South Coast Nayarit
Home to bohemian villages, fishing hamlets, tourist resorts and surf towns, South Coast Nayarit is an idyllic beach getaway. Ride rolling waves, snorkel in crystalline waters and spot humpback whales. Hike to waterfalls and discover pre-Colombian cultures.
This region is on the southern side of Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit, sandwiched between jungle-clad mountains and the Pacific Ocean. The southernmost area spreads along Banderas Bay and is famous for golf, surfing and wildlife-watching. Stay in the purpose-built resort of Nuevo Vallarta and take boat trips out to the beguiling Marietas Islands. Spot nesting sea turtles at nearby Flamingos Beach and experience the authentic Mexican charm of Bucerías. Head to the fishing village of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle to dine at excellent seafood restaurants.
Continue north up Banderas Bay to the luxurious Punta Mita. Play golf at courses designed by Jack Nicklaus and try to spot one of the Hollywood stars who frequent the high-end hotels here. Just north of here is Litibú’s, a great spot for solitary strolls on pristine beaches.
Surfing fanatics now flock to the shores of Sayulita, a once-sleepy fishing settlement. Browse art galleries, purchase indigenous handicrafts and watch polo matches in San Francisco. Among the quieter towns in the region are Lo de Marcos and Punta Raza.
Further north, Los Ayala, Rincón de Guayabitos, La Peñita de Jaltemba and Chacala are loved by vacationing families. Find coastlines backed by seafood shacks and town centers peppered with stores and markets.
The Sierra Madre and Sierra de Vallejo ranges provide the setting for boundless pursuits. Bike, hike or horse ride along natural trails to mountaintop lookouts and waterfalls. Soar above the treetops on canopy zip-line courses. Learn about the Huichols, descendants of the Aztecs, on a tour of an indigenous village in the Nueva Valley.
Reach South Coast Nayarit by flying to Puerto Vallarta and get around by bus, taxi or rented car. Nayarit’s rainy season lasts from June through to October and temperatures are warm year-round.