Riviera Nayarit, the 200-mile stretch of Pacific coastline just north of Puerto Vallarta, sprawls with authentic, off-the-radar beach towns, alluring natural attractions and dozens of luxurious and intimate accommodations.
Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, the only AAA Five Diamond property in the Mexican Pacific, dominates as the region’s premier all-inclusive, but these four lesser-known all-inclusive resorts are just as spectacular in their own ways. Whether it’s rustic charm, lush views, affordability or a destination-unto-itself oasis clients are looking for, the perfect fit awaits.
Casa de Mita
On its own secluded beach, Casa de Mita in the tony Punta de Mita region is a hideaway gem. The AAA Four Diamond, all-inclusive boutique resort is quiet, serene and truly intimate, with just eight spacious suites, totaling a maximum of 16 guests. Outside, a tropical sanctuary with a saltwater pool hugs the sprawling beach.
With the all-inclusive package — which includes Wi-Fi access and international calling — guests never have to lift a finger. Clients can sit back and relax with an elevated dining experience from chef Octavio Rodriguez while the bartender serves up thirst-quenching margaritas (choose from a selection of hand-picked tequilas) and, of course, a well-curated cocktail menu and wine list. Rates start at $675 per night for double occupancy.
www.casademita.com
Grand Sirenis Matlali Hills Resort & Spa
The 40-room Grand Sirenis Matlali Hills Resort & Spa will woo landscape lovers with an intimate hilltop setting that boasts incredible views of the Sierra Madre Mountains and the coastline.
Now operated by Sirenis Hotels & Resorts, the property, which will officially open in December, has become fully all-inclusive. It offers both fine and casual dining (including Brazilian, Italian and Japanese cuisine, as well as a steakhouse), an outdoor infinity pool, the outdoor Makawe Spa and the private outdoor Eva Mandarina Beach Club. Introductory rates start at $238 per room based on double occupancy.
www.sirenishotels.com
Iberostar Playa Mita
In Riviera Nayarit’s emerging Playa Mita, the AAA Four Diamond Iberostar Playa Mita has become the stomping ground for couples, families and special-occasion travelers such as honeymooners — and there’s really no good reason to the leave the resort.
The 452-room property in a self-contained oasis is a destination unto itself, with a myriad of amenities, four specialty restaurants, three outdoor pools (including an infinity pool with swim-up bar), 24-hour room service, a terrific spa (with 18 oceanview, adults-only spa rooms), an on-site 18-hole Greg Norman-designed golf course and a pristine, sandy beach. All-inclusive standard rooms start at $92 per person.
www.iberostar.com
Punta Monterrey Beach Resort Hotel
Deep within the tropical jungle on an ecological reserve, Punta Monterrey, a 12-villa eco-resort in San Pancho, has become a favorite for budget-friendly travelers since opening last year. Not only are the oceanview, hill-perched villas and stand-alone cabins spacious and rustic, but the all-inclusive resort — a 20-minute drive from Sayulita — is right on the shore of its own beautiful beach.
All meals use organic produce right from the property’s garden, and there’s a spacious yoga studio with ocean views. Punta Monterrey is barefoot luxury at its best, with unique activities such as spearfishing and an outdoor cabana for massages. All-inclusive rooms start at $80 per person per night.
www.monterreybeach.com
