By Gretchen Pahia

If you are ready to take the friendly skies once again, look no further than our neighbors to the south. Located in the mountain-meets-ocean landscape of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico is the Westin Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta. This dream destination is not only a great getaway for couples looking for a romantic vacation, but also a perfect spot for families or a getaway with friends.

The luxury wellness resort is located on beachfront property, which is ideal for guests who are looking to enjoy the sun and sand. There are two sparkling pools with swim-up bars, endless rows of chaise lounges and day beds, surrounded by hundreds of palm trees and lush greenery, making you feel like you’re in a secluded oasis. Ocean lovers can take advantage of non-motorized water sport rentals, like paddle boarding and kayaking, while the kids enjoy the Westin Kids Club and outdoor playground.

When it comes to food, there is no lack of amazing meal options at the Westin Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta. At Arrecifes Seafood & Steakhouse, guests can dine on juicy steak and flavorful seafood as they gaze out at Banderas Bay at the open-air beach club. El Palmar Restaurant features a sophisticated atmosphere and seasonal Mexican and international fare. La Cascada Restaurant & Bar, located in the lobby, is a vibrant bar and the ideal spot for catching up with friends over a drink and a light bite.

Looking for a room with a view? The Westin has you covered. All the rooms have ocean-facing balconies so you can take in the amazing views of Banderas Bay. During the winter months when the whales migrate to the region, you might even be lucky enough to catch the action from the comfort of your private balcony suite.

The Spa at Westin Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta is tucked past the property’s beautiful garden and offers treatment rooms for singles and couples, as well as the opportunity enjoy an al fresco spa treatment beachside in a private pergola. Spa treatments range from massages to full-body transformations, including scrubs, facials and beauty treatments like hair color, hair styling and manicures/pedicures. The Spa features a state-of-the-art fitness studio with the latest equipment like TRX and ample free weights to continue striving toward health goals, even while on vacation. Past the gym, guests enjoy a covered terrace that overlooks the private tennis courts.

One of the property’s newest offerings is Seaside Sunset Picnics. With straw floor mats covering the grass, a rustic wooden table, comfortable pillows to sit on, and a traditional picnic basket, this picnic is the perfect way to soak in Puerto Vallarta’s world-famous pink-hued sunsets that make a stellar contrast with the deep-blue water of the Banderas Bay. The ocean front picnic is catered by the resort’s Arrecifes restaurant, featuring a gourmet selection of charcuterie, sandwiches, and of course —plenty of bubbly to help toast to the good life.

This fall and winter season, travelers seeking a wellness-focused sunny escape can take advantage of the resort’s “Detox for a Better You” package that offers a deluxe room with a private balcony overlooking the Banderas Bay. The “Detox for a Better You” package also includes complimentary breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks from the Detox Menus at each restaurant, as well as non-alcoholic and detox beverages from the Detox menus at all hotel bars. Detox menu items include fresh squeezed juices, smoothies, energizing shots and non-alcoholic craft cocktails.

The Westin Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta prides itself on ensuring not only the comfort and relaxation of its guests, but also overall health and wellness. Whether you are ready to take on an outdoor hike, snorkeling and scuba diving adventures, or if you are simply looking for serenity and pampering, the Westin is here to make sure your desires are met. In the current travel environment, there are concerns about returning safely to the U.S. Rest assured, the Westin has you covered. For any guest staying three nights or more on property, there is complimentary COVID-19 testing offered on-site, so you will be able to meet travel requirements to get back home.

Westin Resort & Spa Puerto Vallarta hits the spot for those looking for a tropical getaway. Whether a long romantic weekend or a weeklong vacation with friends or family, this oceanfront jewel has it all. For more information, visit westinpuertovallarta.com.