Exploring the Mexican Riviera - Riviera Nayarit

Riviera Nayarit is only 10 minutes away from the Puerto Vallarta International Airport and has become during the past years an international destination with a high reputation for its magnificent resorts, top class gastronomy and beautifully designed golf courses.

A place so rich in beautiful and special natural landscapes, mixing the tropical jungle with the mountains of the Sierra Madre and the pristine waters of the Pacific Ocean, it also offers a wider range of activities in the different towns it comprises. Each of the destinations in Riviera Nayarit offers something in particular, making every town special with its own charm and history. Let’s explore some of these towns and find out why Riviera Nayarit is becoming the destination of choice for those looking for serenity, luxury, relaxation or enjoyment.

Nuevo Vallarta, considered by many the “capital” of Riviera Nayarit and the most developed area, was begun over 10 years ago by the federal government. Nowadays, is home to some of the most spectacular world class resorts, golf courses and a state-of-the-art marina. Nuevo Vallarta is also the place to go if shopping is your thing, offering everything from jewelry stores, international boutiques to markets with typical handicrafts. Nuevo Vallarta is also home to two AAA Four Diamond Restaurants making it a “must” destination for gourmets: Lucca, Serving flavorful Italian-Mediterranean cuisine and Piaf presenting classic French cuisine, both located at the Grand Velas All Suites & Spa Resort.

As we head up north, we arrive to La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, a fishing village being transformed by many development projects. The latest project unveiled is a luxury marina called “Riviera Nayarit Marina & Yatch Club” with a capacity for around 380 ships and yachts, along the marina future developments include boutique hotels and restaurants. The fishing industry in the area is recovering its importance and a large fish market is also in the planning.

Bucerias, a typical Mexican fishing village with its main square by the church and pebble stone streets and still showing the genuine and friendly Mexico to its visitors. Home to many restaurants and bars around the beachfront, it is also known for its street cuisine, where the more adventurous can enjoy some of the freshest seafood and birria (spicy goat stew).