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Those that love Mexican getaways but tire of touristy Tulum and popular Puerto Vallerta will love the secluded retreat of lovely Costa Careyes. Once deserted, this stunning, under-the-radar gem was once a singular spot reserved for the who's who of European travelers seeking ultra secluded, luxe getaways; however, the laid-back Pacific Coast locale is enjoying a surge in popularity as a whole new generation of travelers discover its off-the-beaten-track appeal. Perfect for those who want a true island escape, Costa Careyes is not for those seeking high-action, bustling vacation destinations; instead, this spectacular coastal gem is the idyllic getaway for wanderers looking for tranquil vibes amid a luxe setting—an escape into a Mexico still relatively untouched and a magical place far away from the usual coastal crowds.
About The “Happy Coast”
The private Pacific Coast island of Costa Careyes is as inaccessible as it is beautiful. Flying under the radar first as an uninhabited isle and then as a chic resort playground for the European jet set, the stunning gem nestled between Puerto Vallarta and Manzanillo is now having a major renaissance as more and more travelers are discovering its dreamy, coastal charm. Think beachy vibes and a colorful atmosphere dominated by Mediterranean-Esque boho quaintness; a place where time seems to stand still and the rugged coastline, dubbed the “Happy Coast.” is as secluded as it is stunning. And don’t expect miles of tourist-packed beaches and attractions here—the beauty of Costa Careyes is its off-the-beaten-track appeal, its stretches of nearly deserted sandy beaches ringed with lush palm tree forests, all set to a rugged, picture-perfect mountain backdrop.
Max And Relax In Costa Careyes
Costa Careyes is not tourist-friendly Tulum, with its tours and big-time resorts—rather, the beauty of this Pacific Coast gem is its slower pace that allows visitors to truly appreciate the exotic island surroundings. The perfect place to get lost in the moment, Careyes is made for relaxing and soaking up the sun—whether it's by sunbathing on a secluded bit of sandy beach; or by strolling through the charming town square.
- Visit the Copa del Sol (Cup of the Sun), a bowl-shaped monument overlooking Teopa Beach, where guests can now participate in meditation, yoga, and a private sound bath. It’s also a great place for a spectacular Careyes sunset! Want to see more natural wonders? Then don’t miss the nearby spiritual sites, The Piramidion and El Centro del Universe.
- Stroll through the town square and visit the Careyes Art Space; then take in the island’s stunning architecture resplendent with Italian-style villas and luxe, castle-like residences sitting atop the rugged coastline; including the iconic bright blue villa, Casa Mi Ojo
- Rent a boat and see Careyes from the water—perfect for dolphin/whale watching and snorkeling sessions; hit the waves with a day of surfing at nearby Careyitos Beach
- Have a morning swim at Playa Rosa, then get the best of the beach with a visit to Teopa (and its turtle sanctuary!)
- Take a sunset horseback ride.
Where To Stay In Costa Careyes
Most of the accommodations in Careyes are uber luxe: think ocean castles perched high above the rugged coastline; private, sprawling European-style villas; and magical bungalows with stunning seaside views. And while many of these are available to rent (with a $$$$ price tag), there is one hotel where visitors can live the luxe life without (completely) breaking the bank: El Careyes Club and Residences. Once the Hotel Careyes, the newly renovated bayside property is a destination for top-tier lodging complete with stunning views and luxe amenities.
- Sumptuous one, two, three, or four-bedroom suites with fully equipped kitchens and beachy, bungalow appeal
- Ocean, jungle, or garden views
- Playa Tranquila private beach club and La Duna Restaurant
- Five infinity pools overlooking the Pacific Ocean
- Rates from $350 and up/night
Eat, Drink, And Be Merry In Costa Careyes
Guests will find that the culinary scene in Careyes is as laid back and minimal as the island itself. However, there are still a handful of delicious restaurants that make the grade when it comes to their stellar settings and top-notch, eclectic menus.
- La Duna Restaurant & Sunset Bar is Located in the Careyes Club and Residences Resort
- Playa Rosa Beach Club Carretera Manzanillo - Puerto Vallarta Km. 53.5 Careyes, Jalisco Mexico
- Pueblo25 Pintores #6, 48884 Careyes, Jal., Mexico
- Punto.Como Plaza de los Caballeros del Sol, P.º de los Artesanos S/N, 48894 Careyes, Jal., Mexico
- Casa de Nada Teopa Beach near Samadhi Nest Retreat 48892 Jalisco, Mexico
Though it’s just three short hours from popular Puerto Vallarta, the secluded beachside retreat of Costa Careyes is a true Mexican beach escape. A private escape built from a once uninhabited island, Careyes was once the exclusive playground of well-to-do vacationers. However, the immaculate island has found new life among travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-path beachy retreat sans crowds. With charming, seaside village vibes a-plenty, there is little to do in Careyes but soak up the atmosphere and distinctively magical vibes—from its sun-soaked, nearly deserted beaches to its uniquely spiritual sites; to its stunning natural beauty and quaint town square, the “happy place” is the ideal getaway for travelers looking for a laid back and relaxing Pacific Coast escape.