The treasure of the Mexican Pacific

Universally acknowledged as the “Treasure of the Mexican Pacific,” the Riviera Nayarit is today one of the foremost tourism destinations for those seeking luxury and nature. This regions is meant to be an Eden that promises to seduce local and international travelers alike.

In this novel and flourishing Mexican destinations, located in the state of Nayarit in the region of Banderas Bay, visitors can delight themselves with multiple attractions, the following standing out: six world-class golf courses, the only Polo field in the Pacific, four docks, five-star hotels, 15 spas, all inside 23 microdestinations that converge in 307 km along the coast.

With multiple activities, framed by captivating natural and historic landscapes, cultural and gastronomic richness, tradition, and the warmth of the people in a unique infrastructure, the Riviera Nayarit offers delicacy after delicacy to make your trip an incomparable experience filled with moments of genuine joy. 

 

Eclecticism at its finest

Riviera Nayarit is the jewel of the Mexican Pacific, where tradition and majestic and luxurious residential developments and resorts have fused and adapted to the times that invite one to walk through each of streets and public spaces, of which the following shine through: Punta de Mita, Nuevo Vallarta, San Francisco, Sayulita, and San Blas. 

 

 

 

 

Nuevo Vallarta

This tourism plurality attracts adventurers and travelers who choose one of the many fabulous hotels as their wedding destination. Restaurants and exclusive hotels have been nominated as some of the best beach destinations on a global scale. The golf courses in this unique location offer another reason to contemplate Nuevo Vallarta as a play to stay in for your next vacation.

 

Punta de Mita

An exclusive and comforting destination that is home to two of the most luxurious hotel chain in the world, and two world-class golf courses. Hence, a destination amply recommended y golf enthusiasts. Punta Mita Pacífico has the honor of boasting its 3b hole as one of best known in the world, the “Whale’s Tail.” After a long day practicing ones swing, travelers can relax by enjoying some of the exquisite gourmet food, and – why not? – pamper themselves with a rejuvenating spa treatment inside sophisticated centers located in the hotels and resorts of this historic site.

 

 

 

Sayulita

Sunsets and sunrises are enjoyed with an almost mystical power in this prosperous and picturesque locality full of cultural diversity, and which is recognized as a premiere surfing destination. Visitors have the opportunity to assist a number of art galleries, and to savor the original gastronomy full of wonders from the sea, all inside a bohemian and organic environment.

 

San Francisco

Named the cultural capital of the state of Nayarit, art galleries, cultural centers, and admirable arts and crafts for the local huichol people stand out. An honorable mention hoes to the “La Patrona” polo club, unique in the Mexican Pacific, although alpinism and horseback riding are popular alternatives to enjoy while staying here.

 

 

 

San Blas

San Blas is a tropical backwater, witness to numerous battles waged during the Mexican Wars of Independence, its history and mysticism make of this port an almost obligatory destination, where uncharted beached catch the eyes of tourists who seek silence and seclusion. This land is also home to those wish to surf on clam waves along the coastline. 

 

Mexcaltitan Island

Consiereded the, “cradle of the ‘Mexicanity’”, and boasting an impressive background, it is believed that here is where the mythical Azatlan, city of the Aztecs, was founded, only to be abandoned in 1091 in order to settle in what is now known as Tenochitlan. Today this singular island is home to multiple mangroves and lagoons, suitable for fishing, or simply to enjoy the beautiful scenery. During rainy seasons, the streets turn into canals, where travelers can wade through on canoes. Hence, it has been dubbed the, “Mexican Venice.” Mexcaltitan is a magical town, and historic monument site. 

 

Marinas

Riviera Nayarit also gives travelers the opportunity to travel its waters in luxurious vessels which can dock in any of its four marinas, where the comfort found in the services provided are synonymous with splendid reception. The marinas are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, and can accommodate vessels from 26 to 400 feet in length. Of these, the Marina Riviera Nayarit at La Cruz stands out as the largest in the Mexican Pacific, and multiple world-class nautical events have been celebrated there. Three superb marinas are also found in the area: Marina Puerto Vallarta, Marina Paradise Village (certified as the most sanitary in the country), and Marina San Blas.

 

What to do?

Golf

Riviera Nayarit is the finest golf destinations in Mexico, with six world-class golf courses (El Nayar

Vidanta, El Tigre Golf & Country Club, Flamingos, Punta Mita Pacific, Punta Mita Bay & Golf Course Litibu), as well as three future developments. This is, without a doubt, the most recommended destination for the golf enthusiasts, and the seat of some of the most important local and international tournaments. The combination of breathtaking landscapes paired with the designs of outstanding individuals such as: Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman, Jim Lipe, Robert Von Hagge & Baril, and Percy Clifford, succeed in capturing the attention of even the most demanding golf players.

 

 

Spas

You cannot miss the opportunity to visit one of the more than 15 spas in the region. Variety in technique is present in all facilities. Let yourself be embraced inside these walls, where you can inhale the aromas of wood and sweet fruits to experience true relaxation. Or, well, find the perfect mind-body balance while enjoying a massage, or enjoy a hydromassage bath overlooking the prominent landscapes of the Pacific Ocean.

 

Hotels

When it comes to hospitality, Riviera Nayarit is home to ideal lodgings, all which offer super service, warmth, and comfort on par with world-class, five-star hotels, three of which boast a 5 Diamond rating. 

 

Sailing

Smooth waters and strong winds are the perfect combination to persuade travelers to board a catamaran and enjoy the sailing experience. Whether it is to enjoy the view of the sunsets, or to show ones skill in an international racing competition. 

 

Fishing

A wide variety of marine species has prompted fishermen from all over the world to comb the waters of the Pacific. Opportunities abound, as one can choose luxurious, or simple vessels for fishing. The Riviera Nayarit has been, for the past three years, the seat of international tuna and marlin fishing competitions.

 

 

 

Whale watching

Spectacular jumps from these majestic mammals can be observed from the beaches from mid-December to the end of March. Whale migration is a spectacle that nature provides for visitors and locals alike. 

 

Regata Copa México

This competition dates from 2010 as a biannual and permanent event, celebrated as part of the Mexican Bicentennial festivities with the purpose of fomenting and supporting the sport of sailing, promoting local flora and fauna, as well as infrastructure along the Mexican coast. It also seeks to draw in tourism and jump start the economy of the region.

Regata Copa México 2014 edition is a joint effort between the goverment of Mexico, the state of Nayarit and Mexico’s sailing associations. It will be a world-class event which promises to be a grand spectacle, competition, and a colorful and friendly festivity. 

Regata Copa Mexico is held at the top sailing locations and beachside destinations in Mexico from the 16th to the 30th of march. The main sites for regatta activities will be the Vallarta Yatch Club and La Cruz Yatch Club marina, at Cruz de Huanacaxtle. This large-scale event while draw in fleets from over 15 countries and over 2,000 participants, boosting the local economy by 20% compared to 2012.

 

Participating categories for the Mexican Cup Regatta 2014:

• Oceanic: Vessels competing in oceanic courses with no fixed limit, of various sizes and designs, ranging from 12 to 30 meters in length, and with an average of 15 crew members per vessel.
• J24: Identical vessels, 8 meters in length, each with 5 crew members.
• Laser: Vessels with only one crew member, measuring 4.17 meters in length, and weighing in at 62 kilograms.
• Club 420: Vessels 4.20 meters in length, with two crew members, trapezium, and spinnaker. It is practiced in over 40 countries and it is considered the ideal step for those wishing to move upwards into Olympic categories.
• Kitesurf: Also known as “kiteboard,” the handler glides on a board through the water propelled by box kite, or kite. It is practiced in two ways: acrobatics, and endurance.
• Windsurf: A sail is attached to a surfing board and requires only one operator.
• Optimist: Small identical vessels of approximately 2 meters in length, commanded by one crew member, designed especially for children between 6 and 14 years old.

 

 

 

Text: Amura ± Photo: © Estado, Destino, CPTM, Ricardo Espinosa