The hype
Travelers are obsessed with the aesthetics and the 'jungle vibe,' but many feel the service doesn't match the high price tag.
W Punta De Mita
$350-600/ night
Book this if You want a high-energy, design-forward jungle escape that feels like 'Jurassic Park' meets a chic pool party, and you don't mind being 45 minutes from the action.
Why People Love It
- The 'Huichol Walkway'—a stunning mosaic path that cuts through the property to the ocean
- Two distinct pool vibes: a buzzy, DJ-fueled main pool and a secluded, glass-walled adults-only pool
- Surfing right out front at Playa Veneros, one of the few swimmable and surfable breaks in the area
Quick Take: It’s a visually stunning Instagram trap that struggles with inconsistent service and humidity issues in the jungle rooms.
Reviewed by @femme_foodie: I was blown away by the design here. The mosaic walkway representing the Huichol life journey is stunning, and the open-air lobby vibe is just perfect. If you love art and laid-back luxury, this place is a dream.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'all-inclusive' packages are often misunderstood or poorly explained by staff, leading to surprise bills at checkout.
- You care more about vibes, design, and photo ops than white-glove service
- You want a surf-in/surf-out luxury experience without the stuffiness of the St. Regis
- You are traveling with a dog (the 'P.A.W.' program is genuinely welcoming)
Cleanliness & Maintenance
7
- Housekeeping: Inconsistent. Recent reviews cite missed daily cleanings and late turndown service.
- Bathroom hygiene: Generally clean, but the open design means humidity gets everywhere. Watch for mildew in corners of jungle rooms.
- Maintenance: Showing age. Reports of broken trash cans, lukewarm water, and peeling paint in humid areas.
- Linens & towels: Standard W quality—decent, but some reports of dampness due to the climate.
- Odors & scents: Jungle rooms often have a lingering musty/damp smell that AC struggles to clear.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Chachalaca birds (loud squawking in early morning)
- DJ bass from the Wet Deck (if near the pool)
- Golf carts and guests on wooden walkways
Before you book
Good to know
- Self-parking is free (a rarity in this area), so renting a car is highly recommended to save on taxi fares.
- Breakfast is not standard; the buffet costs ~$40 USD/person if not included in your rate.
- The beach is swimmable but has rocky patches—bring water shoes if you have sensitive feet.
What to pack
- Bug spray (essential for jungle paths and dining al fresco)
- Water shoes for the rocky parts of Playa Veneros
- Earplugs if you're a light sleeper staying in a Jungle room
Room Genie
Best picks
- Ocean Front Haven (Suites) – worth the splurge for the private plunge pool and sunset views
- Spectacular Ocean View – ensures you are above the tree line for light and air flow
Rooms to avoid
- Wonderful Jungle Escape – often dark, damp, and ground-level (bug prone)
- Lagoon View rooms – can be noisy from walkway traffic and lack privacy
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“Request a room on a higher floor in the Ocean View block to avoid the humidity and bugs of the ground-level jungle rooms. If booking a suite, ask for one away from the Wet Deck to minimize bass vibration.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the beach swimmable?
Yes, Playa Veneros is one of the best swimmable beaches in the area, though it has some rocky sections. It's also great for beginner surfing.
Is it all-inclusive?
No, it is a standard European plan hotel. They sell 'all-inclusive' packages, but read the fine print—guests report exclusions on certain restaurants and top-shelf liquor.
How far is the town?
You are isolated. La Cruz de Huanacaxtle is 10-15 mins by car; Punta Mita town (El Anclote) is 15-20 mins. Puerto Vallarta is 45-60 mins.
Is it kid-friendly?
Surprisingly yes. While it has a party vibe, there is a family pool ('Wet') and the surf is gentle. However, the open bathrooms can be awkward for families.
Are there hidden fees?
Expect a 10-15% service charge on top of taxes. Resort fees are often bundled or vague, so check your booking total carefully.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, it's very pet-friendly. The fee is ~$150 USD for deep cleaning plus ~$20 USD daily.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Walk 10 minutes down the beach to the right to find empty stretches of sand away from the hotel crowds.
- ✨
The 'Mesa 1' private dining experience is on a tiny island in the lake—book it for a proposal or big celebration (expensive but memorable).
- ✨
Visit the 'Away Spa' just to use the hydrotherapy circuit in the jungle—it's often empty and incredibly peaceful.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Jungle' rooms can smell musty due to the intense humidity and lack of direct sunlight.
💡You might see scorpions or land crabs on the walkways at night—watch your step.
💡The 'Huichol Walkway' is slippery when wet; be careful after rain.
💡Room service delivery can take 45+ minutes during peak times due to the sprawling layout.
💡The 'Adults Only' pool is actually quieter and hotter (temperature-wise) than the main pool.
Local Playbook
Map
See where W Punta De Mita is located and what's nearby.