Welcome to the Wonderful W Hotel in Punta de Mita. This luxurious seaside retreat nestled along the pristine shores of Mexico's Riviera Nayarit offers breathtaking ocean vistas and never-ending beaches. The intoxicating sounds of the sea embrace each visitor; providing an oceanic soundtrack for my stay. I was immediately taking me to a state of peaceful mindfulness that simultaneously delivers relaxation and excitement.
Whether you choose to delve into the resplendent Indigenous culture of the region, a crafted culinary experience, or to frolic in the ocean; this destination is the epitome of modern luxury in a thoughtful, understatedly elegant, tropical paradise.
Shortly after arriving, I realized that my vacation was to be a time of rest, reflection, and challenge. We all need to feel like we are growing regardless of age or ability. All of us certainly need to heal from the pressures of life. W Hotel Punta de Mita offered
everything I needed to reclaim my inner warrior, feel a profound sense of accomplishment, and get the peacefulness I needed to recharge myself for the rest of the year ahead.
W Hotel Punta De Mita is a global culinary adventure with a local Mexican twist. Dining at the incomparable Jean-Georges Vongerichten's beachside Spice Market and the hotel's main restaurant, Venazu, should be on your list. Tequila is King in Mexico; be sure to find the José Cuervo Speakeasy, a celebration of the Reserve De La Familia Tequila. Its anthology of tequila and delicious culinary pairings is a show-stopper! Stroll to the lobby bar and enjoy a signature mescal cocktail and fish tacos.
Parked upon the beach, you can find another crowd favorite, Chevycheria. A repurposed powder blue Chevy truck, the ceviche bar offers some of the most creative seafood dishes served up surfside. Enjoy Pescado Zarandeado, a classic Nayarit grilled fish served butterflied with roasted vegetables and salsa. And, if you are lucky enough to call one of the newly renovated beachfront villas your home away from home, the floating breakfast is an unforgettable experience you must try.
The glorious Mesa1 is a single-table, bespoke restaurant sculpted from a cross-section of a locally sourced enormous Parota tree trunk that seems to emerge from the freshwater lake. With only one seating per day, this "table uno" is one of the most exclusive outdoor dining experiences in the world. Walking to the restaurant is an adventure as guests are led through the forest and stream to the private island that is the focal point of the entire resort. Each in-house restaurant is an adventure into sheer perfection, from crafted cocktails to thoughtfully curated bites. Olé!
Embarking on my first adventure was an exhilarating journey into the ocean waves, mindfulness, and balance; I was to go surfing. After some onshore training, I paddled out, dipping my board into the surging ocean waves. The rush and anticipation were real. Mixed with the salty ocean spray and crisp air, I noticed my heart pounding as I stood atop my board and caught my wave for the first time. The feeling of the ocean's energy beneath my slowly steadying legs took my breath away. Each wave taught me more about my physical and mental limitations, the ocean's rhythm, and my steadfast determination to hang ten, ultimately finding harmony between my life and the sea.
Though you may stumble and fall, each wipeout becomes a lesson in resilience and fortitude. And when you catch that first exhilarating ride, the feeling of freedom and accomplishment washes over you, igniting a passion that will draw you back to the waves time and time again.
The Mayan Cacao ceremony is one of healing and connection. It represents a strengthening of self, unity, peace, and the natural expansion of all living things. Guided by Gina Cordova, a Mayan holistic therapist, the cacao ceremony sought to connect me to the physical ground beneath me and the sky, moon, and stars that dazzled above the sandy beaches. Eating and praying about the history of the Mayan culture, thoughtfully guided and enriched by interpretive music, was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
It was a fantastic experience that has reverberated in the weeks and
months since I visited Punta de Mita. The ice plunge offers a transformative experience, merging the shock of icy waters with the exhilaration of vitality. Stepping into the ice-cold water, one confronts a rush of sensations, awakening every nerve and revitalizing the spirit. The chill ignites a primal heat, invigorating both mind and body, leaving a trail of renewed vigor and resilience behind. Each moment submerged in the frigid embrace is a test of courage, met with a profound sense of empowerment. Emerging from the icy waters, one carries a newfound appreciation for the harmony between stillness and action and a profound connection to the resilience within.
The Away Spa at W Hotel is not to be missed. Tucked into the jungle and seemingly woven around the ancient roots of gigantic fig trees, this nature-inspired spa delivers an indoor/outdoor relaxation experience designed to leave the guest at peace. Take a trip off the property and enjoy the neighboring town of Sayulita, a charming fishing village with incredible beaches. No one has ever met a stranger in Sayulita. It's an easy, fun, and colorful atmosphere with incredible shopping and restaurants.
The local market, right in the town square, has all the sights and sounds of a quaint seaside Mexican town without all the hustle and bustle. Be sure to stop by Chocobanana for a hand-dipped chocolate-covered frozen banana covered in coconut or sprinkles.
As I continue to travel and explore this mesmerizing world, W Hotel,
Punta de Mita will remain one of the highlights of my travels so far. Here, I reclaimed my voice and refreshed my inner self, allowing me to grow without boundaries into my limitless future.