10 Things to Do in Riviera Nayarit

Explore the hidden gems of the Riviera Nayarit on Mexico's Pacific Coast. Visitors will find beautiful beaches, charming surf towns, gourmet dining and secret island ecosystems for every kind of adventure imaginable.

Visitors can head to the Marietas Hidden Beach, a secret spot on Marietas Island where there is a swimming beach. The island is accessible by boat and the easiest way to get there is to take a tour that includes the hidden beach.

Visitors can stay in Nuevo Vallarta, a resort community in Nayarit that is just north of Puerto Vallarta. Visitors will find luxury accommodations, beautiful beaches, high-end dining and more.

There are numerous great resorts located on the beach in Riviera Nayarit that feature stunning architecture, tropical gardens, high-end service and spacious accommodations for guests. Villa del Palmar Flamingos Beach Resort & Spa Riviera Nayarit (pictured), Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, Grand Palladium Vallarta Resort & Spa and Hotel Riu Vallarta are just a few of the many wonderful resorts in this region.

This marina is conveniently located on the North Shore of Banderas Bay in the fishing village of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. It is one of the largest in Latin America and is surrounded by a variety of restaurants, eateries and gourmet dining.

The popular La Cruz Market takes place every Sunday, November to April.

Destiladeras Mexico is just a short distance west of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. It offers visitors a 5-kilometer beach ideal for surfing, boogie boarding and sandcastle building.

For golf enthusiasts, head to the Pacifico Golf Course in Punta Mita to play one of the top 10 par 3 golf holes designed by Jack Nicklaus. The hole is known as the "Tail of the Whale" and is referred to as "the best par 3 hole" Nicklaus ever designed.

Sayulita is a charming beach town on Mexico's Pacific Coast, north of Puerto Vallarta. It is known for its eclectic community and strong surf as well as for its great restaurants and art galleries.

Isla del Coral is located off the Pacific Coast of Mexico near Rincon de Guayabitos. It is a natural aquarium where visitors will find crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling.

La Tovara National Park in San Blas is one of Riviera Nayarit's most spectacular natural wonders. Guests will find springs, crocodiles, mangroves and more as they explore this natural gem.

The Huichol are descendants of the Aztec and visitors can explore their artwork, lifestyle and traditions in local communities of Xatsixarie, El Nayar, and La Yesca located in the foothills of Mexico's Sierra Madre Mountains.