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Guide to Pacific Coast Mexico featuring Puerta Vallarta

Guide to Pacific Coast Mexico


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Have you ever considered exploring the Pacific Coast of Mexico for your next holiday? While Cancun may be the first place that comes to mind, with its stunning beaches and luxurious resorts, there is so much more to discover in this incredible country. The Pacific Coast is often overlooked, but it has a wealth of hidden treasures just waiting to be explored. It’s no wonder that the number of visitors to this region has been steadily increasing in recent years.

From charming little towns to breathtaking landscapes, the Pacific Coast is home to some of the most beautiful hotels and destinations in Mexico. In our comprehensive Guide to Pacific Coast Mexico, we will reveal the most amazing places to visit and experiences to enjoy along this picturesque coastline.


1. Los Cabos

Los Cabos, located in Mexico’s southern Baja California region, has recently become one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. The area is home to two renowned towns: Cabo San Lucas, which is known for its lively nightlife and world-class golf courses, and San José del Cabo, which is a more laid-back town with a charming historical centre.

Los Cabos offers something for everyone, from luxury resorts and world-class residences to stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. Golf lovers will be in heaven, as there are 17 golf courses in the area, some of which are world-renowned. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of water sports, such as swimming, snorkelling, and surfing. And of course, no trip to Los Cabos would be complete without experiencing the lively nightlife, which includes everything from cocktail bars to nightclubs and of course the cuisine. Los Cabos, is known for its delicious seafood. Some of the famous dishes include Baja-style fish taco.


2. Todos Santos

Todos Santos, a tranquil and charming town located just an hour’s drive from Cabo San Lucas, is a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique and stylish Mexican travel experience. The town is home to a delightful blend of stunning boutique hotels and resorts that offer yoga retreats and various healing practices, making it a popular destination for those seeking a wellness vacation. Todos Santos’ magnificent beaches provide perfect conditions for surfers, while its quaint historical centre is home to intriguing restaurants and art shops. 

One of the town’s specialities is its traditional Mexican pastries and sweets. There are numerous bakeries in Todos Santos that offer delicious treats like sweetbreads, churros, and empanadas.



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3. Mazatlan

Mazatlán is a lively and enchanting town on Mexico’s Pacific coast. It is a popular tourist destination, particularly for expatriates. The town has a wide variety of attractions, including a picturesque historical centre with cobblestone streets and 19th-century buildings, a modern district with a vibrant nightlife scene, and a 13-mile-long boardwalk with soft sandy beaches. Mazatlán also has a delicious variety of cuisine, with top-notch restaurants to satisfy any palate. One of the most famous local dishes is aguachile, a ceviche-like dish made with fresh shrimp marinated in lime juice, chilli peppers, and other seasonings. It is typically served with crispy tostadas or tortilla chips.


4. Sayulita

Sayulita, a vibrant and lively town, has gained fame for its abundance of thrilling surfing spots suitable for all skill levels. However, it has now elevated itself into an intriguing destination that appeals to a wide range of travellers. Beyond its surf culture, Sayulita offers a plethora of attractions to enjoy. Immerse yourself in rejuvenating yoga retreats, explore boho-chic shops, indulge in delectable cuisine at remarkable restaurants, and witness breathtaking sunsets. In Sayulita, the nightlife is equally exceptional, ensuring memorable evenings filled with excitement and entertainment. One of the popular food in Sayulita is fresh ceviche. Made with fresh seafood such as shrimp, fish, or octopus, marinated in lime juice and mixed with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and sometimes avocado, ceviche is a refreshing and flavorful dish that captures the essence of coastal cuisine


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5. Punta Mita 

Situated as the ultimate gem in the region, Punta Mita holds the prestigious title of being the most luxurious and elite destination not only in Mexico but possibly throughout the entire country. This breathtaking haven epitomizes exclusivity, providing discerning travellers with unparalleled getaways in opulent and idyllic hotels.

Amidst the splendour, you’ll encounter the crème de la crème of culinary experiences, upscale boutiques, and world-class golf courses. Positioned on a picturesque peninsula between Sayulita and Puerto Vallarta, Punta Mita presents an irresistible allure for those passing through, making it an absolute must-visit location. Punta Mita is known for offering an exquisite culinary experience. The area is reputed for its fresh seafood dishes, particularly its abundant selection of fish and ceviche. A popular dish in Punta Mita is Pescado Empanizado.


6. Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta, a charming fishing village, has garnered global recognition as one of the most sought-after beach destinations. This small but captivating town truly offers it all. Take a romantic sunset stroll along its expansive Malecon, immerse yourself in the charm of its picturesque historic centre, indulge in delectable cuisine, explore art workshops, and bask in the beauty of its breathtaking beaches. With an abundance of attractions and experiences, Puerto Vallarta stands as the perfect destination for both leisurely tourists and avid explorers alike.

An iconic dish in Puerto Vallarta is “Birria.” Birria is a savoury stew traditionally made with goat or beef, marinated in a rich and aromatic blend of chillies, herbs, and spices. Slow-cooked until tender, it is often served with tortillas, onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime, allowing diners to assemble their own tacos.

Check out our guide to Puerto Vallarta





7. Yelapa

Nestled away from the bustling city of Puerto Vallarta, this quaint fishing village can only be accessed by boat from Boca de Tomatlan, a scenic 30-minute drive from Puerto Vallarta. Throughout the day, local fishermen are readily available to transport visitors to Yelapa and arrange a return trip based on their preferred schedules. In Yelapa, there may not be a plethora of activities, but the serene ambience allows for hiking adventures to the waterfall, unwinding on the beach, savouring refreshing coconuts, and revelling in the breathtaking views that surround you.

A popular dish in Yelapa is “Tamales.” Traditional tamales are made with masa (a dough made from corn) filled with various ingredients like chicken, pork, or cheese, and then wrapped in corn husks before being steamed. Tamales are typically served with salsa or mole, providing a delicious and hearty comfort food experience.


8. Puerto Escondido

Home to the most incredible swells Puerto Escondido is one of the most challenging surf spots in the world, attracting surf professionals from all over. However, there is more to it than that, and although the beach is a little rough for swimmers, it still appeals to its community. There are plenty of trendy bars, and it has a laid-back ambience all year round. In addition, spectacular bays framed by lush vegetation on the mountain backdrop are a playground for photographers. However, the icing on the cake is the breathtaking sunsets. Tourists and people after work gather on the beach to mingle, in awe, and admire the end of another day. A speciality of Puerto Escondido is crispy tortillas like Double Decker Tacos, topped with refried beans, cheese, meat (usually shredded chicken or beef), avocado, lettuce, and salsa.


9. Huatulco 

Huatulco is located in the state of Oaxaca, a few miles south of Puerto Escondido. It stretches out over 22 miles of coastline between the Coyula and Copalito rivers. It’s a relatively young development, planned by Mexico’s National Tourism Fund, FONATOUR, with the aim to create a tourist resort area.

The result is a destination with high-end all-inclusive resorts and world-class beaches nestled in protected coves backed by thick jungle on the Sierra Madre Mountain. In contrast to its neighbour Puerto Escondido, the bays here are protected, which makes the pristine waters perfect for swimming, and more enjoyable for visitors and locals. Huatulco is also considered one of the most sustainable destinations. In 2005, the protected area of the Bays National Park was awarded the Green Globe International Certification as a sustainable tourist area. One prominent culinary highlight in Huatulco is Mole.


As you can see from our Guide To Pacific Coast Mexico, the country has so much to offer and it’s waiting for you to come and explore. Have you already explored some of these places? Let us know what you think. 

Check out our other blogs in the Pacific Coast region:

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Anonymous
Anonymous
4 years ago

Awesome post! Keep up the great work! 🙂

AlfrescoLunchBag
AlfrescoLunchBag
4 years ago

So nice to find a Mexican brand that really knows the country so well – authentic knowledge authentic food – keep up the good work amigos!

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