9 BEST THINGS THAT MUST DO IN NAYARIT (MEXICO)
9 BEST THINGS THAT MUST DO IN NAYARIT (MEXICO), Nayarit is a retired gem on Mexico’s Pacific Coast, known for its stunning bank, lush jungles and vibrant culture. With a rich history and abundant natural beauty, Nayarit offers a different range of conditioning and lodestones , from Sayulita’s peaceful and pristine strands to the towering escarpments girding Santa Maria del Oro lake.
20 THINGS TO DO IN NAYARIT
1- SET OFF ON A PACIFIC COASTLINE ROAD TRIP
Buckle up and hit the road on a coastal road trip adventure along the Riviera Nayarit.
Cruising along the Pacific coast, take in stunning views of glittering gold-tinted beaches and swaying palms and stop by charming fishing villages.
When the sun starts to dip below the horizon, find a scenic spot to watch one of the most breathtaking sunsets you’ll ever see.
Grab your friends, rent a car, hit the road and get ready for a journey filled with sun, sand and adventure.
2- SNORKEL AND SCUBA DIVE AT LOS ARCOS MARINE PARK
If you’re ready to explore underwater Nayarit, look no further than Los Arcos Marine Park.
Just a short boat ride from the mainland, Los Arcos offers crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life and over 20 dive sites, each offering a unique experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned underwater explorer or taking your first plunge, Los Arcos Marine Park is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the underwater world of Nayarit.
3- HIKE ON A JUNGLE ADVENTURE
If you’re seeking adventure and excitement, head into Nayarit’s jungle.
Begin your jungle adventure at the end of the main beach of Playa Malpasos just north of Sayulita, where the trailhead starts that will take you into a world full of vibrant colours, scents and sounds!
With every step, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Pacific coastline.
Keep an eye out for monkeys and other exotic wildlife as you make your way through the jungle!
Your journey will end in the charming town of San Pancho, where you can rest and reflect on your amazing experience.
Here are a couple of exciting ways to explore the jungle:
4- ADMIRE BREATHTAKING SUNSETS AT SAN PANCHO
If you go on a jungle hike, you’ll have arrived at one of the Riviera Nayarit’s hidden gems, the charming town of San Pancho.
Tucked away under the low sierras, about 31 miles (50 km) north of Puerto Vallarta, this cobbled road town is a treasure trove of cantinas and surf shacks.
San Pancho is most known for its breathtaking sunsets and the best spot to watch one is at the south end of the bay, where you’ll find surfers catching the last waves of the day and the silhouettes of palm trees against the backdrop of the setting sun.
5- WATCH BABY TURTLES TAKE THEIR FIRST STEPS
Releasing baby sea turtles into the ocean is a truly heart-warming and memorable experience.
If you’re visiting Nayarit, you’re in luck, as there are several places along the coastline where you can participate in this natural event.
One of the best places to release baby sea turtles is the Marietas Islands.
This breathtaking archipelago is located off the coast of Nayarit and is home to an array of fascinating wildlife, including several species of sea turtles.
The best time to witness the release of hatchlings is from June to December.
You can also find sea turtle release programs in several other locations along the Nayarit coastline, including the towns of Lo de Marcos, San Francisco and San Blas.
Releasing baby sea turtles is an unforgettable experience and a great way to support conservation efforts and protect these magnificent creatures for future generations.
6- DISCOVER MEXICO’S VENICE, THE MAGIC TOWN OF MEXCALTITAN
The lake island town of Mexcaltitan is often referred to as the ‘Venice of Mexico’ thanks to its waterways and lagoon streets, which are only accessible by boat.
One of the most interesting facts about Mexcaltitan is that it’s said to be the birthplace of the Aztec Empire as it’s believed that the Aztecs, who were nomads at the time, settled here before eventually moving on to found their great empire in what is now Mexico City.
Visitors to Mexcaltitan can take a boat tour of the waterways, observe local fishermen in their traditional canoes and try delicious seafood.
7- LEARN A NEW SKILL AT A MACRAME WORKSHOP
Consider signing up for a macrame workshop if you want to try something new and creative.
Macrame involves knotting rope or string to create beautiful and unique textiles.
It’s a fun and easy activity that anyone can enjoy, regardless of your crafting experience.
In Nayarit, several local artisans and workshops offer macrame classes.
These classes are typically held in the afternoons and provide all the materials you’ll need, including the rope, snacks and drinks.
The friendly and knowledgeable instructor will guide you step-by-step through the process, teaching you various knots and patterns to create your own macrame.
At the end of the workshop, you’ll walk away with a one-of-a-kind macrame piece you made with your own hands.
It’s the perfect memento to take home with you and show off to your friends and family.
8- GO SURFING IN SAYULITA
Grab your board and hit the waves. Nayarit is the perfect place for surfers of all levels.
Sayulita, a small bohemian beach town in Nayarit, is the perfect spot for beginner surfers.
If you don’t have a board, don’t worry because Sayulita is filled with surf shops that offer board rentals and lessons.
Consider taking a private lesson as it’ll make a big difference to getting your skill level up.
As you hit the water, feel the thrill of the waves beneath your board and the sun on your face. With each ride, you’ll feel more confident and empowered.
When you’re ready for a break, take a stroll on the beach and soak up the laid-back vibe of Sayulita.
9- EXPLORE THE CORAL REEFS OF CORAL ISLAND
If you’re looking for a fun-filled adventure, a boat trip to Coral Island should be at the top of your bucket list.