Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit region features 192 miles of stunning Pacific coast to explore. That’s a lot of beach. So where to start?
Mid-way up the coast is the beautiful Isla de Mexcaltitán. Considered to be “the cradle of Mexican identity,” it was home to the ancient Aztecs. From here, they set out to central Mexico to found the city of Tenochtitlan, now Mexico City. See remnants of this ancient civilization at the Museo El Origen. Then cross the town’s central plaza to the church of San Pedro and San Pablo, the island’s patron saints.
About halfway between Isla de Mexcaltitán and the more populated areas around Punta de Mita and Puerto Vallarta is San Blas. Here you can visit the ruins of the San Basilio Fortress, founded in 1530, and the colonial fort of La Contaduria, built in 1770. But the real attraction is the region’s natural beauty. Experience it on a boat ride through the mangrove forests of La Tovara National Park, home to alligators, turtles, and over 300 different species of colorful birds.
Sayulita – For a change of pace, visit the bohemian beach town of Sayulita, just a short drive from Playa de Mita. There’s farmers markets, local artisans and live music on the beach. Unwind at a yoga retreat, learn to surf or just relax on the town’s laid-back beaches.
If you’re more of a luxury traveler than beach bum, we recommend Punta de Mita. Enjoy the quiet atmosphere of a Mexican village while staying in 5-star all-inclusive resorts like the IBEROSTAR Playa Mita. The resort’s restaurants specialize in delicious seafood dishes like aguachile and freshly-caught fish. It’s also home to the Litibu Golf Club, one of the top courses in Riviera Nayarit and one with breathtaking oceanfront views.
