Unlike other parts of Riviera Nayarit, the laid-back resort town Bucerías has happily resisted the lure of over-development in favour of an authentic Mexican air. Typifying its relaxed vibe, Hacienda Camino al Mar allows large groups or families to enjoy a stress-free beachside break. Parasols, kayaks and boogie boards are all available to borrow while Luis, the villa’s butler, can bring beach chairs and chilled margaritas.

That sandy shore, the 18-mile Costa Dorada, is but a minute or two’s stroll away. Alternatively, just stick to the villa’s purified saltwater pool, over which a volleyball net can be fitted. Flanking that are eight loungers, while the best area for sundowners is the plant-lined roof terrace – including pergola-covered sitting areas and hammocks.

Entered through 100-year-old mesquite-wood doors, Camino al Mar marries modern cool with Spanish colonial style. Fountains trickle, arched galleries flank a courtyard and the line between indoors and outdoors blurs. All seven ensuite, air-conditioned bedrooms possess king beds: one adjoins an extra room able to sleep two children in twin beds, and the master suite boasts a Jacuzzi bathtub. High chairs and porta-cribs can also be provided for tiny guests.

There’s a ping pong table, too, plus two bikes to enjoy Bucerías’s seafront. Towards Puerto Vallarta or further north, the riviera offers such distractions as whale-watching (December to March), surfing, paddleboarding, scuba diving, canopy ziplines, horseback-riding and golf on Jack Nicklaus-designed golf courses.