7. Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa
Located less than 10 miles south of downtown Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, and removed from the area’s bars, shops and other resorts, Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa attracts travelers seeking seclusion. According to past visitors, the resort’s grounds are lush and peaceful, especially around the infinity pool. The beach also gets its fair share of praise, though guests caution that the sand can be a bit rocky. To truly bask in the splendor of Garza Blanca, try an aromatherapy massage at Spa Imagine or a dip in one of the resort’s Jacuzzis. As for dining, Blanca Blue Restaurant and Lounge, BocaDos STK and Aquazul Beach Bar & Lounge earn high praise from past guests, who applaud the attentive staff and tasty dishes (which are covered by the property’s optional all-inclusive room rates). Should you crave more variety, a plethora of dining options can be found nearby in Puerto Vallarta. Previous guests also raved about the guest rooms and suites, which feature flat-screen TVs and hammocks on private balconies or terraces that overlook the ocean.
8. Villa La Estancia Beach Resort & Spa Riviera Nayarit
Situated just 10 miles northwest of Puerto Vallarta’s Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport, Villa La Estancia Beach Resort & Spa Riviera Nayarit overlooks the sparkling waters of Banderas Bay. Guests say they come to this Villa La Estancia for its relaxing atmosphere – a massage at the Tatewari Spa, a soak in the two-story pool or a refreshing cocktail at the swim-up pool bar can melt away any lingering stress. Those seeking more active pursuits can find ample outdoor activities as well. Guests can swing a racket on one of the resort’s tennis courts or a club on one of many nearby golf courses. Plus, the resort occupies a large section of the beach for guests to lounge on. As for dining, guests can choose from formal dining at La Casona or casual poolside fare at La Parrilla (or head next door to the resort’s sister property, Villa del Palmar Flamingos, for more options). And when the sun goes down, lodgers can escape to their colonial- and hacienda-inspired villa or guest room; all accommodations are appointed with L’Occitane bath products, minibars, flat-screen TVs and balconies or terraces. While many guests loved the resort’s friendly staff, others bemoaned the property’s spotty Wi-Fi connection.