What does your perfect holiday look like? Do you dream up white sandy coastlines, melting pink sunsets, bowing palm trees, diving dolphins and flavoursome cocktails? Does your imagination run wild, or does this place in your mind actually exist?
Many direct flights will lead you to Mexico’s Pacific Coast, home to Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit, two neighbouring regions united in the beautiful Banderas Bay that will put your imagination to shame.
These two destinations offer something for everyone: families, friends, couples, newlyweds and honeymooners. No matter who you are, you’ll find your paradise here.
To the Beach: For those who love sun, sand and surfing, Riviera Nayarit offers a 200-mile stretch of golden coastline and magical seaside towns to enjoy.
Head down to the hippie chic town of Sayulita and enjoy surfing, fresh fish, boutiques, paddle boarding, coronas and lots of fun. This sleepy surf town is one of the coolest places around, promising chilled vibes and the real Mexican way of life.
Nearby, the peaceful fishing village of Lo de Marcos in Riviera Nayarit is another must-visit for lovers of the ocean. Luscious green hills and singing birds surround the beaches of Los Venados, Las Minitas and El Atracadero, where the phrase “paradise on earth” frames this corner of the coast.
For nature lovers, Riviera Nayarit’s pretty town of Punta el Custodio has six miles of virgin beach, eco-friendly villas and turtle sanctuaries!
A Touch of Romance: Puerto Vallarta’s Old Town, known as the “Zona Romántica,” showcases the beauty of a traditional Mexican town with cafes, restaurants, street food, art galleries and rhythmic nightlife hotspots.
Kick things off with Vallarta Eats Food Tours and sample fried fish tacos with guac and endless shots of tequila. Then, wander around the cobbled streets and stop off at the church of Lady Guadalupe, a symbol of the city and a place of historical importance to the locals. Finish with a walk along the famous Malecón as you watch a pink sunset crash into the waves.
Family Fun: In Banderas Bay, adventure and wildlife thrive and flocks of tropical birds fill the sky. Embark on a trip with Vallarta Adventures to visit the breathtaking Marietas Islands. Swim with schools of King Angel fish, Giant Pacific Manta Rays and enormous turtles as they reveal their underwater world.
Get active with an afternoon of paddle boarding, snorkelling or diving, and then end on a strong note with a spot of entertainment from the Blue footed booby birds ready to show off their hip-hop dancing!
If wildlife more is your thing, venture to Puerto Vallarta and check in to the Wildlife Connection for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim with wild dolphins. Just like humans, teenage dolphins are known to be mischievous, splashing around and playing games with visitors.
Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit have the highest respect for their wildlife. All creatures of the sea live free within their natural habitats and are constantly watched over by loving locals.
Active Adventures: Don’t be fooled that the underwater world has a hold over land activity. If you prefer to stay dry, Banderas Bay is filled with endless activities that beg to be experienced.
Riviera Nayarit is home to six signature golf courses to welcome golf lovers from across the globe. The region is also a hotspot for horse riding, zip lining, rappelling and bird watching. Neighbour Puerto Vallarta also has a wide adventure offering, including kite surfing, ATV safaris and parachute jumping!
Amazing Nightlife: If parachute jumping doesn’t get your pulse racing, then the region’s nightlife is sure to do the trick!
For a night of fine dining, sophistication and impeccable service, waltz round to Riviera Nayarit’s Punta Mita zone, home to the best of the best hotels including the St. Regis and Four Seasons. A favourite amongst the rich and famous, including the Kardashian clan, Eva Longoria and Rihanna, this picture-perfect resort makes way for a night of glitz and glam.
For those looking for an authentic Mexican evening, head over to Sayulita and the pretty fishing village of San Pancho where crafty cocktails are aplenty; make sure to visit La Fresona Beach Club to enjoy live music in tiki huts! For a day scene, head to W Punta de Mita resort for bubbles and buzzing beats by the poolside.
For those looking to turn it up a notch, Puerto Vallarta awaits with its vibrant nightlife. It’s well-known as a city that comes alive after sunset. Live bars, clubs and open-air shows line the Malecón strip, temping party-loving night owls.
The region has also been ranked among the top 10 LGBTI honeymoon destinations in the world. The Gayborhood district within the Romantic Zone offers an incredible choice of bars and clubs for the LGBTI community. Popular spots span the Vallarta Cora, Azul Agave Sky Bar, Paco’s Ranch and CC Slaughter’s Nightclub, welcoming visitors from all walks of life.
When it comes your perfect holiday, stop-letting your imagination run wild. Along Mexico’s Pacific Coast, Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit welcome you to a true paradise!
By Nayarit Tourism
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