I wish I was a surfer -- not only for the super-cool street cred that goes along with it but because surfing is one of the best ways to form a community and experience a destination like Mexico. The surf culture in Mexico is legendary, and it's something I wish I was a part of. But to be a surfer you have to not only be a strong swimmer, you also can't be afraid of waves. I'm afraid I fall woefully short on both.
But for travelers who are braver than me and with surf aspirations of their own, Secrets Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort is a hotel to put on the travel list. The 295-suite hotel sits in an enviable tropical foliage-shrouded location on the northern coast of the Bay of Banderas. Dreamy views across the waves reveal the jungle-covered peaks of the Sierra Madre mountains. Views are one thing that this resort excels at, with rooftop lounges, infinity pools and lookout points scattered all throughout the property from which guests can relish the spectacular Pacific coast scenery.
You can also use these vantage points to watch the surfers in action, as one of the best spots for surfing along the Punta Mita peninsula is right off the coast of the resort. One of the perks of being a guest at the resort is the free surf instruction offered on the beach. Surfers from beginners on up are invited to come partake of the lessons in one of Mexico's most coveted surf destinations.
Fun for hodads, too
For those like me -- hodads, in surfers' parlance -- the resort has so many other activities on land and sea. While it's unlikely you'll find me on a surfboard (much to my dismay), you will find me kayaking, paddleboarding or lounging at one of the four infinity pools. While Secrets is adults-only, it does share space with Dreams Bahia Mita, which is family-friendly. For complete separation between adults-only and families, I suggest the rooftop infinity pools at Secrets. The one at the far end feels as though it's teetering off the edge of the tower, which makes for some incredible panoramas over the bay.
Guests of the resort can take complimentary surf lessons right on the beach. Photo Credit: Secrets Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort
Although Secrets and Dreams are on the same property, guests of Dreams cannot use any of the Secrets restaurants or facilities. Secrets guests, however, can use the restaurants and facilities at Dreams, which means double the restaurants and pool areas for Secrets guests. Secrets has 13 restaurants and 12 bars, while Dreams has 11 restaurants and seven bars. If you make a reservation at any restaurant at Secrets, let it be Bordeaux. The French-themed eatery was a highlight of my three-night visit -- so much so that I ate there twice, which is saying something considering the variety of restaurants available. Tip: The salmon is a must.
But for something a bit more casual, Tacoyotl has delicious tacos, while Manatees has a laid-back pool club atmosphere on the adults-only side. Think chaise lounges and a private pool section with a swim-up bar and a menu of ceviches, salads and sandwiches. In the evening, I made my way down to Barracuda, the beach bar, which transforms into a snuggly cove with fire pits and couches for a romantic, starlit, toes-in-the-sand atmosphere.
And right next door …
While I was a guest at Secrets, it's impossible to ignore the major changes at Dreams. In June the family-friendly resort unveiled new suites, culinary experiences, amenities and attractions, including a 18,600-square-foot waterpark. Highlights of the waterpark include an interactive pirate ship, three water slides, two heated pools and two hot tubs. Additional dining facilities include the Tides snack station, Sundaez ice cream corner, a food truck and a brand-new Italian restaurant. Complementing the water park, the expansion includes 58 new Preferred Club Suites.
Preferred Club rooms come with additional amenities and perks. Photo Credit: Secrets Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort
Overall I recommend Secrets Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort for couples or groups of friends who want the option of seclusion or social atmosphere, as the resort caters to both. The resort is also an easy choice for large families traveling together, particularly if there are child-free adults who want to stay on the adults-only side yet still have meals and social time with those who have kids in tow. While the room count of the two resorts put together is over 500 rooms, the size of the property does not feel overwhelming, and yet there are activities for everyone to enjoy.