One Week Review: Four Seasons Punta Mita
Only two and half hours from San Diego by air is Puerto Vallarta. Take a short 45 min drive to the very tip of the peninsula, where you’ll find Punta Mita, a breathtaking jungle community with luxury resorts tucked away in between swaying palm trees. Here is where I spent a week at arguably one of the nicest resorts in town, Four Seasons Punta Mita. I attempted to sample everything at the resort to get a grasp on why this resort is consistently named one of the best in Mexico. Here is what I did…
Review by Chris Stone
The privacy of Four Seasons Punta Mita is unmatched
Ahh Puerto Vallarta, stepping foot off the plane and making your way through the throngs of timeshare staff you are greeted by the wave of humidity that you can almost always expect from visiting the green paradise of Mexico. After finding the friendly Four Seasons Punta Mita driver, it's time for a 45 min drive through the packed streets of the tourist section of Puerto Vallarta. Normally I would say stay in Puerto Vallarta, it’s a good time for sure, but it can be a bit loud and definitely not too “relaxing” . Thats why we are going to Punta Mita, the tip of the peninsula that opens to Banderas Bay, an area that greets the cruise ships that flock to Puerto Vallarta. This point is 1,500 acres and is actually privately owned by the Four Seasons Punta Mita, St. Regis Punta Mita, Conrad Hilton, and 16 other sub-communities.
This land is old, there is proof of early human settlement in Nayarit. Careyeros Hill, an archaeological site on Punta Mita peninsula, dates back to around 800 AD. I roll down the window and spot a iguana crossing the road, hopefully the first of many of exotic jungle creatures I plan on seeing!
Once arriving, the vacation starts as soon as you set foot on property. Greeted by a team of bellmen, I was given a hibiscus margarita with mezcal and escorted to their lobby where a panoramic ocean view, complete with breaching blue whales, was there to make feel at home.
The Lobby View at Four Seasons Punta Mita
After a brief check in, I was escorted via golf cart to their “Garden Suite” a 645 sq ft studio complete with a massive patio with rich jungle views of their immaculately manicured landscaping. The room is ready with an amenity of a make your own margarita, as well as a small portion of guacamole. Much appreciated after a long flight with bad trail mix. The room is decorated with local artists, as well as the usual Four Seasons marketing magazine.
The bathroom is immaculate and features a walk in shower, as well as a tub, both of which are sparking clean and are filled with premium Le Labo soaps and lotions.
Bed wise I chose a king, however you can get a double queen set up if you prefer. The bed is comfy and not sagging, the pillows are plump and the sheets are heavy and smell freshly laundered.
After freshing up, I don a linen shirt and go in search of a sunset and a glass of wine…
Garden Suite at Four Seasons Punta Mita
After spending a few minutes walking around the luscious grounds, complete with swaying palm trees and modern art decorations, I immediately fell into resort time. That means it’s time for a beer on the beach. Luckily there are several places to accomplish that goal here. I make my way to the beach and it appears I have stumbled across a beach that easily could pass as a Corona ad. Complete with straw thatched umbrellas and lawn chairs. It was the perfect spot to grab a cerveza.
Corona Ad? Nope its the beach at Four Seasons Punta Mita
After a relaxing beer, I checked out the first of many dining spots. Their signature restaurant that sparked this trip is “Aramara” . This pan Asian fusion restaurant was recently remodeled and redesigned. A sleek and modern dining venue, it easily could pass as a restaurant in midtown Manhattan. The menu features a catch all collection of staples like well designed sushi, roasted duck, fiery skewers, and wok fried entrees. A thoughtfully designed beverage menu features artisan sake producers from both Japan and Mexico.
After some debate I decide to sample their Binchotan Robata Grill and Hot Stone options. I ordered the Eggplant with Miso Yuzu Togarashi, as well as the Chicken Thighs with Negi Teriyaki. Both of these dishes come to the table par cooked, designed for the guest to finish the cooking on their own personal grill powered by hot coals.
Binchontan Skewers and Bao Buns from Aramara
The Ishiyaki Hot Stone was even more interactive. Served sashimi style, this NY Prime Beef is 4oz and comes with a nuclear hot rock designed to cook your beef quickly. Served with a ginger ponzu, spicy kasha ponzu, and truffle ponzu for dipping, this was a fun way to enjoy dinner. One note I did have is that the first few cuts of steak cooked very quickly, however about half way through the stone could have been replaced. Towards the end it lacked the heat to properly cook the steak.
For rolls, I chose to get their Angry Aramaa roll with Spicy Tuna, Avocado, Cucumber, Lemon-Yuzu Kosho Mayo, and Sweet Chili. It was served promptly and was a very generous size. Perfect for sharing or if you're hungry like me, all to yourself.
I was very surprised with my favorite dish. The Five Spiced Half Duck. A classic you can find at most Chinese restaurants, this was given a unique Mexican twist, being served with housemade flour tortillas, instead of the usual crepe. This change worked surprisingly well with the carrot and apple slaw, as well as the hoisin sauce.
Waking up to the sounds of chirping birds from the garden, it’s time for breakfast. Two options are presented, one is walking over to Dos Catrinas, the all day eatery overlooking the beach complete with full buffet and waiter service, or room service.
I did both over my time and was equally impressed. Here is what I got:
Room Service - Ordered using the Four Seasons App, I chose a delivery of 7:45am. The team came a knocking at 7:43am. That is prompt! After a brief conversation the bubbly team member set up my table on the patio and wished me a good day, even recommending a few surf breaks for me to check out.
Mexican Breakfast at Four Seasons Punta Mita
I chose to get the “Mexican Breakfast” that came with Chilaquiles, Two Eggs Any Style, Flank Steak, Refried Beans, Guacamole, and Tortillas. It was served with a pot of coffee, as well.
The steak was cooked medium and seasoned well, the chilaquiles were well seasoned. However, I did disagree with the cutting of the chips into small strips, as they became mushy rather quickly. Either way, they didn’t last long and were eaten promptly.
The coffee was hot and very strong, which was appreciated as I have a disdain for in room coffee makers. Served with cream and the standard sample of sugars.
Overall, the in room dining experience exceeded my expectations and I would utilize it throughout my stay.
The all day dining option known as Dos Catrinas is hard to miss. It’s a massive patio set in the heart of the resort with some of the best views of the property and beach. Wandering in after a relaxing morning, you are asked to choose between the brunch buffet or their full menu.
Chilaquiles at Dos Catrinas
I choose to go with the full menu, as I wanted to see if the Chilaquiles would be different than the room service option. After a friendly interaction with the team, I was greeted by the wandering banana bread cart serving up complimentary warm bread to each table. Complete with your choice of toppings and sauces, this was a lovely touch and a great way to start the meal off.
The chilaquiles came and I was happy to see they were served more “whole” than the room service choice. Smothered in your choice of red or green sauce and served with refried black beans and your choice of eggs, this was a hearty breakfast that I barely managed to finish.
After wandering around the resort I made it a mission to go to each of the three pools on property. For reference they each have a distinct reason to visit. The Nuna Pool overlooks the ocean and this vanishing edge pool is stunning. With a full bar, waiter service, and food menu it’s a great choice for families who want some sun.
The Nuna Pool at Sunset
The Tamai Pool is very hidden and is tucked away deep within the bushes. It’s set next to the healthy restaurant called Tamai. Complete with plant based asian bowls, fresh sushi, sashimi, and cocktails this poolside restaurant is perfect for a more adult lunch. The Tamai pool also features rentals for luxury cabanas and its proximity to the Apune Spa makes it a great post spa dip.
Finally the lazy river, a truly hidden gem. It took me awhile of wandering to find this. Once I did, I appreciated it greatly. Let the current take you around or float right into their newly added swim up bar that focuses on classic island inspired beverages.
The Tamai Pool
Something I wish I could have squeezed in was playing some golf, however due to time constraints I was unable to get a round in. But of course, I was able to snag a photo of their legendary Punta Mita Pacifico Golf Course. This Jack Nicklaus-designed course provides scenic views of the Sierra Madre Mountains, Bahía de Banderas, and the Pacific Ocean, suitable for all skill levels.
Make sure to plan your visit to play the famous “Tail of the Whale,” the only natural island green in the world, which can be accessed only at low tide. Don't miss it!
The Famous Tail of the Whale Hole at Four Seasons Punta Mita
One of my favorite dinners of the trip was at Bahia. Located as close as you can get to the beach, while still not needing flip flops, this family friendly eatery by celebrity chef Richard Sandoval was well done. I highly recommend starting off with a beer or cocktail at the bar for sunset before venturing into the dining room, where the smell of grilled meats and veggies waft through the air. I chose to enjoy their Tuna Tartare to start with Charred Pita Bread, Salmon Roe, Tomato, Avocado, Meyer Lemon Chilli Oil, Onion, and Cilantro. Well presented, this was a flavorful start to the meal. For entrees, it’s clear meat or seafood are their specialities, which after a long day of walking the beaches, sounded perfect to me. I choose a Blank Angus Prime Ribeye and the waiter suggested I enjoy it with their “Red Rub” which consisted of a variety of Spices, Brown Sugar, Chilli Powder, and Black Pepper. Along with a side of Saffron Rissoto, I was set for the night.
The View from Bahia at Four Seasons Punta Mita
After a “rough” few days it was time for a spa treament. I had heard from both guests and staff that the Punta Mita Tequila Stone Massage was a must get. So it was off to Apuane Spa, to get the treatment. It incorporates a cherished ancestral recipe that skillfully combines tequila and sage oil, designed to effectively release muscle tension, stimulate circulation, and improve joint mobility. A well-orchestrated combination of skilled hands, strong forearms, and soothing hot stones thoroughly massage your body using mild to deep pressure, ensuring a comprehensive and relaxing experience. Complete with both a ceremonial washing of the feet and some light mediative movements, this 90 min treatment was one of the highlights of the trip.
Happy Chris after a 90 min massage
One more aspect I feel worth mentioning about Four Seasons Punta Mita is their luxury sister property located a few minutes down the road. Naviva is an ultra exclusive intimate resort featuring only 15 rooms. The nightly rate comprehensively covers all food and drinks, along with one complimentary spa journey per person for each stay, as well as a personalized choice of various activities ranging from guided hikes and therapeutic sound healing sessions to exhilarating snorkel safaris and professional personal training in their well-equipped outdoor gym.
Room View at Naviva
In this exclusive adult-only playground – every day is thoughtfully dedicated to the rediscovery of adventure, while allowing you to explore the stunning beauty and rich culture of Mexico. It’s truly a tranquil natural haven featuring only 15 opulent luxury tents discreetly nestled within 19 pristine hectares (48 acres) of lush jungle that border the magnificent Pacific beachfront. We stopped by to simply get a preview and were blown away. This spot is definitely worth a further trip to fully grasp.
Spa at Naviva
After my time at Four Seasons Punta Mita, I can agree with what most are saying about this lovely property. It is stunning, the service is spectacular, and the nature inspired aspects of the resort makes this a relaxing and re-invigorating stay that is worth every cent. I look forward to visiting again soon.
