From hippie towns to luxury resorts: Diverse landscapes on Mexico’s Pacific Coast

 

Whatever your personality and holiday preference, there is an area to suit everyone in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit, two idyllic, neighbouring areas in Mexico. Take a look at this round up of some of the most breath-taking places to visit in the regions:

Puerto Vallarta

Conchas Chinas

An exclusive area, full of inclined, winding roads offering spectacular, hilltop views of Banderas Bay. Aptly named after the rare shells found only on the local beaches there, the town has been dubbed ‘The Beverly Hills of Puerto Vallarta’ and is mainly home to residential housing, along with many condominium and hacienda rentals. Top place to stay: Grand Miramar Resort (http://www.grandmiramar.com)

Romantic Zone

Old Vallarta, just south of the Downtown area, is the busiest part of Puerto Vallarta. Packed full of quaint cobbled streets, with more shops, cafes, bars and restaurants per square foot than anywhere else in town, the ‘Romantic Zone’ is a cultural hub. Top place to stay: Playa Los Arcos Hotel Beach Resort & Spa (http://www.playalosarcos.com)

Marina Vallarta

Just 5 minutes from Puerto Vallarta International Airport, you will find the exclusive Marina filled with yachts, boats and charters. Built during the most active years of the city in the 1980s, apart from the boats there is a championship 18-hole golf course and a number of gourmet restaurants. Top place to stay: Velas Vallarta (http://www.velasvallarta.com)

Riviera Nayarit

Bucerias

Upon arrival in this traditional Mexican town it is hard not to be charmed by the unspoilt cobblestone streets and brightly coloured houses. It is easy to see why the area is one of the most well visited destinations in Riviera Nayarit, with serene ocean views, hospitable locals, lively bars and the best spot for Kitesurfing in the vicinity. Top place to stay: Royal Decameron Complex (http://www.decameron.com/promosite/index.php/en/decameron-com/mexico-hotels/riviera-nayarit/royal-decameron-complex/)

Punta de Mita

If celeb spotting and the lavish lifestyle is your thing then Punta Mita is the place for you. Secluded in a private, gated area this exclusive, luxurious getaway has six miles of pristine, white sandy beaches, surrounded by green hills and opulent resorts to suit even the most discerning traveller. It is also famous for its iconic Jack Nicklaus designed golf courses, relaxing spas and sophisticated boutiques. Top place to stay: St. Regis Punta Mita (http://www.stregis.com/puntamita)

Sayulita

Sayulita is an iconic, traditional fishing village renowned for being a surf lover’s paradise. A chilled out environment, where music and celebration fill the air and dazzling sunsets fill the sky, it is perfect for adventure lovers, comfort seekers, or wedding & honeymoon couples. Top things to do include horseback riding along the beach, shopping at one of the many small businesses selling delicious, traditional dishes, visiting the quaint art galleries and dining at the elegant beachside restaurants. Top place to stay: Hamara Retreat (http://haramararetreat.com)