From April 17-24, 2024, I set off to explore this wonderful region of Mexico! Having stayed in Puerto Vallarta many times, I felt it necessary to explore this northern region for many reasons. First and foremost, the resorts that line the ocean/hotel zone in Puerto Vallarta are either very tired or over-priced. I am a firm believer in value for dollar, and to me, there had to be other regions that were just as lovely and exciting as Puerto Vallarta!
I set off... and found them.
Delta Riviera Nayarit
After arriving at the PVR airport I transfered to my home-resort in the La Cuz area. The Delta Riviera Nayarit is the Marriotts ONLY all inclusive hotel in all of Mexico. I was excited to try it out too as all collateral I have seen showed a luxe resort was waiting for me.
The resort was not for the faint of heart as you must be either very mobile and enjoy walking hilly-distances, or not mind waiting for a golf-cart shuttle. The grounds were very pretty and jungle-like, dabbled with approximately 13 swimming pools! It was a quiet, peaceful, and tranquil resort which is perfect for down-time. For my purposes, this resort was perfect. I would be out almost every day exploring the regions, and come back to this oasis.
The negative: food options. There are two restaurants to choose from on the property: one main buffet style and one small ala carte Japanese teppanyaki restaurant that booked up fast. There is one snack bar near the upper pool as well, but options were limited and hours were very short.
Despite the beach club not being on the main resort grounds, it was fabulous and the food was better here than at the resort. Drinks were ever-flowing and there were no vendors. That was odd for this area!!! You had to sign up right away at 6am for the bi-hourly shuttle to the beach or you wouldn't get there for a while. It was great to walk the beach and in the town as well. People were very friendly (typical Mexico!!)
While in this region, I set up numerous site inspections. This way I get to know each property and can inspect impromptu for cleanliness and adequate staffing, and determine guest capacity for the time of year. I also speak with guests and ask them if they are willing to share their experiences with me. Most are very happy to!
St Regis
Beautifully situated on a tranquil peninsula in Punta de Mita, Mexico, The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort is a luxury haven. Set amid 22 lush acres, the resort sweeps you away with expansive beachfront villas featuring a touch of rustic Provence combined with Mexican art and handcrafted furnishings. There are 120 exquisite guest rooms and suites with luxury amenities, butler services, and captivating ocean or garden views. The Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course is within minutes of the resort. Unique culinary experiences include a fine dining menu and set tables by the beach. The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort is an upscale luxury property.
7 dining options, 3 garden views, 3 ocean views, and 3 oceanfront categories are available. 24-Hour Room Service, Watercraft Rental, Gift Shop, Dry Cleaning Service, Laundry, Free wifi
Four Seasons
When I inspected this resort, it was sitting at 70% capacity for 172 rooms.
Complimentary kids club and teens club. No charge for food for children under 4.
This is not an all-inclusive option but rather offers a European meal plan.
Indulge in luxury accommodations at Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita. Experience newly renovated Mexican Casita rooms with private terraces, or modern one- and two-bedroom suites near Puerto Vallarta overlooking lush tropical gardens or the Pacific. For added space, explore our oceanfront five-bedroom Punta Mita villas with private pools and ocean views, or our Beach Houses with direct access to Manzanillas Beach. There are 5 restaurant options as well as dine-in options available.
Choose between two secluded beaches; the adults-only Tamai Pool and the Instagram-worthy infinity-edge Nuna Pool overlooking the Pacific Ocean
Complimentary services: SUNGLASS DOCTOR AMENITY EVERY HOUR, DAILY AFTERNOON TREAT, EVIAN SPRITZ, AND CHILLED-TOWELS, AMPHIBIOUS POOL WAITER, FULL-SERVICE BEACH & POOLSIDE LUNCH, PRIVATE CABANAS, and AQUA FORZA AND WATER AEROBICS CLASSES
NIVIVIA
Check in 3pm- Check out noon. A private manager will guide them and everything they want as far as food or beverages is included. this goes for top-shelf liquors of any type, but within reason.
BEACHFRONT TENTED RESORT
Welcome to Naviva, a natural haven with just 15 luxury tents hidden amidst 19 hectares (48 acres) of jungle right on the Pacific beachfront. With our all-inclusive pricing, the atmosphere is casual and carefree – more like staying in a generous home than at a resort. In this adult-only playground, every day is dedicated to rediscovering adventure, while exploring the beauty and culture of Mexico.
Two types of tents: Deepen your sense of luxury and privacy in our Grand Tent, an extra-large sanctuary hidden in the forest with glimpses of the ocean. Unwind in your spacious living room and separate bedroom, where a sliding glass wall gives the option of natural breezes or air conditioning. Celebrate the outdoors with an oversized plunge pool and expansive two-tier deck, complete with a lounge area and firepit. Truly immerse yourself in nature, enjoying the best of Naviva in your private haven.
Tent: Feel a direct connection to nature in your stand-alone luxury tent, hidden in the forest with glimpses of the ocean. Relax in the shade of your canvas-covered living room and separate bedroom, where a sliding glass wall lets you enjoy natural breezes or air conditioning. Soak in the sun on the spacious deck, which includes your plunge pool, outdoor shower and hammock.
ALL-INCLUSIVE PRICING
At Naviva, our all-inclusive pricing simplifies every experience – creating an atmosphere that’s carefree and spontaneous. Your nightly rate covers all food and drinks, along with one complimentary spa journey per person per stay and your choice of activities – from guided hikes and sound healing to snorkel safaris and personal training in our outdoor gym. At Naviva, we want you to feel like a guest in our home – not at a typical resort. We approach your time here with an attitude that’s generous and warm-hearted.
Included Amenities: PREMIUM WI-FI, DAILY NEWSPAPER, SPA, 24-HOUR IN-TENT DINING, MULTILINGUAL, CONCIERGES, and LUXURY BATH PRODUCTS
THE CONRAD
7 different Personal concierge suites, 2 different beachside rooms, 3 different beachside suites, 11 different suites and residences with elevated amenities, and 8 different spacious rooms
In-room amenities: 55-inch Flat-screen TV in rooms, 65-inch Flat-screen TV in suites, Nespresso coffee machine, Air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, Tea-making facilities
4 separate pool options, and of course the option to have a private pool if you select a suite with a Plunge pool. Three of the pools are family-friendly and two are adult-Only.
The 2-mile pristine stretch of sandy shoreline fronting Conrad Punta de Mita captivates with its untouched beauty and inviting azure waters. The soft golden sands offer a serene backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests can bask in the sun, indulge in beachfront dining, or partake in a variety of water activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkelling. The breathtaking sunsets provide the perfect ending to a day filled with beachside bliss, creating an unforgettable experience for those seeking tranquillity and adventure alike.
Riu Resorts
Riu has three properties all near to each other about 15 minutes north of the airport.
Riu Jalisco is the oldest and most dated, and therefore cheapest property. There are 700 rooms, 5 restaurants. There are no room service option at ths resort.
Riu Vallarta is the mid-level resort and a great value for your dollar. It was recently renovated in 2019 before Covid. There are 678n rooms with 4 room categories.
Finally, the recently renovated adults-only Riu Palace Pacifico is amazing!!! There is an elite section with only 60 elite rooms available that come with elevated views, elite-only lounges and restaurant.
W Punta Mita Resort
