Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – While Puerto Vallarta has seen a stagnation in new tourism-related developments over the past decade, the neighboring region of Riviera Nayarit is undergoing a significant transformation, positioning itself as a key player in Mexico’s booming tourism sector. With 14 new hotels currently under construction, some backed by major global brands, Riviera Nayarit is poised for rapid growth, highlighting its potential as a premier travel destination on the Mexican Pacific coast.
Surge in Hotel Development
The current Nayarit state government has positioned tourism development as a cornerstone of its economic strategy, projecting strong growth in the sector through the end of the current administration, which runs until 2027. Hotel chains such as Grupo Vidanta, Grupo Velas, Grupo City Express, Hampton Inn, Belmond Hotels, Rosewood Hotels, Grupo Marival, Grupo Paradise, Grupo Petrom, Grupo Villas, Grupo CMQ, OMNI, Susurros del Corazón, and One&Only Mandarina are just some of the prominent names expanding their presence in the region.
This influx of investment underscores the government’s confidence in the area’s future as a major tourist hub. Riviera Nayarit, with its idyllic beaches, rich cultural offerings, and proximity to Puerto Vallarta’s international airport, continues to attract international attention.
The Federal Government’s Role
Mexico’s federal Ministry of Tourism (Sectur) has also taken note of Nayarit’s growth, acknowledging the region’s increasing global significance. Nayarit’s blend of natural beauty and luxurious resort offerings has made it one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the country. As Mexico continues to rank among the world’s most visited countries, Nayarit is emerging as a key contributor to the nation’s overall tourism portfolio.
Celebrity-backed Projects and High-End Brands
Among the new developments, notable projects include Zel, a brand created by Spanish tennis icon Rafael Nadal, marking a distinctive European influence in the region. Spanish hotel giant Meliá is also extending its reach from Puerto Vallarta to Nayarit with a new property set to open in 2025. Located in the picturesque town of Sayulita, this hotel will feature 145 rooms, catering to travelers seeking both luxury and the laid-back charm of this bohemian beach town.
The Rise of Apartment Towers and Short-term Rentals
In addition to hotels, Riviera Nayarit is seeing a surge in real estate development. Since 2023, over 25 apartment towers have been under construction along the coastline from Nuevo Vallarta to Punta Mita. These properties cater to the growing trend of tourists opting for short-term vacation rentals through platforms like Airbnb, allowing for greater flexibility and privacy compared to traditional hotels.
These real estate developments are reshaping the local accommodation landscape, increasing the region’s capacity to host more tourists and providing property owners with lucrative rental income opportunities.
Diversified Promotion: Beyond the Beach
While Nayarit is renowned for its pristine beaches, state officials are keen to diversify the region’s appeal. Efforts to promote Nayarit’s Pueblos Mágicos (Magical Towns) are part of a broader strategy to attract visitors to inland cultural destinations as well. Additionally, the Sea of Cortez Alliance is another long-term initiative that aims to boost tourism in towns beyond the traditional sun-and-sand destinations, fostering a more well-rounded travel experience in the region.
A Bright Future for Nayarit Tourism
Riviera Nayarit’s impressive lineup of upcoming developments, coupled with the government’s robust promotional efforts, point to a bright future for the region. With a mix of luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and vacation rental properties, the area is set to attract a diverse array of travelers—from affluent vacationers seeking high-end experiences to budget-conscious tourists looking for a slice of paradise.
As the world takes note of Riviera Nayarit’s rapid transformation, the region is well on its way to becoming one of Mexico’s most sought-after travel destinations. While Puerto Vallarta remains a popular tourist spot, the growth and investment pouring into Riviera Nayarit are signaling a shift in the tourism landscape along the Pacific coast.
For visitors and investors alike, Riviera Nayarit represents a dynamic blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and cutting-edge hospitality—solidifying its place as a rising tourism powerhouse in Mexico.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - While Puerto Vallarta has seen a stagnation in new tourism-related developments over the past decade, the neighboring region of Riviera Nayarit is undergoing a significant transformation, positioning itself as a key player in Mexico’s booming tourism sector. With 14 new hotels currently under construction, some backed by major global brands, Riviera Nayarit is poised for rapid growth, highlighting its potential as a premier travel destination on the Mexican Pacific coast.
