23 Micro-destinations: The treasures of the Riviera Nayarit

The Riviera Nayarit is a fascinating place. Mexico’s newest favorite destination is made up of 23 micro-destinations that include everything from the most beautiful virgin beaches to impressive mountain landscapes that will take your breath away. Starting in Nuevo Vallarta all the way to the famous port of San Blas, you’ll find in the Riviera Nayarit everything you need for the perfect vacation chock full of luxury, culture, local experiences, exquisite food, and the most exciting adventures.

Find out a little more about these 23 micro-destinations and their regions and take notes for your 2020 vacation!

Banderas Bay

Nuevo Vallarta, Bucerías, La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, Destiladeras, and Punta de Mita are all located in Banderas Bay. These micro-destinations have much in common: impressive, clean beaches; incredible vacation hotels; and tons of aquatic activities including surfing, kite-surfing, and snorkeling. You’re going to fall in love with the beaches’ turquoise-blue water and calm waves.

Southern Coast

The Southern Coast is home to Litibú, Sayulita, San Pancho, Lo de Marcos, and Punta Raza—and there’s much to be said about these micro-destinations. All of them stand out for the culture that springs from their streets, homes, experiences, and the locals themselves. You won’t find any big resorts here (they’re in Banderas Bay). Accommodations in these micro-destinations tend towards the rustic, ideal for lovers of art, more intimate spaces, sustainability, pet-friendly spots, and environmental awareness. The culinary options are a local delight, and encounters with nature and travelers from all over the world create a multicultural experience.

Jaltemba Bay 

Los Ayala, Rincón de Guayabitos, and La Peñita line what seems like the Riviera Nayarit’s biggest and most crystal-clear natural swimming pool. Its natural attractions have charmed those who tour the little outlying islands such as Coral Island (Isla del Coral) and Crab Island (Isla del Cangrejo). The view from the Mirador del Toro viewpoint is a must!

Central Coast 

El Capomo, Las Varas, Boca de Chila, and Punta el Custodio are just some of the nearly virgin beaches you need to visit at least once in your lifetime. Getting up close and personal with nature is the area’s quintessential experience: think turtle sanctuaries and the marvelous Sierra de Vallejo mountains.

North Coast

Home to San Blas, Costa Santiago, Isla Mexcaltitán, and Playa Novillero. The North Coast is all about culture, architecture, and paradise by the water. Its colonial villages are a must for visitors. Here you can complement your tour with local culture, handcrafted items, and above all, some truly idyllic beaches that represent the best of Mexico’s Pacific Treasure. The food here is just as stellar: like everywhere else in the region, you’ll find traditional dishes like pescado zarandeado (grilled fish), banana bread, and coconut shrimp.

It’s hard to say which one you should visit first… We recommend you tour at least one village in each region—you won’t regret it! We’ll share more details about these micro-destinations on another blog post because there’s so much to tell. Don’t forget to add the hashtag #RivieraNayarit on your social media posts—we want to see you having fun in paradise!