Many travelers do not know that the area that is now Punta Mita in the Riviera Nayarit area of Mexico was once home to the Huichol people. They believed the region was a place of spiritual renewal. That last bit may come as no surprise if you have visited the area in the past because it is a place of intense tranquility, and its design as a planned community has ensured that it retains much of its natural, pristine beauty and serenity. Some visitors describe the area as feeling a great deal like an island because of the surrounding waters, and that is why so many spend their time doing all kinds of water activities.
What else can you do during a stay? There is endless fishing, an immense number of dining options, lots of bird and wildlife watching, touring the area’s old fishing villages and beachfront town, golfing, and more. Of course, sunbathing and relaxing along the glistening white sands are also good ideas.
However, because water activities reign supreme, we’ll look at some of the most enjoyable among them.
Water Sports for Punta Mita Travelers
A visit to Punta Mita is the perfect time to learn all about the different water sports that might appear on your bucket list or wish list of skills to develop. This is because it is home to some of the world’s best scuba diving locations and schools. There are also snorkeling options and expeditions that won’t require any sort of training or certification, but which let you enjoy underwater views of the wildlife all around. There are even underwater cave diving opportunities for the more advanced.
Surfing is a possibility in the Punta Mita area, and the coast is known for its good waves. You can book guided boat tours to the regions where the best are found, or just tour the local beaches and discover them for yourself. Some of the top locations include La Lancha and El Faro (experienced surfers only) and the breaks at El Anclote are noted for their safety and are good for the novice.
Golf for Punta Mita Travelers
Golfing is easily one of the most common activities that travelers to the area intend to do during or even throughout their entire stay. Punta Mita is home to some of the world’s top brand names in resorts (including St. Regis and Four Seasons) and these institutions also pride themselves on their world-class golf.
In fact, the Four Seasons Punta Mita is home to one of the most coveted options for golf – the Bahia golf course. It was designed by, Jack Nicklaus, and stretches out along the coastline where golfers enjoy stunning views of Bahia de Banderas. It also features amazing water features and lakes. Bahia is an 18-hole course with a par 72. It has a 74 rating and features more than 7k in yardage. There is a pro shop, driving range and putting green here, too.
Yet, it is one of two on the grounds, and the other is the Punta Mita Pacifico course. This too was designed by Jack Nicklaus, and it provides players with an 18 hole course that is par 72. Sprawling over more than 200 acres and offering stunning views of the Sierra Madre Mountains and the famed Riviera Nayarit on the other, it is a must.
And as you gaze out at the sea views, you may wonder if there is something out at sea that could give you a unique experience of the area. The good news is that there is something quite remarkable just offshore.
Las Marietas Eco Discovery
The Marieta Islands are part of the Marietas National park and they offer some truly unforgettable views and experiences. There are many vendors offering day trips in which travelers get to enjoy some snorkeling, boating, and wildlife viewing. The Bay of Banderas is part of the experience, and it is a natural and protected sanctuary for the creatures calling it home. During the winter months, it is not at all unusual for travelers to see Humpback whales in the warm and shallow waters, and dolphins are a constant sight, too.
Travelers may choose a slow-moving catamaran tour or a much faster motorboat. It is a good idea to think about the sightseeing and opt for a tour that lets you take in the archways, caverns, and majesty of the setting. This might mean seeking out a tour provide with scuba diving options, snorkeling excursions or sea kayaking once you reach the islands. This is the one sure way to get a good look at the many colorful fish, the sea turtles, and even the giant manta rays that appear in the area. There is also the famous Hidden Beach or Lover’s Beach and you’ll want to be certain that your day trip out to the Marietas includes that highlight.
The Marietas Eco Discovery does all of this, and more and enables almost anyone to enjoy a day spent on the waters and in the area of the amazing Marietas Islands.
There are many other things to do while visiting Punta Mita. For example, you might want to see mangrove swamps for yourself and book a tour of the jungle nearby. You can enjoy remarkable hiking in such spots as Monkey Mountain and enjoy amazing views from the top. This is best done with a guide because there are some rope skills needed! A day trip to charming Sayulita can be fun and allow travelers to get some shopping done, take in some unique art, dine on local street food, shop in art galleries and even spend time at the beach.
If you have booked one of theluxury rentals in the area, get in touch with your concierge to find out more about the activities above or ask about other options that are in line with your goals or interests.