I arrived to The St. Regis Punta Mita in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico’s exclusive Punta Mita community and was engulfed by its beauty. The incredible view from its Altamira Lobby looks over a string of pools that connect it to the Pacific Ocean – I turned back around to a view that made for a second great sight — a friendly hotel employee with a fresh welcome margarita in hand.
That was just a sip of the pampering that awaited throughout my stay. At The St. Regis, the Mexican hospitality was highlighted by my own personal mayordomo or butler. I received a bienvenida/welcome text soon after check-in and if I ever needed anything, I sent a text to Victor and voila. It happened.
My ocean view room was a dream: a balcony terrace overlooking the resort and an outdoor garden shower I used every day. The décor is locally inspired: clay tile floors, Mexican art on the walls and hand painted tile detailing throughout.
More magic awaits beyond the room. I honestly could not count the number of pools scattered throughout, but with so many different alcoves decked in daybeds to relax, it was easy to find your own private slice of paradise.
Lunch at the Mita Mary Boat Bar & Bistro is an obvious favorite. Breezy and casual right on the beach, enjoy fresh fish and shellfish in tacos and more. For dinner, three luxury restaurants include Las Marietas, Sea Breeze, and a AAA Five Diamond restaurant serving fresh and modern Mexican cuisine, “Victor, can you reserve a table for me at Carolina?”
Aside from The St. Regis, the Punta Mita peninsula paradise offers luxury beach clubs, private residences and the exclusive Punta Mita Golf Club, which reminds me, “Victor, can you make me a tee time?”
PMGC is home to two Jack Nicklaus courses and though Pacifico Course may be the more heralded, Bahia Course, which neighbors The St. Regis, is a worthy mention, too. The Golden Bear is known for building challenging tracks and Bahia will challenge every facet of your game.
While No. 1 is the easiest hole you’ll face, from there, it’s an up (and down) hill battle on a layout marked by undulating fairways and greens. No. 2 has a Pacific Ocean backdrop, one of six holes on the course with an ocean view. No. 6 is a long dogleg left, it will sneak up on you. With a third shot over a marsh to a small green, there’s less room for error here than its #8 handicap would have you believe. “Victor, can I have a mulligan?”
At No. 12 and No. 13 a large pond comes into play. It’s hard to pick favorites but No. 15 with its view of Banderas Bay, and cape hole No. 17 that curves along a cove, must rank among the most scenic in Mexico.
The St. Regis Punta Mita offers a great stay and play package that includes daily breakfast at Sea Breeze, a daily round at Pacifico or Bahia, a 15-minute swing analysis at Punta Mita Golf Academy, a 60-minute spa treatment, and my two favorite things: a margarita at check-in and a mayordomo/butler throughout your stay.
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