Viewfinder

Nayarit, a state rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, is home to nine magical towns, each with its own unique charm.

puerto-balleto

9 Magical Towns of Nayarit

888-191

compostela

Compostela

Compostela (2 hours)
With its charming colonial atmosphere, Compostela is one of the oldest settlements in the region, founded in 1530 as &#8220;Villa del Espíritu de la Nueva Galicia.&#8221; Strolling through its cobblestone streets is like traveling back in time, enjoying the historical architecture that defines its character.

jala

Jala

Jala (2.5 hours)
As the first Magical Town of Nayarit, Jala captivates with the beauty of its historical buildings and picturesque houses. Surrounded by towering hills and cliffs, the landscape transforms into a green paradise during the rainy season. Famous for its basilica and delicious artisan bread, Jala is a place where traditions remain alive, offering an authentic experience to all its visitors.

sayulita-2

Sayulita

Sayulita (45 min)
This surfer&#8217;s paradise is famous for its vibrant, relaxed, and carefree atmosphere. The colorful streets and ideal surfing beaches make Sayulita a perfect destination for those looking to combine relaxation and adventure. Here, the beaches intertwine with lush jungle and a vibrant artistic and cultural scene.

san-blas

San Blas

San Blas (3 hours)
Recently named a Magical Town, San Blas is a charming fishing town with beautiful landscapes and Instagram-worthy sites. Its historic port and beaches make it a destination where natural beauty and cultural richness combine to offer a unique and enriching experience.

ahuacatlan

Ahuacatlán

Ahuacatlán (2 hours)
Ahuacatlán is a historical settlement with architecture that reflects its rich cultural heritage. With green areas perfect for adventure tourism and relaxation in nature, from the majestic Temple of San Francisco de Asís to the idyllic spots of Las Tinajas, this town is a beautiful secret waiting to be discovered.

amatlan-de-canas

Amatlán de Cañas

Amatlán de Cañas (3 hours)
This beautiful corner bordering the state of Jalisco is famous for its architecture, temples, alleys, and wonderful waterfalls, rivers, and hot springs. The main attraction is El Manto, a natural spa surrounded by stone walls and lush nature, ideal for those looking to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.

isla-de-mexcaltitlan

Isla de Mexcaltitlán

Isla de Mexcaltitán (4.5 hours)
This small island is a treasure of canals and legends. Considered the place of origin of the Legend of Aztlán, visitors can enjoy boat rides, explore the traditional architecture, and savor the local cuisine. Mexcaltitán is a place where history and culture meet in every corner.

ixtlan-del-rio

Ixtlán del Río

Ixtlán del Río (2.5 hours)
Surrounded by the impressive Sierras de San Pedro and Pajaritos, Ixtlán del Río offers incredible panoramic views and a rich archaeological history. Near Los Toriles, which houses one of the few circular temples of the Mesoamerican culture, this town is a fascinating destination for history and archaeology enthusiasts.

puerto-balleto-2

Puerto Balleto

Puerto Balleto (7 hours)
On the largest island of the Islas Marías, Puerto Balleto has transitioned from being part of a Mexican prison to a tourist destination dedicated to environmental preservation. As part of a Biosphere Reserve, it offers a great diversity of flora and fauna, becoming a perfect refuge for nature lovers.

Vallarta Lifestyles Launches its July-September 2024 Issue

Serenity and Tranquility: 3 Coastal Villages South of Puerto Vallarta

The 9 Magical Towns of Nayarit (Most Within 3 Hours from Puerto Vallarta)

Located south of Puerto Vallarta, Las Ánimas, Quimixto, and Yelapa are three coastal villages that stand out for their natural charm.

portada-332

3 Coastal Villages South of Puerto Vallarta

888-190

las-animas-2

Las Ánimas

Las Ánimas 
With its fine sands and crystal-clear waters, Las Ánimas is the ideal place to sunbathe. Along its beach, there are a series of palapa restaurants offering delicious local cuisine, perfect for enjoying dishes prepared with fresh seafood while taking in the scenery.
The lush vegetation and biodiversity of the mountains surrounding Las Ánimas complement the paradisiacal environment. For the more adventurous, this place offers exciting activities such as skydiving, horseback riding, zip-lining, climbing walls, and hanging bridges, ensuring fun for the whole family.

quimixto-4

Quimixto

Quimixto 
Quimixto is a beach with amber-colored sand and crystal-clear waters in emerald tones. This place is perfect for snorkeling, as its coves and caves host colorful reefs and various marine species, creating a fascinating marine spectacle.
The impressive waterfall, approximately ten meters high, is one of Quimixto’s main attractions. It can be accessed via horseback ride or hike, offering an immersive experience in nature.

yelapa-5

Yelapa

Yelapa 
Located south of the Banderas Bay, Yelapa is a picturesque fishing village known for its bohemian and relaxed atmosphere, maintaining an authentic and tranquil ambiance. Its beach with soft sands and gentle waves is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, offering stunning views of Pacific sunsets.
In Yelapa, visitors can enjoy various water and land activities. From kayaking and paddleboarding on the El Tuito River to thrilling ATV rides and hiking. Additionally, the waterfall that adorns the area is an unmissable natural spectacle.
How to Reach These Beaches 
One of the easiest ways to reach Las Ánimas, Quimixto, and Yelapa is to travel to Boca de Tomatlán. From there, you can take a panga that travels to these coastal villages.

Discovering the Treasures of the Mountain Towns Near Puerto Vallarta

In the surroundings of Puerto Vallarta, you can find El Tuito, San Sebastián del Oeste, Mascota, and Talpa de Allende, unique destinations ideal for day trips.

san-sebas

Small Towns Near Puerto Vallarta

888-187

tuito

El Tuito

El Tuito
El Tuito is located approximately 40 kilometers south of Puerto Vallarta. Its Main Plaza, with a picturesque kiosko at the center, is a perfect place to start your exploration. Surrounded by trees and benches, the plaza invites you to relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. You can also visit the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a beautiful historic building dating back to the 18th century. El Tuito is also famous for its production of raicilla, a traditional regional drink.

talpa

Talpa de Allende

Talpa de Allende
Talpa de Allende, approximately two and a half hours from the Puerto Vallarta International Airport, is an important pilgrimage center. Its Main Plaza is a place where spirituality and daily life blend. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Rosary is a focal point, and the Talpa Basílica is an impressive religious building. Additionally, you can explore the cobblestone streets and enjoy authentic local food at nearby restaurants.

mascota-4

Mascota

Mascota
Just 100 kilometers northeast of Puerto Vallarta, Mascota is a town surrounded by mountains and forests. Its Main Plaza is a charming place to enjoy a morning coffee by the kiosko. From there, you can explore the Church of Our Lady of Sorrows and the Mascota Historical Museum. This small town is also famous for its production of candies, raicilla, and its relaxed atmosphere.

san-sebas-2

San Sebastián del Oeste

San Sebastián del Oeste
San Sebastián del Oeste, about an hour&#8217;s drive from the Puerto Vallarta International Airport, is a place that transports you back in time. Its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture make you feel as if you were in the 19th century. The Main Plaza, with its central kiosko, is a meeting point for residents and visitors. From there, you can explore the San Sebastián Mártir Temple. Additionally, don’t miss the Curved Bridge, a photogenic spot with a small waterfall among typical houses.

Enjoy a Sunset at Los Arcos de Mismaloya

What to Do

South of Puerto Vallarta lies a unique corner where nature unveils its magic as evening falls: Los Arcos de Mismaloya.

portada-330

Los Arcos de Mismaloya

888-186

5 Pet-Friendly Hotels in Puerto Vallarta

Activities

Puerto Vallarta shines as an ideal base for digital nomads.

portada-325

Puerto Vallarta

888-181

Puerto Vallarta Digital Nomads

Discover the Magic of the Sierra del Nayar: A Hidden Treasure Near Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta: The Digital Nomad’s Seaside Sanctuary

Imagine a corner of the world where nature unfolds in all its splendor, a hidden gem just a few kilometers from Puerto Vallarta: the Sierra del Nayar. 

888-179

Sierra del Nayar

portada-323

The Eye of God: An Ancestral Symbol of Wixárika Culture

iglesia-de-guadalupe-4

Our Lady of Guadalupe Church

From a stroll along the Malecón to a visit to the Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, each attraction is perfect for immersing yourself in the authenticity of this Mexican destination.

888-174

Announcing the 2024 Puerto Vallarta International Film Festival

Enjoy the Last Days of the 20th Edition of Restaurant Week

Free Tourist Attractions to Visit in Puerto Vallarta

Foodie Report

Restaurant Week is an extraordinary event that brings us closer to and allows us to explore the culinary diversity of our destination.

888-172

Restaurant Week by Vallarta Lifestyles

portada-318

Amerigo Vespucci: The Distinguished Ship Arrives in Puerto Vallarta

News

In an impressive achievement, Stephanie Montero Bending successfully completed the Vuelta a la Bahía de Banderas from May 20th to 26th, 2024. 

montero-02

Vuelta a la Bahía de Banderas

montero-888

Exploring High-Altitude Coffee in Jalisco: A Sensory Journey

The Malecón: The Vibrant Heart of Puerto Vallarta

Stephanie Montero Successfully Completes the Vuelta a la Bahía de Banderas

The Malecón is one of the most emblematic places in Puerto Vallarta, with the Mexican Pacific as its backdrop and a vibrant cultural life converging upon it. 

03-2

Puerto Vallarta Malecón

888-165

Puerto Vallarta is Celebrating its Double Anniversary

Specials

Within their jungles, mangroves, and mountain ranges dwell silent species that play a fundamental role in the environmental balance: the region’s wild cats.