When Italian banker Gian Franco Brignone first surveyed the dramatic cliffs of Careyes, Mexico, in the 1960s, he envisioned a sanctuary amidst the untamed jungle and secluded shores, accessible only by air. Over half a century later, his vision has blossomed into a nine-mile stretch of breathtaking coastline, adorned with private villas and majestic cliffside castles, earning Careyes the evocative title of “Mexico’s Positano.” However, the comparison to the Amalfi Coast serves merely as a starting point, for Careyes possesses a unique allure that transcends simple imitation.
While undeniably a jet-set destination, drawing in discerning travelers, fashion icons, and celebrities like Tom Ford, Cindy Crawford, and Mick Jagger, Careyes offers an experience deeply rooted in nature and artistic expression. Beyond the striking palapa-style architecture, which often doubles as captivating art installations and serene sound healing spaces, the vast 36,000-acre domain of Careyes is profoundly shaped by its natural environment.
Unlike some of Mexico’s rapidly expanding and more ostentatious resort areas, Careyes is committed to preserving its pristine beauty. Remarkably, less than three percent of the total land is slated for development, ensuring that the majority of its lush jungle will remain a protected biosphere. The discerning visitors who are drawn to Careyes are not seeking the limelight; instead, they are attracted to a haven of tranquility and understated elegance. That said, the fashion showcased during annual events like Ondalinda, an exclusive art and music festival considered Mexico’s refined counterpart to Burning Man, is a spectacle in itself.
People journey to Careyes to forge connections – with the stunning natural surroundings and with a vibrant community of forward-thinkers who are transforming this Pacific coastal area into a captivating nexus of art and creativity within Mexico. Here’s a guide to the essential experiences and exceptional accommodations within this architectural marvel nestled in Jalisco’s rich jungle landscape.
Image: Attendees in elaborate costumes at the Ondalinda Festival in Careyes, Mexico, a unique cultural event.
Getting to and Experiencing Careyes
Reaching Careyes is part of its secluded charm. It is approximately a three-hour drive from Puerto Vallarta International Airport, or a shorter 90-minute drive from Playa de Oro International Airport in Manzanillo. For those seeking ultimate convenience, private charter flights are available between Puerto Vallarta and a grass landing strip in Chamela, just 20 minutes from Careyes.
Begin your exploration of Careyes at its social heart, the Playa Rosa Beach Club. From there, embrace the coastal beauty by renting a paddleboard or kayak to glide along the serene waters. Alternatively, embark on a boat excursion to discover hidden sea caves and pristine white-sand private beaches, such as the idyllic stretch adjacent to Casa Tauro. At Casa Tauro’s beach, indulge in a bespoke Bedouin-style picnic featuring fresh shrimp ceviche and octopus aquachile, or opt for a magical candlelit dinner and bonfire on the sand as the sun dips below the horizon.
To fully embrace the wellness ethos of Careyes, a defining aspect of this destination, participate in a rejuvenating yoga retreat led by renowned instructors like Ashley Galvin from Alo Moves. For a truly unique experience, partake in a sound healing ceremony within La Copa del Sol, an awe-inspiring 35-foot-high concrete, saucer-shaped structure dramatically perched on a cliff overlooking the vast Pacific Ocean.
Image: A vibrant scene from the Ondalinda Festival in Careyes, Mexico, showcasing art, music, and cultural experiences.
Careyes comes alive with events, particularly during the high season from late November to mid-April. The season commences with the annual Ondalinda festival, a four-day immersion into art installations, captivating music and DJ sets, wellness activities including traditional seaside temazcal rituals and cacao ceremonies, and an Indigenous craft market and fashion showcase celebrating Mexican artistry. In January, Careyes hosts a grand celebration for Chinese New Year, complete with spectacular fireworks displays, refined mezcal tastings, themed culinary experiences, and art and design collaborations that fuse Mexican handcrafted traditions with the symbolism of Chinese astrology.
