Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo, México [In-Depth Hotel Review]

The Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo, México, opened in November 2022, making it one of the newest Four Seasons properties in the world. And it’s totally different from anything else you’ll find in Mexico, especially the Pacific coast of Mexico.

Closest to Manzanillo, the resort occupies a sprawling, 3,000-acre private nature reserve. This property’s incredible location and seclusion make it a tempting change of pace for luxury travelers tired of Cabo and Punta Mita. It feels truly like an immersive jungle escape, but with 6 miles of beachfront beauty (including swimmable beaches), an incredible golf course, and phenomenal service.

Excitement bubbled up within me as I boarded the plane with my wife and infant. The prospect of experiencing the property had been an endeavor months in the making, and now it was about to unfold.

I had lofty expectations when I first decided to book this stay, and even these were blown out of the water. Let’s get into the review!

Booking

We decided to visit Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo, México, during mid-January 2024, which was fantastic timing for us. Though I pay publicly available rates for most of my travel, I booked a travel-advisor rate for a 4-night stay that included breakfast.

I paid for the stay using the Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card, which earned 3x points on our stay, as it counted as being in the travel bonus category.

The publicly available rates for our room type, the Cliffside Panoramic One-Bedroom Suite with Infinity Pool, were around $4,000 per night, including the 15% service charge, 3% state tax, and 16% VAT on both the room rate and service charge.

Hot Tip:

To access Four Seasons Preferred Partner rates, contact Upgraded Points’ Leigh Rowan to take advantage of extra perks (room upgrades, $100 credit, complimentary daily breakfast, and more) during your stay.

Location

Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo, México, is perched on a pristine stretch of the Pacific coast, a sanctuary where the lush tropical rainforest meets the golden sands.

The hotel is closest to Playa de Oro Airport (ZLO) in Manzanillo. There are direct flights to Manzanillo from major cities like Dallas, Los Angeles, and Phoenix, and the 3,000-acre nature reserve with miles of private beach is a 50-minute drive from the airport.

The immersive beauty of the surroundings was a constant source of awe for us, with vibrant flora and fauna creating a captivating landscape.

Indeed, there’s an implicit expectation that you won’t leave the property. And you won’t need to!

We coordinated with the hotel to arrange a private Chevrolet Suburban chauffeur transfer to and from the hotel. While we brought our own car seat, the hotel is able to provide one.

After 35 minutes, we arrived at the entrance of the expansive nature reserve, and paradise awaited at the end of an additional 15-minute drive along scenic and windy roads.

Other modes of transportation you can use to get here include a shared round-trip charter flight from Puerto Vallarta for around $1,200 per person, including ground transportation from the airport.

You can also book a 20-minute helicopter transfer from the airport to the resort’s helipad for that quintessential ultra-luxury experience.

Check-In

Nestled in the heart of such natural beauty, Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo, México, promised an escape to paradise. As the resort came into view, I couldn’t help but marvel at its grandeur. Modern architecture combined with traditional Mexican design, as well as a seamless check-in process and warm welcome, set the tone for what would be an extraordinary stay.

Walking into the lobby, known as La Mansión, the transition from anticipation to reality was a sensory experience. The ambiance, the scent of tropical blooms, and the sound of the ocean waves crashing nearby created an immediate sense of tranquility.

The check-in was flawless. We were offered cold towels and a welcome drink made from tamarind and mezcal.

La Mansión boasted incredible panoramic views of the beach, ocean, and rooms.

There were also comfortable lounge seats to take in the beautiful views.

To the right of La Mansión were a series of cliffside suites.

And to the left of La Mansión were the beachfront suites and a few holes of the 18-hole golf course.

Indeed, La Mansión was the true centerpiece of the Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo, México.

Amenities

Beaches

The Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo, México, has 3 different beaches we could go to during our visit:

• Playa Tamarindo, a consistently swimmable beach
• Playa Majahua, mostly for gorgeous sunset walks
• Playa Dorada, an occasionally swimmable beach

Playa Tamarindo had a temporary beach club with a bar and small bites. The Four Seasons plans on constructing a permanent beach club here with a pool, full kitchen, and cocktail bar.

Playa Majahua was underneath the main hotel directly in front of Sal.

There were plenty of hammocks and sun loungers on the Playa Majahua beachfront.

Playa Majahua was perfect for long walks on the beach, but it wasn’t a consistently swimmable beach.

The last beach we visited was Playa Dorada, which was gorgeous without any crowds. It was accessible only by golf cart.

Enjoying the sunset on any of these beaches was an incredible blessing.

Pools

We spent our days leisurely by the infinity pools, each providing a unique atmosphere.

The jaw-dropping infinity pools cascaded down from a cliffside with a family pool on the top, an adult pool toward the bottom, and a collection of private cabanas close to the ocean.

The adults-only pool offered a serene escape, while the family-friendly pool buzzed with energy, though it never got crowded.

The family pool was the largest on the property. It also featured a splash zone for kids.

The adults-only pool was closer to the ocean, just under the family pool.

Meanwhile, the 3 private cabanas were under the adults-only pool and could be rented for MX$3,000 ($175) per day. The rentals lasted from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. and included:

• 1 television
• 1 minibar
• 2 sun loungers
• 2 support tables
• 1 pair of binoculars
• Complimentary snacks
• Cold towels with natural aloe
• Pool amenities every hour

There was also a premium cabana package priced at MX$5,500 ($32) that included a bottle of Moët & Chandon Champagne, 1 menu item (guacamole, crudites, ceviche, or aguachile), and 2 10-minute Theragun massages.

Fitness Center

The modern indoor fitness center designed by celebrity trainer Harley Pasternak featured state-of-the-art equipment and was on the fifth floor of La Mansión (1 floor below the main lobby).

The well-equipped fitness center, surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows framing the lush landscape, and the various sports facilities allowed for a perfect blend of wellness and recreation.

You could also book wellness classes ranging from spin to HIIT and aerobics.

It featured high-end equipment by Hoist, Peloton bikes, 4 Pilates reformers, and more.

In addition, there was a complimentary weekly activity calendar in the gym.

Other amenities available in the fitness center included a juice and refreshment bar.

Spa

The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo, a haven of serenity tucked within the rainforest, offered an array of treatments inspired by ancient healing traditions. From volcanic stone massages to botanical facials, each experience was a journey to rejuvenation.

Other highlights included 2 couples’ suites where you could enjoy side-by-side treatments, a traditional Mexican temazcal (a kind of spiritual sauna), a boutique, an outdoor relaxation area with 2 plunge pools (1 warm and 1 cold), and lounge chairs.

There were 3 private shower facilities and a dry sauna and steam room.

While awaiting your treatment, you could relax on a day bed in the spa waiting room.

The outdoor relaxation area had 4 sun loungers and 2 plunge pools (1 cold and 1 warm).

There were 8 treatment cabins, each with its own relaxation area and dressing room championing indoor-outdoor living with showers that blended in with the lush greenery.

We booked a 60-minute massage and a 60-minute facial, which were both excellent.

Golf

The Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo, México, boasted a David Fleming-designed par 72, 18-hole golf course. The golf course had some of the most incredible views we had ever seen. I’ll let the pictures speak for themselves.

There was also a driving range and a golf clubhouse with equipment rentals, lounging areas, and golf carts.

Near the ninth hole was an exclusive area called Nueve that you could book for private dining experiences. It consisted of a palapa, several chairs and tables, and a grill.

Shopping Boutique

Adjacent to the main lobby at La Mansión, there was a large boutique with tons of unusual items.

Discovery Center

Behind La Mansión was the Discovery Center, which offered insights into the surrounding ecosystem.

There were even fossils from the nearby area!

We booked a property tour with the on-site biologist, which lasted around 2 hours. He drove us around the whole property by golf cart, teaching us about the vegetation and animals!

Notably, we saw plenty of coatis around the property.

Rancho Ortega

Although we couldn’t visit because it was under construction, Rancho Ortega is a 35-acre working farm with chickens, agave plants, vegetables, fruits, and much more.

Farmers there sustainably cultivate livestock and fresh crops like chickens, pomegranate, corn, cinnamon, banana, and guava to use in the restaurants.

Caramelo (Kids’ Club)

For families, the resort has thoughtfully curated kid-friendly amenities. From supervised activities at the children’s club to family-friendly dining options, every detail catered to the needs of families.

Caramelo is the property’s year-round complimentary kids’ program, highlighting nature activities and providing educational puzzles, coloring books and arts, age-appropriate games, and other interactive activities like treasure hunts and traditional Mexican arts and crafts for kids 5 to 12.

Best of all? Caramelo was open until 9 p.m., undoubtedly getting the nod from parents looking to enjoy a quiet dinner.

Babysitting services are available, with the resort sitters certified by the American Red Cross in pediatric first aid. Rates are MX$977.50 (~$57) per hour (minimum 2 hours) plus transportation fee if after 11 p.m​.

Escondite (Teens’ Club)

Escondite for 13- to 17-year-olds, with an array of activities available, including foosball, air hockey, and billiards in the main room.

It had a cinema with bean bags next to the main room and a similar nook for video games.

ATM

Another useful amenity was the ATM, which was great if you forgot to bring cash and wanted to tip the staff.

Departures Lounge

We found the departures lounge next to the fitness center, an air-conditioned space where guests could go if they’d already checked out of their rooms and needed a comfortable place to stay before leaving the resort.

The lounge had plenty of seating, Nespresso coffee, snacks, and 2 desktop computers.

Cliffside Panoramic One-Bedroom Suite With Infinity Pool

Our room, suite 4122, was a private haven overlooking the Pacific, offering not just accommodation but a truly immersive experience. The attention to detail, from locally inspired decor to cutting-edge technology, created a harmonious blend of luxury and comfort.

We were booked in the Cliffside Panoramic One-Bedroom Suite with Infinity Pool, featuring nearly 1,600 square feet of combined indoor and outdoor space.

This suite had a maximum occupancy of 3 adults and 1 child, 2 adults and 2 children, or even 1 adult and 3 children. There was a comfortable signature Four Seasons king bed and a sofa bed.

The suite featured abundant sitting areas, quintessential luxury amenities like a private bar, Nespresso facilities, bathrobes, luxury toiletries from Le Labo, bathrobes, 2 TVs, and handmade Mexican crafts.

Living Room

The staff had laid out a few wonderful welcome amenities, including a bowl of fresh fruit (which was delicious) and a welcome note.

The bar had several amenities on display, including the Nespresso coffee machine, a bottle of wine, artisanal honey, complimentary water and snacks, and tequila available for purchase.

Snacks, coffee, and tea were in the drawers just below the bar.

A full personal bar included various liquors, beers, soft drinks, and bottles of Champagne.

There were other snacks for purchase, too.

We loved this signature welcome amenity of an edible chocolate tree with tamarind candy! This was actually delicious, and I confess that the only thing left of it by the end of our stay was the inedible stone base.

There was also a margarita kit available for purchase on the desk.

Bedroom

We were treated to an incredibly comfortable and plush signature Four Seasons bed.

We utilized the in-room iPad and chat to make any service requests, which was extremely convenient.

Our room also had a sitting area with lounge chairs and a coffee table facing the Pacific Ocean through the soaring floor-to-ceiling windows.

Because we were visiting with our infant baby, the Four Seasons team had prepared special amenities, including a crib, a Diaper Genie, a Four Seasons hooded towel, and much more!

The walk-in closet contained a safe, slippers, laundry bags, and a hamper.

Bathroom

The floating dual vanities were a sight to behold, complete with an LED-backlit magnifying mirror, cotton swabs, a scale, shower caps, and more.

There was also a toilet partitioned off behind a large wooden door.

Additional baby amenities included a baby bath, shampoo, lotion, a loofah, and more.

If that weren’t enough, the gorgeous sunken soaking tub had floor-to-ceiling windows framing the jaw-dropping outdoor view.

The indoor rainfall shower had floor-to-ceiling glass, Le Labo amenities, and plenty of space.

A pair of Four Seasons bathrobes hung up on the wall next to the outdoor shower and water closet.

Outdoor Shower

We loved the outdoor shower with impeccable views of the Pacific Ocean!

Infinity Pool

But what I enjoyed the most was the 43-foot infinity swimming pool, which we utilized to the fullest extent by swimming every day. In addition, the outdoor area had a hammock, contemporary furnishings, and 2 sun loungers.

As you can imagine, we spent most of our time in this beautiful suite relaxing as a family with our new baby.

Bottom Line:

The Cliffsite Panoramic One-Bedroom Suite with Infinity Pool was one of the highlights of our stay. It’s incredibly rare to have a full-length infinity lap pool with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, and we enjoyed it to the fullest extent. Another major highlight was the outdoor shower, which overlooked the Pacific Ocean!

Food and Beverage

The overall culinary program, created by Argentinian chef Nicolás Piatti, was notable for a few reasons. First, the resort’s team included local experts such as fishermen, farmers, and foragers. And a huge focus was on fresh ingredients, sustainability, and bold takes on traditional Mexican dishes.

We absolutely loved the food and beverage program here, and a big reason was that it was unapologetically Mexican.

The culinary team at Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo, México, didn’t attempt to recreate a tired, halfhearted program consisting of the typical sushi bar, Italian restaurant, and Chinese eatery.

Instead, they showcased their pride in Mexican gastronomy. There were 2 signature restaurants on the property: Coyul and Sal. In addition, there was a laid-back taqueria concept called Nacho, poolside dining, in-room dining, and private dining experiences.

Coyul

Coyul was developed in collaboration with Elena Reygadas, an award-winning chef from Mexico City, and it served breakfast and dinner daily. You could also enjoy cocktails and light fare at the bar with gorgeous sunset views. Coyul emphasizes seasonal ingredients and sustainability with a Mexican flair.

We enjoyed breakfast daily here, as well as 2 dinners.

The family pool was just a few steps down from Coyul, too.

Although we mainly opted for outdoor seating, there was also an abundance of indoor seating.

There is an open-kitchen concept at Coyul.

Breakfast was à la carte except on weekends when a buffet was set up. The breakfast was top-notch here, ranging from espresso drinks to green juice.

We were offered sourdough bread to start every morning.

The food was equally good, and one of the biggest highlights was the incredible pancakes! They were fluffy and tasted like delicious souffles.

We also visited Coyul in the afternoon to enjoy the views and cocktails.

Dinner at Coyul was excellent, too. The highlights included beef tongue tacos, fish ceviche, tagliatelle ragu, and lechon (Mexican suckling pig).

Hot Tip:

Our baby was too young to sit in a high chair, but the property had high chairs and all of the dining amenities needed. We observed the restaurant make a dozen different purees for one of the other families on-site.

Sal

While Coyul will always have a special place in our hearts, our favorite restaurant was Sal, which we also visited twice.

Sal is the oceanfront, open-air restaurant serving daily fresh catches for lunch, sunset hour, and dinner. It had gorgeous oceanfront views just steps from Majahua Beach.

In front of the restaurant was an outdoor lounge to enjoy golden hour from.

At the front of Sal was a cocktail bar with high-top seating.

Next to the bar was a series of gorgeous bar chairs to enjoy the sunset.

Near the front of the restaurant was a beautiful display — and a refrigerator filled with seafood.

There was a food prep counter with high-top seating here.

I absolutely loved the food and seating here, and we started every meal with a margarita and mojito.

We ordered a few amazing dishes twice, including the octopus tostada, hamachi al pastor, and duck carnitas.

Although we only ordered it once, the 28-ounce ribeye was absolutely sensational.

Nacho

Nacho is a laid-back taqueria open for lunch and afternoon snacks near one of the pools. The specialties are artisanal tacos, tostadas, and tlayudas.

The dishes were superb here, as well.

Nacho also had ocean views and was directly above the adults-only pool.

We ordered a strawberry margarita and an assortment of tacos and tostadas, all of which were fantastic.

Pool and Beach Club

Pool service was available at the property, and it started with a cooler of complimentary water.

At the pool, we ordered a strawberry margarita, a piña colada, aguachile, french fries with foccacia, and crudites.

Room Service

Of course, in-villa dining and private dining experiences were available. Although we did not book a private dining experience, we gave room service a whirl and were impressed.

We ordered from the in-room iPad, and the food arrived earlier than expected.

We ordered tortilla soup, a pepperoni and pineapple pizza, a club sandwich, and french fries.

For dessert, we had chocolate ice cream and a caramel raspberry crumble.

Service

The staff’s warmth and genuine enthusiasm left a lasting impression. From the concierge to the housekeeping team, we accumulated personal anecdotes of interactions that highlighted the genuine hospitality that defined the Four Seasons experience.

Instances where the staff went above and beyond to anticipate and fulfill our needs showcased a level of service that exceeded expectations. From interacting with our baby to surprise amenities and special dining requests, the staff’s dedication to guest satisfaction was truly commendable.

The personalized service added a touch of exclusivity, from personalized welcome amenities reflecting the local culture to tailormade excursions. It was evident that the staff was attentive and genuinely invested in making each guest’s stay extraordinary.

Final Thoughts

The transformative nature of the stay became apparent as soon I started reflecting on it (especially on the flight home, when peak sadness hit). Beyond the luxurious amenities, the seamless integration of nature, culture, and personalized service defined the retreat as not just a vacation but a life-changing escape.

Yes, this is truly a property where you won’t want to leave — and there’s no reason to leave! From the second you drive into the nature reserve’s gated entrance, you’re transported to a land of ultimate relaxation — the stuff dreams are made of.

In the embrace of Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo, México, our every moment was memorable. From the stunning surroundings to the attentive staff, the retreat left an indelible mark.

Truly, the seclusion of this property is its biggest selling point. It’s a refreshing and novel take on Mexican Four Seasons properties. The food was phenomenal, the room was fantastic, the amenities were abundant, and the service was exceptional.

This is one of the few properties I see myself regularly staying at for the foreseeable future. Bravo, Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo, México!