Optional Tours
Punta de Mita is a 1500-acre peninsula located on the northern end of Banderas Bay, in Riviera Nayarit; just 42km north from Puerto Vallarta airport. Punta Mita was originally home to artisans, merchants, and fishermen. It is now one of the most sophisticated tourist destinations on the west coast of Mexico. It offers great surfing, snorkelling and water activities, a range of other active adventures and local cultural activities. The famous “hippie – surfing” town of Sayulita is only 30 m to the north along the coast.
General Details
Registration:
Please register for the tours/activities by using the on-line registration system. This system automatically controls the inventory of available places on each activity. We recommend that you sign up as soon as possible to ensure you obtain your first choice and aren't disappointed. Registration will close on Friday, September 22, 2023.
Once the registration has closed we will know whether we have enough interest to run an individual tour, based on the minimum required. We will then issue invoices for the tours. If there is not enough interest then we will be back in touch with you as soon as possible so that you can make an alternative choice.
Pricing:
The prices for each tour reflect the actual US dollar costs charged by the supplier. We have reviewed a range of tour options and the prices listed reflect the market prices for comparable tours and activities. The price is also based on a minimum number of participants, as indicated. If fewer than the minimum number sign up for a tour, then the tour will be cancelled.
Payment:
Please note that these optional activities are not included as part of the conference package. We will send you an invoice and collect payment in September, immediately after your tour is confirmed. Payment in CDN funds will need to be made then. Cash, cheque or credit cards are accepted (a 3.0% merchant fee applies to credit card payment).
Cancellation:
The tours and excursions are subject to the terms and conditions of the third party suppliers, as listed by each activity. These cancellation terms will apply unless we are able to resell your spot to another participant.
8:30 AM - 11:30 AM | Hiking – Cerro del Mono ($130 USD) Thursday, November 2, 2023, 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
8:30 AM - 1:00 PM | Snorkeling at Marietas Island ($185 USD) Thursday, November 2, 2023, 8:30 AM - 1:00 PM | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
9:00 AM - 1:00 PM | Fish Market Tour & Cooking – with Chef Hector! ($225 USD) Thursday, November 2, 2023, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
1:30 PM - 5:30 PM | Surfing! – For Beginners Or Vets! ($245 USD) Thursday, November 2, 2023, 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM |
12:30 PM - 5:00 PM | San Pancho Food Tour ($220 USD) Friday, November 3, 2023, 12:30 PM - 5:00 PM | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
12:30 PM - 5:30 PM | Akali Private Catamaran Sail & Snorkeling ($230 USD) Friday, November 3, 2023, 12:30 PM - 5:30 PM | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
1:30 PM - 4:30 PM | Huichol Indigenous Art Workshop ($140 USD) Friday, November 3, 2023, 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
1:30 PM - 5:30 PM | Surfing! – For Beginners Or Vets! ($245 USD) Friday, November 3, 2023, 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM |
12:30 PM - 5:00 PM | San Pancho Food Tour ($220 USD) Saturday, November 4, 2023, 12:30 PM - 5:00 PM | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
1:00 PM - 5:30 PM | Snorkeling at Marietas Island ($185 USD) Saturday, November 4, 2023, 1:00 PM - 5:30 PM | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
1:30 PM - 4:30 PM | Huichol Indigenous Art Workshop ($140 USD) Saturday, November 4, 2023, 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
1:30 PM - 5:30 PM | Surfing! – For Beginners Or Vets! ($245 USD) Saturday, November 4, 2023, 1:30 PM - 5:30 PM |
![2505372-642f06e18d842.png](https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/medium/2505372-642f06e18d842.png)
Snorkeling at Marietas Island
Available on:
Thursday, November 2, 2023
8:30 am – 1:00 pm
Saturday, November 4, 2023
1:00 – 5:30 pm
![2506270-642f38ecadc42.png](https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/medium/2506270-642f38ecadc42.png)
Catamaran & Snorkeling Tour
Available on:
Friday, November 3, 2023
12:30 – 5:30 pm
(includes lunch)
![2506321-642f3ca2da0d6.png](https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/medium/2506321-642f3ca2da0d6.png)
Hiking – Cerro del Mono
Available on:
Thursday, November 2, 2023
8:30 – 11:30 am
(not offered in afternoons as it is too hot)
![2505409-642f088b56b69.png](https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/medium/2505409-642f088b56b69.png)
Fish Market Tour & Cooking – with Chef Hector!
Available on:
Thursday, November 2, 2023
9:00 am – 1:00 pm
(only Thursday as market is in the morning!)
![2505480-642f0c02171d4.png](https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/medium/2505480-642f0c02171d4.png)
Surfing – For Beginner or Vets!
Available on:
Thursday, November 2, 2023
1:30 – 5:30 pm
Friday, November 3, 2023
1:30 – 5:30 pm
Saturday, November 4, 2023
1:30 – 5:30 pm
![2505613-642f12b54ab4f.png](https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/medium/2505613-642f12b54ab4f.png)
San Pancho Food Tour
Available on:
Friday, November 3, 2023
12:30 – 5:00 pm
Saturday, November 4, 2023
12:30 – 5:00 pm
Includes lunch)
![2505673-642f15ea4083e.png](https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/medium/2505673-642f15ea4083e.png)
![2505650-642f14ca85ccf.png](https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/medium/2505650-642f14ca85ccf.png)
Huichol Indigenous Art Workshop
Available on:
Friday, November 3, 2023
1:30 – 4:30 pm
Saturday, November 4, 2023
1:30 – 4:30 pm
![2505673-642f15ea4083e.png](https://assets.swoogo.com/uploads/medium/2505673-642f15ea4083e.png)
Snorkeling at Marietas Island
DATES:
Thursday, November 2, 2023 | 8:30 am – 1:00 pm
Saturday, November 4, 2023 | 1:00 – 5:30 pm
Enjoy fantastic coastal scenery and wildlife at this UNESCO protected marine site. You will transfer 20 minutes from the Four Seasons to Marina Riviera Nayarit at La Cruz where you will board the speedboat for the trip to Las Marietas. The boat ride from the marina to the islands is approximately 40 minutes across Banderas Bay and in November it is often common to spot humpback whales, dolphins and sometime giant mantas.
In the early 1900s the islands were used as a military testing site. After a massive international outcry, started by Jacques Cousteau, the government declared the islands a national park. The islands have been called Mexico’s Galapagos and are home to over 44 species of plants and wildlife. Many species of seabirds use the location as feeding and breeding grounds, including blue-footed boobies and red-billed tropicbirds. Many different varieties of coral grow there, which, in turn, are home to a large variety of reef fish species. Eels and many species of sea turtles are found in the reefs and the caves that dot the site.
When you arrive at the site there will be an opportunity to snorkel, paddleboard and cruise around the fascinating rock formations to see the wildlife up close. After your visit to the Marietas you may choose to enjoy a beer or some wine on the return trip. The return voyage is only 20 minutes to the harbour at Punta Mita. At this smaller harbour you will transfer from the larger speed boat to a small fishing boat tender, which will take you into the tiny harbour. You may end up crossing over other small fishing vessels to the pier. From here the drive back to the hotel is only 10 minutes.
COST PER PERSON:
▪ USD $185; it is an additional USD $18.00 for beer and wine.
▪ This tour has a minimum of 14 people and maximum of 14 people
TOUR INCLUDES:
▪ Transportation to Marina Riviera Nayarit at La Cruz and then back from the Marina in Punta Mita;
▪ Marina Pier access fees;
▪ National Park access bracelet;
▪ Soft drinks and water;
▪ Snorkeling gear;
▪ Paddle boards to share;
▪ Gratuities to crew members.
TERMS:
▪ Tour payments are non-refundable once paid. If you have to cancel your Optional Tour, you will not be entitled to return of any funds.
WHAT TO BRING / COMMENTS:
▪ Comfortable clothing is suggested: shorts, t-shirts, bathing suit, towel, sun tan lotion, and hat.
▪ There are no bathroom facilities on board.
Akali Private Catamaran and Snorkeling Tour
DATE:
Friday, November 3, 2023 | 12:30 – 5:30 pm (includes lunch)
This is the perfect trip for relaxation and some light exploration on the water. This excursion will give you the opportunity to experience the beauty of the waters off the coast of Punta Mita in Banderas Bay. In November you can spot humpback whales, dolphins and sometime giant mantas.
You will transfer 20 minutes from the Four Seasons to Marina Riviera Nayarit at La Cruz where you will board the Catamaran for your trip down the coast. We will head north to enjoy the view of the coast and head towards a great beach for an afternoon of snorkeling and swimming.
This cruise includes a deli lunch with guacamole, chips and seasonal fruit, fresh ceviche, green or caprese salad, and cheese and ham paninos. Soft drinks, bottled water, and cranberry juices are available. There is a premium open bar on board after snorkeling with beer, rum, tequila, and vodka drinks. There is a great sound system on board to add a musical vibe to the day. Very importantly there are also 2 toilets on board.
COST PER PERSON:
▪ USD $230.
▪ This tour has a minimum of 25 people and maximum of 50 people
TOUR INCLUDES:
▪ Round trip transportation to Marina Riviera Nayarit at La Cruz;
▪ Marina Pier access fees;
▪ Snorkeling equipment;
▪ Paddle boards and a kayak to share;
▪ Lunch – as described, soft drinks and water;
▪ Open bar after snorkeling;
▪ Gratuities to crew members.
TERMS:
▪ Tour payments are non-refundable once paid. If you have to cancel your Optional Tour, you will not be entitled to return of any funds.
WHAT TO BRING / COMMENTS:
▪ Comfortable clothing is suggested: shorts, t-shirts, bathing suit, towel, sun tan lotion, and hat.
Hiking – Cerro del Mono
DATE:
Thursday, November 2, 2023 | 8:30 – 11:30 am
The Cerro del Mono (Monkey Mountain) is the highest hill of the Punta de Mita area overlooking Banderas Bay from a height of 1,150 feet. The trail has a few challenging sections, but visitors of all ages enjoy this hike every year because of the beauty that surrounds you from the first step to the incredible view at the top. The walk through the resplendent green of the jungle up to the top gives you a chance to appreciate the flora and fauna of the region. The trail is very well defined in general, but near the summit the terrain becomes rocky. Fortunately, at no time is it necessary to climb or scramble, it just takes a little care to reach the top.
The lookout at the top is a wide space, with a 360-degree view where you can sit and admire the greenery and beauty of the northern part of Banderas Bay, the majesty of the peninsula on which Punta Mita is located, the Marietas Islands, Litibu Beach, and Sayulita; all while enjoying the breeze off the ocean. From on high, you can see the boats navigate the waters of Riviera Nayarit, following the rise and fall of the waves and the marine currents.
There are several theories regarding the origin of Cerro del Mono’s name. According to the inhabitants of Higuera Blanca, it received this name because a number of totems depicting primates were found in the area. It is presumed that the objects belonged to the tribes that inhabited the region long ago. Another belief states that monkeys inhabited the area previously. None of these stories has been documented or officially proven; so, you will have to decide for yourself.
COST PER PERSON:
▪ USD $130.
▪ This tour has a minimum of 10 people and maximum of 30 people
TOUR INCLUDES:
▪ Round trip transportation to Rancho Vista Paraiso, the launching spot for the hike;
▪ Bilingual tour guide;
▪ Gratuities for the guide;
▪ Bottled water;
▪ Hand fruit and a granola bar;
▪ Tequila tasting once the tour is completed - if you want. .
TERMS:
▪ Tour payments are non-refundable once paid. If you have to cancel your Optional Tour, you will not be entitled to return of any funds.
WHAT TO BRING / COMMENTS:
▪ Good walking or hiking shoes are essential.
▪ For safety reasons pregnant woman and people with back, neck, heart or dizziness conditions are not permitted to take this tour.
▪ This tour is only offered on Thursday as it is best done in the morning before the heat of the afternoon sun.
Fish Market Tour & Cooking – with Chef Hector!
DATE:
Thursday, November 2, 2023 | 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Hector was the top chef at the Four Seasons’ resort and then ventured out on his own. Hector’s Kitchen was Hector’s first restaurant – and we love it! He has now opened Zicatela on the main beach in Punta Mina. His cooking, and fun personality is revered by the locals and “in demand” with the tourists. Today, Hector is going to share some of his secrets and, of course, his food with you!
We’ll start with a quick 10-minute drive into Punta Mita to join Hector at his restaurant and head over to the local seafood market to make our own “fresh catch of the day” purchase. After learning how to choose the best fish from the local fishermen we will head back to Hector’s Kitchen to learn from the master. After a bit of slicing and dicing, and maybe a tasting of some local artisanal beers, you will sit down and enjoy your creation with Hector. We promise you won’t go away hungry!
COST PER PERSON:
▪ USD $225.
▪ This tour has a minimum of 6 people and maximum of 15 people
TOUR INCLUDES:
▪ Round trip transportation to Punta Mita;
▪ Lunch;
▪ Cooking equipment;
▪ Seafood market tour;
▪ Local craft beer tasting;
▪ Gratuities for the driver.
TERMS:
▪ Tour payments are non-refundable once paid. If you have to cancel your Optional Tour, you will not be entitled to return of any funds.
WHAT TO BRING / COMMENTS:
▪ Your curiosity and appetite.
Surfing! – For Beginners or Vets!
DATE:
Thursday, November 2, 2023 | 1:30 – 5:30 pm
Friday, November 3, 2023 | 1:30 – 5:30 pm
Saturday, November 4, 2023 | 1:30 – 5:30 pm
A quick 10-minute transfer will take you from the Four Seasons Resort to the Mictlan Surf Shop in Punta Mita. These guys are pros…. and surf bums extraordinaire. They have everything you need for surfing. Wet suits, boards, great instructors and most importantly…. they know where the surf is breaking that day! They will take you to the beach, and sea conditions, that match your ability. It could be close by or up to 30 minutes away; it all depends on what the wind and sea are doing. There is a ratio of two instructors for every four participants.
They divide surfers up based on these skill levels:
Beginners: Those who have taken 10 lessons or less.
Intermediate: You can surf on your own, and take waves; but can not do tricks.
Advanced: You can surf with all board types (short board, long board, & high performance) and need instructors only for coaching to get better.
COST PER PERSON:
▪ USD $245.
▪ This tour has a minimum of 4 people and maximum of 12 people
TOUR INCLUDES:
▪ Round trip transportation to the Surf shop, the beach where you will be surfing and back to the hotel;
▪ One fibre glass board per person;
▪ A lycra or spring suit;
▪ Two instructors for every four participants;
▪ Gratuities for the surf instructors.
TERMS:
▪ Tour payments are non-refundable once paid. If you have to cancel your Optional Tour, you will not be entitled to return of any funds.
WHAT TO BRING / COMMENTS:
▪ A bathing suit, a “can-do” attitude; and some patience.
San Pancho Food Tour
DATE:
Friday, November 3, 2023 | 12:30 – 5:00 pm (includes lunch)
Saturday, November 4, 2023 | 12:30 – 5:00 pm (includes lunch)
San Pancho is the best-kept secret of Riviera Nayarit. It is an unassuming pueblo located about 30 minutes north of the resort. Sayulita is the crazy, chic, surfer town with all kinds of souvenir stores and bars serving cheap drinks to throngs of tourists. San Pancho is Sayulita’s anti-thesis. San Pancho is calmer, quieter, down-to-earth eco-conscious community. It is home to many artists, healers, yogis, muralists, dancers, writers, teachers, musicians, painters and photographers. It is full of associations giving back to the community. The town oozes community service and activism. It combines authentic Mexico with a vibrant ex pat community. The main street is Avenida Tercer Mundo (Third World Avenue) and all the side streets are named after countries.
Most importantly for us, San Pancho, has some great authentic food, which is the raison d’etre for this excursion. It has won awards as the second Gourmet destination in Mexico after Mexico City. Your guide is going to share his secret spots where he loves to eat. You will enjoy a great local tostada, visit 2 of our guide’s favourite taco spots and then enjoy his favourite ice cream. Along the way you will also visit a small factory where they make artisanal chocolate. Everything will be capped off with a visit to a local brewery to taste their wares. This is a great afternoon of exploration and tasting.
COST PER PERSON:
▪ USD $220.
▪ This tour has a minimum of 18 people and maximum of 36 people
TOUR INCLUDES:
▪ Round trip transportation to San Pancho;
▪ Bilingual guide;
▪ Four tasting stops (tostada tasting, 2 taco locations and an ice cream stop);
▪ A stop at an artisanal chocolate factory;
▪ A stop at a local brewery for a beer tasting.
TERMS:
▪ Tour payments are non-refundable once paid. If you have to cancel your Optional Tour, you will not be entitled to return of any funds.
WHAT TO BRING / COMMENTS:
▪ Comfortable clothing is suggested: shorts, t-shirts, suntan lotion, and hat. .
Huichol Indigenous Art Workshop
DATE:
Friday, November 3, 2023 | 1:30 – 4:30 pm (at the Four Seasons Resort)
Saturday, November 4, 2023 | 1:30 – 4:30 pm (at the Four Seasons Resort)
The Huichol (or Wixárika) are an indigenous people living in the Sierra Madre Occidental range of mountains in the states of Nayarit, Jalisco, Zacatecas and Durango in Mexico. Huichol art broadly groups traditional and recent innovations in the folk art and handicrafts produced by the Huichol people. The unifying factor of the work is the colourful decoration using symbols and designs which date back centuries. The Huichol have a long history of beading; making beads from clay, shells, orals, seeds and more; and then using them to decorate bowls and textiles. The “modern” beadwork usually consists of masks and wood sculptures covered in small, brightly coloured commercial beads fastened with wax and resin. While the materials have changed through the years, the religious purpose has remained constant.
In this workshop you will learn about the Huichol traditions and beliefs and how they are woven into their art. The Huichol master craftsman will lead us through the journey of his hands and teach you the beautiful magic and colours of his Mexico. You will have the opportunity to be “hands on” to use some materials to try and create your own version of Huichol art. Don’t worry – There is no pressure. Your piece will not be put on display or offered for sale. It is simply for your own enjoyment.
COST PER PERSON:
▪ USD $140.
▪ This tour has a minimum of 6 people and maximum of 15 people
TOUR INCLUDES:
▪ Bilingual Huichol artist translator;
▪ Work station table for participants;
▪ Learning process about Huichol Indian art;
▪ All materials;
▪ One small finished piece of Huichol Indian art;
TERMS:
▪ Tour payments are non-refundable once paid. If you have to cancel your Optional Tour, you will not be entitled to return of any funds.
WHAT TO BRING / COMMENTS:
▪ Your curiosity. No previous “arts and crafts” skills are required
Zipline Umauma + Swim
Spend an adrenaline-filled morning zipping a full 9 lines, over 14 rushing waterfalls, suspension bridges, and treetops.. If so desired, afterwards enjoy swimming, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, and relaxing in a private area of the Umauma River. A tasty lunch is provided to replenish after the midday activities prior to the return journey. Take in the expansive vistas of Hawaii island’s northern coastline and the lush country valleys of Waimea before arriving back to your hotel.
INCLUSIONS:
▪ Exclusive round-trip transportation via air-conditioned van (90-120 Minute Each Way)
▪ Exclusive guided use of nine lines
▪ SUP and Kayak within the river basin
▪ Boxed Deli Lunch and Drink
▪ Zip equipment (helmet, gloves, harness) and rain gear
APPROXIMATE TIMING:
▪ Depart hotel: 7:30 AM
▪ Check-in: 9:30 AM
▪ Activity: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
▪ Hotel arrival: 4:00 PM
▪ Travel Time: 120 minutes between hotel and Experience
NOTES:
▪ Please note: this is an iconic and epic experience, however this activity requires a 2-hour travel time each way.
▪ Wear lightweight, long pants or knee-length shorts with a t-shirt (no tank tops), a light sweatshirt, and closed-toe shoes that fully cover the entire foot (no sport sandals).
▪ Clothing must cover all the harness contact points: shoulders, back, waist, and lower thighs.
▪ Long hair must be tied into a ponytail. Secure glasses with a strap. Remove all jewelry and body piercings.
▪ All personal items must fit securely in your pockets. Do not bring purses, totes, or bags.
RESTRICTIONS:
▪ Must be moderately fit without physical challenges and be between 35 and 270 lbs. (31-122 kg).
▪ Must be able to carry your equipment weighing approximately 10 lbs. (4.5 kg) and walk over rocky, uneven terrain, and climb 25 stairs.
▪ Not for pregnant women, people with a fear of heights, recent surgeries, or problems with their back, heart, neck, lungs, shoulders, knees, hips, ankles, or sun sensitivity.
The Hualalai Spa
You may select one of the personalized spa treatments below.
Hawaiian Lomi Lomi Massage – 50 Minutes
This traditional massage is a sacred healing art, passed down from generation to generation by kūpuna (elders). Techniques are rhythmic and unique to each therapist, integrating the use of palms and forearms for a full-body wellness massage.
Swedish Massage – 50 Minutes
A classic relaxing full-body wellness massage utilizing the five traditional Swedish strokes.
Wāwae Hau‘oli (Happy Feet) Massage – 50 Minutes
Enjoy this divine healing and balancing foot, neck, and scalp massage to calm and reduce stress for the body, mind, and spirit. This treatment is only available indoors.
Deep Tissue Massage – 50 Minutes
Firm pressure and slow strokes reach the deeper layers of the muscle, allowing the body to experience a slow release of tension.
Sports & Fitness Massage – 50 Minutes
Designed to enhance the athletic performance and recovery, a sport-specific massage includes stretching, cross-fiber friction, and range of motion techniques.
Classic Facial – 50 Minutes
This facial addresses premature aging, wrinkles, sun damage, and loss of vitality. Eminence organic ingredients aid in toning, moisturizing, and smoothing of fine lines.
Hualālai Foot Ritual Pedicure – 50 Minutes
This foot ritual pedicure includes a scrub, mask, massage with warm stones and wrap with Ti leaves. It is sure to leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed!
Hualālai Apothecary Manicure – 50 Minutes
This manicure includes a hand/arm massage as well as a scrub treatment.
Hualalai Golf Course
![](https://custom.cvent.com/13232804A9914A9281578D2363D0FC7D/pix/807047416f974006a967ddfffb8cb113.png)
Crafted with sensitivity to its unique environment, this 18-hole, Jack Nicklaus-signature, championship course winds over 7,100 yards, beginning in a lush oasis, flowing across bright green fairways contoured against black lava, then returning to the ocean for the final holes.
APPROXIMATE TIMING:
Tee Times between 8:00 - 10:00 AM.
INCLUSIONS:
▪ Club rentals if needed
▪ (2) sleeve of balls
▪ Beverage cart (excluding cigars)
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