The hype
The pools and ocean views are world-class, but the experience depends entirely on which specific condo owner you rent from.
Grand Venetian PV
$180-350/ night
Book this if You want a Miami-style high-rise condo with massive pools and a full kitchen, but don't mind rolling the dice on individual unit quality.
Why People Love It
- Five massive infinity pools (two heated) that rival any 5-star resort
- Direct beachfront access in the heart of the Hotel Zone
- Walking distance to La Isla Shopping Village and top-tier dining
Quick Take: A spectacular pool complex attached to a game of 'Condo Roulette' where your neighbor is a thumping beach club.
Reviewed by @hannahware: I couldn't believe we snagged this spot for $475 each for the whole week. Having two balconies—one for the mountains and one for the ocean—was a total game changer. It felt like luxury without the crazy price tag. Definitely my go-to for Puerto Vallarta now.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
Travelers in Tower 3 (closest to the road/club) often leave 1-star reviews due to sleepless nights, while Tower 1 guests claim it's paradise.
- You need a full kitchen and laundry for a family trip
- You plan to spend 90% of your time at the pool
- You want to be central to both the Marina and Downtown
Cleanliness & Maintenance
7
- Housekeeping: Non-existent during stay unless paid extra. You are responsible for your own mess.
- Bathroom hygiene: Hit or miss. Some units have sparkling modern baths; others have reports of sewer smells and slow drains.
- Maintenance: Common areas (pools/gardens) are immaculate (9/10). Individual units vary from 'pristine' to 'peeling paint and broken AC' (5/10).
- Linens & towels: Entirely dependent on the host. Bring your own beach towel to be safe.
- Odors & scents: Common areas smell of sea breeze and chlorine. Some ground floor areas near the river can smell swampy.
Sleepability™
6MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Chicabal Sunset Club (thumping bass 1pm-9pm+)
- Highway traffic (Avenida Francisco Medina Ascencio)
- Construction noise from nearby developments
Before you book
Good to know
- This is a condo complex (VRBO/Airbnb style), not a hotel. Read the specific listing's reviews, not just general building reviews.
- You must register with security upon arrival; bring your passport and booking confirmation printed out.
- The beach is swimmable but can be muddy near the river mouth after rain.
What to pack
- Earplugs (high fidelity) just in case you get a north-facing unit
- Dish soap and sponge (starter kits are often meager)
- Extra beach towels (hosts often provide only one per person)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Tower 1 (1000) - Oceanfront: Closest to the water, furthest from the road and club noise.
- Tower 2 (2000) - South Corner: Good compromise on views and quiet.
- High floors (15+) in any tower for reduced road noise.
Rooms to avoid
- Tower 3 (3000): Closest to the highway and the noisy beach club.
- North-facing units in Tower 2: Direct line of sight (and sound) to the party next door.
- Low floors (1-5): Privacy issues from the pool deck and more noise.
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am looking for a quiet stay and am aware of the noise issues from Chicabal. Please confirm this unit is located in Tower 1 (1000) or is a South-facing unit in Tower 2. I would also like to confirm the current electricity allowance policy.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, typically 2 of the 5 pools are heated. The others can be refreshing (or chilly) in winter months.
Is there a restaurant on site?
Yes, there is a casual snack bar/restaurant by the pool with decent prices, but it's not a culinary destination.
Can I walk to downtown?
No, it's a 10-15 minute Uber/taxi ride to the Malecon/Romantic Zone. It's not walkable.
Are visitors allowed?
Strictly NO. Security is tight. Only registered guests with wristbands can enter. Do not try to sneak friends in.
Is there WiFi?
Yes, but it is individual to each condo. Ask your host for a speed test screenshot if you plan to work remotely.
Do I have to pay for electricity?
Often, yes. Many hosts allot a daily kWh limit (e.g., 25kWh) and charge for excess. AC eats this up fast.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Snack Bar' actually delivers to your condo if you don't want to go down—ask security for the WhatsApp number.
- ✨
La Isla Shopping Village next door has a VIP movie theater that's perfect for a hot afternoon escape.
- ✨
Tower 1 elevators are faster and less crowded than Tower 3.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'river mouth' location means the ocean water here is often browner/murkier than beaches further south.
💡The lobby feels more like a fortress checkpoint than a resort welcome.
💡You might have to wear a plastic wristband your entire stay that scratches you while you sleep.
💡Some units have 'lock-off' doors that are thin—you might hear your neighbor's TV clearly.
💡The gym is decent but machines are often out of order due to the salt air.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Grand Venetian PV is located and what's nearby.