Strategies

Punta Mita, Mexico: 6 Tips for Where to Stay and What to Do

For decades, Punta Mita’s pristine coastline has beckoned visitors in search of a secluded paradise. Boasting mountainous jungle scenery (the region has the same latitude as Hawaii), sandy beaches and distinct Mexican flare, Punta Mita is also conveniently located just a five-hour flight from New York City (and a three-hour flight from Los Angeles). As an added bonus, this luxury hotel complex­ provides visitors with a stellar beach experience along with the privacy and security of a gated community. Here, most guests stay in the confines of the development; due to the island-like exclusivity of the peninsula, it’s no surprise that this is a popular destination for celebrities. Here are seven more tips for where to stay and things to do:

1. Choose the right Punta Mita property

Both ultra-luxurious, the St. Regis and Four Seasons offer the very best in resort living—which can make choosing the right property all the more tricky. The St. Regis is sleek, quiet and contemporary and is perfect for couples or families with older children who are comfortable in a romance-centric setting. Active families will be better suited at the Four Seasons, as the resort has lots of things for children to do, with a great kid’s club and a ‘lazy river,’ an outdoor pool with gentle waves for inner-tubing. Adults at the Four Seasons enjoy tequila-blending classes, whale watching and private yacht charters.

2. … or the right villa.

Travelers seeking added privacy should consider renting a villa or condominium within the gated community. There are a number of stunning beachfront accommodations (ranging from two to eight bedrooms), and guests can arrange for private chefs, drivers and babysitting services during their stay. Those renting a villa also have access to the golf and beach clubs within the development. Contact the Bookings Team for advice on the best villas to rent.

3. The service is top-notch.

The friendly, welcoming staff at both properties is part of what keeps guests returning year after year. The St. Regis offers a much-lauded butler service, and a quick text at night will confirm the time and specifics of their coffee the next day. At the Four Seasons, visitors can expect to return to their room to find a snack of fresh guacamole, chips and tequila every afternoon. The concierges are also exceptional and happily arrange everything from private dinners to surf lessons.

4. It’s a golfer’s paradise.

Guests are spoiled with a choice of two superb golf courses. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, the Bahia championship course opened in 2009 and boasts over 7,000 yards of undulating fairways and greens. The older, more established Pacifico course is spread over 200 acres (many of which are seaside) and is home to the world’s only natural island golf green, known as the ‘Whale’s Tail.’ At low tide, players take an amphibious golf cart to the island and may get a glimpse of migrating humpback whales along the way. World-renowned, Pacifico has consistently been rated the best golf course in Latin America.

5. There are plenty of things to do.

Punta Mita is ideal for those looking to either unplug or work up a sweat (or both). The St. Regis and the Four Seasons offer dozens of activities for every type of traveler, from water sports and cooking classes to fishing and fitness programs. Between the months of September and January, the Four Seasons’ organizes a baby sea turtle release at sunset, which is just as cute as it sounds. Villa renters can take advantage of two residence beach clubs within the community, and there is a Punta Mita excursions desk that arranges water sports and zip-lining in the nearby jungle. Further afield is the bohemian surf town of Sayulita, where visitors can enjoy a casual lunch and shop for funky beach-wear and gifts. Indagare can arrange for special day trips and experiences, like a private helicopter flight or a visit to a nearby tequila distillery.

6. There is a big surfing scene.

Due to its postcard-perfect beaches and varied waters, Punta Mita has become a popular surfing destination for both beginners and professionals. Small waves are found at the St. Regis beach, and guests can strap a surfboard to a golf cart and search for more breaks along the development’s coastline. Advanced surfers may venture to Sayulita to find more challenging waves.

Read More: A Quick Trip to Cabo

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