The mythical mystical Punta de Mita continues to attract not only attention but investments from around the world. Even in prehistoric times, this peninsula that forms the northern arm protecting Banderas Bay was the destination of annual pilgrimages to pray to the gods for rain in the nearby mountains. Now the region is home to some of the most deluxe high-end homes, villas and condominiums on the entire Mexican Pacific Coast. But at the outset, as is necessary, we’ll touch on some of the perceived pros and cons that you may need to consider.
PROs
- Highest-end properties in Banderas Bay region
- Security, privacy and safety are prime concerns
- Basic infrastructure completed within all residential areas
- High rental value
- Isolation from traffic, outside concerns
- Great golf, outdoor activities
- Access to sailing, fishing, water sports
- Safe investment
CONs
- High initial investment
- Difficult to interact with neighbors
- Infrastructure for many services still in process of construction
- Distance from social life, restaurants, cultural whirl of Vallarta
For those whose point of view in Mexico is Punta de Mita, this area spells security, safety and deluxe accommodations surrounded by the lush landscaped jungle growth particular to this semi-tropical area located on the north arm of Banderas Bay while the north side of the peninsula faces the Pacific Ocean. The center of the peninsula provides a slight rise from which to view the geography with a pre-Hispanic tribal ceremonial mound offering a view of the nearby Marieta Islands. These islands are a wildlife reserve to protect the many species of marine birds including the blue-footed booby. Diving and snorkeling are popular around the rocky islands which also protect prolific fishing waters.
A new highway leads residents through the peninsula with both sides opening onto private residence enclaves and developments, many of them available for the renter. Often used for weddings and special events, the security of the area is of prime consideration for many. The beach at Destiladeras allows public access, giving onto views of some of the deluxe beachfront homes on the rocky coastline above the waterline. While lots are still available through realtors, prices have risen with each successive year based on the success and reputation of the area on the international market.
The Four Seasons Punta Mita Resort laid the groundwork for the infrastructure in the 1,500-plus acre property purchased by Mexico’s Dine Corporation in 1978. The main hotel and luxurious villas all feature a contemporary low-slung Mexican design to better integrate within the surrounding landscape. Featuring a luxurious Beach Club, the neighboring 19-hole Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course is consistently voted as one of the best in the world by the Conde Nast publications.
The new St. Regis Resort & Residences Punta Mita will feature a second Jack Nicklaus Golf Course with a 10,000 square foot spa and fitness center, two restaurants and a Beach Club. For groups, the resort will also offer 7,000 square feet of meeting and conference space.
The addition of a helipad provides quick air service to the surrounding area including Jalisco’s capital city of Guadalajara. In the adjacent developing area of Litibú, plans include an additional landing strip, up to 14,500 rooms in numerous deluxe resorts and boutique hotels. A nearly completed golf course designed by Greg Norman features the natural topography of streams, rolling hills, rocks and trees with a low-disturbance plan. An additional marina will be developed in the protected north end to include 150 slips for boats and yachts. The four-lane highway now connects Punta de Mita with the northern coastal town of Sayulita.
