Riviera Nayarit’s Most Iconic Attractions

How well do you know the Riviera Nayarit? Today we’re going to tell you all about some pretty special places that, even though they might seem super popular, are actually off the beaten path for most travelers. Read on and be sure to let us know when you visit!

La Tovara Nature Reserve in San Blas

This gorgeous natural spring will bring you up close and personal with Mother Nature. The tours here are unbelievable, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by mangroves and local fauna. La Tovara is home to an endless number of species, including crocodiles, migratory birds, and other animals. You’ll also have a chance to take a few choice shots of some gorgeous old stilt houses built for the set of a famous Mexican movie.

Playa el Novillero in Tecuala

Riviera Nayarit has plenty of wide and nearly deserted beaches—ideal places to indulge in peace and quiet away from people in or out of the water. One of these is Playa Novillero, a beach that’s among the five longest in the world and, in fact, it’s the longest in all of Mexico. Its length means there’s more beach for you to enjoy, but if you can’t make it there, we have a closer version of it in Destiladeras, where the sunsets are amazing.

Isla del Coral in Compostela

Ok, so we’ve told you about two incredible places, but right now we’re kind of at a loss for words to describe the paradise known as Isla del Coral. Many people call it the Riviera Nayarit’s natural aquarium and we couldn’t agree more. It’s turquoise-green color is unique! To get here you have to grab a motorboat from Rincón de Guayabitos. Oh, and you can’t miss the snorkeling: the parade of fish is endless!

Islas Marietas in Banderas Bay

The most famous spot on Islas Marietas is the Playa del Amor—Lover’s Beach—which is literally under a crater. Some people have already been here, while others have only seen its image go viral on social media. Truth is, in addition to this precious gem (one that can only be reached by swimming), there’s also the idyllic Playa la Nopalera, where you can snorkel on one of the best beaches in Mexico. We recommend touring the islands by boat so you can learn a bit more about their history and fall in love with them in all their glory.

Which of these spectacular spots do you already know? Great! Well now you can plan your next stop in the Riviera Nayarit. Don’t forget to use the #RivieraNayarit hashtag on your social media—we love to see you enjoying paradise!