Punta de Mita
Luxury resort peninsula with world-class golf, departure point for Marietas Islands, and excellent surf breaks
Overview
Punta de Mita anchors the luxury end of the Riviera Nayarit experience—a stunning peninsula where the **Four Seasons** and **St. Regis** resorts host celebrities alongside world-class golf courses designed by Jack Nicklaus. But you don't need resort wealth to enjoy this destination as a day trip. The **public beach** at Playa de los Muertos offers excellent swimming and snorkeling, the surf breaks at **La Lancha** and **El Anclote** draw experienced surfers, and the town itself maintains fishing village charm with seafood restaurants at reasonable prices. Most importantly, Punta Mita serves as the **primary departure point for Marietas Islands tours**—the boat ride is shorter (20-30 minutes vs 1+ hour from Puerto Vallarta), increasing your time at the islands and reducing seasickness risk. Tours from here cost **$100-200 USD** including equipment, guide, and typically lunch. Just **20-25 minutes from Sayulita** and **35-45 minutes from Puerto Vallarta**, Punta Mita makes an easy half-day excursion that can be combined with Sayulita or the nearby fishing villages.
Highlights
Practical Information
Half day or full day
Free
Free to visit public areas. Marietas Islands tours $100-200 USD. Golf at resorts $250-400+ USD. Resort day passes $50-150 USD where available.
December-March for whale watching and calmest waters. November-April for ideal weather. Early morning for best surf conditions. Book Marietas Islands tours 2+ weeks ahead in high season—only 116 visitors/day allowed.
More Day Trips Nearby
Marietas Islands
UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with famous Hidden Beach—strictly limited to 116 visitors daily, book 10+ days ahead
San Pancho (San Francisco)
Cultural capital of Nayarit with cleaner beach than Sayulita, strong arts community, and mellower vibe—just 10 minutes north
La Cruz de Huanacaxtle
Best Sunday market in Banderas Bay with marina dining and authentic fishing village vibes
San Blas
La Tovara mangrove ecosystem with crocodiles, 300+ bird species, and historic port town—a different side of Nayarit
Sayulita
Pueblo Mágico surf town with bohemian vibe, beginner waves, and vibrant expat scene—45 minutes from Puerto Vallarta
Bucerías
Six-mile beach, thriving arts scene, and excellent seafood—without Sayulita crowds