Banderas Bay, Mexico: Your Itinerary for Sun, Sea, and Adventure
Banderas Bay, Mexico, is the “umbrella” for most places I discuss on this website.
It is also among the most beautiful in the country and the deepest in the world, reaching over 920 meters at its maximum point.
Join me on this virtual journey through one of Mexico’s great treasures!
Banderas Bay is rich in natural resources, charming villages, towns that have it all, and pristine beaches where you’ll find plenty to do.
In fact, you can spend several days touring the area and never stop discovering new things.
Bahia de Banderas stretches 43 km from north to south, bordering Punta Mita (in the State of Nayarit) to the north and Cabo Corrientes (in the State of Jalisco) to the south.
The Ameca River flows into it, which marks the division between the states of Nayarit and Jalisco.
Its coastline is divided into the following sections: the north coast, which goes from Punta de Mita to Bucerías; the east coast, from Bucerintos to Boca de Tomatlán and the south coast, which extends from the west side of the river in Boca de Tomatlán to Cabo Corrientes.
Likewise, Banderas Bay is also a municipality in Nayarit, which includes several localities, both inland and on the coast.
In addition to having a large number of dream beaches, Banderas Bay is surrounded by lush green mountains.
Its popularity is indisputable. Banderas Bay Mexico is visited by international travelers who seek relaxation on its uncrowded beaches (compared to other destinations in Mexico).
The tourist infrastructure of its towns has grown significantly and is constantly developing, so those who visit the region are more than pleased.
“Bahia de Banderas” boasts excellent lodging options, a varied gastronomic offer, many activities related to the environment, and tours to enjoy the area to the fullest.
In short, everything you need for a perfect vacation is in Banderas Bay. Let’s begin!
What to do in Banderas Bay, Mexico?
You will be surprised to discover all there is to do in Banderas Bay.
The beaches, of course, have a special role. You can snorkel, relax on the sand, practice water sports, and capture dream landscapes with your camera.
Also, visiting the Magical Towns of Sayulita and San Pancho is a must.
Moving away from the coasts, the territory becomes perfect for flora and fauna observation and hiking trails that go deep into the tropical jungle.
These will take you to waterfalls and natural pools that also invite you to take a dip.
Whether hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, or guided tours aboard comfortable jeeps, you can’t miss exploring the area in depth.
Finally, Banderas Bay is proud to welcome year after year the majestic humpback whales.
Sighting these giants of the ocean is another of the things you can do on this stretch of Nayarit’s coastline. Equally exciting is participating in sea turtle release activities or swimming with dolphins.
The enormous biodiversity of the bay is a great surprise for nature lovers. If you are one of them, be sure to visit Los Arcos National Park and the fascinating Marietas Islands, also known as the Mexican Galapagos.
There is so much to do in Banderas Bay, Mexico, that I have organized the article as follows:
First I’ll tell you about its main towns and cities, then I’ll make a selection of its best beaches; and finally, I’ll leave you with 4 unmissable things to do in Banderas Bay.
Without further ado, let’s get started!
The towns of Banderas Bay (Nayarit)
Throughout Banderas Bay, there are several towns, each with its own charm and special attraction.
As I mentioned earlier, Banderas Bay is one of the municipalities that comprise the State of Nayarit, while the bay itself also encompasses part of the coast of Jalisco.
Although you may not have enough time to visit each of these towns, I will tell you which are the most important ones, so that you can plan your route accordingly.
El Colomo
On the border with Jalisco and Nayarit, in the municipality of Banderas Bay is the beautiful and colorful town of El Colomo.
Guarded by the majestic Sierra de Vallejo, this small enclave enchants with its natural landscapes and the essence of bygone times.
El Colomo is the ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure tourism.
Hiking, trekking, mountain biking, and camping are common activities around here.
Among its sites of interest is “El Chorrito,” a stream that flows down from the mountains and forms waterfalls and natural pools, ideal for a refreshing swim.
It also has a dam where the people of the area usually gather on the hot summer days.
San Juan de Abajo
A little further south of El Colomo is San Juan de Abajo, the gateway to Cerro del Vallejo and the largest town in Banderas Bay.
As you stroll through its traditional streets you will see stalls selling typical food, handicrafts, fruits, and regional vegetables.
San Juan de Abajo enjoys a privileged geographic location, as it is embraced by the Cerro de Vallejo.
You may want to read: San Sebastian del Oeste: A Magical Mountain Town Worth Exploring
This allows the practice of many activities in contact with nature, such as hiking, mountain biking, and camping. Like the previous one, it is an ideal destination for travelers seeking to live this type of experience.
If you love tacos, you must visit San Juan de Abajo on April 4. Every year, the Taco Day celebration takes place in the streets.
For the occasion, the “taqueros” gather in the main square and offer their creations for free.
Therefore, it is a unique opportunity to taste tacos of different flavors and sizes and the most innovative sauces. Come hungry!
El Valle – Banderas Bay, Mexico
The municipal capital of Banderas Bay is this charming town where traditions, history, and Mexican folklore merge.
It is characterized by its large houses of rustic beauty, mud and adobe-brick-made haciendas, and other vestiges of its past.
The main square is very pretty and is the site of the first church built in Banderas Bay, home of the Virgen del Tintoque.
Although there is not much to do in the town, it is worth a trip to discover its traditional atmosphere, buy some handicrafts, or eat typical Mexican dishes.
San José del Valle
Another town in the municipality of Banderas Bay is San José del Valle, a pueblo full of life where the most important patron saint festivities are celebrated.
San José del Valle has a double plaza that houses the church that worships the town’s patron saint, Señor San José.
It also has beautiful galleries and factories called talabarterías, where leather goods are handcrafted.
Finally, the town hosts numerous cultural and sporting events that attract visitors throughout the year.
Nuevo Vallarta
Nuevo Vallarta is the gateway to the municipality of Banderas Bay from the south.
This beautiful tourist town is located a few kilometers north of Puerto Vallarta’s international airport, between the Pacific Ocean and the Ameca River, which, as you know, is the natural border between the states of Nayarit and Jalisco.
Nuevo Vallarta is a quiet coastal destination, ideal for romantic getaways for couples or family summer vacations.
Its warm climate and 6 km of clean, golden beaches make it one of the most promising tourist centers in Banderas Bay.
In addition, it offers luxurious and sophisticated hotels and a large number of high-class bars, restaurants, and spas.
Nuevo Vallarta also includes two marinas, shopping malls, golf courses, water parks, and more.
Bucerias, Nayarit
North of Nuevo Vallarta is Bucerias, a destination in Banderas Bay with beautiful beaches, excellent restaurants, and a relaxed, bohemian style.
Bucerías is picturesque, colorful, and traditional. Its position in the heart of the bay makes it the perfect base from which to explore the area.
You may want to read: Top 10 Bucerias Nayarit Experiences You Can’t Miss
It is characterized by its calm sea, which seems to be a huge natural pool safe for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or paddle surfing.
Bucerias’ picturesque cobblestone streets and brightly painted facades add to the town’s charm.
Travelers who want to vacation in Mexico and get off the beaten tourist track should visit Bucerías. The town will not disappoint you at all.
Punta Mita, Mexico – Banderas Bay
About 20 minutes from Bucerías is Punta de Mita, one of the most exclusive destinations in Banderas Bay.
This enclave occupies a large peninsula that offers enchanting views of the Pacific, with the Sierra Madre mountains behind.
Although it is small, Punta de Mita has an excellent hotel and gastronomic offer, as well as several beaches to enjoy the sun and sand.
From Punta de Mita, boats sail to incredible beaches, fishing tours, whale watching, and the paradisiacal Marietas Islands.
It also has renowned golf courses, surf schools, and stores to rent all the equipment for water sports.
In turn, its extensive white-sand coastline is home to some of the most exclusive resorts in Banderas Bay, with private and public beaches for travelers on a budget.
Punta de Mita is full of small boutiques, stores, cafes, and other attractive nooks and crannies.
Therefore, this is a wonderful destination that has to be on your route through Banderas Bay Mexico.
La Cruz de Huanacaxtle
La Cruz de Huanacaxtle is a quiet town home to one of the most exclusive and modern marinas in the Mexican Pacific.
Dubbed the Marina Riviera Nayarit, La Cruz boasts luxury facilities including a yacht club, a business center, restaurants and bars, seafood markets, a dock, and a well-equipped shipyard.
It is another must-see spot in Banderas Bay, with a colorful main square and charming beaches that host many tourists throughout the year.
In La Cruz de Huanacaxtle you can visit its famous La Manzanilla Beach, a haven of calm waters perfect for families with children; take boat rides in the surroundings; visit its seafood market, eat fresh seafood, and much more.
Sayulita
As you may have heard, Mexico has many Pueblos Magicos (Magical Towns) scattered throughout its territory, and Sayulita is one of them.
This small enclave located within the municipality of Banderas Bay Mexico surprises visitors with its colorful atmosphere, the friendliness of its people, dreamlike beaches, and a dense tropical forest.
Sayulita is also known as the Surf Capital. So every year experienced surfers gather there, as well as those who want to learn how to master its fierce waves.
But not everything revolves around surfing. In Sayulita, you will also find restaurants for all tastes, Mexican food stands, craft stores, and small boutique hotels.
Another of its great charms is the youthful and somewhat hippie or bohemian atmosphere that permeates its streets.
Sayulita is a typical sun and beach destination where you will have many activities and leisure options.
Eating delicious food, shopping for handicrafts, surfing, relaxing, reading a good book, or exploring the jungle are just some of the alternatives.
Be sure to visit Sayulita, you’ll love it!
San Pancho
10 minutes from Sayulita is San Francisco, better known as San Pancho, the cultural capital of Nayarit.
Here you will also find cobblestone streets, art galleries, small restaurants and cafes, street food stalls, and lots of good vibes.
The sea in San Pancho invites you to practice various water sports, such as surfing, SUP, kayaking, and a host of ecotourism activities, such as visiting its turtle camp.
San Francisco offers a unique dose of tranquility, culture, and leisure.
In other words, I could say that visiting San Pancho is a way to culturally enrich your visit to Banderas Bay.
Appreciating the marvelous Huichol handicrafts, admiring the art pieces in its galleries, chatting with its people, and letting yourself be infected by the community spirit of this fishing village will be the highlight of your trip.
Read more about San Pancho.
The towns of Banderas Bay, Mexico (Jalisco)
Puerto Vallarta
For many many years, Puerto Vallarta has been known as the “Friendliest City in the World.”
Located in the State of Jalisco, very close to Nuevo Vallarta, this unique destination welcomes visitors with an authentic atmosphere and a marked Mexican spirit present in its streets and architecture, gastronomy, and ever-present traditions.
Puerto Vallarta is located within the Bay of Banderas and has miles of coastline guarded by the Sierra Madre.
Along it are beaches, islands, and coves that represent the ideal scenery to enjoy many activities. Likewise, its tropical forests lend themselves to adrenaline-filled adventures.
There are so many attractions in Puerto Vallarta that I dedicated an exclusive article to tell you about them.
In short, you can explore its beautiful beaches; snorkel and dive in the reefs; contemplate stunning sunsets; discover the local fauna in the surrounding mountains; enjoy the nightlife of its boardwalk, and much more.
Yelapa Beach
The town of Yelapa, in Jalisco, is a magical destination full of history, natural attractions, and beautiful beaches to relax. Yelapa was my home for several years.
In fact, many of the inhabitants of Puerto Vallarta escape to this small haven to seek peace away from the noise and crowds.
In other words, Yelapa is a hidden paradise where you can go back in time, sunbathe and relax.
Not only on the beach but also in the surrounding hills, full of jungle landscapes and waterfalls that make it a dream destination for hikers.
The beaches of Yelapa Mexico are some of the best in Banderas Bay.
They are characterized by their calm waters, breathtaking views, the amenities offered to travelers, and many restaurants and bars.
The town, meanwhile, is a colorful universe where you can wander and discover treasures at every turn.
Boca de Tomatlan
The charming and lively town of Boca de Tomatlan is located very close to Puerto Vallarta, in Jalisco, and still maintains its traditional atmosphere.
This fishing community straddles the Horcones River, which flows from the Sierra Madre mountains through the lush tropical jungle.
Besides being very picturesque, Boca de Tomatlan is the starting point to explore the southern area of Banderas Bay and discover beaches full of charm.
From this point, you can access Las Animas, Colomitos, Quimixto, Majahuitas, and Yelapa.
Furthermore, some amazing hiking trails go through the jungle. Undoubtedly, another dream destination for nature lovers.
Boca Beach is distinguished by its fine sand and gentle waves, excellent restaurants, and dreamlike views.
The small boardwalk, meanwhile, is a perfect opportunity to admire the beauty of the coast, watch the fishermen at work, and take pictures.
Banderas Bay, Mexico – Top Beaches (Nayarit)
Now that you know which are the most picturesque towns in Banderas Bay, it is time to focus on the beaches, after all, this is why most people come here.
You’ll find all kinds of beaches, from solitary and virgin, hidden among the dense jungle, to sandy ones with all the amenities you may need.
The beaches of Banderas Bay in Nayarit are divided into two groups:
- The ones in the northern part of the bay (on the outskirts) have the best waves for surfers.
- And those inside the bay are characterized by their calmer waters.
Northern Beaches
The beaches in the northern part are the following:
Lo de Marcos Beach
Lo de Marcos is one of the furthest beaches north, just next to San Pancho.
It is one of the most beautiful in the area, surrounded by a green jungle and local restaurants and bars at the foot of the beach.
Here you can rent surfboards and kayaks or just lay back and enjoy the quiet atmosphere.
Playa Las Minitas (next to Lo De Marcos)
This small paradise can only be accessed by boat, swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, or walking along the rocks.
This somewhat complicated access means that its 300-meter sandy beach is never crowded, so you can enjoy it at your leisure.
By the way, its name is given by the large number of pits and small caves.
Playa Los Venados
South of Las Minitas is this beautiful beach which can be reached by car through a dirt road.
At its northern end is another small beach that very few tourists visit. If you have the soul of an explorer, be sure to go through the cave that leads to it.
Los Venados has soft white sand, turquoise blue waters, and rock formations ideal for taking pictures.
San Pancho Beach
Again, San Pancho is home to one of the most beautiful beaches in Banderas Bay Mexico, thanks to the exotic vegetation surrounding it.
The sandy beach has a long extension and the sea is ideal for surfing. In fact, it has several surfing-related schools and shops.
Sayulita Beach
Sayulita, of course! one of the most visited beaches in the Mexican Pacific.
Its shores are bathed by the best waves of the municipality of Banderas Bay, so surfing is the activity par excellence of this beach.
It has a great variety of bars and restaurants, surf schools, surfboard rentals, kayaks, and more. Its atmosphere is youthful and lively.
Playa de los Muertos
A 15-minute walk from Sayulita’s main beach is Playa de los Muertos.
Unlike the previous one, this beach receives far fewer visitors and its sea is calmer. Therefore, it is a dream getaway for tourists who prefer quieter environments.
Central Beaches
These beaches are located inside the bay, in the southern part of the coast.
Here the sea is calmer, so it is a great option for travelers who don’t have much experience in the water or families with children.
Playa El Anclote
El Anclote is the main beach of Punta Mita, so it has a good offer of tourist services.
Its atmosphere is mostly family-friendly, although it is also frequented by fishermen since its calm waters are ideal for this sport. At El Anclote Beach you can swim, kayak, and paddle surf.
Bucerias Beach
As I said earlier, Bucerias sits in an unbeatable position within the Bay of Banderas.
This beautiful beach town offers areas where the calm sea invites inexperienced swimmers and children to enjoy safely.
The beach is wide and has good services. Just don’t leave before sunset, the most magical moment of the day.
La Manzanilla
This beach is located in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle and is another of the most beautiful in Banderas Bay.
It is very popular among locals and families, thanks to its gentle waves given that the entrance slope to the sea is not very steep.
There are seafood restaurants and bars where you can order a cold beer or a soft drink with local fruits.
Litibú Beach
This beautiful beach is located next to the town of the same name and is a hidden treasure of the Mexican Pacific.
Litibú has elegant residences, apartments, restaurants, and a golf course very close to the beach.
Its sandy beach is delineated by the neighboring beaches of Punta Negra and Careyeros and is protected by vegetation.
The virgin environment, the clean and crystalline waters, and the wonderful climate make Litibú a unique destination within Bahía de Banderas. Are you going to miss it?
Playa La Lancha (for surfers)
If you love surfing, then you must visit this beach.
This hidden paradise located north of Banderas Bay, in Punta de Mita, is a place to coexist with nature and enjoy the adrenaline of this sport.
Its surfing atmosphere and the beauty of the surrounding landscapes make it another essential stop.
Banderas Bay, Mexico – Top Beaches (Jalisco)
The coast of Jalisco treasures some of the most beautiful beaches of Banderas Bay.
Here nature also expresses itself with total freedom and the mountains give a very noticeable visual plus to the postcard.
Here is a list of some of the most beautiful beaches of Banderas Bay in Jalisco:
Mismaloya Beach
Mismaloya is the most famous beach in Puerto Vallarta and one of the most beautiful.
It has about 240 meters of golden sand where a creek with the same name, a thick jungle, lots of tropical vegetation, and the crystalline waters of the Pacific converge.
Diving, sailing, and water skiing are my favorite activities to do here.
It is also in front of Los Arcos National Marine Park (more about it later), making it a paradise for snorkeling.
Majahuitas
Located on the southern coast of Banderas Bay, Majahuitas boasts an exceptional natural wild beauty.
Accessible only by boat, it is one of the most exclusive in the area. It is surrounded by local trees that give the beach its name and make it simply enchanting.
While the crystal clear water invites you to snorkel or dive and explore its underwater caves. Don’t miss it!
Quimixto Beach
This long sandy beach is located between Las Animas and Majahuitas beaches, at the mouth of La Puerta River and south of Banderas Bay.
Its access is also by boat only, you need to take a water taxi from Boca de Tomatlán or the pier of Los Muertos Pier (in Puerto Vallarta).
Like most beaches in the area, it has gentle waves and exuberant tropical vegetation. Although, its most outstanding attraction is the marvelous waterfall located 1.5 km inland.
Las Ánimas
About 20 km from Puerto Vallarta is Las Animas, in the town of Boca de Tomatlán, this beach of white sand and small waves is ideal for diving and snorkeling.
It can be accessed by boat or by a somewhat demanding two-hour hike. The reward for the effort is one of the most paradisiacal corners of Banderas Bay.
Playa Camarones
Camarones is one of the 8 beaches in Puerto Vallarta that carries the Blue Flag distinction.
It is located 2 km from downtown Puerto Vallarta, so it is the perfect option if you don’t want to go far.
It has all kinds of services, including stores, bars and restaurants. In other words, here you will find everything you need to enjoy this popular Mexican destination.
4 Top things to do in Banderas Bay, Mexico
By now, you should have an idea of all the things to do when you come to Banderas Bay.
I know that with so many options, it can get overwhelming to choose what to do or where to go.
That’s why I will highlight the top 4 things you must do if you get a chance.
1. Take a trip to the Marietas Islands
If you visit Banderas Bay certain activities are a must.
One of them is an excursion to the Marietas Islands National Park, a group of small uninhabited islands that were declared a World Heritage Site in 2004.
To visit them, you’ll need to hire a tour from Punta Mita, Bucerías, Nuevo Vallarta, or Puerto Vallarta.
The tours include a visit to its famous Hidden Beach, where you can swim through cave formations and rock arches until you find an oasis of white sand and crystalline waters.
2. Humpback whale watching
Did you know that Banderas Bay is one of the best places in Mexico to see humpback whales?
The whale-watching season for these enormous cetaceans extends from December to March. Therefore, if you visit the area during this season, don’t hesitate to join a tour.
The experience is truly exciting.
Every winter, humpback whales pass by these coasts as part of their long migratory routes from the Arctic.
The protected waters of Banderas Bay offer the perfect conditions for them to reproduce, give birth to their calves, and stay with them until they are ready to continue their journey.
It is estimated that between 350 and 600 humpback whales arrive each year on these coasts, so the possibility of sightings is really great.
Daily tours take place between 8:30 am and 1 pm, when the sea is calmer, and depart from the nearby marinas of La Cruz, Nuevo Vallarta, and Marina Vallarta.
3. Visit a turtle camp
Along the coast of Banderas Bay, different turtle camps are in charge of protecting the sea turtles that come to these shores to lay their eggs.
Therefore, another of the best experiences you can have here is to participate in the activities of releasing baby turtles into the sea.
The species of sea turtle that visits the coasts of Banderas Bay the most is the olive ridley.
A curious fact is that the females return to the same beach where they were born to lay their eggs. This is why the egg-hatching ceremony is so important.
That is, it must take place on the same beach where they were laid so that the turtle knows where to return when it is time to lay its eggs (between 10 and 20 years later).
The best time to visit the turtle camps is during the egg-hatching season, which takes place between August and December.
This is when sea turtle release ceremonies are held at the different camps and sanctuaries in Banderas Bay.
In the Magical Town of Sayulita is the Turtle Release Camp, where you can enjoy this exciting activity with your family.
4. Explore Los Arcos Underwater National Park
Another of the best excursions to do from Puerto Vallarta, in Banderas Bay, is to the Los Arcos National Marine Park.
This beautiful setting stands out with its rock formations and sea full of life. In fact, it is one of the best destinations for snorkeling in Banderas Bay.
The park is located 20 minutes south of Puerto Vallarta, between the beaches of Mismaloya and Las Gemelas.
The first is the usual starting point, although you can also get there by public transport from the city.
What to do in Los Arcos? Snorkeling, diving, and paddle boarding are the best things to do here.
With your mask, you can explore the waters of this coast and discover a great marine flora and fauna.
Pufferfish, parrot fish, octopuses, and sea turtles are just some examples of what you will see.
Paddleboarding is another way to go through the tunnels of Los Arcos National Park.
Diving, on the other hand, is perfect for exploring the seabed, and seeing tropical fish, eels, manta rays, sea turtles, and much more.
Map of Banderas Bay, Mexico
