A Long Weekend in Punta de Mita & Puerto Vallarta

Fly into Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR) and hop into the air-conditioned W shuttle waiting outside. The drive to Punta de Mita is about one hour, so lean back, relax and enjoy the scenery. Once you arrive at the W hotel, check into your upgraded room and get settled.

If you’re there early enough for a late lunch, stroll to the Chevycheria, a thatch-roofed casual, beach front spot that has some of the freshest seafood and ceviches.

Then find a lounger by the pool and just soak in the vibe while sipping on creative cocktails. The gorgeous outdoor pool overlooks the beach and is accessible via a colorful mosaic walkway called “Camino Huichol” straight out of an Instagram photo shoot.

For dinner, I recommend Venazú at the resort. The Mexican food is delicious, the cocktails are carefully crafted and the views of the Pacific are stunning.

Start the day with a nice breakfast at the hotel, then head to your pre-reserved Bubble Cabana. Located steps away from the water, you’ll have front row seats of the ocean all day, with time for a few cocktails as all-day service is included. Soak up some sun, read that new book and let your mind wander. Have lunch brought to your cabana and completely indulge in bliss.

Later in the afternoon, take your relaxation to the next level by spending time at the AWAY Spa. The tranquil jungle vibe goes hand in hand with a plethora of holistic amenities and treatments that will leave your sun-kissed skin hydrated and your body nourished.

After your spa time, wear that special beach-fancy outfit as dinner at Mesa 1 is an extraordinary experience. The private, reservations-only restaurant is situated on an island in the center of a spring-fed lake and serves a seven-course meal that is both absolutely delicious and wonderful to look at.

Have a little breakfast at the hotel before the car service is picking you up. Once you get to Puerto Vallarta, explore the Centro Historico. In addition to the Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe church and the Old Town Market Viejo Vallarta, there are many fantastic galleries that have tons of beautiful local art. On Wednesdays, there even is an art walk that includes the best places.

For a late lunch, I’d recommend heading down to the Zona Romántica area, the city’s LGBTQ+ neighborhood. The Blue Chairs Resort by the Sea is an institution, and its rooftop bar is a wonderful place for tasty tacos and a side of guac. The Beach Club downstairs is a great alternative. Spend some time here, sip spicy margaritas and mingle with new friends.

Later in the evening, explore the many bar and club offerings in Zona Romántica. Starting at Los Amigos or La Cantina Margarita is a great way to experience PV nightlife. Also, the Corner Bar has really good cocktails and very friendly bartenders. Then hit up Paco’s Ranch, the cowboy-themed venue voted “Best Gay Nightclub Bar” in Puerto Vallarta, or La Noche, where you can expect drag queens, lightly dressed dancers, circus acts and show tunes. Note that the party really starts late at night, but stopping at any of these venues even during the earlier hours will still provide plenty of entertainment.

Once you are danced out, have your driver pick you up and take you back to Punta de Mita for a well-deserved night’s sleep.

Sleep in and take it easy with breakfast in your room or on your balcony. Since you can never have too much pampering, indulge in a beach massage, which is surprisingly inexpensive.

Then walk over to the Agave Lab for a tequila and mezcal tasting. There are several artisanal and local options to try (and buy), and it’s a lovely precursor for an afternoon at the beach.

In the evening, check out Spice Market, the visually stunning, Asian-inspired restaurant that is the perfect place for a last hurrah. After dinner (or just before), walk a bit north on the beach to catch the best views of the sunset. For extra vibes, bring dessert and a glass of champs, and just enjoy the twilight. Have a restful night in paradise before beginning your return travels the next day.