Perched in the lush hillside above a pristine beach, with a stone staircase that leads straight down to the secluded sands, Casa Cosmos is the perfect balance of rustic charm and luxury living. Highlights include a huge 40-feet-high thatched palapa that’s open to the view towards the jungle mountains of Banderas Bay, and a private beach lounge with hammocks, beach furniture and ocean kayaks.

This seven-bedroom villa has a traditional Terrazes style, with lots of thatch and stone, high roofs and a focus on indoor/outdoor living. There are two pools: a small private plunge pool and a rock grotto lap pool with a water slide. Submerged seats mean that you can perch in the water with a refreshing cocktail and take in the view. A unique feature is the dramatic rock-lined exercise room that overhangs the pounding surf. Most of the house is on one level and each bedroom has its own marble ensuite bathroom. There’s air-conditioning, but you can also fling open the large cabana-style doors to let in the delightful ocean breeze.

A stay here is completely serene and carefree. The gardens are fenced for privacy and security and you’ll have your own cook, maid, houseman and groundskeeper. Maria Luisa lives in a staff house on the property and her family has looked after Casa Cosmos guests for 20 years. This is one of the most unique and sought-after private villas in the area, so it’s no surprise that guests return here year after year.