Punta Mita

Punta Minta is all about luxury resort vacationing. These seven areas are the most popular:

El Farallon

Privacy is the new luxury while on vacation and travelers can get plenty of that in El Farallon. This gated residential community offers the discerning traveler white sand beaches, magnificent views and is near to restaurants that offer delectable fare. The center of Punta Mita is a mere 10 minutes away. And when it comes to Punta Minta luxury residences that are nearby, Villa Cuixas del Mar is among the loveliest. This stunning home is on one of Mexico’s most exclusive coastlines. The villa is made up of two separate homes next to each other. This five-star accommodation features designer furnishings and tasteful décor throughout. Other features include a gym, tennis court, both indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis, an outdoor pool and a wonderful setup for outdoor dining and entertaining. There is room enough for up to 16 guests.

The Four Seasons Resort

This resort is on a gorgeous private beach surrounded by natural beauty. It’s home to a number of residential villas and two Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Courses, so it’s the ideal area for golf enthusiasts. The Four Seasons celebrates Mexico’s rich culture and the feeling around there is “mi casa, su casa!” (my house, your house). Everyone is hospitable and welcoming. What a terrific place to stay while exploring Punta Mita, especially when vacationers have their own villa while visiting. Villa Palmasola certainly fits the bill when it comes to luxury Punta Mita accommodations. Nine bedrooms can comfortably welcome up to 18 people. Right on the beachfront, guests can feel completely at home lazing around the outdoor heated pool or entertaining in the terrific outdoor setup complete with a patio, BBQ and fire pit. There’s both main level and rooftop terraces. Rounding out some of the amenities are cinema and massage rooms, a gym, and an outdoor Jacuzzi.

La Punta Estates

La Punta Estates is on the thoroughly private point of the Punta de Mita peninsula. This gated resort community not only offers seclusion, but is also less than a mile to beach clubs, and is within walking distance to three terrific surf areas only accessible to La Punta guests. Visitors will have stellar views of the Marietas Islands over the fairways of two Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Courses. Luxury travelers will relish staying at Casa Aquila in La Punta Estates. This exemplary waterfront home not only has magnificent sea views, but every space within and without was designed to make guests feel like they’re in their own oasis. Watch breathtaking sunsets while enjoying dinner on the outdoor patio or the rooftop terrace. Sip cocktails by the outdoor infinity pool and work off some of that delicious Mexican food in the well-equipped gym. Rest those tired muscles afterwards in the outdoor Jacuzzi. Up to 18 guests can comfortably call this stellar casa their vacation home.

Lagos del Mar

Lagos del Mar is an exclusive, private gated community with just 36 luxury residences. The south east facing development is flanked by the eighth and ninth fairways of the Jack Nicklaus Signature Pacifico golf course. There are two tiers of villas within the Lagos Del Mar development. The elevated location of Lagos Del Mar villas enjoy a refreshing, all day north-south breeze. The area is ideal for golf lovers seeking a luxurious tropical getaway.

Pontoquito

This gated community, located on the north shore of Puerto Vallarta, is just a 10-minute drive from Punta Mita. It offers the utmost privacy and relaxation. Overlooking the emerald green waters of Banderas Bay, and surrounded by Sierra Madre jungle, Pontoquito is the ideal place to relax and unwind, far away from the often chaotic regular routine. Guests can enjoy an uncrowded white sand beach, or head to Punta Mita where award winning spas and a dazzling array of local and international restaurants await. Surfing, sunning, swimming and snorkeling are just some of the activities that await at Pontoquito. Villa La Caleta is in a private enclave on the north shore of this exclusive community. The home has a fitness room with top-of-the-line equipment, as well as a separate massage room, a home theater, and a wine cave. The architecture and design of this home are truly lovely. The villa is also surrounded by sweeping, meticulously-kept gardens and lawn space. Guests have use of beach gear including two ocean kayaks, snorkeling equipment, and an inflatable boat.

Ranchos Estates

Ranchos Estates features 20 residences, each sitting on its own stretch of private beach. The area is on the southern side of the Punta Mita peninsula, overlooking Banderas Bay, where it is not uncommon to see a humpback whale breaching, or a pod of dolphins frolicking. The Marietas Islands, teeming with natural beauty and diverse wildlife, are in the distance. To the west, the town of El Anclote is visible a few miles away, as is the Puerto Vallarta skyline in the southwest. Ranchos Estates sits on its own, without borders to any other developments, making it a very private, stunningly beautiful, oceanfront retreat for a Punta Mita vacation. Casa Familia sits on a bluff 20 feet directly above the beach on Ranchos Estates. It is the ideal marriage of privacy, stunning views and snap-of-a-finger beach access. Up to 18 guests can enjoy luxury amenities such as a cinema room, a gym, and an outdoor pool and Jacuzzi. There is also a basketball court for those who like to shoot hoops.

Real del Mar

Just minutes north of Puerto Vallarta, Real del Mar resort is a gated cliffside community adjacent to the Mexican fishing village of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. It is hugged by the Sierra Madre Mountains and Banderas Bay, a breeding ground for Humpback whales. It’s close to the hum of the city and nearby villages of La Cruz and Bucerias. The resort offers a stunning beach club with an infinity pool, spa, tennis courts, fitness center, and onsite restaurant, along with unbeatable beach access. The nearby marina offers further options for water sports and restaurants serving freshly caught seafood. The custom-built Villa Paraiso offers amazing water views and privacy. Indulgent amenities include an outdoor infinity pool and Jacuzzi along with a lovely outdoor dining space featuring a BBQ, patio and terrace with comfy lounge seating. Six beautifully-appointed rooms with ensuites can easily accommodate up to 14 guests.

There is no shortage of fine dining places in Punta Mita. For a lazy lunch or an elegant dinner, check out these five restaurants:

Aramara

Aramara is a part of the Four Seasons Resort. Its name means “sacred place by the ocean.” There is live music most nights at the Asian fusion eatery. They have a number of vegan and gluten-free options. Dishes include fresh local seafood melded with contemporary Asian cooking. Aramara is known for its signature dish – five-spiced half duck with curry apple slaw and warm tortillas. To end a delicious meal, order the Mezcal S’more flambe coffee or El Perla Negra made with espresso, Licor 43, and Mozart dark chocolate. There’s also Japanese yuzu cheesecake that comes highly recommended.

Bahia

This grill restaurant is also located in the Four Seasons Resort. It’s the ideal place for watching a magical sunset. The menu has separate offerings for children and teens as well as for those looking for gluten-free options. At the wood grill, diners can choose their favorite marinades and toppings or have the surf ‘n turf. Bahia’s signature dishes include Zarandeado-style pink snapper, sweet pea risotto, beef tenderloin and floral pollen butter, among others.

Carolina

The elegant and sophisticated Carolina is inside St. Regis Punta Mita Resort. Guests will notice every detail of the decor has been crafted to perfection, and they will be pleased to find the food also has those same high standards. The ambiance is warm and inviting in subdued tones of gray, white, ivory, and brown. The menu is continually evolving, but always remains true to the Mexican heritage. Guests can choose to have meals and beverages in the lovely inside dining room or on the outdoor terrace. Just to mention as well, the St. Regis resort also has an Avocado vegan bar right on the beach for vacationers looking for vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free food and cocktails.

Dos Catrinas

Part of the Four Seasons Resort, Dos Catrinas has the reputation of being one of the best restaurants in Punta Mita. Guests can enjoy fresh, authentic seafood dishes like tacos made with crab or lobster; a gordita with ajillo-style octopus, or red snapper. The eatery is open for breakfast and lunch as well. Meals can either be taken indoors or on the patio. Either way, diners have amazing views of the water. A not-to-be-missed choice here is the duck confit in mole rosa, a combination of crispy skin duck confit, radish, and oregano vinaigrette.

Tuna Blanca

Here, diners will find Mexican haute cuisine at its finest. Dishes feature freshly-caught fish, and organic produce. The eclectic menu features contemporary takes on traditional fare. Consider the shrimp temazcal served with flaming raicilla or octopus ceviche. A curated selection of wines and creative cocktails are sure to please anyone’s thirst. Meals are usually served outdoors under a palapa roof. However, the indoor dining area is stunning with sea-inspired décor.

These three venues look very interesting when looking to soak up some local culture:

Museum of Compostela

This museum’s importance lies in its archaeological collection gathered mostly by historian Salvador Gutierrez Contreras. Visitors can find items made from materials such as ceramic, stone, shell and metallurgy. These materials give account of two cultural traditions of pre-Hispanic Nayarit: one of the Shaft Tombs and one of Aztlan which can be seen by graphics, maps, photos, weapons and paper currency from 1540-1560. It’s a great place to learn something culturally about the area.

Hacienda Tequila Cuervo

Take a private tour to the birthplace of tequila. Get immersed in the richness, the flavors and the views of Jalisco. Peek into the world of greenish blue agave fields and into the heart of Mexico’s national spirit. Visit Hacienda Tequila Cuervo and the original house of the Sauza distillery founders. The private tour continues inside the Jose Cuervo 200-year-old distillery to learn about the tequila-making process. Walk in the cellars brimming with history and sample various varieties of the spirit. Guests will be able to take home their own blend of custom-made tequila.

Jane Maroni Organic Design

Punta Mita is home to multi-medium artist Jane Maroni. She fashions unique kinetic air sculptures that rotate effortlessly with the slightest touch or breeze. She uses items she finds on walks on the beach: driftwood, fish bones, coconuts, seeds and other natural objects. These are one-of-a-kind pieces combining art, engineering and design. Maroni also creates exclusive jewelry pieces and furniture embodying a raw, primitive style all their own – a wonderful representation of nature, balance, harmony and peace.

There is lots of fun to be had during those Punta Minta balmy evenings. These four establishments won’t steer guests wrong:

Margarita’s Restaurant and Bar

Have a seat in the outdoor area to enjoy a spectacular sunset over the water, or sit at the bar and try out an amazing array of specialty cocktails. Guests will definitely want to try a shot of tequila or a signature margarita. This place is a major gathering spot for travelers who also want to meet locals, always happy to chat and point out the best things to do and see in the area. Guests who come hungry can have a decadent dinner made from freshly-caught shrimp, crab, and lobster.

Rosa Mexicano

Margaritas poured in front of patrons accompanied by mouth-watering Mexican starters to share is the way to go at this brightly-colored venue with seating right on the sand. Warm complimentary salsa is prepared tableside for guests to enjoy with tortilla chips while waiting for their orders. The friendly staff will go the extra mile to ensure guests have everything they need. Rosa Mexicano is as Mexican as it gets, but with an added tropical beach twist

The Shack

The Shack at the Four Seasons Resort serves delicious signature cocktails created by expert in-house mixologists. The Machete, a smoky mezcal drink infused with watermelon and chilies is a must-try. Another unique beverage is the Cielo Rojo, a refreshing combination of Riviera Nayarit’s sangrita mixed with Cora beer. These ingenious drinks are served in unique containers – see-through skull-shaped mugs spewing “smoke” or tall totem-inspired highball glasses.

Spice Market

Travelers wanting a swanky night out away from their Punta Mita luxury villa rentals, head over to Spice Market. It’s the ideal party ambiance – DJ beats, dim lights, opulent furniture and pan-Asian cuisine. A cold sake is an appropriate drink order, but Spice Market also has several expertly-crafted cocktails that mesh well with its take on Thai, Vietnamese, and Malaysian cuisine. This is the place to feel like a VIP!

For travelers who like to partake of local events to get a sense of the cultural scene, here are five in Punta Mita sure to entertain:

Banderas Bay Regatta

This fun regatta has a proud history of allowing all classes of cruising boats to compete. The balmy weather and March breezes make the protected Bandera Bay the ideal sailing venue for a regatta. Hosted by the Vallarta Yacht Club, the non-profit event was started by cruisers for cruisers. Anyone with a cruiser can register their boat to compete in the regatta.

Charro Day

Travelers who are fans of Mexican cowboys, should make sure their Punta Mita vacations overlap with this fascinating cultural celebration! Charros parade through the streets in their elaborately decorated jackets, pants and sombreros riding horses that are also in their finery. There are traditional displays of roping and bullfighting plus plenty of good food and dancing.

El Día del Amor y la Amistad

Mexicans have always regarded friendship very highly, considering it a precious gift. El Día del Amor y la Amistad or Valentine’s Day, is celebrated in Mexico much like it is everywhere else – with cards, flowers, dinners out. There are many restaurants and resorts that make the day extra special. Punta Minta is one of the most romantic places in the Northern Hemisphere. How about arranging a sunset sail featuring a gourmet dinner and the finest wine, or a private island adventure in the beautiful Marieta Islands for a day of snorkeling and a visit to the hidden area known as Lover's Beach?

Punta Mita Carnaval

Punta Mita knows how to throw a great Carnaval celebration paying homage to the culture, and history of Mexico. Colorful costumes are on parade as well as decked out golf carts in a popular golf cart parade. Prizes are doled out for best costumes and carts. At St. Regis and Four Seasons resorts, tourists can find rotating art exhibits put together by Mexican and Latin American artists, both contemporary and traditional. A beach bash and a Masquerade Gala round out the festivities. Guests are asked to don their masks at the gala as they dance the night away to a live band.

Punta Mita Invitational Pro-AM

This is an exclusive invitational event at the luxurious Punta Mita Resorts, where guests play alongside PGA Tour and European Tour players in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. This one-of-a-kind, three-day event involves some of the best players in the world at Punta Mita’s two Jack Nicklaus signature golf courses, Bahia and Pacifico. Tour pros include former Masters Champions, US Open winners, PGA Tour winners, and current PGA Tour and European Tour players. During the event, guests play with a different tour player each day, including the practice round and two tournament rounds. Outside of golf, guests indulge in decadent meals prepared by highly renowned executive chefs.

Activities and experiences in Punta Minta can be as unique and customized as guests would like them to be. Here are four interesting choices:

Boat Tour to Marietas Islands

Take a private charter tour to the Marietas Islands and get jazzed for some incredibly unique snorkeling, so remember to pack snorkel gear. In the 1960s, Jacques Cousteau convinced the Mexican government to make the area a protected park, because of the extraordinary animal life, and unique formations. Be prepared to see lots of octopus and other assorted sea creatures including various bird species. The water is a beautiful clear blue, and the swim-throughs, and rock formations are mesmerizing. There are some cool places to explore like tunnels, and caves which are very safe.

Day Trip to Sayulita and San Pancho

Two of the most well-known villages close to the area are San Pancho (formally known as San Francisco) and Sayulita. Both are colorful, laid back villages with great atmospheres. With plenty of choices for shopping and restaurants, there is no time to get bored. See the surfers, eat fresh ceviche, or take a surf class. In San Pancho visitors should stop by the Entre Amigos project. Take a guided tour of this impressive, sustainably-designed, and award-winning education center. In the town itself stroll by the shops and take a selfie beside their own “Golden Gate Bridge.” Sayulita’s popularity speaks for itself: Who would not want to spend some time in one of the most famous surfing towns in the area? The Bohemian atmosphere, the beach, the restaurants… This is one of the magic villages of Mexico and beckons a visit.

Surfing at Playa La Lancha

La Lancha is the ideal place to catch the waves. Not only are the beaches awesome, but surfing and looking at the jungle and mountains make the view unrivaled. This is where both beginners and pros go to surf. Some spend hours catching the right wave. The place is rarely crowded, but there are almost other surfers around. The beach is pretty family friendly as well if vacationers have traveled with children. The sand is silky soft with mostly gentle waves hitting the shore.

Whale Watching in Banderas Bay

Travelers want memorable experiences they will carry with them for a lifetime. One of these experiences is definitely seeing Humpback whales up close and personal. These intelligent, gentle creatures make the journey to Banderas Bay during winter months to mate and give birth. Mothers keep their offspring close and they can often be seen showing signs of affection – touching each other with their flippers while swimming. Book a private whale watching tour to see these amazing creatures in their own habitat. Make sure to have a camera ready. Whales are curious and often swim right up to boats, poking their massive heads out of the water to get a glimpse of those watching them!