Melaque Beach in Jalisco: Where Relaxation Meets Adventure
Nestled along the shimmering Pacific coastline of Jalisco, Melaque Beach is a hidden gem that effortlessly combines laid-back charm with opportunities for unforgettable adventures.
It is located in the municipality of Cihuatlán, within Jalisco.
The area comprises three coastal communities merged through urban development: San Patricio, Melaque, and Villa Obregón.
These three small beachside communities, collectively called Melaque, are nestled in Bahía de Navidad, just 4 kilometers northwest of Barra de Navidad, at Highway 200 and 80.
This region is the largest tourist hub between Puerto Vallarta and Manzanillo.
Melaque also serves as a quiet winter retreat for beach enthusiasts seeking to escape the colder months.
Why Visit Melaque Jalisco?
Melaque Beach, also known as San Patricio, is ideal for families and couples seeking a relaxing vacation.
The beautiful beaches of Costa Alegre feature gentle waves, perfect for swimming or simply sitting by the shore to admire the sea.
Melaque offers the perfect setting for a peaceful and memorable getaway.
For years, Melaque has been a traditional vacation destination for Mexican families.
Over time, it has also gained popularity among foreign visitors and tourists, making it a favorite spot for travelers from around the world.
Puerto Melaque Jalisco, is a prominent tourist destination, boasting most of the restaurants and hotels in this charming fishing village.
To truly appreciate its modern appeal, let’s explore its history and the journey that shaped Melaque into the dream destination it is today.
Background
The earliest recorded settlements in the area date back to the Otomí people, who lived there between 250 and 759 BCE. Over the centuries, new waves of immigrant tribes arrived.
The Toltecs (900–1154 CE), followed by the Aztecs and later the Chichimecs (1154–1428 CE), utilized the region for fishing, salt harvesting, and agriculture.
You may want to read: Punta Perula, Jalisco: Your Ultimate Beach Guide to Paradise
Evidence of these ancient civilizations comes primarily from numerous ceramic artifacts found in the area. The dominant language of the time was Nahuatl, which was spoken with local variations.
In 1535, Spanish captain Juan Fernandez de Hijar discovered the area and established a boat-building and repair port at Puerto de Navidad. Five years later, it was renamed Barra de Navidad.
San Patricio derived its name from the San Patricio Battalion, a group of 175 to 200 Irish Catholic deserters from the U.S. Army who fought alongside the Mexican Army during the Mexican-American War (1846–1848).
These soldiers were enticed by promises of better pay and land grants.
Historically, Melaque has served as a vacation spot for Mexicans and foreign tourists. Today, it is also a haven for migratory birds escaping the Canadian winter.
9 Things to Do in Melaque Jalisco
As I said earlier, Melaque is all about laid-back living. Spend your time leisurely walking along the beach, chatting with locals, and soaking in the town’s friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
1. Enjoy the Beaches
Playa Melaque: The town’s main beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching.
It has a relaxed vibe, and you’ll find plenty of local vendors offering food, drinks, and handmade crafts.
Playa Cuastecomates: A nearby hidden gem with calmer waters, great for snorkeling, kayaking, or a quiet day at the beach.
2. Explore Barra de Navidad
Just a 10-minute drive or a 30-minute bike ride away, the nearby town of Barra de Navidad has a scenic lagoon, bustling boardwalk (malecón), and charming markets.
Boat Tours: Book a lagoon tour to explore mangroves and spot wildlife.
Fishing Excursions: Join local fishermen for a chance to catch fish like dorado and snapper.
3. Visit the Town Plaza
Melaque’s central plaza is a hub of activity in the evenings with street vendors, food stalls, and live music.
It’s a great spot to enjoy an elote (corn on the cob), tacos, or a paleta (fruit popsicle).
4. Taste Local Cuisine of Melaque
Visit small local restaurants for fresh seafood dishes like pescado zarandeado (grilled fish), shrimp tacos, or ceviche.
Try a traditional Mexican breakfast at one of the family-owned eateries. Look for chilaquiles or handmade tortillas.
Don’t miss a refreshing tuba (a palm-based drink sold by local vendors).
5. Day Trip to La Manzanilla
A short 20-minute drive north takes you to La Manzanilla, a laid-back town with a pristine beach.
Crocodile Sanctuary: Visit the crocodile sanctuary and walk along elevated pathways to see these impressive reptiles up close.
6. Go Hiking or Exploring Nearby Nature
Explore the lush hills and jungle around Melaque for scenic hikes and bird-watching. Some tours also offer horseback riding into the hills.
El Tamarindo Beach: For a more secluded beach, ask locals about this hidden spot surrounded by nature. It is also home to a Four Seasons Resort.
7. Try Paddleboarding or Kayaking
Rent a paddleboard or kayak in Melaque or Barra de Navidad to explore the calm waters, especially in the mornings when the ocean is flat.
If you are interested in learning to surf, you can take lessons and even practice modalities such as skimboarding and bodyboarding.
The beach in Barra de Navidad and Puerto Melaque offers moderate waves perfect for beginner surfers.
8. Shop for Local Handicrafts
Explore the local markets for handmade crafts like woven hats, beachwear, colorful hammocks, and traditional pottery.
9. Sunset Watching
The sunsets in Melaque are absolutely stunning.
Find a beachfront spot, grab a cold beer or margarita, and watch the sky turn brilliant shades of orange and pink.
Festivals and Events
If you’re visiting in February, don’t miss the annual Carnival celebrations with parades, live music, and dancing.
Holidays like Día de los Muertos (Nov 1-2) and Christmas bring unique traditions, decorations, and community events.
Melaque is ideal if you’re looking for a slower pace, great food, and stunning natural beauty without the crowds of more tourist-heavy spots.
How to Get to San Patricio Melaque
Less than two miles northwest of Barra de Navidad, Melaque is conveniently connected to major highways that lead to prominent destinations such as Puerto Vallarta to the north and Manzanillo to the south.
A direct highway also provides easy access to Guadalajara.
The closest major airport is in Manzanillo, which is nearer than Puerto Vallarta or Guadalajara.
From the town center, daily coach services are available to nearby towns and larger cities.
Although Melaque does not have its own port, the nearby town of Barra de Navidad offers docking facilities with services such as fuel, electricity, and water.
Final Thoughts
Melaque Beach in Jalisco is a hidden treasure that perfectly combines the serene charm of a relaxed coastal town with the thrill of outdoor adventures.
Whether you’re enjoying golden sunsets, indulging in authentic Mexican cuisine, or exploring the vibrant marine life, Melaque offers something for everyone.
This enchanting beach destination is more than just a place to visit—it’s an experience that will leave a lasting impression.
With its warm and welcoming community and stunning natural beauty, Melaque invites you to slow down, connect with nature, and create unforgettable memories.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting adventure, this charming village has it all.
Pack your bags, follow the rhythm of the waves, and uncover the magic where relaxation meets exploration.
