I've been watching sunsets over the Bay of Banderas for 12 years, and it's a ritual I rarely miss. At Unico 20º 105º's newest Riviera Nayarit resort, the tradition continues from Alto 20º 105º, the rooftop bar where the sun slips into the bay as cocktails circulate and the atmosphere shifts from afternoon calm to evening buzz.
It's a fitting introduction to a property that feels less like a secluded retreat and more like a social, polished and thoroughly relaxed adults-only all-inclusive.
Unico 20º 105º officially opened in September, following a soft opening in July. I visited in December, when the property was fully operational but still benefiting from the freshness of a new opening.
From the moment of arrival, the experience sets a confident tone: a soaring ceiling in the lobby, a refreshing welcome cocktail and an immediate introduction to a personal butler, a signature of the brand.
For travelers and advisors familiar with the original resort on the Riviera Maya, the most noticeable difference here is scale. With just 141 guestrooms, the Nayarit property feels markedly more intimate than its Caribbean counterpart, which has more than 400 rooms. That smaller footprint translates to a more manageable, social atmosphere where guests quickly get their bearings and staff recognize faces early in the stay.
The setting, however, brings a distinct energy of its own. While the original Unico occupies a relatively secluded curve of beach near Akumal, the Riviera Nayarit location is part of the broader coastal skyline north of Puerto Vallarta. Rather than detracting from the experience, that sense of place adds to the resort's appeal.
The beach here is wide and active, with sweeping views of the Bay of Banderas and the Sierra Madre mountains rising behind it, one of the most scenic stretches of coastline in the region.
Alcoba Oceanfront Suites have views of the Bay of Banderas. Photo Credit: Meagan Drillinger
Guest accommodations maintain the brand's familiar design language. All suites feature Unico's signature balconies with deep soaking tubs, an element that remains a guest favorite. Ground-floor Alcoba Swim-Up Suites offer direct pool access, while I stayed in an Alcoba Oceanfront suite with views of the bay. One small but memorable detail returns, as well: the sweatshirt-style bathrobes with hoods, a playful yet practical touch.
Throughout the property, details reinforce a sense of place. Huichol-inspired beadwork and local art appear in both public spaces and quieter corners.
Dining is a clear strength. The food across the resort is consistently strong, though service can be slow during peak meal periods, a lingering growing pain that may smooth out as operations continue to settle. Kobo, the resort's Japanese restaurant, stood out both for the quality of the food and the intimate atmosphere. Lia, the Italian venue, also impressed, particularly with dishes like the arugula and burrata salad and a well-executive marinated and grilled octopus.
The main pool area at Unico 20º 105º anchors the resort's social scene. Photo Credit: Meagan Drillinger
The social heart of the property, aside from the main pool, is the rooftop. Alto 20º 105º pairs a rooftop pool with panoramic bay views, making it the ideal place for sunset drinks or a casual snack as the day winds down. For repeat visitors to the region, it offers a fresh vantage point on a familiar ritual.
Amenities are well considered, though not without limitations. The spa is elegant and serene, delivering on a long list of massages and relaxing hydrotherapy. The fitness center, by contrast, is compact, with limited equipment, making timing important for guests who prioritize workouts.
From a sales perspective, Unico 20º 105º fills a notable gap in the market. Upscale, adults-only all-inclusive options on the Riviera Nayarit are relatively limited, and this property offers a compelling alternative for couples and groups of friends seeking a lively yet refined atmosphere. It's particularly well-suited to travelers who like the original Unico concept but either can't easily access the Caribbean coast or are looking for a change of scenery.
This is not a secluded hideaway designed for total isolation. Instead, it's a fun, social and upscale all-inclusive that reflects the energy of the region. For advisors, it's an easy sell for clients seeking an adults-only experience on Mexico's Pacific coast, especially those already familiar with Unico and ready to see the brand through a west coast lens.