The Only Punta Mita All-Inclusive Resort and 4 Alternatives Nearby

What’s so special about Punta Mita? It’s a rather small neighbourhood on a peninsula in Nayarit, Mexico, with amazing weather throughout the year, and a one-of-a-kind all-inclusive resort. And yes, there is only one Punta Mita all-inclusive resort. But are you ready to pay over $11k for a weekend for two? If not, I also prepared four alternative solutions nearby, be it adults-only or family-friendly, all-inclusive resorts.

Punta Mita is popular among tech bros, so while vacationing on the peninsula, you might witness a tech conference. Or someone famous like Bill Gates, who invested a lump sum in this project a while back. But let’s talk business, for the next resort is something from another dimension.

In all honesty, I don’t know where to start with this all-inclusive adults-only resort. There’s a big difference between vacationing in Punta Mita and vacationing in Naviva®, Punta Mita. Why? Because this resort is the next level of the next level. You will be constantly asking yourself whether it’s an ultra-rich hippie club or a nature cult for millionaires. It can’t be described better than what they came up with in their slogan, “experience effortless luxury in harmony with nature”. As a cherry on top, they organise Naviva® Unplugged intimate concerts for the guests only, featuring Grammy-winning artists. That means 30 guests maximum. And among the big names are Lee Brice and Marc Scibilia. You probably heard the latter one with his cover version of Bittersweet Symphony, which was all over Instagram at some point.

Before you continue reading, I have to tell you that a weekend for two in Naviva® will cost you over $11’000. Let me get it one more time: eleven thousand freedom dollars. Is it worth it? Let’s see.

Accommodation
When you arrive at this resort, you will go through a “portal”: a bamboo and copper bridge, which will symbolise a new beginning for you. Naviva® calls their accommodations bungalow-style “tents” and guests are free to choose one of the two options: big or bigger. Since each bungalow can host only two guests, and there are only 15 bungalows, let me do the math for you: the resort hosts a maximum of 30 guests at a time. All bungalows have an ocean view and consist of a bedroom, a lounge, an outdoor deck, a huge bathroom, and an outdoor swimming pool. And yes, if you throw a rock inside your room, you will hit something made by a designer specially for Naviva®.

What To Do
The resort is full of things to do and experiences to live every minute of your stay. But you don’t have to stress about anything since there are no schedules, and you are expected to go with the flow. Most of the activities will be centred around nature and improving your mind and body. There are also some special events and concerts throughout the year, so if you want an even more exclusive stay, you can plan your vacation around those days. With the all-inclusive stay, you will get 60 complimentary minutes (or fewer/more if specified):

1. Mind and body work:
   • shamanic sound healing, which is a unique kind of meditation;
   • yoga rotation with a stunning view;
   • sunset gratitude meditation;
   • gratitude temazcal ceremony, which includes a sweat lodge and flowers;
   • nocturnal forest bathing, which is actually a Japanese ritual to connect oneself with nature;
   • back to the beginnings – open water-based mind and body ritual;
   • ultimate luxury spa ritual (90 minutes);

2. Sports and movements:
   • shore fishing;
   • snorkel safari;
   • Mexican boxing;
   • calisthenics – strength training for all levels;
   • stretch and release – a stretching session, which would probably be my number one choice;
   • free animal flow – a type of mobility, strength, and coordination workout;
   • beach fitness;
   • pool-based high-intensity interval training (20 or 60 min);
   • power hike.

3. Seasonal events and concerts. I already mentioned the unique, intimate concerts with world-renowned artists, but what about the events? It can be a beachside dinner, celebrating a new Moon in the sweat lodge, or creating the next year’s first batch of the Mexican spirit raicilla. Or how about a forest-to-table dinner to celebrate the winter solstice, where, deep in the forest beneath the stars, a chef surrounded by candles will prepare a seasonal, multi-course dinner for a small group gathered around a long table?

4. Gastronomy:
   • Mexican coffee beans roasting (30 min)
   • Mexican wine tasting
   • seacuterie – learn how to cure fish and seafood (30 min)
   • make your own tepache – Mexican drink from pineapple peels and brown sugar (30 min)
   • guided agave-based spirits tasting.

As you can see, there are many things to try and do, but if you’d like to play tennis, golf, or spend some extra time in the spa, feel free. It will cost you extra, but the options are still there. Punta Mita all-inclusive resorts know how to keep their guests busy and entertained.

Food
I’m a big foodie, so having all these gastronomy events and experiences sounds good already, but what about the actual stuff that the guests get on their plates? Imagine a place without a set menu, location, or time for your dining experience. Now make it look like a Michelin-starred restaurant. Yes, that’s (amore) Naviva.

The resort has an open-air kitchen, Copal Cocina, which is open from early morning to late night, but if you prefer dining in your own bungalow, the service is 24/7. Of course, there is even a better option for those who want to enjoy the outdoors: you can have a picnic on the beach or a meal with refreshing cocktails in the poolside cabana. Romantic dinner in a secluded spot with a personalised menu? You got it! And the moment you get tired of all that luxury, you can always dine at the neighbouring Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita. But in all honesty, why would you do that?

Verdict: Naviva® is not just an all-inclusive resort. It’s a unique one-of-a-kind experience. I’d say it’s even higher in class than the popular among celebrities St Barts all-inclusive resorts.

It’s not easy to talk about other resorts after Naviva®, but that’s exactly how one would feel about vacationing in a regular place right after staying there. However, Iberostar Selection Playa Mita has something interesting to offer. Just a small reminder that even though this hotel is located in a broader Punta de Mita area, technically it’s still not inside the Punta Mita gated community. But a 12-minute drive makes it the closest one.

So, what’s so interesting about this all-inclusive resort that belongs to a Spanish travel company, Iberostar Group? For one, it’s the fusion of ancient indigenous local cultures with modern luxury design, all wrapped up in beautiful natural surroundings. You will see that fusion in the design, food, and entertainment that the hotel has to offer for a price of around $300 per person, depending on the season and room. These kinds of Punta Mita all-inclusive hotels know what to do and how to treat their guests.

Accommodation
Every single room, among other things, has either a balcony or a terrace, daily minibar services, and, most importantly, a coffee maker. If you love this drink as much as I do, you probably also start your day with a wake-up cup of coffee before you proceed with the barista-made one for breakfast. And most likely one for lunch just because it’s the best combo with ice cream or other sweet desserts. There are many types of rooms and variations or combinations of such, so I grouped them by the main properties:

1. View:
   • ocean front view;
   • hotel and sea view;
   • golf course view.
2. Size:
   • regular “premium” room;
   • junior suite;
   • two-bedroom family room;
   • penthouse suite.
3. Features:
   • beach access;
   • pool access;
   • air purification system.

The latter one, called Pure Wellness®, is perfect for people with allergies or those who love it extra clean. These rooms have an advanced air purification system and undergo a seven-step cleaning process with special tools to eliminate bacteria.

What To Do
Since the resort’s main focus is on the local culture, expect most of the shows and entertainment to revolve around it. And I hope that’s exactly what you are coming for, to experience a new culture in a comfortable environment. Among other things, you will experience the Sunset Circus, Mariachi by the lake band, and traditional Wixárika Ceremony dances and songs accompanied by the beat of the drums. But don’t forget to:

• enrol in a cooking class and learn local recipes;
• stretch at sunset or a full moon yoga class;
• burn some calories with aqua aerobics or Zumba;
• let local craftsmen create Huichol art specially for you;
• enjoy tequila or wine tasting;
• score all 18 holes at the Higuera Golf Club;
• lift some weights at the 16+ fitness centre;
• get sporty with kayaking, surfboard, snorkelling, or paddle surf;
• relax with oceanfront massage, hydrotherapy, multi-jet spa pool, and sauna.

If you are travelling to Punta Mita, Mexico, all-inclusive resorts with your kids, they can stay and play at the Star Camp, which is divided into three clubs. For ages 4-6, a jungle-themed club called Monkey. Ages 7-12 can discover the underwater world in the Dolphin Club. And 13-15 go on extraordinary adventures at the Eagle. At the camp, among other things, kids will be shown the importance of caring for the planet. There are also interactive corners for those preferring to stay alone, a small aqua park with a heated children’s pool. And in case you are up for a romantic evening without kids, babysitting services are also available at the resort.

Food
If you were expecting something special in the dining section, you were absolutely right. There are six restaurants on the premises of the resort:

• a la carte Mexican restaurant with classic and modern flavours;
• a buffet-type restaurant that combines international and Mexican dishes with a live open kitchen;
• breakfast buffet with simple but good-quality breakfast options;
• Asian restaurant with Japanese and Thai tasting menus cooked and served right in front of you on a teppanyaki table, which is also one of the two restaurants that require a prior booking;
• a steak house, second place that you need to book in advance, and it serves what you would expect it to serve: a lot of meat.
• a tribute to the Orient Express restaurant, which is designed just like a dining car on a train, and that’s probably my number one choice of a restaurant for its unique design. It serves French-inspired dishes.

There’s also a snack bar in case you get hungry before a proper meal, and a cafe that serves coffee, pastries, and savoury foods. And don’t forget about all the bars on the resort, which will prepare you for the nightclub later in the day.

Verdict: If you want to experience local culture in an all-inclusive wrap, Iberostar Selection Playa Mita is exactly what you need!

I was discussing the World of Hyatt loyalty program and their Unlimited-Luxury® all-inclusive deal in relation to La Romana all-inclusive vacation packages. Still, let me remind you what it was all about: with the Unlimited-Luxury®, you don’t need a wristband, you don’t have to stress about reservations, and all the top-shelf drinks are included in the offer. Sounds good, right? You can, of course, level up your experience if you join the Preferred Club, which opens the door to better rooms and exclusive amenities.

This Punta Mita all-inclusive adults-only resort has something special to offer, but if you want to go on a vacation with your kids, you have to look elsewhere. By elsewhere, I mean just in the next building, since Hyatt tends to have adult-only Secrets next to family-friendly Dreams. Which means that absolutely everyone is more than welcome to enjoy Banderas Bay’s golden beaches. One night will cost you around $300 per person in a double room, depending on the season and availability.

Accommodation
There are three basic suite types: a regular one, with a tropical view, and one with a panoramic view. Every room has either a balcony or a terrace, and the minibar is refreshed daily. By the way, don’t forget about the Small Dogs Welcome policy, which allows you to enjoy your vacation together with your fluffy (or not so fluffy) friend. The Club suites offer ocean or panoramic, ocean front, and sun deck area access. No matter what you choose, Hyatt has a good standard of their rooms.

What to do
I got a little bit disappointed with the activities at the resort, since they feel pretty standard. Non-motorised water sports are included in your stay. You will also get a complimentary introduction to surfing or a diving lesson. The fitness centre is open for those who want to stay in shape with all the delicious food options. Golf, spa, or motorised sports come with an extra cost. Night shows feature a waterfall and sound experience with a 360 view.

Food
The food scene is a lot better in here. For the gourmet/fine dining restaurants, you will be required to dress a little better, which they call casual elegance. Restaurants have different opening days, so if you want to eat at a specific place, remember to check they are open. Other than that, no need to book anything or worry about being on time.

Fine dining options:

• Bluewater Grill Beach Club, a restaurant, focused on grilled fine cuts;
• Bordeaux, a romantic French restaurant;
• Himitsu – pan-Asian a la carte;
• Mezes offers Mediterranean dishes, just like Olio, which also focuses on seafood;
• Portofino with Italian cuisine.

Other options include two Mexican restaurants, two international buffet places, a sushi bar, two grill places, and two cafes with premium coffee, desserts, and snacks.

Wedding
Hyatt is known for its all-inclusive wedding packages, and this resort didn’t disappoint with the selection. You can choose from nine locations for your ceremony and reception. Since this adult-only hotel is right next to the family-friendly one, it won’t be a problem to mix your guests in different hotels according to their preferences.

Verdict: This is a pretty solid option for people who want to relax, lie on the beach, eat gourmet food, and drink good alcohol.

This hotel won’t break your budget with its around $250 per person price tag. But you can always get a better room or a more advanced package. For example, here you have “a hotel inside a hotel”, with Family Selection being an add-on for those who want a little extra. The main resort has a total of 415 suites, and the Family Selection part has 95 rooms.

Accommodation
There are four different views that you can get at the resort: garden, ocean, oceanfront, and panoramic ocean view. The price depends on the room type, and there are also four of them: Deluxe, Junior Suite, Ambassador Suite, and Signature Suite. You can also get a Connecting Suite, which is two connecting deluxe rooms, and it means that you can be in a group of six adults and two kids. Next to it is the Family Selection Junior Suite, which is ideal for a family of four. By choosing Family Selection, you also get a family butler, personalised services by the pool, an exclusive restaurant, bar, and facilities. Basically, “a hotel inside a hotel”.

What To Do
There’s always something to do at the Grand Palladium. While you enjoy the adults-only swimming pool, your kids can play at the water park, children’s clubs, or check out the saltwater pool. Evenings are, of course, for theatre performances, live bands, and DJs, but what can you do during the day?

1. Sports
   • water sports: surfing, kayaking, catamaran, bodyboarding;
   • ball sports: football, volleyball, basketball, tennis, padel, water polo;
2. Classes:
   • mixology, because it’s nice to make your own cocktail;
   • Mexican cooking;
   • juice-making;
   • tequila tasting, but maybe I should put it in the sports section;
   • bracelet workshop and t-shirt decoration;
3. Fitness: pilates, yoga, stretching, aerobics.

Let your kids socialise a little and make new friends while staying at one of three clubs for ages 1-3, 4-12, and 13+. With Family Selection, kids will also get a goodie bag, “Family Boss”. And that add-on also includes access to a special video games zone, art and craft classes, a bubble bath with toys and balloons, and milk and cookies before bedtime. Meanwhile, you can enjoy the spa.

Food
Asian, Italian, Mexican, and two International restaurants are open for the guests, with the Asian one also having vegetarian sushi options. Family Selection has its own poolside restaurant, called “The Nest”, an exclusive bar, and an exclusive bar section at the lobby.

Verdict: This Punta Mita all-inclusive family resort option won’t break your budget, and hopefully, leave some good memories of the time you spent together with your family.

This is the cheapest option on the list, and there are reasons for that. Firstly, this is not a fully all-inclusive resort, but rather a B&B with an option to upgrade to all-inclusive. Secondly, it’s pretty far away from the beach. There’s a regular shuttle bus that goes to an exclusive beach club, Eva Mandarina, but you won’t see the ocean right outside of your window.

Be ready that you won’t get much for about $150 per night, though. It has only two restaurants, each of which requires a prior reservation, one pool bar, and the beach club. With 63 rooms total, it’s a pretty small place, too.

No entertainment or shows, but if you want to have a rather cheap wedding, this might be the place.

Verdict: If you plan to sleep most of your vacation, lie on the beach or by the pool, and drink cocktails, this is an affordable place to do so.

As you can see, the best all-inclusive resorts in Punta Mita, Mexico, don’t have to be expensive. You get what you pay for, but there are options for everyone who wants to enjoy a little bit of sun, alcohol, and, for once, relax from all the stress. Whether you are going all-in with Naviva or trying to keep it civil at Grand Matlali, Mexico is a great place for your next vacation, and I hope you will enjoy it the way you want! Or check out all-inclusive Guatemala vacation packages in case you need inspiration to go elsewhere.