Punta de Mita, Mexico: Where to Stay, Eat & Play in This Quietly Glamorous Beach Escape
You don’t stumble into Punta de Mita. You go on purpose. You go because you want space, because Cabo is too loud, and because someone you trust once whispered to you, “Go to Punta Mita—just don’t tell too many people.”
Sitting quietly at the tip of a private peninsula on Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit, Punta de Mita is that rare kind of destination that balances barefoot ease with white-glove service. There are no high-rise resorts, no packed beaches, no thumping pool parties. Just private villas, fresh ceviche, glass-flat surf breaks, and the kind of sunsets that make you late for dinner—on purpose.
Here’s how to do it right.
Punta de Mita Mexico: Getting There
Fly into Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR). From there, it’s about a 45-minute drive north, depending on your driver and your playlist. You’ll pass through Puerto Vallarta proper, maybe catch a glimpse of Sayulita’s surf crowd, and then—suddenly—you’re through the gates and into another world.
Pro tip: many villas include airport pick-up. Use it. There’s nothing quite like being handed a cold towel and a margarita 10 minutes after landing.
Casa Palmasola | Punta Mita Villas | Haute Retreats
Related Reasons to Rent Punta Mita Villas
Where to Stay: Villas That Quietly Flex
If you’re coming to Punta de Mita, stay in a villa. Trust us. Not just for the privacy (though that’s reason enough), but because the villas here are next-level—staffed, styled, and stocked like private resorts, only better.
Casa Tau
Ocean right at your feet. Open-air everything. Thatched roofs. Pale stone. Ceiling fans spinning slowly while someone hands you a mezcal spritz. Casa Tau is one of those places where even the sound of ice in a glass feels luxurious.
Casa Palmasola
On the inside of the private Punta Mita development, Palmasola is what happens when a luxury hotel gets jealous of a house. Think: chef, butler, spa, fire pit, beach, golf cart. Guests here tend to cancel their return flights “by accident.”
Looking for a resort?
Yes, you can go hotel—but make it a good one. Naviva, a Four Seasons Resort, offers luxury tented suites tucked into jungle. Or book a casita at the St. Regis Punta Mita, where the beach is practically empty, and the service somehow always knows what you need before you do.
Where to Eat: The Best Restaurants in Punta de Mita
Food here is good. Not “good for a beach town.” Genuinely, travel-for-it good. Local ingredients, ocean views, and chefs who know how to let a grilled fish speak for itself.
Hector’s Kitchen
Ask anyone who’s been and they’ll say the same: Go to Hector’s. Chef Hector Leyva runs the kind of kitchen where each plate feels like it was made for just one person—you. Dishes change, but expect things like smoked beet salad, fresh tuna tartare, or soft-shell crab that makes you want to order another one immediately. The vibe is easy, the views are wide, and the wine list is actually thoughtful.
Aramara – Four Seasons Punta Mita
Asian meets Pacific Mexico in a way that shouldn’t work, but somehow does. Yellowtail sashimi with jalapeño. Thai-style prawns. A banana soufflé that people plan their days around. The room is elegant but not stiff. The cocktails are serious.
Mina
Right on the beach. Flickering candlelight. The sea just meters away. Mina is relaxed and romantic, with fresh seafood, good mezcal, and no rush. Order the catch of the day and stay awhile.
What to Do (When You’re Not Doing Nothing)
Punta de Mita is a “do-nothing” place—but for those who need a little action between naps, it’s got options.
Surfing at La Lancha
Even if you’ve never touched a surfboard, La Lancha is worth the 15-minute jungle hike. It’s not crowded, the vibe is pure, and the waves are mellow enough for beginners but fun for more seasoned surfers. There’s a board rental shack tucked into the trees. They’ll take care of you.
Boat Trip to the Marietas Islands
Hop on a panga and head out to the Islas Marietas, a protected marine reserve about 20 minutes offshore. Snorkel in crystal-clear water, watch humpbacks if it’s winter, and swim into the famous Hidden Beach, a sunlit crater inside the island.
Hike Monkey Mountain
For a sunrise adventure, Monkey Mountain offers panoramic views of the bay, the ocean, and the kind of silence you don’t hear much anymore. Go with a local guide if you want stories along the way.
Golf Like a Local Billionaire
If you play, don’t miss the Pacifico Golf Course. Jack Nicklaus designed it. There’s an island green. It’s not a gimmick. It’s stunning.
Related Our Luxury Travel Guide: Punta Mita
Luxurious Accommodations in Punta Mita: A Stay to Remember
Punta Mita offers a wide range of luxurious accommodations that ensure a stay as memorable as the destination itself. From the newly renovated W Punta de Mita to the St. Regis Punta Mita and Naviva, a Four Seasons Resort, the options are plentiful.
For an ultimate high-end experience, consider staying at Casa Tau, a luxury beachfront property
Casa Tau is decorated with soothing earth tones, warm wood accents, elegant and warm creamy white walls and an impressive hay-thatched roof. What we love about this luxury mansion is the open-air layout that will give you that relaxing atmosphere.
What to Do (When You’re Not Doing Nothing)
Punta de Mita is a “do-nothing” place—but for those who need a little action between naps, it’s got options.
Surfing at La Lancha
Even if you’ve never touched a surfboard, La Lancha is worth the 15-minute jungle hike. It’s not crowded, the vibe is pure, and the waves are mellow enough for beginners but fun for more seasoned surfers. There’s a board rental shack tucked into the trees. They’ll take care of you.
Boat Trip to the Marietas Islands
Hop on a panga and head out to the Islas Marietas, a protected marine reserve about 20 minutes offshore. Snorkel in crystal-clear water, watch humpbacks if it’s winter, and swim into the famous Hidden Beach, a sunlit crater inside the island.
Hike Monkey Mountain
For a sunrise adventure, Monkey Mountain offers panoramic views of the bay, the ocean, and the kind of silence you don’t hear much anymore. Go with a local guide if you want stories along the way.
Golf Like a Local Billionaire
If you play, don’t miss the Pacifico Golf Course. Jack Nicklaus designed it. There’s an island green. It’s not a gimmick. It’s stunning.
FAQs
Is Punta de Mita worth visiting?
Yes. But don’t tell too many people.
What’s the difference between Punta Mita and Punta de Mita?
Technically: Punta Mita refers to the ultra-exclusive gated community. Punta de Mita is the surrounding town and beach area. But most people use them interchangeably. Both are gorgeous.
Is it safe?
In a word: yes. The entire Punta Mita area is known for being secure, well-maintained, and incredibly welcoming.
Can you get good coffee?
You bet. Try Punta Mercedes Café. Or have your villa staff bring it to your pool chair.
Final Thoughts: Punta de Mita Is Luxury Without Loudness
What makes Punta de Mita, Mexico different is its quiet confidence. It doesn’t shout. It doesn’t need to. It gives you space. It gives you beauty. It gives you service so good you barely notice it—and that’s the point.
Come here if you want the real definition of luxury: time, privacy, comfort, and a view you don’t have to share with anyone else.
🔗 Want the good life? Explore curated Punta de Mita villas at Haute Retreats. Private pools, chef-prepared meals, beachfront everything.
