10 Riviera Nayarit attractions you can’t miss

The local culture and natural surroundings are the best aspects of vacationing in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico, and a wide range of tourists are drawn to the region’s tourism attractions. There are always new places to explore in Nayarit, from sleepy communities like Sayulita, Mexico, to the picturesque Marieta Islands Hidden Beach, where more adventures are waiting for you. You’ll fall in love with these attractions, claims Riviera Nayarit tourism.

Marieta Islands Hidden Beach

One of the standout attractions in Riviera Nayarit tourism is the Hidden Beach at the Marietas Islands. Over time, natural forces, such as wind and waves, sculpted one of the island’s caves. When military testing accidentally created an opening in the surface above it, sunlight began to pour onto the sandy beach concealed within. It’s important to note that conservation initiatives restrict the daily visitor count, so it’s advisable to secure your tour reservation well in advance.

Sayulita Mexico

Among the top draws of Nayarit’s coastline, you’ll discover beaches renowned for their excellent surf conditions, and Sayulita stands out as a premier wave-catching destination within Riviera Nayarit, Mexico. It has even earned recognition as one of the world’s finest winter getaways. Even if your purpose isn’t to rent a surfboard or partake in lessons, Sayulita is a destination that should not be missed. Its cobblestone streets and vibrant central plaza are adorned with captivating public art installations, offering delightful opportunities to explore local boutiques and dine in charming restaurants as you stroll through this captivating city.

San Pancho

Continuing along the coast lies San Pancho, another surf-oriented community that has established itself as a prominent tourist attraction in Nayarit. Although smaller and more tranquil compared to Sayulita, Mexico, San Pancho boasts its own allure with charming boutiques and delectable dining establishments. Here, the waves tend to be more robust than at some other Nayarit beach locations, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing afternoon by the seashore.

Bucerias Market

Make a visit to the Bucerias market for all your souvenir needs. While meandering through the town square and the nearby stalls, you’ll encounter exquisite pottery, authentic attire, and intricately woven baskets. Acquiring a memento from this locale allows you to carry a fragment of Riviera Nayarit, Mexico, with you. Following your shopping excursion, savor a meal at one of the indigenous eateries that contribute to Bucerias’ reputation as one of Nayarit’s premier destinations to explore.

Nuevo Vallarta Bike Path

Engage in physical activity while discovering the charms of Nuevo Vallarta. There’s a scenic route that follows the primary roadway for approximately 3.5 miles. During the morning hours, you’ll encounter numerous individuals enjoying leisurely walks and invigorating runs. Prepare your footwear for a delightful exploration, or consider reserving a guided bicycle excursion with a local provider. At the northern terminus of this route, you have the option to divert onto the shoreline path leading to Bucerias, a highly recommended destination in Nayarit for a delightful local dining experience or a leisurely stroll through the town square.

You may also like: Where can I run in Nuevo Vallarta?

Monkey Mountain

Exploring the Mexican jungle on foot sparks creativity and rejuvenates the spirit, and Monkey Mountain offers a scenic two-mile ascent that unveils breathtaking vistas. Your journey commences in the charming town of Higuera Blanca, where you’ll follow the clearly marked path leading to “cerro del mono,” also known as Monkey Mountain. Upon reaching the summit, you’ll be treated to a panoramic, bird’s-eye perspective of the coastline, serving as a refreshing and well-deserved prize for your climb.

Related: Hiking to Cerro del Mono

Mirador del Toro

Another fantastic hiking opportunity along the Riviera Nayarit can be found near Rincón de Guayabitos in Los Ayala. While embarking on this hike, you’ll have the chance to visit multiple notable tourist spots in Nayarit. The initial offshoot from the trail leads to Playa del Toro, a picturesque, secluded beach where, during the rainy season, a small waterfall gracefully spills onto the shoreline. In close proximity, the trail meanders upward to a substantial cliff, offering a truly awe-inspiring viewpoint. Continuing along the path, you’ll eventually reach Punta Raza, one of the few remaining pristine beaches in Nayarit, preserving its untouched natural beauty.

You can also read: Hiking to Mirador del Toro

El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary

The El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary offers an immersive experience within the estuary and is located in the heart of Nuevo Vallarta. Here, you may learn more about these critters and see them in their natural habitat. While enjoying the tourist attractions of Riviera Nayarit, supporting the conservation of crocodiles is a significant deed because they are an important part of the region’s environment.

Vista Paraíso

While the Nayarit coast boasts breathtaking beaches, equal splendor and amazement await in its mountainous terrain. For those seeking outdoor thrills, make your way to Vista Paraíso, a mountain ranch offering an array of experiences such as ATV rides, ziplining adventures, or guided horseback journeys.

Isla Coral Nayarit

Isla Coral Nayarit stands as a prominent draw in Rincón de Guayabitos. Situated just off the city’s shoreline, this sizable island presents a breathtaking spectacle. Local vendors provide boat excursions to reach the island, granting you the opportunity to unwind on its sandy beaches, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, or even indulge in a paddleboarding adventure around Isla Coral Nayarit.