The Barceló Puerto Vallarta is an all-inclusive hotel located 15 minutes from the heart of Puerto Vallarta. Appealing to both couples and families with full-service amenities and all-suite accommodations, the resort received the AAA Four-Diamond award in 2009. Film buffs and fishermen alike will enjoy a trip to the nearby bay, which not only has great fishing, but was made famous by the Richard Burton film The Night of the Iguana.

Two large resort buildings border the central pool and garden area overlooking the beach. With lofty ceilings, large chandeliers, polished marble floors and lush indoor plant life and water features, the hotel lobby exudes an elegant vibe. There are several suite categories to choose from, all decorated in a modern Mexican aesthetic with cool tile floors, contemporary furnishings, separate seating areas and private balconies. Two-bedroom, two-bath suites will accommodate groups or families, and more upscale suite categories boast a Jacuzzi, multiple flat-screen televisions and ocean views. Modern baths have marble tile work and sleek finishes.

The Barceló La Jolla de Mismaloya has several dining venues that feature cuisines from around the world. Don Quijote is a Spanish restaurant known for its paella, while Capri has a traditional Italian menu. La Cantina serves local fare. Los Arcos is known for steaks and grilled seafood. The more casual El Patio has buffets for breakfast lunch and dinner and offers spectacular ocean views from the terrace.

Surrounded by swaying palms and accented with cascading waterfalls, lush flora and decorative boulders, the central pool complex boasts two family pools, two Jacuzzis, a children’s pool and an activities pool for water polo, volleyball and aerobics. Just beyond is a stretch of sandy beachfront equipped with lounge chairs and beach umbrellas. Included in the room rate is tennis and access to the fitness center, as well as nonmotorized water sports, such as sea kayaking and snorkeling. The hotel has a daily program of social activities for adults and a supervised children’s club for youngsters.

The Spa at the Barceló La Jolla de Mismaloya has an extensive menu of relaxing or rejuvenating treatments, including seaweed wraps and essence massages. Eco tours, golf trips or whale watching excursions can be arranged by the hotel for guests who wish to explore the region.