Discover Mexico’s Best-Kept Secret: A 20,000-acre Paradise with Hidden Coves and Luxury Villas

Careyes, Mexico, is a place that transforms visitors, whether they’re ready or not. My first trip to this remote Pacific paradise in 2018 set the wheels in motion for a long-term plan I didn’t even know existed at the time.

The story of Careyes began in the 1960s when Italian banker Gian Franco Brignone flew over the rugged coastline and was captivated by its wild beauty. He purchased 20,000 acres of Pacific oceanfront, jungle, and mountains south of Puerto Vallarta, laying the foundation for a unique community. This community, nestled along nine miles of hidden coves and sea caves, has attracted a global mix of the creative, wealthy, and cultured.

Today, Careyes is a thriving enclave with extravagant villas and Positano-inspired casitas tucked away from view along Highway 200, the main artery running down Mexico’s Pacific Coast. According to Zach Rabinor, CEO of Journey Mexico, “The coast is unique — pristine, remote, low density, and little known,” making it a luxury escape for the rich and famous.

But what sets Careyes apart is how seamlessly it blends luxury with nature. Of its 20,000 acres, only two percent will ever be developed. The rest is a lush playground of villas, cliffside casitas, and ocean castles, offering travelers a mix of refined living and immersion in the natural world.

Top 5 Can’t-Miss Experiences in Careyes

1. Casitas de las Flores: A vibrant collection of ocean-view casitas that resemble an Italian village, walking distance from Careyes’ main amenities.
2. Copa del Sol: A spectacular concrete structure on a cliff used for healing ceremonies, offering breathtaking views.
3. Casa de Nada: A bohemian beachfront hideaway known for its mezcal cocktails and tacos.
4. Boat Tours: The best way to truly appreciate Careyes is from the water, revealing hidden coves and stunning landscapes.
5. Festivals: From polo tournaments to invite-only music festivals, Careyes knows how to celebrate in style.

Best Accommodations

• Ocean Castles: These iconic six-bedroom palaces, Sol de Oriente and Sol de Occidente, stand like sentinels on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific.
• Private Villas: Architecturally stunning clifftop villas that blend seamlessly with the landscape, each offering unique designs and spectacular views.
• El Careyes Club & Residences: A traditional hotel experience with oceanfront pools and a secluded bay.
• Casitas de las Flores: Colorful hillside casitas reminiscent of the Amalfi Coast, some featuring plunge pools.
• Beachfront Bungalows: Cozy, chic one-bedroom bungalows directly on Playa Rosa.

Best Things to Do in Careyes

• Get out on the water: A boat ride along the reef-fringed coast is a must.
• Stay active: Enjoy yoga, surfing, hiking, and outdoor adventures in the beautiful natural surroundings.
• Explore the property: With 20,000 acres, there’s always something new to discover, from hidden beaches to iconic landmarks.
• Join the festivities: Careyes hosts world-class events, including film festivals, music festivals, and polo tournaments.

Best Restaurants in Careyes

• Playa Rosa Beach Club: A Mediterranean-inspired menu in a pink-splashed beachfront setting.
• La Duna: Poolside dining at El Careyes Club & Residences with stunning ocean views.
• Casa de Nada: A personal favorite, offering fresh tacos and mezcal cocktails in a Moroccan-inspired beachfront setting.
• Shio Sushi: A hidden gem for sushi lovers.
• Punto Como: Overlooking the village square, serving hearty cuts of steak and seafood.

Best Time to Visit

The high season in Careyes runs from November to April, offering sunny days and cool nights. While the rainy season from June to October brings humidity, it also reveals the lush beauty of the region with vibrant greenery and fragrant blossoms.

How to Get There

Careyes is a three-hour drive from Puerto Vallarta International Airport or a 90-minute drive from Manzanillo’s Playa de Oro International Airport. Private charters are also available for a quicker trip.

Getting Around

While Careyes offers luxury transfers from the airport, guests will need their own vehicle to explore the expansive area, as there are no taxis or ride-sharing options. Having your own set of wheels ensures you can experience all the hidden gems this paradise has to offer.

Careyes is more than a luxury escape; it’s a transformative experience. It has a way of drawing you in, and for many, like me, one visit simply isn’t enough.