Arriving at a Four Seasons anywhere in the world always feels like a homecoming to me, especially in Mexico – which is double meaningful, having lived and worked there during my hotelier days.
Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo is tucked away on a private peninsula on Mexico’s rugged Pacific coastline. The hotel is nestled inside a 3,000-acre nature reserve, where tropical jungle blends seamlessly into glittering sandy beaches. Trust me when I say this is one of those places you never want to leave.
With five Four Seasons resorts in Mexico – what makes Tamarindo unique, you might ask? When done right by one of the world’s best hotel companies, the more the merrier is what I believe. Keep reading below for all the details on my recent experience at this gorgeous property!
A Haven of Natural Harmony
Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo is truly remote, sitting on the western coast of Jalisco province, about 200 kilometers south of Puerto Vallarta, it is ideal for nature and beach lovers who want to feel like the place belongs to them. With only a fraction of the land developed, Tamarindo celebrates its surroundings, offering lucky guests a chance to immerse themselves in the rhythms of the wild, while still enjoying top-notch amenities and service.
I love what long-time friend and colleague Felix Murillo (General Manager at FS Tamarindo) shared about their ethos – that they are dedicated to the concept of ‘rewilding’ or enabling the Earth’s natural rhythms to flourish and nature to recover its balance. You feel this on arrival in the outdoor lobby where you can’t help but be drawn to the expansive Pacific Ocean views that instantly shift you into relaxation mode.
Mexico is a massive country and though I feel I have explored so much of it, I was excited to find Tamarindo is a destination of its own! Guests are in great hands here.
Getting There
There are multiple ways to get to Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo. You can fly nonstop commercially to Puerto Vallarta and then hop on the resort’s private 30-minute flight path South along the coast, eventually landing on a grass airstrip and then finishing the trip with a 45 minute drive into the reserve (seats on the private plane are sold per person by the resort). Just 50 minutes from the resort is the Manzanillo airport which is increasing its non-stop commercial flight options from Atlanta and Los Angeles three times weekly, and from Mexico City daily. (Hint: A PERFECT compliment to a stay at Four Seasons Tamarindo is a few nights in vibrant Mexico City!!! Check out my blog)
VIP Lounge? Here we are at the local “air strip” awaiting our flight to take off.
Cliffside Suite
We enjoyed a privileged location in a Cliffside Suite, an area with top views and ideal for couples.
For beach lovers and families, beachfront rooms and suites are the best answer, as these accommodations are conveniently located with easy access to the restaurants, fitness center, spa, and main reception area.
I love a good mini-bar offering, and the local products and treats here are carefully curated by the team at FS Tamarindo!
Culinary Adventures with a Local Flair
Dining at Four Seasons Tamarindo is a celebration of Mexico’s rich culinary heritage, with seasonal ingredients sourced directly from ‘Rancho Lola’ the resort’s own on-site farm named after Felix’s Belgian Shepherd who was the resort’s first ‘Exploradora’.
I am a big foodie and I will say that the food here is the best I have had at any resort in Mexico (I feel like I always say that, but the bar has certainly been raised here!!). Every bite was seriously thoughtful in taste and presentation.
Our first meal was at Nacho, the casual pool side taqueria, and I am not going to lie – we had several meals here and it never got old.
We had a fabulous dinner at Coyul, the resort’s fine dining restaurant. Created in partnership with The World’s Best Female Chef 2023 – Elena Reygadas – Coyul emphasizes the importance of seasonality and sustainability. Service, food, and wine offerings from throughout the country are TOP IN CLASS!
Perhaps our favorite meal, however, was surprisingly sophisticated, delicate, and light – and this was at Sal. This is open-aired dining and barefoot luxury at its best. With crashing waves as your soundtrack, the deep-blue ocean as the backdrop, and a menu of ceviche, raw oysters, and fresh catch of the day cooked to order – all of it was heavenly.
El Tamarindo Golf
I would not necessarily think of Four Seasons Tamarindo as a golf resort, however, the golf course is spectacular and golfers feel as though they have the course to themselves. It feels luxuriously private and exclusive. A true hidden treasure, El Tamarindo Golf Course was opened in 1995 and has become a coveted destination for the world’s most serious golf aficionados. Careful management of the number of players that tee off each day will make you feel like you have the entire course to yourself. While Gil is an avid golfer, I am lucky If I get a few rounds of 9-holes in each year and the un-hurried, relaxed pace of the breathtaking course makes for a fabulous round. It does not hurt that the team is glad to shake up a fresh margarita for you as you celebrate a great drive.
“There is not one flawed hole on this 6,682-yard, par-72 course and no less than 13 holes could qualify for signature status. ‘Numbers six, seven, eight and nine may be the best string of four holes in the world. Before dismissing this as an overstatement, try them,’ says Golf Odyssey Magazine. The publication rated El Tamarindo ‘the best hidden link in the world’ and among the ‘ top 10 most spectacular, beautiful and fun to play.’ ”
Leisure Pursuits
For those seeking adventure, the resort offers an array of activities to keep you entertained and on-the-go. Discover secluded coves, hike through jungle trails, or e-bike along the coast.
Nature enthusiasts can go on bird-watching, ethnobotanical or night exploration walks. Shutterbugs can indulge in macro-photography with a National Geographic photographer.
Prefer a slower pace? Lounge by the one of the infinity pools – you have three-levels to choose from, or head to Majahua Beach for a siesta.
For spa junkies, you can indulge in one of their signature treatments using copal. Revered for its purifying and restorative benefits, copal is derived from the resin of native trees from the private reserve. The fitness center is state of the art and multiple fitness classes as well as personal training are offered each day.
Sustainability at Its Core
Four Seasons Tamarindo is more than a luxury resort; it is a model of sustainable tourism. The property and team are committed to preserving the natural environment and supporting the local community. From its eco-friendly design to its conservation efforts, the resort aims to ensure that it remains a pristine haven for generations to come.
Whether you’re looking to reconnect with nature, celebrate a special occasion, or simply escape the everyday, Tamarindo is the perfect indulgent destination. Sí, Señor!