When people think of Puerto Vallarta, they often imagine beachside resorts, good food, and plenty of entertainment. Canto del Sol Puerto Vallarta, also listed as Canto del Sol Plaza Vallarta or Canto del Sol Puerto Vallarta All-Inclusive, has long been one of the city’s recognizable names in the Hotel Zone along Las Glorias Beach. Open since 1983 and last undergoing a significant renovation in 2013, the resort has positioned itself as a mid-market, family-friendly destination with a special emphasis on tennis. But while that sounds inviting on paper, many visitors have found themselves frustrated with outdated facilities, hidden fees, and high-pressure sales tactics tied to its timeshare program.

This article takes a closer look at Canto del Sol Puerto Vallarta, what it is, how it operates, and the main reasons timeshare owners may want to consider an exit strategy.

What Canto del Sol Puerto Vallarta Is

Canto del Sol is a mid-range, all-inclusive resort that blends standard amenities like buffet and à-la-carte dining, entertainment shows, and water activities with something unique: a full-scale tennis club. With eight courts (a mix of clay and covered hard courts), lessons, and rental options, the resort has earned a reputation among tennis enthusiasts as a place that goes beyond the typical beach resort setup.

In 2020, Canto del Sol merged its beachfront property (the Canto Tower) with the Villas Vallarta section across the street, now marketed as a two-section resort where guests can use both areas. This setup offers oceanfront accommodations on one side and quieter villa-style units on the other.

Unlike many Puerto Vallarta resorts that are managed by major international brands, Canto del Sol is operated by Corporativo Hotelero La Nogalera, S.A. de C.V., a local corporate entity. This means it doesn’t have the same level of brand accountability or oversight that bigger chains typically enforce.

Common Complaints and Considerations

Reviews from guests and timeshare owners reveal consistent issues:

Resort Upkeep & Cleanliness: Despite its long history, the resort often shows its age. Many reviews describe musty or moldy odors in rooms, damp bedding, sewage smells in bathrooms, and dated furniture. Around the pool, cleanliness has been questioned, with reports of murky water and inadequate cleaning staff. Some even mentioned unpleasant paint fumes and noise from ongoing construction work.

Hidden Fees & Policies: The resort enforces strict rules, such as a $40 USD penalty for losing a towel card. Guests have also reported surprise charges for upgrades when their rooms were unsatisfactory, as well as additional deposits or extra-person fees that weren’t clearly explained upfront. Many felt misled by “discount” desks at check-in that turned out to be sales pitches.

Food & Dining: Dining experiences vary greatly. While some guests enjoy the à-la-carte restaurants and service staff, others describe the buffets as repetitive and mediocre compared to other Puerto Vallarta resorts.

Beach Limitations: The resort sits on Las Glorias Beach, which is narrower and smaller than some of Puerto Vallarta’s more open beachfronts. Many guests end up preferring the pool over the beach.

Tennis Facilities: While tennis has long been the resort’s unique selling point, even this feature has faced criticism. Reports from recent visitors and niche tennis forums mention deteriorating clay courts that don’t live up to the promotional image.

Safety Concerns: One troubling review detailed harassment by a staff member near the bar area, raising concerns about women’s safety at the property. While such reports may not be widespread, they are serious enough to be considered when evaluating long-term ownership.

Timeshare Presence and Sales: One of the defining features of Canto del Sol is its long-standing connection to timeshare ownership. Travelers regularly report being approached with offers that start as “discounts” or “rebates,” only to realize they are sitting through a timeshare presentation. For owners, this has translated into ongoing maintenance fees, upselling pressure, and difficulties in reselling or canceling contracts. Unlike a regular vacation booking, timeshare commitments can become a long-term financial burden, especially when the property doesn’t meet expectations.

Why Consider a Timeshare Exit from Canto del Sol

If you currently hold a timeshare at Canto del Sol Puerto Vallarta, it’s worth reassessing whether the property aligns with your expectations and needs. Between hidden costs, maintenance concerns, and a track record of upselling pressure, many owners have found themselves regretting the purchase.

Given the resort’s age, ongoing complaints about upkeep, and the burden of recurring fees, some timeshare holders explore professional timeshare exit services. These companies specialize in navigating the legal and contractual steps required to break free from binding agreements, an option that can provide a way out of an otherwise long-term financial obligation.

Final Thoughts

Canto del Sol Puerto Vallarta may look appealing with its beach location, all-inclusive setup, and tennis focus, but the reality for many visitors and owners has been mixed at best. From dated facilities and surprise fees to persistent timeshare sales tactics, it’s not surprising that many are seeking a way out. If you find yourself locked into a timeshare here, consulting a reputable exit company could be a step toward moving past the frustrations that come with ownership at this resort.