mexican delight

Earlier this month, my husband and I were lucky enough to sneak away from reality (and the kiddos!) for a long weekend trip to Costa Careyes, Mexico. Unlike most resort towns, there are no hotels, stores, or even ATM's. Located on the Pacific Coast,  a few hours south of Puerto Vallarta, Costa Careyes (literally “turtle coast”) is home to a sea turtle sanctuary, and 70% of the land is a nature preserve, surrounded by miles and miles of deserted beaches and lush jungle. Founded in the late 1960's by the eccentric Italian-born financier and artist Gian Franco Brignone, Careyes has an artsy, bohemian vibe, reflected in the Crayola-hued villas that are perched on steep craggy cliffs. We, along with some friends, stayed in the thatched-roof open-air villa, pictured above, and indulged in infinity pool swimming, hammock swinging and guacamole-and-chips eating. Read on for more highlights!

Here I am, ready for action Day 1.

The colorful walls and floating staircase of Dos Estrellas (our villa) capture Careyes' creative spirit.
 

Meet our infinity pool, where we convened after breakfast, post-workout, pre-sunset and so on.

This might just be the best late afternoon snack I've ever had: homemade guac, chips, pico de gallo salsa and a frozen margarita. Served up poolside, of course.
 

We hit the beach at Playa Rosa, located in the bay below our house. It served as our launching pad for boating, paddle boarding, and Pacific Ocean bobbing. (P.S. the bath tub-like water temperature was utterly perfect.)

Here I am lounging (and most likely debating another nap) at Playa Rosa.
 

The trip's signature drink: a fresh lime juice margarita with a smidge of salt. Yum!

Our nights out centered around dinners al fresco and dancing till midnight. In the picture, above, I am partaking in some cocktail lounging. Ah, yes!
 

One day we took a boat ride up the Jalisco coast in search of secluded coves. It didn't take us long as they were everywhere. Once we decided on the perfect calm spot, we anchored and jumped into the ocean. You can see our orange villa in the distance, above.

I can't really recall why I chose the expression above, since there were plenty of handsome men and guacamole on board.

We lingered over big and hearty breakfasts at this table every morning--huevos rancheros, frijoles con queso, fruit, chocolate cake, and yes, more guacamole.
 

The villa had more cool hang out spots than I had time for! I did not do this terrace justice, sadly, but knowing it was there felt just as good!

Here I am getting my festive on in a recently purchased beaded dress by Virgos Lounge (with a slit up to there!).

Our bedroom balcony afforded this mesmerizing view of the ocean. The sound of the waves crashing on shore lulled me into the best sleep I've had in ages.

On the last day of our vacation, we stayed in the pool till the very last minute. Careyes was hard to leave--but I am sure I will return some day!

Photos: Casa Does Estrellas, Stephanie Johnson, Kevin Kendrick (last pic)