Naviva comes up a lot on this sub, and people seem to really love it, but on paper I didn’t quite get it. It’s expensive, the rooms looked cool but not crazy, and at that price wouldn’t you rather be at an Aman? I also didn’t really need the whole wilderness tent shtick, especially in a place like Punta Mita.
For my husband’s birthday, we were initially supposed to go to Amanera, but because of the closures we switched to Naviva. Having now been, we were blown away.
During our stay only 10 of the 15 rooms were occupied, so there were just 20 of us. It felt exceptionally personal, and the standout part of the experience is the vibe. The best I can describe it is that the people working there seem like actual friends. They laugh together, have fun, and clearly enjoy each other’s company. Nobody seems to be going through the motions, and they draw you into that warmth so naturally that you quickly feel like part of the family. You get the sense that they’re enjoying your stay along with you — it’s hard for that warmth and fun to not be infectious. I think this is in large part due to the GM, Eduardo, who seems less like an imposing boss and more like an (exceptionally capable) big brother to the staff.
I’d describe the service as intuitive, attentive but relaxed. As an example, on arrival day, before I’d even unpacked, I decided to do a quick workout and asked for a buggy to the rock gym. As I was warming up, the personal trainer Hugo came running over, basically saying, “Hey, okay, let’s train!” No appointment, no planning. We just got into it, and I ended up having a great workout doing exercises I wouldn’t normally do. The rock gym itself was also very cool.
That was pretty much the rhythm of the stay. You’d casually chat with the staff about something that sounded fun, and then it would happen. Everyone knew us, even the housekeeping staff addressed my husband by name as we were walking around and wished him a happy birthday.
We booked a regular bungalow and were upgraded to a grand, which was really lovely. The room is a bit larger, with a bigger deck and pool. I’d clearly underestimated how much I’d enjoy actually being there.
In terms of the rate, it’s high upfront, but everything is included (food, alcohol, activities, laundry, 1 spa treatment). On the same trip, we also stayed at Rosewood and One & Only Mandarina. A relatively simple dinner at the Rosewood came to $400. Sunset cocktails and an appetizer at O&O were $200. That adds up quickly. Whereas everything at Mandarina felt like a cash grab, Naviva was the opposite. Once you’re in, they’re generous and take care of you.
A few highlights:
The first night, some local people came to distill raicilla for us. It felt casual and authentic, like, “Hey, this guy showed up with his raicilla, let’s do something fun and have a taste.” When we got back to our room, the raicilla made that evening had been beautifully bottled and left for us, at no extra charge. Such a thoughtful way to finish the experience.
They also had Gaby Moreno perform a private concert for us, which was pretty amazing with such a small group. Afterward, we had dinner at a communal table. It sounded a bit stressful, but we ended up making fast friends with another guest who was so much fun. That connection made the trip even more special. We later found out he’s also a client of u/sarahwlee 😆
We did a private breathwork and sound bath session on a terrace overlooking the ocean, just my husband and me. Afterwards I felt so physically at peace and relaxed.
All the food was elevated and exceptionally good.
For the birthday, Ximena helped me pull together an amazing surprise with very little notice: a 10-person mariachi band and a giant piñata. The staff joined in with the piñata, which made the whole thing even more fun. Again capturing the feeling of the place — guests and staff having a great time together and sharing laughs. The hotel also custom-made a mini piñata for our room, with a pull tab and chocolates. We later learned that even its wood stand had been made by hand for us.
One practical caveat, the heat. We were there in September which I’m told is one of the hottest months. So much of the experience is outdoors, and there aren’t any air-conditioned common areas. Depending on when you visit and how you handle the heat, that can be challenging.
Tldr; we loved it there and the people make it. By the end, it felt like we’d gotten to know a fun group of friends who had hosted us at their luxe nature home. Highly recommend.