SURF AND SNORKEL IN RIVIERA NAYARIT, MEXICO
WHY GO: Curving north from Puerto Vallarta almost 320 kilometres along the Pacific coastline, and with the Sierra Madre Mountains providing a stunning backdrop, Riviera Nayarit is still relatively new as a travel destination, yet is becoming increasingly renowned for its fresh seafood, whale and bird watching, polo tournaments and world-class surfing. It also has championship golfing, including two Jack Nicklaus-designed courses complete with stunning ocean views in ultra-exclusive Punta Mita. “Mexico’s Pacific Treasure,” Riviera Nayarit includes the villages and communities of Nuevo Vallarta, Punta Mita, Sayulita and San Francisco (a.k.a. San Pancho). EXCEPTIONAL
TO-DO’S: For an eco-adventure day trip, book a tour to the Marietas Islands National Park, a small group of protected volcanic islands located off the coast of Punta Mita. Above water, expert guides at Punta Mita Expeditions will take you past hidden caverns and archways, pointing out migratory birds resting on rocky crags along the way. Below the surface, the clear blue waters and abundance of marine life — including sea turtles and dolphins — combine to create the ideal environment for some of the best snorkeling conditions anywhere. In the centre of the Islands, swimmers donning fins will be rewarded for their tunnel-swimming efforts at Playa Escondida (Hidden Beach). WHERETO EAT: In the laid-back beach town of San Francisco, enjoy a restorative brunch set in the charming courtyard of Bistro Organico inside Hotel Cielo Rojo. Nosh on a stack of fluffy pancakes topped with banana, walnuts and drizzled with local honey, or try the nopales rancheros, a grilled cactus riff on huevos rancheros with fresh salsa, avocado and homemade corn tortillas. WHERETO STAY: Set on more than 22 pristine, secluded acres, Five-Star Alliance St. Regis Punta Mita Resort delivers incomparable luxury, with 89 guest rooms and 31 suites — some with adjoining rooms for large families or small groups — along with tennis courts, infinity pools, a Remède Spa and private butler service.