Marina Vallarta is one of the most exclusive and beautiful areas of Vallarta. It is made up of a residential area, the Marina Vallarta Golf Course, and an assortment of hotels including the Melía, Marriott CasaMagna and Club Embarcaero Pacifico.

Another privileged area is Nuevo Vallarta, to the north, in the state of Nayarit. It is a complex of grand resorts and private residences, with some of the best beaches in the area. In addition they also have their own first class marina.