How to Craft the Ideal Getaway to Careyes, Mexico

Careyes, Mexico, is a transformative destination, whether you're prepared for it or not. It's hard to put into words, but my first encounter with this captivating, jungle-covered, rugged stretch of Pacific coastline was in 2018. Little did I know that the wheels of a long-term vision for my future were already turning.

Let’s rewind to the 1960s, when Italian banker Gian Franco Brignone flew his small plane over the breathtaking landscape and dramatic ocean cliffs of Careyes. This flight ignited a vision that led him to acquire 20,000 acres of stunning oceanfront, mountainous, and jungle terrain south of the then-sleepy Puerto Vallarta. Brignone’s dream ultimately gave rise to a vibrant community of affluent, cultured, and creative individuals from around the globe, all drawn to the seclusion of Mexico’s Costalegre and the vibrant energy of its inhabitants.

Today, the community flourishes with nine miles of coastline, featuring hidden coves, sea caves, and luxurious villas alongside vibrant, Positano-style casitas—none visible from the winding Highway 200 that traverses the entire Pacific Coast of Mexico. To truly understand Careyes, you must be in the know.

"This coast is exceptional—untouched, secluded, low density, and relatively unknown," shared Zach Rabinor, CEO of Journey Mexico and a member of Dinogo's A-List advisors. "Lined with quaint fishing and ranching villages, the coast transformed into a luxury retreat. The vision of land acquisition and the deliberate low-density development by mogul James Goldsmith and a select few solidified the area as an eclectic haven for the wealthy, the famous, the unconventional, and the creative,"

The allure of Careyes lies in its vibrant, magical atmosphere, where luxurious amenities—complete with fine European wines and high thread counts—coexist with a deep connection to nature. Remarkably, only two percent of the 20,000 acres will ever see development. Inside this porous community are a diverse selection of accommodations, ranging from majestic oceanfront estates to airy villas, colorful cliffside casitas, condo-style apartments, and beachfront bungalows.

Careyes is among the most accessible luxury getaways in Mexico, blending a casual T-shirt-and-shorts vibe with a philosophy of embracing the very good life. What began as a brief visit in 2018 has evolved into me renting my own casita for winter 2024. I’m certain my journey with Careyes is just beginning.

As I mentioned, Careyes has a transformative effect. Here's why.

Top Hotels and Resorts

Oceanfront Palaces

Perched on opposite cliffs like vigilant guardians of a secluded, rugged beach, the Ocean Castles of Careyes are the only visible parts of the community from the jungle-clad road. Mirroring each other, Sol de Oriente and Sol de Occidente are grand six-bedroom mansions, each featuring sweeping infinity pools that gaze out over the roaring Pacific.

Exclusive Villas

Careyes boasts an impressive array of clifftop villas. These architectural gems are scattered along the nine-mile coastline, each uniquely named and distinctly designed. Architects have skillfully integrated these private homes into the natural surroundings, featuring infinity plunge pools, cliff-hugging staircases, outdoor lounges, and breathtaking views.

El Careyes Club & Residences

For those seeking a more conventional hotel experience, guests can reserve a room in the Club & Residences area. Arranged in a semicircle around an open-air lobby, two oceanfront pools, and a secluded bay, the residences offer options ranging from one- to four-bedroom suites.

Casitas de las Flores

The inspiration for Careyes has always drawn from the Amalfi Coast, and this is especially clear at Casitas de las Flores. This vibrant collection of casitas tumbles down the hillside, adorned in lively, Mexican-inspired hues. The casitas vary from one to four bedrooms, with some featuring their own plunge pools.

Bungalows

Stylish and inviting, the beachfront bungalows are situated right above Playa Rosa, one of the lively hubs of Careyes. These palapa-roofed one-bedroom accommodations open directly onto the beach.

Top Activities to Experience

Explore the Waters.

The finest perspectives of Careyes are best enjoyed from the sea. In fact, if you're simply driving along the highway, you might not even notice Careyes exists. "Taking a yacht out to navigate the breathtaking reef-laden islands, marvel at the rugged terrain, and relish the sun and ocean breeze is essential," noted Rabinor. 

Stay Energetic.

Careyes does have a gym, though I've heard it might be more suited for hosting moss than workouts. Guests and locals in Careyes prefer to get their fitness from nature rather than confined spaces filled with weights. From daily yoga sessions to surfing, hiking, and mountain biking, embracing an active lifestyle is fundamental to the Careyes experience.

Discover the Grounds.

With twenty thousand acres at your disposal, you could spend a lifetime wandering both the well-trodden and hidden trails of Careyes and still uncover more. "Exploring the Careyes estate, featuring the iconic Copa del Sol, untouched beaches, and its distinctive history is all part of the experience,"

Celebrate the Events.

With a wealth of creative spirits and passionate individuals (and perhaps a few deep pockets), Careyes knows how to throw a party. The community hosts numerous events throughout the year, with several standout programs that truly shine. From film festivals to the exclusive beachfront Ondalinda music festival, a vibrant Lunar New Year celebration, and a premier polo tournament, Careyes' event calendar is filled with extravagant, invitation-only spectacles that rely on word-of-mouth allure.

Top Dining Spots

Careyes has its priorities straight: breathtaking natural beauty, sustainable development, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional dining experiences.

Playa Rosa Beach Club

At the vibrant core of Careyes, Playa Rosa Beach Club is an open-air restaurant adorned in pink, offering a Mediterranean-inspired menu featuring salads, crudos, grilled meats and fish, as well as homemade pastas.

La Duna

Situated at the heart of El Careyes Club & Residences, La Duna is a poolside restaurant offering breakfast and lunch with breathtaking views of the infinity pool. 

Casa de Nada

My absolute favorite dining spot in Careyes is Casa de Nada. This beachfront gem is tucked away among rolling sand dunes on one of Careyes’ windswept beaches. With a fire pit and poufs on the sand, it offers a Moroccan-inspired ambiance alongside a menu filled with fresh tacos and mezcal cocktails.

Shio Sushi

An indulgently delightful sushi experience. Shio is a feast for every sense, offering delightful surprises.

Punto Como

Nestled in "the Pueblo," the quaint village across the highway, Punto Como boasts views of the main square while serving generous portions of steak, seafood, and fresh pasta.

Optimal Time to Visit

Careyes is a delightful destination year-round, but its peak season spans from November to the end of April.

"The ideal months are from November to April, featuring warm sunny days and pleasantly cool nights," noted Rabinor. "From May to June, temperatures rise, and humidity increases as the rainy season nears. The rainy season lasts from June to October, bringing high humidity and afternoon showers that can escalate into monsoon rains from late August through October."

That being said, I've spent considerable time in Careyes during the rainy season and can confirm that this is when the landscape truly thrives, bursting with vibrant greens and fragrant blossoms, heavy with ripe fruit. There's something undeniably enchanting about enjoying a cup of tea or a glass of bubbly on a sheltered balcony while watching the rain pour in.

Directions to Get There

Careyes is located a three-hour drive south of Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport in Puerto Vallarta. Alternatively, it's just a 90-minute drive from the smaller and less crowded Playa de Oro International Airport in Manzanillo.

"The majority of travelers fly into Puerto Vallarta and then drive from there," Rabinor explained. "The quickest and most convenient option is to charter a light aircraft, reducing the journey to just 25 minutes."

Private flight charters are available between Puerto Vallarta International Airport and the nearby small landing strip in Chamela.

Getting Around

Careyes provides luxury transfer services from both airports, but once guests arrive, having a personal vehicle is essential, as there are no taxis or ride-sharing services available. The best way to explore the vast and inviting landscape of Careyes is to have your own car.