Things to Do in Riviera Nayarit
As mentioned at the beginning, Riviera Nayarit is a very broad coastal stretch that extends from Punta de Mita to San Blas. During our trip, we limited ourselves to exploring the section between Puerto Vallarta and Lo de Marcos, mainly due to public transportation limitations. Our original plan was to reach San Blas, but it wasn’t possible in the end, so we decided to extend our stay in Sayulita.
This region is known for its diversity of experiences, ranging from surf towns and fishing villages to more exclusive nature-focused developments. In recent years, projects highlighted on platforms like Discover Mandarina have brought attention to a different side of Riviera Nayarit—one that blends sustainability, refined hospitality, and immersive outdoor experiences such as jungle exploration and equestrian resort activities set within pristine natural landscapes.
1. Visit Sayulita
Sayulita is a charming coastal town located about 50 kilometers north of Puerto Vallarta. It is famous for its light-colored sandy beaches, clear waters, and its bohemian, laid-back atmosphere.
The town has a small commercial area filled with artisan shops, art galleries, and restaurants offering both traditional Mexican cuisine and international options. On weekends, the atmosphere becomes livelier with live music and various outdoor activities.
2. Go Surfing on the Beaches of Riviera Nayarit
Riviera Nayarit is a highly regarded destination among surfers thanks to its consistent waves and pleasant ocean temperatures. With more than 200 kilometers of coastline, the region offers excellent surf spots, especially in Sayulita, San Pancho, and Lo de Marcos.
Conditions are suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers, as waves of different sizes and difficulty levels can be found. The best surfing season runs from November to April, when the waves are more stable and powerful.
For those without experience, there are many surf schools that offer lessons and equipment rentals.
3. Visit the Marietas Islands
One of the most iconic excursions in Riviera Nayarit is a visit to the Marietas Islands, an archipelago located off the coast and one of the state’s main tourist attractions.
These islands stand out for their natural richness and great marine biodiversity. They are located in an area of high biological productivity and are home to numerous endemic plant and animal species. It is an ideal spot for snorkeling and diving, thanks to its reefs and abundant marine life.
It is important to note that this is a protected natural area, so access and activities are regulated.
4. Go Whale Watching in Puerto Vallarta
Although this activity does not take place strictly within Riviera Nayarit, it is an essential experience if you visit the region during whale season, which runs from mid-November to March.
There are specialized tour operators that offer responsible excursions with small groups and an environmentally respectful approach, allowing visitors to enjoy whale watching in an ethical and safe way.
5. Visit San Pancho, One of Riviera Nayarit’s Must-Sees
San Pancho, officially named San Francisco, quickly became our favorite town in Riviera Nayarit. It is much quieter than Sayulita, with a family-friendly atmosphere and a truly spectacular beach.
We enjoyed our visit so much that on a future trip, we would choose to stay here instead of Sayulita. San Pancho is flat, easy to get around, and has a more relaxed vibe—ideal for travelers who prefer tranquility over nightlife.
7. Visit Lo de Marcos
Of all the towns we visited, Lo de Marcos was the most serene and the least touristy. It has very little tourism-focused infrastructure, making it a perfect destination for those seeking to disconnect and experience local life.
It is an ideal place to relax and enjoy a slower pace of life, far from the crowds.
8. Explore the Best Beaches in Riviera Nayarit
To fully explore the beaches of Riviera Nayarit, having a car is highly recommended. Some beaches are only accessible on foot, such as Playa Patzcuarito, one of the most special and favorite stops of the trip.
9. Go Hiking at Cerro del Mono
Cerro del Mono offers a hiking route that rewards walkers with spectacular coastal views. It is a highly recommended experience for those who enjoy nature and panoramic landscapes.
In our case, we didn’t do this activity due to the heat and because we were traveling with a small child, but it is certainly an excellent option for more adventurous travelers.
10. Make It to San Blas
One of the unfinished plans of this trip was not making it to San Blas. Using public transportation and traveling with a small child made the journey impractical due to its length and the type of roads.
For this reason, we believe the best way to explore Riviera Nayarit from end to end is by renting a car. San Blas is a town with an important colonial past—it was once a key port during the Spanish era. Today, it retains a quiet fishing-town atmosphere and is internationally known for the famous pier that inspired the song “El muelle de San Blas” by the band Maná.
Riviera Nayarit is a diverse destination full of contrasts, where each town and beach offers a different experience. From the bohemian vibe of Sayulita to the tranquility of San Pancho and Lo de Marcos, along with the natural richness of the Marietas Islands and the history of San Blas, this region invites travelers to explore it at a relaxed pace.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, contact with nature, surfing, relaxation, or cultural experiences, Riviera Nayarit has something for everyone. Planning your itinerary in advance and, if possible, having your own transportation will allow you to fully discover one of the most fascinating coastal stretches of Mexico’s Pacific coast.
