Just returned from HVR, and have mixed opinions about this AI resort (we have stayed at many AI resorts in Mexico, so these comments are backed up by experience). First, the staff get 5 stars, everyone has the most helpful and joyful attitude. So many to thank but special mention firstly to Alejandra, Concierge who was great. Breakfast- was always a pleasure to have Norma in the Vela hall greet us everyday. Yami - bali beds, Israel- kayaks, Marifer- Seasalt restaurant, but all the staff are top notch. Now for the not so great news. We both got food poison in the first two days and had three days spoiled because of cramps and bathroom visits. I suspect the raw fish was the culprit, either not fresh or previously frozen. The menus are limited in selection - lunch and dinner, after a few days we became tired of the same choices, esp. in Cocomar. So, food wise, I rate HVR only 2 stars. Good beach for swimming but access could be improved with steps from the adult section down to the beach . We chose this resort to visit, hoping for a good experience, but how I wish we had gone back to Gaza Blanca- a mile further south- where the restaurants are all 5 star. and with a similar great beach. You learn from experience.

My young adult daughter and I spent a week at the end of April/beginning of May and everything was AWESOME!  Some highlights:   • Pool areas (both family and adult) were fantastic.  Tough to get a shaded chair sometimes, but I guess we came for the sun.  The crowd was a good mix of people the week we were there.  • Juan was our top pool server…. But all were good to us. • Reservation system worked well for us.  Our very favorite restaurant food was the Tres Leches Cake at Maxal….mmmmmmm • We only had room service for breakfast, but it was awesome and delivered right on time.  Treat yourself to the French toast. You won’t be disappointed. • The wristbands – worked great and we always had our room key.  Loved that feature. • Security getting on/off the property really helped us feel safe.  I had never been to Mexico… and I felt safe the entire trip – especially at the resort. • The room was perfect.  A nice size with a beautiful balcony/view.  Everything worked well and lots of nice features like a large counter space in the washroom. We spent more time on the balcony than I thought we would because it was so perfect.  We were on the 11th floor of the smaller south tower and it was lovely and quiet.  I would recommend it if you get the option of where your room is located.  The hotel sits close to the ocean so every room has a great view. • Housekeeping was well done.  • The staff works super hard.  They are always busy serving people or cleaning or setting up or taking down from activities.  I noticed some team members seemed to be there every day and they were always pleasant.   Well done to the entire team!     • Lots of entertainment opportunities.  We did some and they were well done.  • The gym was nice – good view from there.  It did get busy sometimes.      There was an incident on the beach where a lady was struggling as she appeared to have enjoyed too much pool bar time.  Her family was trying to help but it was getting dangerous when the waves would come to shore.  Quickly 3 staff members came close… but also allowed her and her family time to figure things out.  They were there to keep it safe… but also not over reacting.  I thought they did an excellent job in the situation.    Overall, the vacation was perfect.  Thank you Hilton for a great time!!  I will definitely recommend to others.

All these individuals were smiling team members that made our stay enjoyable. Thank you. We enjoyed making turtle art, bracelets, pool volleyball, and pool water polo. Alan, Saul, and Blanca were all fantastic hosting activities. They clearly enjoyed engaging with guests. My wife and I ate at all but one restaurant. At Vela, the buffet, we found the best server at the hotel. Norma Medardo served our table on the second morning. We asked to be seated at her tables the next 3 days. She is genuine, happy and anticipated our needs. Thank you Norma. Our favorite out side server was Kate. She was also happy, friendly and attentive.

My husband and I loved this resort. The view and location are absolutely beautiful. The service was fantastic. We had the best service in the Vela food hall by Norma Medardo. Smiles, polite, professional, that’s what you can expect at Hilton Vallarta Riviera resort.

We loved the resort, the food and service at La Luce was incredible! We loved the authentic pasta and pizza. The saint Delanny pizza and penne pesto were my favorite, along with the complimentary carmelized onion bread (to die for). Angel & Gilberto were awesome servers, we can’t wait to come back and enjoy again!