A Wellness Oasis:
“Rage all day” vay-cay vibes are out, in favor of balanced, wellness getaways this season. It’s beautiful. It’s a travel hot-spot. It’s somewhere we want to be all year round. It’s Puerto Vallarta. The Westin Resort & Spa, Puerto Vallarta checks all the boxes for this trending “treat yourself” kind of trip and will make a stay feel like a tranquil breath of fresh air. If this is your vibe, we have a feeling that this resort will be everything you have been searching for. This past weekend I, Editor-in-Chief, Erika De La Cruz had the ultimate relaxation-vacation at this wellness spot. It’s located on the beautiful Marina of Puerto Vallarta, which is well-known for its spectacular beaches and unforgettable sunsets. At the end of a quick 3 hour flight from Los Angeles and best of all- a 10-minute drive from the airport once you land, the resort awaits, filled with everything you’ll need to re-fuel yourself. Traveling solo or with your special someone? Looking for a luxurious, but budget friendly resort ? No matter what your traveling situation is, this resort has something for everyone that will meet their interests and complete their vacation bucket lists. Follow along to discover the dreamiest amenities and treats in store at this resort. ¡Vámonos!
What to Expect:
From the moment I set foot onto this lovely resort, all of my worries started to wash ashore. Instead of the sounds of stressed out tourists and bags rolling around everywhere (which is sometimes the energy at hotels,) my ears were filled with the sound of trickling water on stone coming from the huge welcome-wall that sits at the entrance of the resort. The smell of white tea flooded the entire resort upon arrival and I was greeted with a mint infused mocktail and cool towel to begin my vacation. I was assisted every step of the check-in process by the Westin’s remarkable staff, who truly cared about me and my well-being, as was evident in the conversation. After an easy, stress-free process, I made it to my hotel room and was happily surprised to see my home for the next few days. A balcony with a view of the ocean, pools and gardens framed a deck with seating that was perfect for the meditations I had planned. Recurring fear of un-comfy beds? (Me too.) As someone who has trouble sleeping, the beds were certainly not a problem. Each room carries Westin’s signature Heavenly® Beds, which made me feel like I was back in my West Hollywood home. Chocolates were also placed my bed each day, adding a personalized, smile-worthy touch. After I got settled in and ready for the night on day one, I strolled around the property and instantly noticed how many palm trees tower the lawns. Fun Fact: This resort is set on 21 acres of palm trees, each one having their own personalized number to keep track.
The Spa at The Westin Puerto Vallarta was a great addition to my trip. With various service options like massages, facials, and peaceful indoor treatment rooms, you’d be missing out if you didn’t take some time for yourself to visit this spa. I received the sleep well massage, book ended with aroma therapy add-ons. Don’t feel like leaving your beach chair? No worries, book a beachfront massage to complete your ultra relaxing day, because you deserve it! If you’re a relaxed type of traveler, there are pool chairs and cocktails calling your name, but if you’re feeling like an adventurer tourist, book an incredible activity, like kayaking, to fill your days with fun.
Waves crashing and live music playing from the restaurants, plus swim up bars in the pools & walk up bars from the beach are only a few of the bonuses at this hotel. Here is a quick list of amenities to consider before booking:
- ATM Access
- Starbucks on site
- Pool Table/Ping Pong Table
- Spa Treatments
- Picnic Experiences
- In-room white tea shampoo and conditioner
- Complimentary water bottles restocked daily
- Pet-friendly (welcoming pups up to 40 lbs.)
- Fitness Center
Let’s Eat at the Resort:
Calling all foodies who love exploring authentic food that each travel spot has to offer, The Westin Resort & Spa will be your version of wellness heaven. The chef at the resort focusses on presentation, with an extra special addition of juices, fresh fruits and small touches to make sure your mind & soul eat too. With four restaurants on site, ranging from Seafood to Mexican and International food, plus they even have a snack bar for your midday pool-side snack. Feel the ocean breeze while eating freshly caught fish and enjoying a meal at Arrecifes Seafood & Steakhouse, which is The LA Girl’s pick at the resort. Arrecifes is located right next to the ocean and features live music being played from a second story music loft. If you’re craving more authentic Mexican style favorites (because duh, you’re in Mexico,) El Palmar Restaurant will leave your stomach full and your hearts filled, all while getting a gorgeous view of the resort.
My favorite experience at the resort was hands down the picnic experienced at sunset, overlooking the glistening Banderas Bay. Picnics are adorable and fun anywhere you are, but imagine a beach-side picnic in Puerto Vallarta, eating Westin branded sandwiches, perfectly timed with the setting sun… Let’s just say it was an unforgettable experience, and we hope everyone gets to experience this on their next visit. P.S., get your cameras ready once it hits 8 PM, because Puerto Vallarta sunsets are a photo you’ll want to keep forever.
Add an Excursion to Boost Your Stay:
Laying out everyday would be well worth it while you’re staying at the resort, but we also understand that adventuring off-site can add to your Mexico-vacay! My favorite excursion, and one I would highly recommend is taking a Vallarta Adventures boat out to Playa Majahuitas. This is your chance to visit a hidden cove and the trendiest beach club in Puerto Vallarta, all in one day! It is the ultimate go-to spot on Saturdays and Sundays, and from the moment you hop off the boat, you’ll know why. Spend some time by the beach, explore the jungle and enjoy tasty drinks by booking a boat trip to this island. If you’re planning to adventure off property for dining, we highly recommend the chic, yet authentic, Tintoque, which has been awarded as one of the 120 best restaurants in Mexico, and my oh my, we sure know why. The fresh ingredients to unique dishes at Tintoque felt like a magical fine dining experience: it’s located on an actual river and fireflies were present after the sun set.
Check out my personal Vacation Itinerary Video and have a blast on your next trip to The Westin Resort & Spa.
Disclosure: This trip was a fully hosted experience.
