks poolside, while I was able to enjoy a rare moment to sit back and take in the view. Just steps away, the beach made it easy to shift between poolside lounging and sandy playtime.
Dining is another highlight of the stay, especially with the resort being all-inclusive. With a mix of buffet and à la carte options, Buenaventura makes it easy to find something for every taste. Whether it’s a quick breakfast before heading out or a relaxed dinner after a full day, the variety and convenience of the all-inclusive experience add to the overall ease for families traveling with kids.
Entertainment at Buenaventura adds another layer to the experience, especially in the evenings. The hotel offers a rotating lineup of themed nights designed to bring both culture and fun to guests of all ages, and yes, these are toddler-friendly! On Mexican Night, guests can enjoy a buffet of traditional dishes like a taco bar and fajitas alongside live mariachi and folkloric dance performances, creating an immersive celebration of local culture. Other evenings take on a more tropical feel, with music, dancing, and festive cocktails that transform the property into a lively, beachside party. Combined with live music and daily activities ranging from dance classes to poolside games, the programming ensures there’s always something happening without ever feeling overwhelming.
With so much to enjoy on property, it would be easy to spend an entire stay without leaving the resort. But Buenaventura’s location—just blocks from the Malecón—makes it equally appealing as a base for exploring Puerto Vallarta. The hotel’s complimentary bike rentals make getting around especially convenient and fun.
Nearby, you’ll find a vibrant mix of local shops and restaurants offering everything from handmade goods to freshly prepared street tacos. Along the Malecón, Puerto Vallarta’s iconic boardwalk, visitors can take in stunning sunsets, browse public art installations, and enjoy performances from local street entertainers. The pedestrian-friendly promenade is also stroller-friendly, making it an easy outing for families–and an easy option to see the sights while your little one naps.
Buenaventura Grand Hotel & Great Moments strikes a thoughtful balance between relaxation and accessibility. For families especially, it’s a place where everything comes together so seamlessly that you can settle in, slow down, and actually enjoy the trip.
