Riviera Nayarit is a lesser-known coastline than its sister Riviera Maya but this doesn’t mean that it is less beautiful. On the contrary, Riviera Nayarit has some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, still untouched by the heavy tourism that has conquered Riviera Maya. The road along the riviera takes you to some beautiful hidden gems and less hidden places along the coastline of the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy the colorful villages, while you snack on some Mexican seafood fresh out of the ocean, or go swimming at one of the beautiful beaches you’ll encounter.

Here are the five stops you should definitely make along Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit.

Sayulita

Sayulita is a beach town in the Riviera Nayarit offering many activities. The beaches are perfect for surfing and there are several yoga retreats in town for you to relax and have a mindful holiday. The town of Sayulita is much more vibrant than San Francisco and is only 5 km away. The streets are filled with restaurants, bars, and street vendors offering the most delicious Mexican snacks.

Sayulita is located between the sea and the mountains, making it an impressive natural area. Go shopping for souvenirs or relax in one of the Riviera Nayarit resorts  in this popular holiday destination.

San Francisco

This tiny beach place is sometimes referred to as San Pancho and is the cultural capital of the state Nayarit. This village is perfect if you’re trying to learn more about Mexican culture and education. The village is filled with murals, depicting the colorful personalities and landscapes of the area. The beach has some steep waves, making it the perfect destination for surfers.

San Pancho is a quiet destination and focuses on eco-living. It’s more calm and down-to-earth than its lively brother Sayulita, which is where you should head if you’re looking for a more vibrant holiday.

Bucerias

If you’re trying to stay away from the clouds and would like to see how Mexicans along the Riviera Nayarit go about their daily lives, head to the town of Bucerias. You’ll fall in love with this traditional Mexican village and its cobblestone streets and colorful houses. In the village, you’ll experience a feeling of serenity, and while you stroll through the small streets and rest in the pagoda–the center of the town in every Mexican village–, you’ll experience the kindness of the Mexican people that live here.

Bucerias is perfect for those looking to relax and enjoy some traditional Mexican culture.

La Cruz de Huanacaxtle

La Cruz is only 6 km from Bucerias, but so much different. This place was once a simple fishing village but is now a modern destination thanks to the Riviera Nayarit Marina. The mix of modern and traditional makes it a unique village. You’ll be able to see the fishermen haul in their catch of the day while savoring it in one of the modern restaurants along the coast. The Marina is still growing and will be developed into a modern yacht terminal.

Punta de Mita

If you want to encounter the beautiful sea life of the Pacific Ocean, Punta de Mita is the perfect place. This village is only 8 km from Sayulita and is known to be a spot where whales  come to give birth to their calves. Virgin beach is the main beach in this city and has a coastline of over six miles filled with luxury hotels. Virgin beach was even ranked #5 on the list of most beautiful beaches in Mexico.

Besides whale watching, there are many other things to do in this beach place. You’ll find some spectacular golf courses and many luxury hotels to relax at in Punta de Mita.

So there you have it, five places that you’re sure to enjoy on your adventure along Mexico’s  Riviera Nayarit.