To really get the most out of your next vacation in Mexico, think of it as the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. A five-star hotel in Riviera Nayarit offers the ideal base for discovering this historic destination on Mexico’s Pacific coast—all while treating yourself to a luxurious, unforgettable stay. What more could you want from a trip? Maybe just one thing: endless inspiration.
That inspiration comes to life through experiences that gradually, and at your own pace, uncover the many layers of Nayarit’s culture. There’s no shortage of things to do in Riviera Nayarit. And here’s your first piece of advice to make sure you don’t miss a thing: map out your route before diving in. Iberostar hotels in Mexico will be your best travel partner. To start, we recommend exploring the area between Punta Mita and Bucerías.
Plan your route: discover Punta Mita and Bucerías in the Riviera
Punta Mita
Punta Mita carries a kind of mystical energy, shaped by age-old traditions, a close bond with nature, and experiences that leave a lasting impression. You’ll feel it for yourself at Iberostar Selection Playa Mita, a five-star hotel in Riviera Nayarit created to help you unwind and connect with the heritage of the native Wixarika and Cora communities. With the vast Pacific Ocean stretching out in front of you and the Sierra Madre Mountains rising behind, the magic of this place speaks to both body and soul.
This beachfront resort offers a standout culinary scene with local ingredients featured across 15 restaurants and bars. There’s also plenty to experience: sunset yoga sessions, ceremonial tequila tastings, artisan workshops, spa rituals rooted in local tradition, and performances of traditional music and dance. Add in a full lineup of mindful wellness and entertainment activities, and you may find it hard to leave this all-inclusive resort in Riviera Nayarit. Still, it’s worth stepping out to explore Bucerías—just 22 kilometers down the coast.
Bucerías
With their prime location, hotels in Punta Mita make it easy to explore nearby coastal treasures. One of the closest is Bucerías, just a 20-minute drive away. Its name means “place of divers,” and it lives up to that name. Located in Bahía de Banderas, this ecologically rich area is known for its incredible diving spots—not just for seasoned divers, but also for beginners or families wanting to snorkel close to shore.
The marine life here is remarkably diverse. You might spot different species of sharks and whales, vibrant tropical fish, free-roaming sea turtles, and even some of Mexico’s endangered marine animals—all observed responsibly and ethically.
After dark, the shoreline reveals another wonder: bioluminescence. In the stillness of night, you can see how tiny organisms—bacteria, fungi, protists, insects, mollusks, and crustaceans—emit their own light as a way to communicate or reproduce. It’s a natural light show unlike anything else.
Explore the bohemian charm of Sayulita and San Pancho
Looking for more ways to fall in love with Riviera Nayarit? Make time for Sayulita and San Pancho—two laid-back coastal towns where everything seems to slow down. Sayulita, a charming fishing village framed by palm trees and filled with colorful houses and bohemian streets, invites you to reconnect with yourself and the world around you. The sunsets alone are worth the trip.
Not far away is San Pancho—also known as San Francisco and often considered the cultural heart of Nayarit. Here, you can immerse yourself in Mexico’s creative spirit through local art and community initiatives. If you're traveling with kids, this makes for a great family-friendly outing. And with plenty of hotels designed for families—both here and if you’re traveling with kids to the Riviera Maya—you’ll have everything you need to enjoy the experience together.
Discover maritime traditions in Cruz de Huanacaxtle and San Blas
Whether you’re on the Caribbean or Pacific coast, Mexico’s shoreline has a certain something—almost sacred—that leaves a lasting impression on every traveler. From well-known hotels in Cancún to the stunning coastal towns of Nayarit, your trip offers a chance to see how maritime traditions continue to shape Mexican culture and the landscape.
Cruz de Huanacaxtle, located between Playa Mita and Bucerías, showcases the more relaxed side of Riviera Nayarit. It’s home to family-friendly beaches, a local seafood market, and casual beach bars where you can enjoy traditional dishes and freshly caught fish.
Then there’s San Blas—whose name might sound familiar thanks to the Maná song En el muelle de San Blas, inspired by the poignant love story of the “madwoman of the San Blas pier.” With its colonial past, welcoming harbor, and scenic boardwalk, San Blas carries a unique energy that blends history, emotion, and coastal charm.
Ride the waves and explore mangroves: experiences in Nuevo Vallarta
Looking for ways to enjoy the natural beauty of Riviera Nayarit while staying active? Surfing is one of the main attractions in Nuevo Vallarta (not to be confused with Puerto Vallarta, a separate tourist destination in the same region). This area, set between the mouth of the Ameca River and the Sierra de Vallejo, is rich in biodiversity. You might catch sight of herons and pelicans, or even witness the incredible moment when baby sea turtles hatch and make their way to the ocean.
In addition to spotting wildlife and riding the waves, you can explore unique ecosystems like mangroves. For a deeper experience, consider joining a traditional boat excursion guided by locals. On the more developed side of Nuevo Vallarta, you’ll also find golf courses, high-end restaurants, shops, and resort options for a well-rounded stay.
If water sports are your thing, take a look at these hotels in the Riviera Maya—another coastal destination in Mexico that’s perfect for an active getaway.
Taste local culture: food and art in Nayarit’s towns
Traveling from the Riviera Maya to the state of Nayarit with family is always a good idea. The cultural and culinary experiences in Riviera Nayarit are suitable for all ages. Have you come across Huichol art before? This intricate and symbolic art form reflects a unique worldview centered around three sacred elements: the corn cob, peyote, and deer. Yarn paintings, known as nierikas, are made during shamanic rituals and represent the connection between the divine and human worlds, brought to life through bright colors and rich symbolism.
Tasting the region’s cuisine is another meaningful way to connect with local traditions. During your stay, don’t miss regional seafood staples like pescado zarandeado, camarones a la cucaracha, and aguachile—Mexico’s spicy twist on ceviche. You’ll also find everyday favorites like moles, tacos, and nopales patties that are staples across the country. At your five-star hotel in Riviera Nayarit, expect a culinary program that’s both diverse and thoughtfully crafted, featuring seasonal, locally sourced ingredients—including sustainably caught fish and seafood from 100% responsible fisheries.
