Westin Puerto Vallarta
This tropical paradise, which was once a palm tree plantation, is still covered in more than 600 palms today, making the resort feel like more like an island retreat than resort. The property itself is set on 14 idyllic acres in Puerto Vallarta directly along the Bay of Banderas, which boasts crystal blue waters and more than 600 species of marine life.
Beyond its 140 feet of private sandy beach, beach club and two sparkling pools that only add to the island retreat vibe, the dog-friendly (up to 40 pounds) resort is all about helping guest re-discover their Zen via several wellness programs, starting in the rooms and suites themselves. Each of the resort’s 240-plus rooms has an ocean-facing or garden-facing balcony and are outfitted with a Westin Heavenly mattress (yes, they are so good the organization registered the name), known for its plush, pillow-top that feels more like a cloud than a bed. The suites go the extra mile, many offering wading pools outside and both Jacuzzi tubs and dual shower heads in the bathroom.
Throughout each of the resort’s eateries, the wellness focus is similarly at the forefront. In fact, there is a menu called Super FoodsRX created in tandem by doctors and nutritionists that features nutrient-dense dishes as well as ingredients that – when paired together – supercharge your mind and body. Similarly, there is a menu called Sleep Well. Every dish is high in amino acids and minerals that promote a higher quality of restful, restoring sleep. There is also a juicery on property, which offers both cold-pressed juices and smoothies, and at Arrecifes Seafood & Steakhouse, must of the seafood is caught fresh daily.
Finally, there is the spa, though I hesitate using that word because the most delightful of massage treatments are performed under pergolas by the ocean with the sound of waves crashing on the beach. Both inside and out, the exert staff cater to your body’s wants and needs through more than a dozen experiences, including a seaweed wrap that uses the medicinal guarana plant to hydrate even the driest of skin, and the green tea body wrap, which infuses the body with natural enzymes that help break down fat deposits.