I recently celebrated my 40th birthday with 20 friends in Punta Mita, Mexico. Punta Mita is not Spring Break gone wild, not beach vendors selling gum, and not a place where American tourists should have security concerns. Punta Mita is a paradise of unforgettable experiences, which culminates in ultimate luxury: a chance to relax, play, and escape.
This golf-course community, nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Bay of Banderas on a 1,500-acre peninsula, is located 40 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta and is recognized as Mexico’s most luxurious private gated community. Within it’s walls, you will find two world-class Jack Nicklaus 18-hole golf courses, a St. Regis resort, a Four Seasons resort, critically acclaimed restaurants, and a whole bevy of multi-million dollar villas. In the past 20 years, Punta Mita has become the Mexican destination for celebrities and the international jet-setter, rivaling Cabo San Lucas. Joan Rivers (may she Rest In Peace) enjoyed celebrating New Year’s here; while the Kardashians are almost considered locals due to their frequent visits; Adam Levine is a fan of the golf courses; Mario Lopez chose this as his wedding destination; and, you may even catch Justin Bieber catching some sun and surf—he’s a regular!
Personally, I’ve been enjoying Punta Mita for the past 15 years and witnessed its rapid evolution firsthand. That’s why I chose this destination to celebrate the next decade of my life. I sought out a world-class beach experience that felt intimate while still providing exceptional options for activities. We spent our days relaxing at one of several luxury beach clubs sipping on fresh margaritas, went on private whale watching tours, and paddle boarded across deep blue waves. At night, we ate multi-course dinners made of the freshest seafood and gourmet Mexican fare with views from pristine beachfront, red snapper, tuna, bold salsas, and traditional favorites, like guacamole and tacos. If food and golf is your thing, I suggest planning a visit to Punta Mita in December for their signature event: Golf & Gourmet. This event brings together internationally recognized chefs, acclaimed golf pros, winemakers, tequila and mezcal producers, all topped off with a world-class golf tournament over the course of 4 days. Come for the golf, stay for the tequila! Just a short 3-hour direct flight from Chicago, make Punta Mita your escape to paradise!
