North of Porta Vallarta, a peninsula juts out into the Pacific Ocean creating a dreamy tropical paradise on Mexico’s western shore.
Located on the north tip of Banderas Bay, Punta Mita has the same longitude as Hawaii, so its pitch-perfect temperature averages 75 balmy degrees in winter and 85 in summer.
Its 15 acres of lush, verdant land is surrounded by 9.5 miles of shoreline and unblemished beaches. It’s part of a 200-mile str
ip of the coast from San Blas to Nuevo Vallarta that is dotted with quaint fishing villages, surf towns and beach clubs with breathtaking views of the sea.
A few decades ago, several Silicon Valley executives recognized the area’s stark natural beauty and potential for development, so everything you see here is new and first class. Punta Mita’s luxury community is filled with high-end homes, several posh resorts (Casa Aramara, Four Seasons and St. Regis) and beach-front condominiums. Upscale amenities attract an A-list of the rich and famous from Bill Gates and Beyoncé to Jennifer Aniston and Kim and Kanye.
This celebrity playground is home to two Jack Nicholas Signature Golf Courses. When you’re finished putting on oceanside greens, you can indulge in leisure activities such as tequila and cigar tastings, baby sea turtle release projects, humpback whale charters (best from January to March), deep-sea fishing expeditions and spa days with therapeutic massages to let you unwind. A quick 15-mile boat ride away, the uninhabited cluster of islands at Isla Maritas National Park provides safe haven to thousands of nesting seabirds and colorful schools of reef fish, sea turtles, dolphins and manta rays. Time to head to Punta Mita, Mexico!
WHERE DOCK
Marina Riviera Nayarit
329-295-5526
This full-service marina boasts 340 slips that accommodate vessels from 30 to 400 feet. Amenities include fuel station, marine store, pump-out station, service docks, shipyard, laundry, restaurants and a sailing school.
WHERE TO DINE
Tuna Blanca
329-291-5414
Coastal seafood is elevated to a master chef level at this elegant restaurant overlooking the water. Dine on the terrace or at beach tables for a casual vibe or enjoy a formal ambiance in the main dining room.
Punta Mercedes
329-291-6387
Watch a rosy, seaside sunset at this upscale eatery while sampling its fusion of Italian and Argentine dishes such as steaks, lobster pizza and local seafood. An impressive tequila and wine collection heighten the experience.
Tacos & Papas
322-289-7576
Authentic coastal Mexican cuisine with warm spices and fresh ingredients are served in a laid-back environment. Homemade platters, friendly service and unbeatable prices will bring you back to dine again.
Rosa Mexicano Restaurante
329-291-5495
Watch waves crash upon the sand while nibbling on traditional Latin, Mexican and coastal Pacific fare. Fish tacos and grilled flank steak taste terrific with roasted salsa made at your table.
