Curator’s statement
If you haven’t heard of Punta Mita, Mexico, consider this your wake-up call. I’ll let you search for it on a map so that I can get straight to the point. If you're a golfing, beach-loving, activity-driven family, now is the time to book your trip to this hot destination! The scenery in this enclave is gorgeous — luxury resorts surrounded by two beautiful rolling golf courses, palm trees galore, and tons (and I mean tons) of villas and condos with private plunge pools, personal chefs and daily housekeeping. When booking, you have two main options: a traditional hotel resort or a vacation rental condo. Ask yourself: do you want more space for more people and access to a kitchen, or do you prefer the hotel/resort vibe? Your answer will shape the entire feel of your vacation. If you’re staying at one of the resorts on the peninsula — St. Regis, Four Seasons, Montage (oh my!) — you’ll get the full, traditional luxury experience you’d expect from these names. But if you’re in one of the villas or condos further in, your trip will have a more laid-back, customizable feel. You might be relaxing by your own private pool, or zipping around in a golf cart to reach one of the many beach clubs scattered around the peninsula. And honestly, the golf cart thing? It’s actually kind of fun. The kids — and especially the teens — love it. Since Punta Mita is a gated, resort-style community (think Country Club but tropical), there’s a built-in sense of safety that gives kids some freedom to explore. Whichever option fits your family, budget and vacation style best, reach out to me — I’ll help guide you to the right part of the peninsula that will suit you best and will explain why. I look forward to helping you plan an unforgettable trip to this amazing spot.
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Where to stay in Punta Mita
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Things to do in Punta Mita
Surfers at El Surf Beach Club
The Beach Clubs:
Kupuri: Cliffside club with tiered pools and stairs down to the beach. Big hit with teens. On-site Water Sports shop that includes paddleboard rentals.
Pacifico: Surf beach that’s great for families with young kids. Walking distance to the Four Seasons and their awesome Salad Shack lunch spot.
El Surf: as of 2025, a $50 food & beverage minimum. Great sandy beach, ideal surf waves, amazing Peruvian restaurant. Bonus: valet parking for your golf cart and post-beach showers with soap and shampoo.
Sufi: No beach access, but super peaceful. Perfect for lounging and poolside relaxing.
Sea Breeze: The best of the best! Beautiful beach, super peaceful vibes and incredible lounge beds. You’ll pay the highest premium to get in (as of 2025, an $85 food & beverage minimum) but trust me — totally worth it.
Note: All Beach Clubs offer food and drink service directly to your lounge chair — and they each also rotate evening events — movie nights, karaoke, etc.
Golf
Play at one of the two signature Jack Nicklaus-designed courses. Guests staying at the Four Seasons or St. Regis have access to the exclusive Punta Mita Golf Club, including the famous Tail of the Whale island green (yes, a hole that is actually on an island!).
Learn to Surf
El Surf, Pacifico and Sea Breeze Beach Clubs all offer surfboard rentals.
Marietas Islands
The islands are a national park with limited daily passes. Take a boat tour to the Marietas in the Bay of Banderas and swim to the hidden Playa del Amor — one of the most unique experiences out there. Though take note! Depending on the season, getting in the water can be chilly.
Hiking
There are rolling walking trails throughout the peninsula, including one leading to Monkey Mountain. You can hire a guide or research how to find the trailhead yourself.
Sailing
At the Sufi Beach Club, rent a catamaran and cruise the bay.
Whale & Coati Watching
If you visit during the winter, bring binoculars for whale spotting. Look for the spray from their blowholes! Coatis (wild, raccoon-like animals) live in the jungle and often appear at night — especially along golf cart paths. They’re wild, so keep your distance, especially around small kids.
Sayulita
Take a day trip 30 minutes north to this surf town known for its casual beach vibes and colorful streets.
Explore Corral del Risco & Marina
Check out the quaint town just outside the gates — local shops, boutiques and restaurants. Great for an evening (pre-dinner) stroll.
And so much more!!
Tequila Tasting, Booze Cruises, Deep-Sea fishing, so many options, so little time!
Places to eat & drink in Punta Mita
Table view at Mina Restaurant
Resort Restaurants:
Any dining option at the St. Regis, Four Seasons or Montage — honestly, you can’t go wrong. But these are a few of my favorites.
Dos Catrinas: Blends traditional Mexican cuisine with contemporary flair, offering stunning ocean views, fresh local ingredients and a lively atmosphere.
Bahía: A beachfront seafood restaurant by celebrated Chef Richard Sandoval, offering dramatic ocean views and a seafood-centric menu.
Mita Mary: A newly opened and redesigned restaurant offering a seafood selection curated with Pacific Coastal ingredients and Mediterranean-Asian-inspired flavors.
Corral del Risco Restaurants:
Tuna Blanca: A favorite for holiday meals like Thanksgiving, Tuna Blanca blends upscale Mexican cuisine with a creative flair — think surfboard dessert trays and signature tableside coffee.
La Pescadora & Mina: Beachfront sister spots where you can dine with your feet in the sand, savor fresh seafood and take in stunning ocean views. By night, this beachside venue comes alive with music and dancing, making it a top hangout for teens and young adults.
Tora Izakaya: A stylish Japanese spot with a modern izakaya vibe, Tora serves sushi, robata-grilled dishes and craft cocktails in a sleek, beachside setting.
Need to know
If you’re staying in a condo or villa, get ready to use your golf cart a lot. You’ll be carting to beach clubs, dinners, activities, etc. Some carts even come with Bluetooth speakers — so kick back and enjoy the ride.
One huge tip: when your property manager asks if you’d like to pre-stock your fridge, say yes. The grocery store in Corral del Risco is more like a small neighborhood market than a full grocery store. And trust me — you don’t want to be hauling eggs and watermelon in a golf cart after a long travel day. Let your host handle it, and head straight to the beach.
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Punta Mita page.
Travel Advisor
Jennifer Castelli
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