After reading so many prior reviews of Villa Estrella Mar in Puerto Vallarta, I am at a loss to add much new information, and can only echo so many earlier comments; I affirm each of those superlatives!
Our large, noisy family of 16 luxuriated in the lavish decadence of the Villa for 12 days in June, 2018, ending on July 4th. We found the staff of 11, led by Paco and his assistant Gibran ("Gee"), to be thoughtful and helpful throughout our stay. The two are fluent in English, and many other staff members, while not fluent, easily communicate in English.
The Villa is beyond fabulous! The architecture takes full advantage of the spectacular site; gorgeous views are offered from every vantage. I was compelled to sit or stand in a different location just to marvel at how each minor change allowed me to enjoy an entirely new vista. Furnishings and art are exquisite. I felt as if we were staying in a museum after it closed for the night. And despite the best efforts of 4 young grandchildren (ages 9, 7, 3, and 2), the Villa staff (silently and unseen) continually made each room look as if it had not yet been used. Rooms were made while we had breakfast, turn-down service while we had dinner. Laundry disappeared in the morning and returned, ironed and hung each afternoon. Staff even did laundry for us on the day we departed!
The kitchen genius of Lupe and Lola was regularly on display (we seldom had meals out). This included a birthday cake complete with inscription! Oh... I do have one complaint: no one told us that the stuffed mushroom appetizer is word-class, and we did not select this choice until the end of our trip. (Do not repeat this mistake... order it early and often!)
The location is perfect. Each day we walked to the Playa Los Muertos pier and beyond to shops along Rio Cuale. On occasion we walked from the Villa on the sandy beach, but more often we took the cobblestone street in front of the Villa and dropped into town, a single block off the beach. This was at most a 10-minute stroll.
Staff arranged outings for us, all of which started from the Villa, including Ziplining, ATVing, Jet Skis (delivered directly to the beach at the Villa), and a day of sailing/fishing and snorkeling. Staff prepared fresh ceviche from our catch while we relaxed on the beach! Also, I highly recommend a tour of the Botanical Gardens.
We spent many hours in and around the delightful pool; staff spoiled us with snacks, lunch and drinks, often handing us another round while we floated or chatted in the pool.
In sum, this is a perfect Party House; it is a perfect Family House. Every aspect of this location is worthy of 5 stars. I cannot wait to make plans for our return!
Dave Laredo read more