This dramatically pretty peninsula with absolutely exquisite beaches and sweeping views of both the bay and open water has always been a popular weekend escape from Puerto Vallarta. But since the Four Seasons Resort and Jack Nicklaus signature golf course opened a few years ago in the master-planned resort and residential community called Punta Mita, it is also attracting the attention of jet setters and those seeking the good life - many of whom arrive in their own planes. At the northern entrance to Banderas Bay, the 1600-acre very private and exclusive resort offers 9.5 miles of beach front and uninterrupted views. Other prestigious hotels will open here soon, the beach clubs, villas and services par none and just getting better and better as more high-end boutique hotels and residences come on stream. if you are not a guest of Punta Mita or hold a reservation at one of its restaurants you will not be permitted access to the resort itself, security top-notch. Everyone can enjoy the public beach El Anclote, however, a small, typical Mexican fishing village now getting spiffed up as a result of the recent infusion of sophistication and wealth to the area. So there are some really good but still very neat restaurants to eat at, with palapas and lounges on the beach available for your use at no cost if you patronize them. From this beach you can clearly see the nearby Las Marietas islands and arrange sightseeing trips by boat, rent a kayak, catamaran and snorkeling gear, or hire a panga with a guide to take you out whale watching.

• 25 miles north of the airport
• Reached by public bus, private car and taxi
• Small boats can be rented at El Anclote
• Don't miss the chance to visit the nearby Las Marietas nature reserve, home to the amusing Blue-footed bobby