Mexico as a travel destination is no longer an insider tip. For years, the country has been attracting travellers from all over the world with its diverse culture, delicious food and spectacular landscapes. But while most vacationers head to Cancún, Playa del Carmen or Tulum, Mexico's Pacific coast is still considered an undiscovered hideaway and is just about to become a new luxury hotel hotspot. Travel with us along the Mexican dream coast and discover five absolute TOP hotels that you should definitely have seen.

First stop: Siari Resort

The first hotel secret tip is located on the Costa Canuva - a seven-kilometer-long stretch of coast on the Riviera Nayarit. There, the Siari awaits us - a hotel that is everything but ordinary! Already the reservation in the domicile belonging to the hotel chain Hamak Hotels is different from all other hotels: Only those who have been personally invited stay here. If that takes too long, you can also apply for it.

For anyone who wants to be as close to nature as possible without sacrificing the comforts and amenities of a luxury hotel, Siari is the place to be. "Glamping is the magic word that allows you to reconnect with nature and experience adventure without being bitten by mosquitoes or sacrificing space. Overnight in one of six cabins perfectly nestled in the jungle, inspired by yurts - the traditional tents of nomads in Mongolia. Locally crafted Huichol artwork and stylish furnishings make each of the luxury cabins unique.

The Siari is dedicated to the protection of the environment and the conservation of the flora and fauna of the region. On a guided tour you can get to know the fascinating flora and fauna and experience, for example, crocodiles, turtles, eagles and herons in their natural habitat. A hike into the nearby mountains is possible as well as a walk to the nearby river mouth and through the mangrove forest.

In terms of cuisine, the Siari also pays attention to the fact that enjoyment is in harmony with nature. Only regional and seasonal ingredients are used. Here you can taste exotic fruits, enjoy the freshly caught fish on the doorstep and then sit back with an exquisite margarita in your hand. In the evening, you can reminisce around the campfire or simply gaze up at the sky and marvel at the thousands and thousands of stars you've never seen before.

Only bookable on request | hamakhotels.com

Second stop: Four Seasons Punta Mita

Those who prefer to stay in a 60 m² traditional Mexican "casita", a suite with private pool or a villa will find what they are looking for at the Four Seasons Punta Mita. The luxury resort is located about 55 km further south at the beautiful bay "Bahía de Banderas". From there, it takes less than an hour to get to the famous Puerto Vallarta, which you should definitely visit during your stay on the Pacific coast.

Once at the Four Seasons Punta Mita, you can connect with the surrounding paradisiacal landscape during "yoga on the rock," discover the gorgeous underwater world while diving or snorkeling, or let the captain take you on a trip through the bay on the resort's own yacht. Two golf courses designed by Jack Nicklaus, including a clubhouse with the most beautiful tee-off in Mexico, are also part of the resort's amenities.

The heart of the Four Seasons Punta Mita is the restaurant "Dos Catrinas", which owes its name to the famous Mexican figure "La Catrina" - a skeleton that became the symbol of the holiday "Día de los Muertos", translated "Day of the Dead". There you can enjoy delicious interpretations of Mexican cuisine. Fresh seafood, a cool sea breeze and the most beautiful sunsets await at Bahía by Richard Sandoval, while Aramara serves the finest Asian fusion cuisine. This is where you get to experience Mexico's signature "Mi casa es su casa" philosophy: Come as a guest and leave as a friend.

Double room from € 430 / night | fourseasons.com

Third stop: Las Almandas

Next we leave the state of Nayarit behind us and drive across the border into Jalisco, past Puerto Vallarta, to the famous Costa Alegre. This is best known for its luxurious hideaways, which are among the best in the country. Our next stop is Las Almandas - an exclusive beach hideaway located pretty much between Puerto Vallarta and Manzanillo, named after an exotic yellow flower common to the region. Seven exclusive villas await at this popular retreat of numerous celebrities, with a total of 16 suites, each with its own unique color scheme and style. They were designed by none other than Isabel Goldsmith-Patiño, founder and daughter of Sir James Goldsmith, who we will meet again later on our trip. Adding that certain something to the accommodations are the colorful decorations on the doors and walls, as well as the handmade sculptures and artwork from various regions of Mexico. The large terraces with day beds, sofa and Jacuzzi invite you to linger. The three exclusive beachfront villas with two to four bedrooms promise a particularly high level of privacy. The hotel's amenities also include four private beaches, its own runway, tennis and basketball courts, a gym and much more.

The finest contemporary Mexican gourmet cuisine awaits you in the restaurant "Oasis" as well as in the club "La Palapa Beach", a traditionally built palapa on the beach. Our insider tip: a romantic dinner under the open starry sky, accompanied by the gentle sound of the sea. Afterwards, you should definitely treat yourself to a margarita, which is obligatory in Mexico - preferably in the chic rooftop bar "Estrella Azul".

Double room from € 340 / night | lasalmandas.com.

Fourth stop: El Careyes Club & Residence

The next hotel hotspot is located on Costa Careyes, a 12 km stretch of coastline in the heart of a biosphere reserve. The Costa Careyes is not only known for its untouched nature and dreamlike sandy beaches, but also for its art projects, for example the art gallery and the famous 10-day film festival. Whoever visits this magical place does not simply remain a guest, but becomes part of the community founded in 1968 by Gian Franco Brignone for the duration of their stay. This community is dedicated to the protection of our wonderful environment through education and art. In the midst of this paradise is El Careyes Club & Residence, a collection of 36 luxury residences ranging from one to five bedrooms, fully equipped kitchen, private terrace with ocean view and tropical garden. The highlight is the five infinity pools. At La Duna Restaurant & Sunset Bar, select healthy dishes await, such as fresh ceviche. The best way to discover the vast ocean is with a kayak and snorkelling equipment, directly from the resort's private sandy beach.

Double room from € 350 / night | elcareyes.com.

Fifth stop: Ciuxmala

The last of our personal TOP 5 hotels on the Pacific coast of Mexico is the Cuixmala. It is also located in the middle of the Chamela-Cuixmala Biosphere Reserve and promises maximum luxury with a minimal ecological footprint. Once the private hideaway of famed entrepreneur Sir James Goldsmith, it now hosts luxury travelers from around the world. The multi-award winning hotel is an absolute pioneer in combining luxury with eco in the exclusive hotel sector. Those who love nature and are looking for a break from stressful city life are in the right place here: in addition to a five-kilometre stretch of unspoilt beach, there is above all jungle, extensive savannah and palm trees around Cuixmala. The stylish accommodation proves that closeness to nature can be ideally combined with luxury and design: No matter whether you stay in the oriental-inspired main house "Casa Cuixmala", in the three luxury villas, the six bungalows or the ten casitas with extra privacy: Lovingly furnished rooms that blend seamlessly into the breathtaking natural surroundings await you.  

The idea of sustainability runs through the entire concept. The La Loma restaurant serves almost exclusively locally grown organic and biodynamic food and fresh fish. Guests staying in the casitas enjoy traditional Mexican dishes at Casa Gómez, prepared from products from the hotel's own organic farm. How about a horseback ride into the coconut plantations? While you're there, keep your eyes peeled and be prepared for a surprise guest or two: Cuixmala is home to 45 zebras, 23 eland, over 270 species of birds, iguanas and a crocodile.

DZ from € 700 / night | cuixmala.com.

SPECIAL HOTEL HIGHLIGHTS

One&Only Mandarina

In June 2020, the posh brand One&Only will open its second resort in Mexico not far from Puerto Vallarta. The site is located in one of the last lush rainforests directly on the Pacific Ocean. Amenities at the five-star hotel include multiple infinity pools, an excellent spa with gym, 104 free-standing villas and a beach club unlike any other in the region. When staying overnight, you can choose from exclusive tree houses with private pools or a spectacular cliff-top villa with ocean views.

Double room from € 810 / night | oneandonlyresorts.com

Hacienda San Angel

This romantic hideaway is also located in Puerto Vallarta. The 20 exquisite suites, divided into several villas, are connected by terraces and tropical gardens. Perched on a hill, the luxurious boutique hotel offers fantastic views of the former fishing village, which has become one of the liveliest hotspots on the Pacific coast. A real highlight is the hotel's gourmet restaurant, which offers a mix of Mexican and international dishes. Culinary delights await here while enjoying 180-degree views of Puerto Vallarta during evening fireworks.

Double room from € 490 / night | haciendasanangel.com

Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo

Not even open yet, but already the new star in the luxury resort sky on the Pacific coast of Mexico is the Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo: From 2021, guests can expect a breathtaking view of the ocean from every corner of the resort, infinity pools on three levels, a private jetty and a spectacular golf course, which is already considered one of the five best golf courses in Mexico by insiders. If you want to be among the first to discover this hidden paradise, start planning your vacation today.

Opening 2021 | fourseasons.com/tamarindo

Hotel Amapa

Minimalist, modern, Mexican. This is the motto of this luxury hotel, which is currently being completed and will soon open its doors. Located in the heart of Puerto Vallarta's old town, you'll experience not only luxury, but pristine beaches and breathtaking scenery, paired with the vibrant city vibe of one of Mexico's Pacific Coast hotspots. Amenities at this Adults-Only hotel include an infinity pool, a spa pavilion, and feel-good rooms and suites with Mexican design at their core.

Double room from € 330 / night | hotelamapa.com

Hacienda de San Antonio

For those who are drawn a little further inland, we can recommend the city of Colima. It is also affectionately called the "City of Palms". The most exclusive place to stay is the Hacienda de San Antonio, which was voted Mexico's second best hotel in 2018. 25 individually decorated suites, personalized service, and numerous outdoor activities await you at this Mexican country estate, where 90 % of the ingredients used in the restaurant are grown on the hacienda. The surrounding volcanoes are best explored by mountain bike, quad bike or on horseback. If you want to take it easy, you can play a game of billiards, relax with a good book in the library or swim a few laps in the Olympic pool.

Double room from € 860 / Night | haciendadesanantonio.com