Nayarit is a state in Western Mexico, bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the Sierra madre Occidental mountains. It’s between the states of Jalisco and Sinaloa, and is attractive to visitors because of its beautiful Pacific Riviera coastline. About a 15-minute drie from Puerto Vallarta, Nayarit has become a poular destination for travelers who love fun in the sun away from the larger cities. And, it has some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Mexico.
There’s more! Nature lovers can explore the verdant mountains or delve into protected wildlife areas. History buffs will appreciate the charming colonial towns and ancient sites. And foodies have endless tempting choices.
While choosing the most spectacular beaches or most popular beaches is sure to provoke lively debate, here are eight beaches in Nayarit they we think should be on your must-visit list.
Playa Novillero
This is the longest beach in Mexico and the second-longest in Latin America, stretching some 56 miles. Visitors can walk up to 328 feet offshore with a depth not exceeding 4.9 feet. Novillero’s gentle waves make it an ideal destination where families, children, and inexperienced swimmers all can enjoy warm and calm waters. The vast expanse of sandy beach make it a great spot for a sunset rendezvous.
La Cruz de Huanacaxtle
With a 3.1-mile stretch of sand, La Cruz de Huanacaxtle is a paradise for seashore lovers. You can enjoy a wide range of water-based activities, such as snorkeling, diving, surfing, and – thanks to an abundance of species like tuna, marlin, and dorado – try your hand at deep-sea fishing. Not suprisingly, local restaurants and cafes serve delicious dishes made with locally caught fish and fresh seafood.
This charming fishing village has skillfully blended tradition with modernity, all thanks to the presence of Marina Riviera Nayarit – the largest marina on the Mexican Pacific coast. The marina offers comprehensive services for boats and a variety of facilities, including a yacht club, a sky bar, and a seafood market.
Rincon de Guayabitos
Rincón de Guayabitos is valued for its golden sand, crystal-clear water, and a wide range of activities. This 1.2-mile beach in the Bay of Jaltemba, Compostela, enjoys year-round tropical weather, making it perfect for surfing, boat rides, birdwatching, and observing sea turtles nesting sites. Equally impresisve, its vibrant nighlife tempts visitors out long after the sun has gone down.
Guayabitos hosts special events such as Vocho Fest, the Artistic and Cultural Festival, and the International Powered Paragliding Festival.
Litibú
Located in the Riviera Nayarit, Litibú seamlessly combines luxury and nature. This exclusive destination stands out for its high-end resorts (many all inclusive resorts) and a world-class 18-hole Greg Norman designed golf course. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding rides along the beach, explore nature trails, and spot whales during the season.
Surrounded by majestic mountains, Litibú will make you feel like you’re on a deserted island. It’s upscale focus means it feels private and special, but there are still ways to enjoy the beach on a realistic budget.
Sayulita
Nayarit’s Pueblo Mágico, or “Magical Town,” is a destination that uniquely combines virgin beaches, lush jungle, and a vibrant artistic and cultural scene. It is the heart of surfing in Mexico, attracting surfboarders from all over the world with its perfect waves and subtropical climate.
In addition to its natural attractions, Sayulita offers an exceptional culinary experience, with a variety of options ranging from small eateries and cafes selling delicious traditional dishes to elegant, and beachfront restaurants dishing outworld-class cuisine.
The town has a wide range of accommodation options, ranging from sophisticated boutique hotels to comfortable, family-friendly bungalows. Its colorful streets and relaxed atmosphere make this an irresistible destination for travelers who want more than just the Sayulita beach.
Punta de Mita
Located on a peninsula with some 6.2 miles of virgin beaches and green hills, Punta de Mita has evolved into one of the most sophisticated places in the state of Nayarit.
There is a world-class lineup of luxury resorts and hotels, two renowned Jack Nicklaus designed golf courses (Punta Mita Pacifico and Punta Mita Bahia), and an assortment of exclusive boutiques, gourmet restaurants, spas, and vibrant nightlife.
Bucerías
This destination is known for being one of the cleanest and safest beaches in the area, attracting both domestic and foreign tourists looking to relax on its fine, soft sand beaches and enjoy activities such as sailing, kayaking, and jet skiing.
What’s more, Bucerías is a charming typical Mexican town, known for its cobbled streets, colorful facades, and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can ride a bicycle, explore the ejidal market – an open-air marketplace where local artisans and vendors sell their wares – and enjoy local cuisine in restaurants and bars in the main plaza.
The friendliness of the people and welcoming atmosphere, and traditional Mexican charm, make an incredibly appealing destination.
Nuevo Nayarit
One of the most exclusive beach destinations in Mexico, this coastal paradise offers luxurious hotels and resorts, world-class golf courses, and gourmet restaurants. Its golden beaches stretch for 3.1 miles – an ideal expanse for both water activities and relaxation.
Nuevo Nayarit stands out for its award winning resorts. You’ll find some of the most luxurious beach destination accommodations here, accompanied by a commitment to hospitality. The destination is a popular choice for destination weddings and for honeymoons, but don’t overlook the nature. Mangrove tours, nature walks and tous and sea turtle programs round out what’s on offer at Nuevo Nayarit.
This post was written with the assistance of the Nayarit Tourism Board, who provided all the photos.
Mary Jo Manzanares is a founder and the editor-in-chief of The Traveler’s Way, an online travel magazine proving informational and inspirational travel recommendations for curious Baby Boomer travelers. She has been a speaker at various industry events and has a personal travel blog at Traveling with MJ. When she’s not traveling, Mary Jo likes lingering over a cup of coffee, wandering in a museum, sipping wine at a cafe, and sharing it all with friends and readers. Mary Jo’s top travel destinations are Italy, Portugal, and the Caribbean.
