Curator’s statement
Riviera Nayarit is a stunning stretch of Mexico’s Pacific coast where rugged jungle meets sophisticated luxury. It is a destination of three distinct experiences: the soulful energy of Puerto Vallarta with its iconic Malecón; the private, ultra-luxe playground of Punta Mita; and the raw, quiet majesty of the Mandarina coastal rainforest. With easy flight access from the US, it has become a top choice for travelers who want world-class amenities and seamless travel. Whether you’re looking for a chic rooftop scene or a private treehouse in the canopy, there truly is a perfect corner of this coast for everyone.
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Where to stay in Riviera Nayarit
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Things to do in Riviera Nayarit
January and February are perfect for whale watching!
The Pacific is your playground here. Swim, snorkel/scuba, take surf lessons, whale watch, do a sunset sail, do a cooking class or food tour, ride horses or ATVs, zip line, visit botanical gardens—there are so many experiences on offer here.
I highly recommend a boat tour to the Islas Marietas, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve—make sure to include Playa del Amor, where you can swim into a hidden beach inside a crater. If you're visiting in January or February, keep your eyes on the horizon for humpback whales—they are incredibly active in the bay this time of year.
For a change of pace, spend a day in Sayulita, a colorful surfing town perfect for fish tacos and boutique shopping. In Puerto Vallarta, don't miss the Wednesday night Art Walks in the Zona Romántica or a sunset stroll along the Malecón for people-watching and al fresco dining.
Places to eat & drink in Riviera Nayarit
Tacos are a must in Riviera Nayarit, and the seafood options are amazing here!
You'll of course be enjoying casual and fine dining at some of the incredible restaurants within your hotel or resort.
Some restaurants not to be missed in Puerto Vallarta include Café des Artistes for an elegant tasting menu and live music in the heart of Old Town; Joe Jack's Fish Shack, known for a traditional take on while Pacific Red Snapper; and Gaby's, for authentic, traditional dishes with a view of Banderas Bay.
Upscale dining options are found in Punta Mita, including Hector's Kitchen at the Kupuri Beach Club, with stunning views of the Pacific; seaside restaurant MitaMary at the St. Regis; Sufi for a Mexican/Mediterranean ocean-front lunch, and Casa Teresa for Italian.
If you are staying within the Mandarina complex, you have access to all the restaurants within the Mandarina resorts, including Chukker for Argentine asado at the Mandarina Polo & Equestrian Club and Toppu for Mexican-inspired Japanese cuisine with an open kitchen and sweeping views at the Rosewood Mandarina.
Need to know
Choosing the right hotel or resort is key for the best experience. If you’re craving seclusion, head north to Mandarina. The One&Only Mandarina is a showstopper, featuring dramatic clifftop villas and treehouses perched above the jungle floor, all with private plunge pools. For those who prefer a beachfront focus, the Rosewood Mandarina offers a warmer, social vibe, or head a bit further north to Siari, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, a 920-acre private enclave where the jungle meets secluded beach and where butler services are included with your stay. The lush Milaroca, a Belmond Hotel, is set to open its doors in 2027. Enjoy expansive spas at each of these properties, including treatments incorporating modern wellness with ancient Huichol traditions.
In the gated paradise of Punta Mita, the Four Seasons is perfect for families who love their lazy river and the famous Tail of the Whale golf course. The St. Regis offers a more intimate, classic luxury feel, complete with its signature sunset champagne sabering. Susurros del Corazón, an Auberge Collection Resort, is also an incredible choice for relaxed, contemporary luxury with a gorgeous beach and spa sanctuary. Montage and Pendry are also slated to open in this growing destination in 2026.
For adults seeking a "digital detox," Naviva (Four Seasons) offers just 15 luxury tents for the ultimate all-inclusive nature immersion.
If all-inclusive is your vibe, then your best options are a bit closer to town—try the Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit for a family-friendly stay with excellent cuisine, Unico 20°105° in Nuevo Vallarta for relaxed luxury and rustic chic ambiance, or Secrets Bahia Mita for a design-forward, social adults-only resort.
Closer to the heart of PV, the nine-suite Casa Kimberly—once the homes of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton—offers boutique romance you won't find anywhere else. Further south, the adults-only Hotel Mousai features the most famous rooftop infinity pool overlooking Banderas Bay.
From the misty rainforests of Mandarina to the manicured greens of Punta Mita, this region offers an incredible variety of ways to relax and reconnect. The weather is at its peak from November through May, making it the ideal winter escape. I’ve vetted these properties to ensure they meet the highest standards of service and design, and I would love to help you choose the one that feels like "home" for your next getaway.
Travel Advisor
Cindy Rhee
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