Downtown Puerto Vallarta is traditionally divided into two regions by the Cuale River which runs through the middle of the town. On the north side you'll find the famous Vallarta "Malecon" boardwalk, which now has been extended by a pedestrian bridge along the beach, to actually reach the south side. 

There’s no doubt that living in the heart of downtown is attractive for many who move to Puerto Vallarta specifically for the romantic life suggested by walking along the Malecón in El Centro on a sunny Sunday, surrounded by the friendly faces of Mexico. This is where tourism real estate began for Puerto Vallarta, with builders such as Wulff and Romero building homes for gringos on the hills behind the town and along the Cuale River (hence the nickname Gringo Gulch).

Very traditional homes dot the hillside, offering wonderful views of the town and bay. Along the Malecon, which now stretches from one end of town to the other, there are mostly shops, restaurants and nightclubs, with few homes or condominiums. If you like to be close to the best restaurants and nightlife, this is the place to be.