The Good Life at Four Seasons Punta Mita

Sep 13, 2014

The instant I stepped out of my courtesy shuttle at the Four Seasons in Punta Mita, the humid air wrapped around me and melted away most of my everyday life stresses, and the cocktail I was given at check-in took care of the rest. As I sat in sight of the ocean with my exotic fruit drink, I mused: “Life should always be like this.”

This was a recurring thought throughout my stay, resurfacing during a welcome massage and then again when tasting octopus tacos for the first time. Four Season Resort Punta Mita’s attention to detail personalizes guest experiences and ensures a well-rounded immersion in authentic Mexican culture.

A Room With a View
As promised, my oceanfront suite provided a clear view of the Pacific Ocean from the balcony. The resort also features beachfront casitas and specialty suites that sit right on the sand, as well as garden-view suites and private villas. Its recently renovated rooms are mostly classic with a clean, minimalist design but are accented with Huichol Indian elements (bright colors and local fabrics). Additional niceties include a rain showerhead and bathtub with L’Occitane bath products.

Sun and Fun
The resort offers a comprehensive range of amenities that will appeal to a variety of guests. For example, two pools and two beaches cater to different audiences: Nuna, the property’s main pool, overlooks the ocean with its infinity edge and is great for families and kids, while couples or other peace-seeking travelers can head to Tamai, an adult-oriented oasis. Adjacent to Nuna is the family-friendly main beach, and the aptly named “Quiet Beach” is tucked around the corner. And open from sunrise to sunset, a lazy river beckons all guests to float gently along its current on inner tubes and noodles.

Guests can achieve ultimate relaxation bliss at the on-site Apuane Spa through signature treatments such as the Punta Mita massage, which incorporates traditional Mexican healing techniques and ingredients — tequila included.

A Taste of Mexico
There is no shortage of delicious food on the property, all of which is marked by Mexican influence.

Bahia is the resort’s seafood restaurant, located on the beach and supplemented with sunset views. Three times per week, guests can participate in the “catch of the day” program: When the fishermen bring in their fresh catches, guests can take their pick of fish — right off the boat — to serve as that evening’s dinner.

Aramara’s cuisine embodies Asian-Mexican fusion, with innovative and mouth-watering dishes such as spicy Thai rice noodles with shrimp and green coconut curry. Ketsi is the traditional Mexican restaurant, serving practically every Mexican dish under the sun for breakfast, lunch and dinner. When I arrived for a morning meal, the waiters went out of their way to bring me sopes, chilaquiles and tamales to sample, ensuring a proper taste of customary Mexican cuisine.

Lessons in Flavor and Nature
Guests can take a cooking class with one of the Four Seasons chefs, under whose expert guidance they will make (and eat) traditional Mexican dishes. Tequila tastings, held in the shopping boutiques on the property, give visitors the history behind the spirit as well as an opportunity to savor an assortment of flavors.

Kids will love exploring the surrounding exotic flora and fauna on nature walks — spotting a green iguana or a family of chachalaca birds is a particular highlight.

A day trip to Marietas Islands is just a quick and pleasant boat ride away from Punta Mita. Guests can easily book a trip with Vallarta Adventures to see the islands, where they can snorkel, bird-watch and swim to a hidden beach.

Though the property may appeal to a broad demographic that comprises families, couples and travelers of various ages, its appeal is distinctive. Envision the most decadent meal, the most beautiful view or the most polite hotelier, and Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita will still exceed your expectations.