Cuixmala

Cuixmala

Jalisco, Mexico

  • Coast
  • Forest
  • Wildlife
  • Nature
  • Wellness
££££pp / nightVisit website

Mexican authenticity and Moorish elegance at this estate on the coast

Cuixmala is a stunning estate of Mexican authenticity and Moorish elegance on Mexico’s Pacific coast. Originally the private retreat of billionaire Sir James Goldsmith and his family, Cuixmala is now open to travellers who want to experience a slice of paradise. Cuixmala is located on the Costalegre, a stretch of coastline south of Puerto Vallarta. The estate covers 5km of golden sand beach, backed by lush jungle and coconut palm groves. The landscape is diverse and dramatic, with rolling savannahs, lagoons, rivers and hills. The reserve is home to more than 270 species of birds and 70 species of mammals, including some endangered ones such as jaguars, ocelots and sea turtles.

The estate consists of 12 suites, three villas and 10 casitas, set within a 30,000-acre nature reserve. Cuixmala is also home to a biodynamic farm that produces organic fruits, vegetables, dairy and meat. The farm also supports local communities by providing jobs and education. Cuixmala also runs an ecological foundation that focuses on research and protection of the biodiversity and ecosystems within the reserve. Guests can learn more about the foundation’s work and participate in activities such as birdwatching, turtle release and wildlife monitoring.

Sustainability

Climate & conservation

  • Protecting a 30,000-acre nature reserve for jaguars and ocelots
  • A 5,000-acre biodynamic farm supplying the resort's restaurants
  • Co-founded the Chamela-Cuixmala Biosphere Reserve with UNAM
  • Releasing sea turtle hatchlings with guests on Playa Cuixmala

Community & culture

  • Supporting 150 ongoing research projects within the reserve
  • Funding biodiversity protection across the wider Jalisco region
  • Providing employment and skilled training for the local community
  • Featuring handcarved furniture and textiles from the region

Commercial

  • Condé Nast Traveler Reader's Choice Award winner 2017-2021
  • Primary funding source for the Cuixmala Ecological Foundation

In brief

Price bracket
££££
Type of property
Eco resort
No. of rooms
13 villas & suites
Max guests per room
Villas have up to five guest rooms, while casitas come in one, two or three-bedroom layouts.
Facilities
Restaurant, Bar, Wifi, Pool, Beach access, Garden, Tours desk
Activities
Birdwatching, Turtle release, Wildlife monitoring, Horse riding, Nature walks
Setting
Coast · Jungle · Wildlife

Best time to visit

  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec

The dry season from November to May offers the best weather.

Kids

Families welcome, all ages.

Accessibility

The vast estate covers hilly, rugged terrain and may be challenging for guests with mobility issues.

Jalisco, Mexico

££££pp / night Visit website

Guide price · £ <£100 · ££ £100–300 · £££ £300–800 · ££££ £800+ pp / night