What do Beyonce, Rhianna, and Selena Gomez all have in common?
Each leading lady loves indulging in over-the-top trips to Punta Mita, a 1,500-acre enclave nestled along a picturesque private peninsula in Mexico approximately an hour north of Puerto Vallarta. Surrounded by nine-and-a-half miles of coastline, it is the brightest jewel in the glistening crown of Banderas Bay.
The region, however, is not simply a playground to the stars. In recent years it has earned acclaim as among the ultimate in luxury locales for well-heeled travelers from across the globe seeking five-star service, surroundings, and sustenance.
The Grand Entrance
Before even touching on the adventure that awaits, a warning must be made about the resort community. For first-time visitors, be prepared … to be in awe.
After driving up the coast toward Punta Mita, you'll see a massive gate. Once through it, expect to be enveloped by a verdant green jungle on all sides, where only select beams of sunlight can penetrate the towering tropical trees that go on for as far as the eye can see.
Approximately five minutes into the jungle tour, at the tip of the peninsula, there are signs for Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita and Naviva.
Four Seasons Punta Mita
The Four Seasons Punta Mita is spread over 52 glorious acres. Thanks to a recent multi-million dollar renovation, expect nearly untouched casita-style guest rooms, private villas, beach homes, and residences; a tequila-blending center; a free-form infinity-edge pool overlooking the ocean; a jungle-entrenched lazy river; and the Apuane Spa and Fitness Center. There are 10 total eateries on the property, including the oceanfront Bahia by celebrity chef Richard Sandoval, and The Rock, a private dining experience along the edge of a cliff.
Laser-focused on offering guests a secluded beachfront paradise to discover new passions, reconnect with one another, and harness the spirit of authentic Mexican culture and personalized service, there is a seemingly endless list of complimentary enhancements to any level of room, suite, or villa booked. Among the gratis offerings directly on or just off property are kayaks, bodyboards, and fishing rentals; snorkeling tours; water aerobics; salsa dancing classes; kite making; Spanish classes; cultural workshops; sea foraging demonstrations; guided ruins hikes; Indigenous nature programs; stargazing, and both tequila and Mexican chocolate—or xocolatl—tastings.
For those seeking something a little more intimate and exclusive, there are also a la carte enhancements such as the day trip via boat or private yacht to a hidden beach that is physically underground at the nearby Marietas Island and the Sea Turtle Release, a seasonal program wherein guests assist newly hatch sea turtles as they make their way to the ocean.
Naviva
Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort will open its doors in Punta Mita this December. The nature retreat, which is the Four Season’s first adult-only tented resort in the Americas, features 15 luxury tents—each which boasts a private plunge pool, hammock, and ample indoor-outdoor space—nestled amid 48 forested acres overlooking the ocean. Every inch of the ambitious cliffside space offers highly individualized service and innovative design meant to bring guests closer to nature than they have likely ever been before.
Experiences will be tailored to the group’s desires, ranging from breathwork, forest bathing, and sound therapy to small-batch Mexican coffee tastings, cooking programs, and cocktail-paired dining experiences.
Naviva guests will also receive full access to the adjacent Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita.
Clubs and Marinas
Punta Mita resort, condo, and resident guests also have round-the-clock transportation to the community’s private marina, through which sport fishing, whale watching, and private charters are available. The area is also home to several exclusive beach clubs in Pacifico Beach Club, Sufi Ocean Club, Kupuri Beach Club, and Sea Breeze Beach Club, each of which boasts exclusive dining experiences amongst its many amenities.
Finally, for all the golfers visiting, there is Punta Mita Golf Club, which boasts two Jack Nicklaus-designed courses.
