PHOTO: The "whale tail" at Four Seasons Punta Mita. (Photo courtesy of Four Seasons) Secluded along Mexico’s Pacific Coast in an epic setting that inspires with a pair of private beaches, Four Seasons Punta Mita is pure paradise any time of the year. But as U.S. and Canadian residents bundle up as temperature tumble, it’s even more alluring for a warm winter escape. With accommodations ranging from 173 guest rooms and suites to swank four- and five-bedroom private villas, the resort indulges with a mother lode of luxury amenities that include the refreshed Apuane Spa, trio of swimming pools, two Jack Nicklaus signature golf courses and a 10-court Peter Burwash International tennis facility. Eco and cultural tours add to the recreation roster, with winter making a massive splash via its spectacular whale watching opportunities. Here are nine reasons Four Seasons Punta Mita thrills as it sweeps guests away from winter chills. 1) Cultural Concierge This exclusive resort service makes it a breeze to experience local natural wonders, culture and traditions. Engaging educational and entertaining activities include historically inspired cooking classes, new tequila blending and tasting experience, an introduction to the region’s Huichol Indians, stargazing sessions, and guided tastings to sample mezcal, chocolate and tequila. 2) Two Jack Nicklaus-Designed Golf Courses Golf enthusiasts can double their pleasure with play on world-class Jack Nicklaus-designed golf courses – a luxe resort amenity that has earned the beachfront property accolades as one of the top sites for teeing off in GOLF magazine’s 2016-2017 Best Places to Play rankings. Both the Punta Mita Pacifico Golf Course that opened in 1999 and Punta Mita Bahia Golf Course that opened in 2009 have been thoughtfully designed to incorporate the area’s beautiful tropical landscaping and incredible ocean views. The former features stunning lakes and other water features, while the latter offers undulating fairways and greens that demand putting precision. The Pacifico also wows with the novelty challenge of the world’s only natural island green that’s dubbed “The Tail of the Whale.” This option “3B” hole is reachable only during high tide via the resort’s amphibious golf cart. 3) Newly Elevated Apuane Spa In November, Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita began welcoming guests to its newly renovated Apuane Spa that now features 13 expanded treatment rooms and a new private Apuane Suite. Among the spa’s signature life balancing rituals is the Nakierie treatment designed to balance one’s thoughts and feelings for creating an aura of self-love and acceptance. To set the mood, spa therapists use special native incense known as copal. The unique experience then incorporates a choice of the healing and hydrating Hakali massage (which includes the application of a warm meringue made of cactus and pulque) or the Punta Mita Treatment (a total body massage that uses tequila, indigenous sage oil and traditional Mexican healing techniques). 4) Decadent Guest Suites The recent redesign of two of the Resort’s signature luxury suites, Sol and Luna, has created expansive four- and five-bedroom accommodations for families, destination wedding parties and groups seeking the height of luxury and shared experiences. In their perches with panoramic ocean views, each of these luxe escapes is primo for toasting gorgeous sunsets from the ultra-wide patio that’s complete with private plunge pool, poolside cabana and outdoor shower. 5) Refreshed Tamai Adults Pool  The resort's adults-only Tamai Pool has been redesigned with new sun beds, hammocks, hanging chairs and palm-roofed palapas. This exclusive, adult-oriented pool complex dazzles with four pools, a whirlpool spa, full bar and 10 luxury private cabanas for up to four guests each. With contemporary wood furnishings, each cabana is decked out with a daybed, 42-inch plasma television, DVD player, state-of-the-art sound system, WiFi access, telephone, private bar (juices, water and cooling eye shades), and variety of music and book selections. Additional cabana perks include a personal host providing complimentary amenities, plus access to a variety of spa treatments that pamper in privacy. 6) Kids For All Seasons Program Housed in a special building, Four Seasons’ complimentary Kids For All Seasons program includes a playroom and outdoor playground with jungle gym. Designed to take advantage of Punta Mita's natural environment, professionally supervised activities allow kids ages 5-12 to collect shells, make Mexican-style art, play on the coastline and hike. 7) Specialized Programs Premium tequila is one of the most coveted beverages in the world. To celebrate the Mexican icon, Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita is taking tasting adventures of the blue agave concoction to new heights. During this one-of-a-kind excursion, guests fly via private helicopter to the family-run Jose Cuervo distillery in Tequila, Mexico, the region that gave birth its namesake spirit. As a bonus, the beautiful agave landscape surrounding the distillery is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. At the distillery, an expert sommelier takes guests behind the scenes on an exclusive tour that shares the tequila-making process from start to finish. They’ll savor a gourmet lunch prepared by a Four Seasons chef, while sipping tequila and listening to live local music. Before flying back to the resort, the tours detours into the reserve vault – or cava – for savoring top-of-the-line aged tequila served straight from the barrel. 8) Private Yacht Charters It’s hard to top the class of cruising on a private yacht. Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita operates a luxurious 55-foot beauty that guests can charter privately for day outings or for sunsets. Allowing 10 passengers max, each charter includes a catered assortment of snacks and drinks. The resort’s location allows for an intimate journey that conveniently leaves from Marina La Cruz located 20 minutes away. With fully air-conditioned interiors, the spacious vessel features a living room and kitchen with dining table, separate shaded relaxation area on the upper deck, and sunning areas on the bow, stern and rear upper deck. The ship also sports a Wave Runner for guests to ride when the yacht is anchored. Charter options include snorkeling and diving along the pristine coast, cruising among the protected Marietta Islands, whale-watching from December through March and sports fishing in bountiful waters. 9) Ten-Court Tennis Center The resort’s Tennis Center hosts 10 courts, a full pro shop, locker facilities and a tennis program managed by Peter Burwash International (PBI). Lessons and clinics are offered daily from the PBI pro, and player matching is available for anyone looking for a singles or doubles match. For larger groups, clinics, tournaments, socials, camps or tennis carnivals can be arranged with advance notice. Check the Four Seasons Punta Mita Resort website for special offers that include a Bed & Breakfast package, Stay Longer–Third Night Free offer, Family promotion featuring 50% off a second room, and a Golf & Spa plan. Or call (866) 280-9490. Follow @dawnarobertson