What’s the Best Marriott in Puerto Vallarta? [Westin vs. Marriott vs. W Punta de Mita]

The author traveled as an invited guest of the Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta; Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa; and the W Punta de Mita. The hotels had no input in this article; all opinions are the author’s own.

I recently had the pleasure of checking out 3 different Marriott resorts in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico — The Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta; Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa; and W Punta de Mita.

While these 3 resorts are all part of the Marriott Bonvoy family, that’s where the similarities end. With different locations, amenities, and price tags, each will appeal to different types of travelers. I did the “hard work” of checking out all 3 to help you choose the best option for your next vacation.

Let’s jump into the fun details of these 3 Puerto Vallarta resorts.

The Best Marriott in Puerto Vallarta — Summary

I visited 3 Marriott resorts in and around Puerto Vallarta in late February and early March 2025 — the Westin Puerto Vallarta, Marriott Puerto Vallarta, and W Punta de Mita. These resorts were all very different and you may be wondering which one is the best choice for your vacation.

Here’s a quick look at some of the main highlights of each resort. Keep reading for a more in-depth look at each resort with photos.

There isn’t a universal choice between these 3 properties that fits every type of traveler. Rather, it’s important to consider each hotel’s features and how they fit your needs. Here’s my take.

Choose the Westin Puerto Vallarta if:

• Your idea of a good vacation includes a quiet, warm swimming pool and a cushy lounge chair
• You would love a reasonably priced room with a heated plunge pool and amazing views
• You want to be within walking distance of local shops and restaurants
• You’re traveling with little kids
• You want an all-inclusive experience (starting in 2026)

Choose the Marriott Puerto Vallarta if:

• You’re looking for a fun, lively pool
• You want to be close to the airport
• You want an incredible private dining experience (The Herb Garden)
• You want a budget-friendly beach vacation
• You’re traveling with kids

Choose the W Punta de Mita if:

• You’re looking for quiet luxury
• You want to be on a beach that will take your breath away
• You’re willing to splurge for an amazing room with a private pool
• You’re looking for a romantic getaway
• You’re a foodie looking for an exclusive dining experience (Mesa 1)

How To Book With Marriott Bonvoy Points

All 3 resorts I visited are part of the Marriott family of brands and are bookable using Marriott Bonvoy points. Prices vary based on the time of year and the room category you’re booking. Here’s what you can expect for starting prices (for the base-level room) in both Marriott Bonvoy points and cash (taxes and fees included) at each of these resorts:

• Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta: $152 or 30,000 points
• Marriott Puerto Vallarta: $194 or 40,000 points
• W Punta de Mita: $318 or 56,000 points

Hot Tip:

The Westin Puerto Vallarta will transition to an all-inclusive resort in 2026, so current pricing will likely increase.

Both the Westin and Marriott could be great options if you’re looking for places to use 35,000-point or 40,000-point free night certificates (remember, these can be topped off with up to 15,000 points), while the W Punta de Mita would be a great spot to redeem a 50,000-point certificate.

You can earn free night certificates through Marriott Bonvoy credit cards or the 75-night Choice Benefit.

How To Earn More Marriott Bonvoy Points

If you’re a bit short on Marriott Bonvoy points, you’re in luck because there are many ways to earn them.

One of the best ways to earn Marriott Bonvoy points is by using a Marriott Bonvoy credit card:

Marriott Bonvoy Bold^® Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A great option for Marriott hotel fans who want a no annual fee card and automatic Marriott Bonvoy elite status.

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Marriott Bonvoy Bold^® Credit Card

A great option for Marriott hotel fans who want a no annual fee card and automatic Marriott Bonvoy elite status.

Welcome Offer

Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

30,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$210

Annual Fee

$0

APR

20.49% - 27.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

Casual travelers who like to frequent properties that are part of the Marriott Bonvoy collection of brands may want to consider the Marriott Bonvoy Bold^® Credit Card.

The Marriott Bold card rewards cardholders for Marriott stays and gives them a boost towards Marriott Bonvoy elite status.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Up to 14x points per $1 on Marriott purchases
• 2x points at grocery stores, rideshare, select food delivery, select streaming, and internet, cable, and phone services
• 5 Elite Night Credits each year

Cons

• Lower point earn rate than other Marriott Bonvoy cards
• Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status is the lowest status tier

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• Pay no annual fee with the Marriott Bonvoy Bold^® Credit Card from Chase^®!
• Earn up to 14X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^® with the Marriott Bonvoy Bold^® Card.
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• 1X point for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
• Travel now, pay later - Break up purchases into equal monthly payments with no interest plus no plan fees on qualifying travel purchases. Terms apply.
• NEW! Pay Yourself Back^® - Redeem Marriott Bonvoy^® points for a statement credit to cover qualifying travel purchases made directly with airlines or at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy, up to $750 total in redemptions per year.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.49% - 27.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

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The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Marriott loyalists will love this card's annual Free Night Award, automatic elite status, and up to 17x points per $1 on Marriott hotel stays.

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Marriott loyalists will love this card's annual Free Night Award, automatic elite status, and up to 17x points per $1 on Marriott hotel stays.

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$95

APR

20.49% - 27.49% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

If you’re a frequent traveler and a Marriott loyalist, there’s a lot to love about the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless^® Credit Card. The card comes packed with several great benefits like a free hotel night once a year, automatic Silver Elite status (with a fast-track to Gold Elite status), and multiple options for redeeming points.

Pros & Cons

Pros

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• Earn big at grocery stores, gas stations, and dining
• Automatic Silver Elite Status

Cons

• $95 annual fee
• Marriott Silver Elite Status is the lowest status tier

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Card Highlights

• Earn 3 Free Night Awards (each night valued up to 50,000 points) plus 50,000 bonus points after qualifying purchases.
• Earn 3X points per $1 on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases each year on grocery stores, gas stations, and dining.
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• Receive 15 Elite Night Credits annually, automatic Silver Elite status, and path to Gold Status when you spend $35,000 on purchases each calendar year.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees. Your points don't expire as long as you make purchases on your card every 24 months.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.49% - 27.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

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The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card gives you automatic Marriott elite status and helps you earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on your everyday purchases.

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If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

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The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy card gives you automatic Marriott elite status and helps you earn more Marriott Bonvoy points on your everyday purchases.

Welcome Offer

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Annual Fee

$250

APR

20.24%-29.24% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

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Pros & Cons

Pros

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• 4x points per $1 at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases per calendar year, then 2x points)
• 2x points per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• $250 annual fee (rates & fees)
• Free Night Award certificate is not an automatic benefit

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Card Highlights

• Earn 155,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy^® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®.
• Earn 4X points at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets per calendar year, then 2X points).
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• Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® Free Night Award: Earn 1 Free Night Award after spending $15,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® Card in a calendar year. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® points) at a hotel participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
• 15 Elite Night Credits: Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® American Express Card^® you can receive 15 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy^® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy^® member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express.
• Plan It^® is a payment option that lets you split up purchases of $100 or more into equal monthly installments with a fixed fee. Plus, you'll still earn rewards the way you usually do.
• $250 Annual Fee.
• Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.24%-29.24% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

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U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.

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Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card

A premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.

Welcome Offer

Earn 185,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer End 5/14/2025.

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UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $1,295

Annual Fee

$650

APR

20.24%-29.24% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card is a premium card designed with road warriors and Marriott Bonvoy loyalists in mind.

So is the card a worthwhile addition to your wallet?

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 6x points per $1 at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy program
• 3x points per $1 on flights booked directly with airlines and restaurants worldwide
• 2x points per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• Steep annual fee of $650 (rates & fees)
• 6x points per $1 is the same earn rate offered with lower annual fee alternatives like the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy^® American Express^® Card

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 185,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• $300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) in statement credits for eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card at restaurants worldwide.
• With Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status, you can receive room upgrades, including enhanced views or suites, when available at select properties and booked with a Qualifying Rate.
• Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy^® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®. Earn 3X Marriott Bonvoy^® points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines and 2X Marriott Bonvoy^® points on all other eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card.
• Free Night Award: Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
• Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card, you will be eligible to select a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit. You can only earn one Brilliant Earned Choice Award per calendar year. See https://www.choice-benefit.marriott.com/brilliant for Award options.
• $100 Marriott Bonvoy^® Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at Marriott, The Ritz-Carlton^® or St. Regis^® when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your Card.
• Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®: Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($120) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck^® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
• Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy^® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express.
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• With Cell Phone Protection, you can be reimbursed, the lesser of, your repair or replacement costs following damage, such as a cracked screen, or theft for a maximum of $800 per claim when your cell phone line is listed on a wireless bill and the prior month's wireless bill was paid by an Eligible Card Account. A $50 deductible will apply to each approved claim with a limit of 2 approved claims per 12-month period. Additional terms and conditions apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
• $650 Annual Fee.
• Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.24%-29.24% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

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Marriott Bonvoy

Additionally, you can transfer points from Chase Ultimate Rewards, American Express Membership Rewards, or Bilt Rewards.

Hot Tip:

If you’re paying cash for your stay at any of these hotels, you can earn 3x to 6x points by using a Marriott Bonvoy credit card, in addition to points you’ll earn if you have Marriott Bonvoy elite status.

The Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta Review

The first stop on my trip was the Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta. This resort has been undergoing a multi-million dollar full renovation and plans to debut in 2026 as the Westin brand’s first all-inclusive resort in Mexico. Much of the renovation has already been completed, so I was excited to check it out.

About 10 minutes from the airport and across from the marina, this resort is a great option for travelers who want to be close to the action. I enjoyed walking across the street to visit the local shops and restaurants.

Hot Tip:

There’s an evening art market every Thursday from October through May at the marina, just a few minutes from the Westin Puerto Vallarta.

I felt at home as soon as I walked into the open-air lobby. My husband and I were greeted and offered a refreshing welcome drink to enjoy while we checked in. Then, we were directed to the elevators and made our way to our room, a Sky Pool Junior Suite on the 10th floor.

Sky Pool Junior Suite

The hotel is undergoing renovations to both guest rooms and common areas. My room, a Sky Pool Junior Suite room with a king bed and plunge pool, had already been renovated.

The highlight of my room was, no doubt, the balcony, which boasted a lounge area, a heated plunge pool (heated to perfection, I must add), and sweeping ocean views.

At the center of my room was the Westin Heavenly Bed 2.0. With fluffy pillows and crisp white linens, it was a dream to sleep on. There were also 2 small couches and a table.

The bathroom was functional, with plenty of counter space, a soaking tub, a separate shower, and a separate toilet.

Westin Puerto Vallarta Pool and Beach

The Westin Puerto Vallarta has 2 pools, but the family pool was the hotel’s highlight. Built around palm trees, which offered plenty of shade, it was the warmest resort pool I have ever experienced.

If you value a warm pool and lots of shade like me, stop what you’re doing and book a trip to the Westin Puerto Vallarta right now. You can thank me later.

All kidding aside, this pool was a dream. The second pool (which was also heated but not quite as warm as the first pool) was right in front of the dream pool and featured a swim-up bar.

In addition, the Westin Puerto Vallara had something that even many high-end resorts don’t have: cushioned lounge chairs for everyone. While this may seem minor, there’s a dramatic difference in comfort between a cushy lounge chair and a standard thin mesh lounge chair.

The small beach is situated between 2 breaks, which made it relatively calm, and the views of the city and mountains in the distance were lovely.

Bottom Line:

The Westin Puerto Vallarta features 2 important details that even many high-end resorts don’t get right — well-heated pools and cushioned lounge chairs.

Private Dining at the Westin Puerto Vallarta

The hotel set up a private sunset picnic on our first night in Puerto Vallarta. I felt very boho-chic as I dined on fancy cheeses, fruit, sandwiches, and chocolate-covered strawberries as the sun set over the ocean.

Hot Tip:

When I visited in February 2025, the dining options at the Westin Puerto Vallarta were limited. However, that’s going to change soon. As part of the resort’s multi-million dollar renovations, 12 new dining concepts will be introduced beginning in 2025.

The Spa at the Westin Puerto Vallarta

I was treated to a massage and hydrotherapy (hot and cold plunge with a small indoor pool) at The Spa at the Westin Puerto Vallarta, and it was delightful. There was also a steam room and sauna, which can be accessed if you have an appointment or book a Heavenly Pass for MX$600 ($30).

Why Stay at the Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta?

The Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta, offers a budget-friendly way to enjoy a beach vacation in Mexico. Even though prices are reasonable, the resort offers luxury details, including beautiful heated pools and cushioned lounge chairs. Plus, all guest rooms have a private balcony (some even have heated plunge pools) with views of Banderas Bay and the Pacific Ocean.

The hotel is currently undergoing renovations, including the addition of 12 new dining concepts, and will transition to an all-inclusive resort in 2026. The new dining options weren’t quite ready when I was there, but they looked exciting, so I will definitely be planning another trip.

It’s also across the street from the Puerto Vallarta marina, so guests can access shops and restaurants just a few minutes away. Plus, numerous group tours leave from the marina — a super convenient option if you’d like to explore the area.

The Westin Puerto Vallarta does many things right (things that even resorts that cost twice as much may not do), like having heated pools, cushioned lounge chairs, and rooms with ocean views and heated plunge pools.

Hot Tip:

Since the Westin Puerto Vallarta is across the street from the marina, you can easily pick up a boat tour. Try a whale and dolphin watching excursion with a biologist, a luxury sunset sail with appetizers and wine, or a private half-day sailing adventure with snorkeling.

Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa Review

The second stop on my tour of Marriott hotels in Puerto Vallarta was the Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa. It is located about 0.6 miles from the Westin and is a larger, more lively hotel.

I could see the resort grounds, a massive swimming pool, and breezy ocean views from the lobby.

Our room wasn’t quite ready, so we grabbed a table at Las Casitas for lunch. After dining on chips, guacamole, and steak fajitas, I was ready to continue my Mexican Marriott adventure.

Hot Tip:

You can purchase an all-inclusive package for the Marriott Puerto Vallarta that includes access to all 6 of the resort’s restaurants.

Junior Suite

I stayed in a recently renovated 1-bedroom Junior Suite. The bright, modern design of the room gave a nod to mid-century modern design but still had a tropical flair. The most prominent feature of the main room was one of the more unique (and fun) features I have seen in a hotel room — a hammock.

The bedroom featured a king-sized bed and had direct access to the patio.

My bathroom was both functional (there was plenty of counter space, and the shower and toilet were separate) and beautiful (check out this amazing green tile behind the mirror).

The long, narrow balcony had entrances from the living room and bedroom. Even though I was on the second floor, I still had a nice view of the resort and the ocean.

Marriott Puerto Vallarta Pool and Beach

The massive pool at the Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort looks out onto the beach. Automatic vacation vibes are guaranteed.

Although the pool deck was crowded during my stay, there was always plenty of room to move about in the pool itself. I recommend renting a Bali bed to get a more comfortable sitting spot with shade and personalized service.

Bali beds at the Marriott Puerto Vallarta are super affordable — depending on the location, prices range from MX$1,600 to MX$2,200 ($79 to $109).

There was also a separate pool area perfect for little kids.

Private Dining at Marriott Puerto Vallarta

One of my trip’s best dining experiences was at the Marriott Puerto Vallarta’s Herb Garden. My husband and I enjoyed the Jalisco at Your Table menu served under twinkling lights in a private garden setting.

The menu featured fresh and flavorful local ingredients, and the dishes were beautifully presented. It was wonderfully elegant without being pretentious, and I loved every minute of it.

Ohtli Spa

The Ohtli Spa offered massages, facials, scrubs, wraps, and more. I enjoyed using the steam room and hot plunge pool before my facial (available to guests even without an appointment). There were also separate relaxation rooms for men and women.

Why Stay at the Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa?

The Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa is a family-friendly resort that won’t break the bank. It has a larger beach area than the Westin Puerto Vallarta and offers a livelier atmosphere.

It could be a great choice for your family vacation if you want pool and beach time at a reasonable price. It’s also conveniently located less than 10 minutes from the airport— which could be especially important if you’re traveling with kids who won’t tolerate a long car ride after a day of travel.

Hot Tip:

You can easily explore the local area with a guided city tour, including pickup from the Westin Puerto Vallarta or Marriott Puerto Vallarta.

W Punta De Mita Review

The last stop on my Marriott Bonvoy Puerto Vallarta tour was the W Punta de Mita. Located in Nayarit, about 31 miles from the airport, this hotel felt a world away from the Westin and Marriott. It’s a more secluded property, offering quiet luxury with jungle vibes.

The first thing you’ll notice at the W Punta de Mita is the eye-catching Camino Huichol, a walkway that stretches from the lobby to the beach. With over 751,000 hand-placed mosaic tiles representing elements from the Wixarika culture, this stunning piece of art is a gorgeous centerpiece for the hotel.

Marvelous Suite

Base-level rooms start at around 56,000 Marriott Bonvoy points or $318 (including taxes and fees) per night. Most cash rates include breakfast for 2 adults and 2 children.

I spent 2 nights in the exquisite Marvelous Suite (prices start around $1,709), and it was, well … marvelous. The first thing I noticed when I entered the massive room (1,345 square feet, to be exact) was the indoor and outdoor shower.

I soon realized that the Marvelous Suite’s bigger-than-big 2-person indoor shower opened to a courtyard with an outdoor shower and tub surrounded by tropical plants. I could look up and see the sky. I have a bit of an obsession with hotel showers, and this one was, well … wow!

The bedroom and living room areas had high ceilings with neutral but tropical decor.

Beyond that, the highlight of the room was the exquisite outdoor patio. Located oceanfront, our private patio included 2 cushioned loungers, 2 chairs, a fire pit, and a plunge pool heated to a near-perfect temperature.

A gate at the far end of our patio gave us quick access to the adults-only pool, Wet TOO, and the beach.

W Punta de Mita Pools and Beach

The beach in front of the W Punta de Mita, which stretches out just over a mile, is one of the best I have ever experienced. The smooth, flat sand made it ideal for walking. Crashing waves and mountain silhouettes in the distance combined for a spectacular setting that had me looking up real estate prices on some of the new developments in the area ($2.5 million for a beachfront condo, in case you were wondering).

When the sun shined on the flat expanses of sand, it gave the impression that they were covered in thousands of sparkling diamonds. Keep your eyes peeled, as you may see a whale or even a turtle heading back to the ocean (we saw a turtle on our last morning).

While this beach is a 10/10 for walkability and looks, it’s not great if you want to swim. When I was there, there were some serious waves better suited to surfers than swimmers.

There are 2 pools at W Punta de Mita — the WET Deck and WET TOO. The WET Deck is the main pool, which stretches along the Camino Huichol walkway.

WET TOO is a beachfront adults-only pool.

Hot Tip:

Punta Mita is a great area for surfing. You can try it out during a private surf lesson — a surf school is just 10 minutes from the W Punta de Mita.

Private In-Room Dining

On our first morning at the resort, we tried the floating breakfast. It’s not just for the Maldives! Our chilaquiles, fruit, yogurt, pastries, coffee, and juice were delivered promptly and set adrift in the pool. It was breakfast perfection.

For a truly exclusive dining experience, book a table (there’s just 1) at Mesa 1. This private dining venue serves a 7-course dinner for up to 10 people and is in the middle of a lake.

Hot Tip:

While the W Punta de Mita isn’t an all-inclusive resort, you can purchase an all-inclusive meal plan. The W Unlimited plan includes access to 6 of the resort’s restaurants and bars — Spice Market, Venazu, the Living Room bar, WET Deck, Chevycheria, and Salero (pop-up bar). Rubra and Mesa 1 aren’t included in the W Unlimited plan.

AWAY Spa at W Punta de Mita

The AWAY Spa at W Punta de Mita offers customized treatments, including massages, scrubs, wraps, and facials. One of the highlights was the outdoor hydrotherapy pools, complete with jungle vibes. Access is included with any treatment at the AWAY Spa.

Why Stay at the W Punta de Mita?

Choose the W Punta de Mita if you’re looking for a secluded, romantic getaway, are willing to splurge for a truly spectacular room, or consider a quiet walk on the beach part of your perfect vacation day.

My stay at the W Punta de Mita was spectacular. The food was excellent, the resort grounds were lush and beautiful, the spa was relaxing, and the beach was nearly perfect. Plus, my room, the Marvelous Suite, was one of the top 3 hotel rooms I have ever stayed in.

Final Thoughts

I visited 3 Marriott hotels in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico — Westin Puerto Vallarta, Marriott Puerto Vallarta, and W Punta de Mita — to see how they stacked up. Each was unique, offering amenities catering to different types of travelers, and I enjoyed my time at all of them.

In my opinion, the Westin Puerto Vallarta is the best choice for a quiet getaway for travelers who value a shady, warm pool (with cushy lounge chairs). The Marriott Puerto Vallarta is the best choice for families traveling with kids or looking for a lively atmosphere. The W Punta de Mita is the best choice for a luxurious, romantic getaway.

Do you want even more Marriott options in Puerto Vallarta? Check out these hotels:

Other Marriott Puerto Vallarta Hotels

• Sheraton Buganvilias Resort & Convention Center
• The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort
• City Express Plus by Marriott Puerto Vallarta
• Delta Hotels Riviera Nayarit, An All-Inclusive Resort