With incredible beaches and a culinary scene to match, Mexico’s Pacific Coast is a firm favourite with discerning travellers – two regions in particular stand-out on this glorious stretch of coast.
Puerto Vallarta, in the state of Jalisco, Puerto Vallarta is well-known for the preservation of its Mexican traditions. The destination spans Banderas Bay and comprises Marina Vallarta, Hotel Zone, Downtown (El Centro) and the South Shore, with each region offers a distinctive charm.
Meanwhile just ten minutes north of Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport is Riviera Nayarit. This region includes the resort town of Nuevo Vallarta, the historic village of San Blas, celebrity hideout Punta Mita, surfing haven Sayulita, and scenic fishing villages. With an annual average temperature of 25º C, Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit, are a sun-seekers dream – over 330 days of uninterrupted sunshine each year. Here are five more reasons to visit any time of the year.
A natural playground – Thanks to a thriving, diverse ecosystem, a real-life National Geographic experience awaits you. Different seasons bring different animals, but there are many beautiful spots that can be explored at any time of the year. Tours to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Islas Marietas in Riviera Nayarit, including a beautiful hidden beach, and a visit to El Salado Estuary in Puerto Vallarta, a protected natural area of 169 hectares with crocodiles and hundreds of bird species are two of the best.
A variety of events – In both Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit you’ll find many different kinds of events taking place each month. Lively Independence Day celebrations take place in September whilst the colourful Day of the Dead and International Gourmet Festivals are held in November. The rest of the year you’ll find many celebrations happening in the smaller towns as well as a variety of sports events, including El Día Nacional del Charro – Charro Day in Puerto Vallarta and the Polo Cup, in Sayulita, Riviera Nayarit.
Incredible beaches – Beaches on Mexico’s Pacific Coast are sure to never disappoint. Enjoy an amazing excursion to the Majahuitas or Yelapa beach in Puerto Vallarta, full of restaurants, bars and activities, then relax the following day in Riviera Nayarit’s Lo de Marcos, a serene town with one of very few remaining untouched beaches.
Vibrant arts & culture – Mexico’s Pacific Coast puts on a vibrant art show all year round. The art scene is graced by many national and international artists, sculptors and musicians and there are plenty of galleries and shows. In Puerto Vallarta, you can see various sculptures and paintings along El Malecon. Whilst in San Pancho, the cultural heart of Riviera Nayarit, you can enjoy local cultural events at the Community Center, an Arts Collective and a flourishing local music scene.
Underwater adventure – Snorkelling and diving are great activities at all times of the year. There are differences in the seasons but the water is wonderfully warm and the waves are fairly calm all year round. From December to February you are more likely to encounter manta rays and dolphins in the wild, whilst the water is at its warmest and visibility is clearest from June to October. Θ
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