Likely you have heard of Mexico's seaside hotspot, Puerto Vallarta, but the destination's northern neighbor
deserves its fair share of attention, as well. Here's why:
By: Meagan Drillinger
1. Location, location location
Riviera Nayarit is smack dab between the Western Sierra Madre Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. It has 200
miles of beaches, mangrove forests and fishing villages, so whether or clients are interested in hiking, surfing for
culture seeking there is an area of interest. It's prime real estate also affords it an average of 80 degrees year
round.
2. Resorts
Already home to a slew of high-end hotels (think Four Seasons and St. Regis), Riviera Nayarit is picking up
interest among other mass market brands such as Iberostar, which debuted its first Mexican Pacific Coast hotel
in December. Many hotels have ocean views, including Oceanfront Junior Suites, adult-only Spa Rooms,
Presidential Suites and handicap accessible rooms. Properties have Wi-Fi and access to golf.
3. For the Outdoorsy Type
From whale watching and snorkeling to diving, surfing and kayaking, Riviera Nayarit is an adventure-seeker's
paradise. Other outdoor activities include windsurfing, fishing, mangrove boat rides and more. Be sure to head to
the seaside surfer's town of Sayulita, where you can surf the swells and kick back with cervezas on the beach.
4. Disconnect to Reconnect
The bohemian beach town of Sayulita in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico, has attracted avid yogis to the region in order
to disconnect to reconnect. At Haramara Retreat, a 16-acre oasis with 16 private palapa cabanas, guests can
participate in morning or afternoon practice from two 360-degree-view yoga pavilions. Yoga, both private and
group classes, are offered and upon check-in guests may choose to meet their instructor to determine level of
expertise and customize the practice to meet guest needs. The Trailwind Jungle Lodge sits on the the
coastline just north of San Pancho. Here the bungalows, palapas and casitas sit on five acres of jungle and
beach. Mar de Jade is located in Chacala, a fishing village 90 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta. The main house
of Mar de Jade sits on the Chacala beach. There are 17 Garden Suites and 11 Guest Rooms in addition to yoga
and meditation studios, dining rooms, bar, guest lounge and reception. Guests can participate in yoga,
meditation or the temezcal ceremony or any of the scheduled on-property retreats. Finally, travelers looking to
be closer to the beach should look into Paraiso Yoga located in Sayulita and a two-block walk to the beach.
The property has three bungalows. Gatherings can be held in the shared open-air kitchen or outdoor hangout
space.
5. Catch of the Day
Proximity to the ocean leads to some of the freshest seafood in Mexico. From
all-inclusive restaurants to seaside cafes, Riviera Nayarit is catching and
grilling local Mexican delicacies.
6. Real Mexico
Still relatively untouched by international tourism, Riviera Nayarit provides a glimpse into traditional Mexico.
Four local tribes produce their own arts and crafts. Plus, the nearby archaeological site of Alta Vista allows
visitors to take a step back into history.
7. Night Owls Will Flock
Being in such close proximity to Puerto Vallarta allows travelers to Riviera Nayarit to experience a pulsing
nightlife. Puerto Vallarta's streets are electric with bars, discos, live music and live shows. Plus, Puerto Vallarta
is one of the most LGBT-friendly destinations in Mexico.