Situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Western Sierra Madre Mountains, Riviera Nayarit is a 200mile stretch of coastline drawing attention with a beautiful collection of virgin beaches, unspoiled natural parks and luxury resorts. It is a peaceful escape in Mexico with lesser number of crowds where you can simply relax with your family and friends, and have a rejuvenating holiday experience.
Take a look at the places you can explore in Riviera Nayarit:
Punta Mita
Once a fishing village, Punta Mita is just the right place for a tropical holiday in Riviera Nayarit. Located within a 1,500-acre private peninsula, it is a luxury destination with a fine collection of world-class, luxury resorts lined on magnificent beaches. There are two Jack Nicklaus golf courses drawing a number of golfers from different parts of the world. You can also discover several restaurants and pubs in the Downtown Punta Mita that are ideal for sampling local cuisine. Besides, adventure seekers can go for hiking to the Monkey Mountain, the highest point here.
Sayulita
Sayulita is one of the most popular beach villages along the coast loved for its breathtaking beaches, bohemian-vibe, laid-back living and world-class surfing opportunities. One cannot miss to discover the Marietas Islands in the village that appear like a volcano in the ocean and have a hole comprising a beach renowned for offering wonderful swimming opportunities. Another interesting thing to do here is to delight in the intricate yarn paintings and bead work produced by the indigenous Huichol people at Evoke the Spirit or Artefakto store. Besides, tequila, Paleta and fish tacos are some of the must-try treats here.
Puerto Vallarta
Known as the gay beach capital of the world, Puerto Vallarta is a beautiful and lively town in Riviera Nayarit visited by a large number of holiday-starved or wanderlust-compelled tourists. This place draws the attention with its white sand beaches, bustling streets, world-class restaurants, and the adrenaline-pumping range of activities such as horseback riding, diving and boat trips. The town is also popular for its exciting nightlife. Some of the must-visit places here include Los Arcos and El Malecón, Isla Río Cuale, Zona Romantica, Playa Los Muertos and Vallarta Botanical Gardens.
San Blas
A small historic town in Nayarit, San Blas is a quiet and friendly place to explore with family and friends. Here you can experience a true old-world charm across a number of ancient ruins and architectural remnants from the Spanish colonial days. Home to 80% of the migratory birds from the North America, San Blas also attracts bird watchers holidaying in Mexico. While you can spend a few leisure hours at the Borrego Beach, La Tovara National Park is a place to spot incredible wildlife including crocodiles. Besides, this place makes for a good starting point to get to Mexcaltitán, a magical island town in Nayarit.
Nuevo Vallarta
If you wish to experience the rich luxury of Riviera Nayarit, Nuevo Vallarta is the place to be. Nestled between the tranquil Pacific Ocean and the Sierra de Vallejo mountains, it is a planned resort popular for its long, sandy Nuevo Vallarta beach, golf courses, sophisticated spas, luxury resorts and gourmet restaurants. The place also draws attention with its breathtaking marine life; hawksbills, leatherback turtles, and humpback whale can be spotted here hitting on its shores. While the beaches here are just perfect to discover at nights, the resort is also popular for its exciting nightlife across various bars and clubs.