Mexico's Pacific coast has long been dominated by Puerto Vallarta, but nestled to the north is the neighboring Riviera Nayarit region, which has come into its own over the last decade.
A recent tour arranged by the Riviera Nayarit Convention and Visitors Bureau highlighted three properties, along with three ways to enjoy the destination.
W Punta de Mita
The fifth W Hotel in Latin America, the W Punta de Mita is one of the Riviera Nayarit's newest properties. The hotel opened last year and will appeal to the millennial market looking for high design and a lively pool scene that still captures the rest-and-relaxation vibe synonymous with a beach getaway. Bohemian surf culture serves as the inspiration for the 119 guest villas, which feature details such as Mexican tile floors, eye-popping colors and private patios or balconies next to a spring-fed lake.
The W Punta de Mita delivers plenty of wow factor, beginning with a 450-foot Camino Huichol mosaic walkway that bisects the lobby and culminates in a glass-walled pedestrian bridge with sunset views. Cozy seating can be found in the multilevel Living Room, which descends to the Living Room Bar, where tequila and mezcal are prominent. The Wet Deck, with VIP cabanas and a DJ booth, keeps the pool scene lively. There is also ample space to unwind at the 4,000-square-foot Away Spa, a serene respite with five treatments rooms, outdoor therapy pools, showers and waterfalls set among towering fig trees. Nightly rates begin at $300, double; visit www.wpuntademita.com.
Daytrip: People-watching doesn't get much better than in the surf town of Sayulita. Grab fresh, homemade marlin tacos from Naty's Cocina storefront, wander among the local shops and art galleries, head to the beach for surf lessons, then stick around for sunset cocktails at one of the area's many bustling bars. Visit www.rivieranayarit.com/sayulita_nayarit.
The patio of an Ocean View Escape Room at the W Punta de Mita.
Four Seasons Punta Mita
The mother ship of the Riviera Nayarit, the Four Seasons Punta Mita was one of the first luxury resorts to recognize the region's potential and has capitalized on prime real estate, impeccable service and family-friendly fun.
Nuna, the resort's free-form infinity pool, is the perfect spot to settle in for a day of fun, with tubing on the lazy river, beach volleyball and kayaking all on site.
The resort's Kids for All Seasons program offers plenty of energy-burning activities, while parents can take advantage of the redesigned and expanded Apuane Spa. Inspired by the native Huichol people, the spa features a shaded relaxation courtyard with a reflexology pool and ritual treatments that incorporate local ingredients such as sage oil, copal incense and cactus.
The starting rates for summer are $500 per room, per night; for more information, see www.fourseasons.com/puntamita.
Daytrip: Discover the Hidden Beach at the Marieta Islands, a national park formed by centuries of volcanic activity. Conservation efforts keep tourist numbers under control, so opt for an experienced operator such as Punta Mita Expeditions to snorkel, scuba dive or whale-watch. See www.puntamitaexpeditions.com.
The interior of an Imanta Resorts villa.
Imanta Resorts
Secluded luxury reigns supreme at the Imanta Resorts. Spanish for "magnetic attraction," the 250-acre jungle oasis serves as a backdrop for owner Juan Mario Sahagun's ambitious vision. Imanta lives up to that vision with 12 villas, each positioned on a hillside and many with private pools. Visitors will discover indigenous materials such as parota wood, bathtubs carved out of pink stone and blooming flora throughout the serene property.
Immersive experiences include temazcal (sweat lodge) rituals, guided hikes and an outdoor Jungle Spa for taking in the expansive grounds. Romance on the Cliff, a six-course dinner served at three dramatic vistas, is a secluded and spectacular experience for engagements, birthdays or anniversaries. Rates begin at $720; see www.imantaresorts.com.
Daytrip: Mexico's long polo tradition comes to life at La Patrona Equestrian Polo & Equestrian Club. The sweeping landscape and pristine grounds set the stage for riding, dressage and jumping classes, or take in a polo match from the Culinary and Cultural Center. See www.lapatronapoloclub.com.