Valid passports are required for all guests. Minors traveling without both parents may need additional documentation — check current Mexico entry requirements before your trip.
No need to bring food, beverages, or basic supplies. Nidia handles all grocery shopping. The nearest ATMs is in Lalaxtli restaurant — a 10 minute walk from the house. Plan to bring some cash for tips and local purchases as well as massages at Las Palapas or any boat trips.
Download Google Maps offline before leaving the airport. Cell service can be spotty on the route. WhatsApp works great over WiFi once you're at the property.
Getting Here
Option 1 – Hire Juan
Recommended for most groups Juan is our trusted local driver and has been getting guests to Las Palapas for years. His vans hold 9 people each. Ask Juan for his current rate. Call or WhatsApp: +52 327 102 0759
Option 2 – Uber
Small groups of 3 or fewer Uber works from PVR airport to Las Palapas (use Marina Chacala as Uber address). Note: Uber does not work for the return trip — arrange with Juan to return to the airport.
Option 3 – Drive Yourself
Take pesos to pay for the toll, cc and USD not accepted 1. Head north from PVR on the main highway (MEX-200).
2. Take the toll road when it branches off about 1 km north of the airport — this saves nearly 45 minutes.
3. Follow your map app to Marina Chacala. Chacala is 9km west of the main highway. Stay on the paved road and follow signs.
4. The road ends at a large wooden gate and a guard will come out.
5. Give the guard your name and tell them you're staying at Las Palapas. They'll check you against Nidia's list.
6. Drive through both gates, down the hill, turn right at the bottom. Las Palapas is on the left and has a sign, just past the large vacant lot on the beach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the water safe to drink? Yes. All tap water and ice is purified. There's also a water dispenser near the fridge if you prefer bottled water.
Is there laundry? Yes — two washers and two dryers, plus detergent. Laundry service isn't included but the machines are available to guests.
What time zone is Las Palapas in? After we "spring forward", Chacala is the same time zone as California. After we "fall back", Chacala is one hour later than California. Puerto Vallarta is always one hour later than Chacala.
Is there Wi-Fi? High-speed WiFi is available throughout the property. The network name and password are posted in the kitchen.
Is there a TV? Yes — The TV is large and has satellite service. To turn it on: press the power button on the lower left side of the TV (a blue light will appear). Then grab the Sky remote and press the power button quickly (if you hold it more than half a second, it will turn on and immediately off).
Do you provide shampoo, conditioner, body wash and hairdryers? Yes!
Where are the nearest ATMs? Lalaxtli restaurant in Chacala. Plan to bring enough cash for tips and any local spending you anticipate.
What's the weather like in summer? Hot and humid, with rain most nights and some afternoon showers. It's uncrowded and beautiful if you plan around it — activities in the morning, pool midday, AC in the evenings. Stay near the beach; even two blocks inland feels significantly hotter. It is the best surf season!
How do I pay for food and beverages? Nidia tracks your food and bev spend throughout the week. You settle at checkout via Zelle, Venmo, or Wise.
What's the best way to contact Nidia or Juan? WhatsApp is the most reliable. Juan's number is +52 327 102 0759 Nidia's number is +52 327 102 4974
Where do we go in an emergency? A defibrillator is on-site (the nearest hospital is in Las Varas, 10 minutes away). In a medical emergency, contact Nidia first — she knows the area and can help coordinate. For serious emergencies, call 911 (Mexico's emergency number).
Let us host your next stay!
We've been welcoming families and groups to Las Palapas for over 18 years