Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta: A Complete Review and What to Expect
The Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta stands out in a sea of all-inclusive resorts for one main reason: its exclusive location. Tucked away in a private cove called Playa Las Estacas, it offers a level of seclusion and a pristine, swimmable beach that is rare in the area. This review breaks down what you can expect from this popular luxury resort.
The Location: A Private Paradise
Unlike the resorts in the bustling Hotel Zone or Nuevo Vallarta, the Hyatt Ziva is located south of the Romantic Zone, about a 20-minute drive from the airport. Its biggest selling point is its private beach, which is calm, clear, and free of the constant foot traffic and vendors found on public beaches. This creates a serene and exclusive atmosphere that is hard to beat.
The Vibe: Upscale and Family-Friendly
The Hyatt Ziva caters to both families and adults, striking a balance between luxury and fun. The atmosphere is upscale but relaxed. You'll find multiple pools, including a quiet adults-only pool and a main pool with activities. It's an excellent choice for:
- Families: The calm beach is perfect for kids, and the resort offers a KidZ Club with supervised activities.
- Couples: The adults-only pool, romantic dining spots, and beautiful sunsets make it a great choice for a romantic getaway.
- Travelers seeking relaxation: The private beach and high-end spa provide a tranquil escape.
Rooms and Accommodations
The rooms at Hyatt Ziva are modern, spacious, and well-appointed. Most rooms offer at least a partial ocean view, and many have been recently renovated. Key features include:
- Stunning Views: Almost every room has a balcony to enjoy the spectacular views of the cove.
- Modern Amenities: Expect large TVs, comfortable beds, and well-designed bathrooms, many with rain showers and separate tubs.
- Club Level: For an upgraded experience, the Club Tower offers private check-in, a private lounge with premium drinks and snacks, and other exclusive perks.
Dining and Drinks: A Mixed Bag
This is where reviews often become divided. The Hyatt Ziva offers a wide variety of dining options, from a main buffet to several à la carte restaurants, including Asian (PureZa), Italian (MelanZane), and a Brazilian steakhouse (Blaze).
- The Good: The variety is excellent, and there are standout dishes to be found. The beachfront restaurant, Blaze, is praised for its incredible location and ambiance.
- The Inconsistent: Some guests find the food quality to be hit-or-miss across the different restaurants. While some meals are exceptional, others can be average for a resort of this caliber.
- Drinks: The all-inclusive plan covers a wide range of drinks. For top-shelf liquor, you may need to specifically ask or be in the Club Lounge.
Insider Tip: The beach at Hyatt Ziva is its crown jewel. Spend as much time there as you can. The water is incredibly calm and perfect for swimming and paddleboarding.
Conclusion
The Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta is a top-tier all-inclusive resort whose main strength is its unparalleled location and private beach. While the food can be inconsistent, the beautiful rooms, excellent facilities, and serene environment make it a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a luxurious and relaxing beach vacation. If a swimmable, private beach is your top priority, the Hyatt Ziva is one of the best options in all of Puerto Vallarta.
