Looking to get out and do more than just sit on the beach and listen to the surf? (Not that there is anything wrong with that!) Punta Mita has every type of water sport available to “wet your whistle!” If you’re looking for adventure, try a surf lesson or a scuba diving tour. If you’re looking for a quiet commune with nature, how about renting a sea kayak or snorkeling the protected waters of the Marietas Islands? (Hint: in a double kayak, sit in the back seat so your partner won’t know when you’re resting.) Whatever it is that you’re in the mood for, Exceptional Stays Vacation Rental's helpful staff can arrange it all so that your only job is to have fun!
Surfing in Punta Mita
The Riviera Nayarit spans over 100 miles of mostly untouched coastline north of Puerto Vallarta. Lucky for us, the highest concentration of crystal clear surfing spots in the region are right here in Punta Mita. Punta, meaning “point,” provides such abundant surf because it is a peninsula surrounded on all three sides by the Pacific Ocean, creating over a dozen quality point breaks. Ranging from beginner to more expert--whatever your ability, Punta Mita has the wave for you! Waves here typically don’t reach monstrous heights of 20-30 feet, like they might at other surf spots in Mexico. Instead, it’s common to find waves no larger than 6-8 feet, making it ideal for long boarders and stand-up paddlers. Depending on where the swells are coming from, you may have better luck from November to March or April to October. Whenever you make the trip to Punta Mita, local experts will know where to take you for the best surfing experience possible! Many of the breaks, created by coral reefs below the surface, are best accessed by boat. However there are also easily accessible beach breaks as well. Smaller breaks and calm waters line the beach at El Anclote, making it the perfect destination for beginner surfers and families. Check out the local surf forecast online to get an idea what the locals look for. There are many reputable surf shops and businesses in Punta Mita that can meet you and your family’s needs.
Whales, Dolphins, and Sea Lions—Oh my!
Punta Mita is lucky to have pods of whales grace their waters once and year from about December to April. Although they can be seen from beaches, the best way to view these mammoth creatures is from the bough of a boat. Local experts can spot the movement of a whale under the water from hundreds of yards away, then steer the boat in that direction so that you can get a close-up view as these amazing animals jump out of the water, playing and splashing. If you miss whale season this year, don’t worry—Punta Mita’s waters always house thousands of playful dolphins who are always more curious about us than we are about them! Or if you would like to get up close and personal with dolphins or sea lions you could do a personalized swim tour, an experience of a lifetime! Experienced staff will gear you up, train you and guide you through an amazing interactive experience that you create.
Punta Mita Scuba
Driving from Puerto Vallarta to Punta Mita, you will pass a town called Bucerias, the root of which is the Spanish word bucear, “to dive”. And diving is certainly in the roots of everyone in Bucerias. Dive shops here can give you information, rent you equipment, help you with dive tours or get you certified. To be sure, amazing sights are commonplace in water that can yield 100-foot visibility. A short 15-minute boat ride from Punta Mita is Marietas Island, home of the blue-footed booby and host to an underwater paradise. Much of the shoreline in this part of Mexico is protected, and the marine life has responded in proportion. The diving and snorkeling in this area are spectacular.
Snorkeling in Punta Mita
Looking for a quiet yet exciting experience the whole family can enjoy? Snorkeling can be compared to flying—you’re suspended by water as you watch dramatic scenes unfold beneath you. Brilliant yellow tangs fight for territory; a moray eel dives for cover. You might even get really lucky and spot a sea turtle or dolphin! If you didn’t bring your own snorkel gear, we can help, or you can rent gear at a dive shop. Most of the snorkel tours around Punta Mita can provide you with gear, should you need it. If you wear prescription glasses, we recommend you get your own mask and matching snorkel and bring them with you; it makes for a more satisfying experience when you can see where you’re going. There are several snorkel tours available out of Punta Mita and Puerto Vallarta. Generally it is better to go out in the morning, as water clarity is best at that time. Whatever you do in Punta Mita, whether it’s relaxing on the beach with a drink in hand or one of the many amazing water adventures available, you and your family are sure to enjoy every minute of it! Need a place to stay, where staff can pamper you and give attention to every detail? Check out our luxury vacation rentals, truly splendid villas and estates, designed for the ultimate in luxury.
