Among the bustling energy of the Puerto Vallarta’s Hotel Zone lies a quieter, more refined retreat: The Hacienda at Krystal Grand Puerto Vallarta.
The Hacienda isn’t just a section within the wider Krystal resort complex in Vallarta—it’s a sophisticated enclave with its own character, atmosphere, quieter pools, exclusive eateries, and other amenities. Here, couples seeking romance, friends looking to create shared memories, and families with older children (13+) will fit right in.
“It’s a little sanctuary behind the Krystal Grand Puerto Vallarta. It’s a little bit more of an exclusive and quieter property, and there are no kids as it’s only for ages 13-plus,” says Dave Emery, Sales Manager for Canada at Krystal Hotels & Resorts.
Ready, Set, Relax
With its colonial, elegant Mexican design, the Hacienda immediately sets itself apart from the typical all-inclusive scene, offering a unique and tranquil experience for its guests. This isn’t about neon lights and foam parties; it’s about quiet courtyards, the gentle rustle of palm trees, and the soft glow of lanterns at dusk. The emphasis here is on peace and quiet, a place to reconnect with a partner, enjoy a good book, or simply savour the moment without the constant thrum of vacation excess. The sophisticated décor throughout the Hacienda is meant to reflect the style of a traditional Mexican hacienda, a welcome departure from the sometimes-generic aesthetic of large-scale resorts.
“Adults-only properties usually carry a premium, and the fact that it’s for ages 13-plus without being adults-only allows for that in-between. And with the Krystal Grand’s rooftop O’West Lounge, which is adults-only, you get a little bit of a wider experience without paying the full premium of an adults-only property,” says Emery.
Wake Up and Swim Out
The Hacienda’s 192 Mexican-style suites are thoughtfully designed, with each one uniquely decorated to highlight Mexico’s authentic spirit. Some of these suites offer the added luxury of a private pool, terrace, or balcony, providing an even more intimate connection with the surroundings. All rooms are equipped with a minibar, ensuring refreshments are always close at hand.
The Junior Suite Hacienda Swim-Out suites, offered by Air Canada Vacations, are a rare treat for those seeking easy access to refreshing waters right from their room. With a maximum capacity of three guests, these suites open directly to a private pool located on the furnished terrace, so guests can step in without missing a beat.
Since the Hacienda section isn’t beachfront, guests who prefer suites with ocean views may want to opt for the Krystal Grand Puerto Vallarta within the same complex. Still, the beach is just a short stroll away from the Hacienda, making it easy to enjoy a day by the sea.
Flavours of Mexico and Beyond
Dining at the Hacienda is a journey in itself, with access to an impressive array of 14 restaurants and bars between the main resort and the exclusive Hacienda section. There are five specialty restaurants serving cuisines from around the globe—in the mood for steak? Or maybe Italian, Mexican, or French cuisine? Hacienda guests have all those options, and more.
La Catrina, for example, provides a deep dive into the flavours of Mexico in an intimate, cozy, and elegant setting. Other options include seafood at Talavera and fine cuts of meat at the Steak House.
The Hacienda Advantage
One of the unique perks for guests staying in the Hacienda are the exchange privileges with the wider Krystal Grand Puerto Vallarta. All Hacienda guests enjoy full access to the amenities and offerings of the Krystal Grand, expanding their options for dining, entertainment, and recreation.
However, this access is not entirely reciprocal. Only guests aged 13 and older staying in suite categories at the Krystal Grand Puerto Vallarta—that is, swim-out suites, junior suites, Jacuzzi suites—have complimentary access to the Hacienda. Guests aged 13 and older staying in standard room categories at the Krystal Grand, i.e. the Deluxe rooms, can access the Hacienda for an additional fee.
This arrangement ensures that the Hacienda maintains its exclusive atmosphere while still offering a degree of flexibility for guests of the Krystal Grand.
Flexible Wedding and Honeymoon Options
For couples dreaming of a picture-perfect destination wedding or honeymoon, the Hacienda at Krystal Grand Puerto Vallarta can make those dreams come to life—with some convenient flexibility that can accommodate both the wedding party and the guests.
“I always point out to wedding travel agents that they might want to have the wedding party stay at the Hacienda, and the rest of the guests at the Krystal Grand,” says Emery. “They could have the wedding at the Krystal Grand on the beach, or maybe in the O’West rooftop lounge. It’s an interesting combination between the two properties.”
Air Canada Vacations highlights both Krystal Grand Puerto Vallarta and the Hacienda for their wedding and honeymoon packages, as well as the personalized services of a dedicated wedding coordinator.
The tour operator also offers exclusive perks at the Hacienda. These include guaranteed preferred room location, turndown service, a 25% discount at the spa, a free welcome amenity like a plate of fruit or bottle of wine, and a 15% discount on a romantic dinner.
