Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita

Mexico
Latin America

The Experience

You don’t come here for authentic Mexico. But there's no arguing that, 40 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta, this is the best location in the area. Sitting on a promontory of the Bahia de Banderas facing its own stretch of Pacific and little deserted islands, the property has an impressive 1,500 acres of grounds—a mix of Mexican desert framed by the mountains with more lush manicured areas—and feels like its own little country. In fact, since it's such a heavily guarded compound, if you woke up here you wouldn't know it was Mexico.

The Rooms

You never feel squeezed for space here, as even the smallest rooms start at 625 square feet, with king or two queen beds. Cream or whitewashed walls, plus marble floors and carpets give a tropical feel to the rooms, with the occasional Mexican-designed carpet in the typically grand Four Seasons bathrooms (double sinks, oversize tubs, space for two) lending a vague sense of place. Everyone gets a private balcony or terrace looking out onto the ocean, but suites can be five times larger, with their own plunge pools and dreamily dramatic settings over the ocean.

The Service

Staffers are responsive, quick and warm. They seem to anticipate what you'll need before you do. For example, cold water, snacks and iced towels are brought in rapid succession around the pool. They'll even provide sunscreen.

The Highlights

There's no lack of activities. Golfers run to the Jack Nicklaus-designed championship golf course, while tennis-lovers can play on four different surfaces. Sybarites can hang out at the spa where the variety of massage is particularly wide ranging. Average food is the only major drawback here. While some Mexican standards like guacamole and fish tacos are on offer, the spicing is strictly suited-for-Americans. That is, so mild that the dishes don't taste authentic. Still, having a setting on the ocean has its advantages: From December to March, watch humpback whales cruise past on their ancient journeys. See them while on the yacht reserved for guest use, or while lounging by the infinity pool that looks out on the ocean.

 

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