11 Things to do in Barra de Navidad: A Treasure in Jalisco
Located on the southern coast of Jalisco, Barra de Navidad is renowned for its natural beauty, vibrant sports activities, and rich cultural traditions.
As summer arrives, many travelers look forward to vacations filled with tranquility, relaxation, adventure, and discovery.
The Costalegre region in Jalisco offers an ideal setting to enjoy the warm coastal climate and the charm of a traditional Mexican town.
Barra de Navidad, a quaint port town in southern Jalisco, stands out as a destination where relaxation and fun take center stage.
This hidden gem is uniquely positioned on the border between the states of Jalisco and Colima.
Surrounded by mountains, serene streams, and a secluded coastal landscape, Barra de Navidad is perfect for those seeking peace and natural wonders.
Its crystalline waters, golden sands, and gentle waves make it a tranquil retreat.
You can enjoy a variety of activities on its beaches, including fishing tours and competitions, swimming in calm waters, or engaging in water sports like skiing, surfing, and snorkeling.
The town itself is a charming fishing village with red-tiled roofs and streets lined with gardens filled with jacaranda and fruit trees.
It offers a special ambiance where visitors can savor fresh seafood and daily catches in seaside restaurants or the town’s picturesque streets steeped in cultural heritage.
One of Barra de Navidad’s main attractions is the Barra de Navidad Lagoon, recognized as a Ramsar site—one of eight in the Costalegre region and thirteen in Jalisco.
Over half of the lagoon’s area is covered by four species of mangroves: red, white, black, and botoncillo, showcasing its ecological significance.
Why Visit Barra de Navidad in Jalisco
One of the many reasons people visit this little fishing village is the lagoon. It is the habitat of many aquatic and migratory birds and huge fish populations.
Visitors can enjoy exciting ecotourism tours by boat or kayak through the waters that make up this lagoon, and then delight in the fresh products of the sea in the restaurants located on the shore of the coast.
Another of the most outstanding sites of Barra de Navidad is its boardwalk, which offers an impressive panoramic view of the entire Bahía de Navidad.
Here, visitors can admire the statue of Triton and Nereida, as well as the monument commemorating the IV Centennial of the Mexico-Philippines Maritime Expedition, a historic voyage in which a fleet composed of four ships sailed for the first time from Barra de Navidad to the Philippines in 1564.
In addition, in the charming town of Barra de Navidad, visitors can visit the church of Cristo del Ciclón, which is distinguished by its outstanding architecture and for housing the relic of the Santa Cruz del Astillero (Holy Cross of the Shipyard).
You may want to read: Punta Perula, Jalisco: Your Ultimate Beach Guide to Paradise
This church is also surrounded by a legend about the image of Christ located inside, which is said to have performed the miracle of stopping the storm of Hurricane Lily that hit Barra de Navidad in 1971.
Getting to Barra de Navidad
Barra de Navidad sits along the Pacific Ocean on the Costalegre, about 4 hours south of Puerto Vallarta and near the border with the state of Colima.
How to Get to Barra de Navidad:
By Air:
- The closest airport is Playa de Oro International Airport (ZLO) in Manzanillo, Colima, which is about a 60-minute drive from Barra de Navidad. This airport receives flights from various domestic and international destinations
- From the airport, you can take a taxi, a private shuttle, or rent a car to reach Barra de Navidad
By Car:
- From Puerto Vallarta: It’s about a 4-hour drive along Highway 200 heading south. The scenic route offers stunning coastal views
- From Guadalajara: The drive takes about 4.5 to 5 hours via Highway 80. It’s a pleasant journey through mountainous and rural landscapes
- From Manzanillo: The drive is roughly 60 minutes north along Highway 200
By Bus:
- Barra de Navidad is also accessible by Bus. Several Coach lines operate routes to Barra de Navidad or nearby towns from major cities like Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, or Manzanillo. The closest bus station is in Melaque, just a few minutes away
By Boat (if you’re nearby):
- Barra de Navidad is connected to some local destinations via small boats, especially from areas across the lagoon or nearby fishing villages
Let me know if you’d like recommendations on places to stay, eat, or things to do in Barra de Navidad!
11 Things to do and see in Barra de Navidad
1. Explore the Beach
Relax on Playa Barra de Navidad, the main beach with golden sands and calm waves ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Enjoy water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking, or jet-skiing.
2. Visit the Lagoon (Laguna de Barra de Navidad)
Again, this is one of the many reasons people like to visit Barra de Navidad. Among other things to do and see, of course.
Take a boat tour through the mangroves to observe wildlife like birds and fish.
Stop by fishing spots or enjoy a seafood meal at a floating restaurant.
3. Stroll Around Barra de Navidad
Explore the colorful streets with traditional Mexican architecture and vibrant murals.
Shop for local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional food at the markets and boutique stores.
Barra de Navidad is home to many ex-pats who decided to retire and live here. I’m sure you will make many friends around town. The locals are also friendly and welcoming.
4. Enjoy Local Cuisine
As with all of the Mexican Pacific coast, food is wonderful. The best fish and seafood are caught in these waters, so there will be no shortage of yummy things to eat.
Savor fresh seafood dishes like ceviche, pescado zarandeado, and shrimp tacos at beachfront restaurants.
Don’t miss trying local drinks like tuba (a coconut-based beverage) and artisanal tequilas.
5. Go Fishing in Barra de Navidad
Barra de Navidad is famous for sport fishing. Hire a charter to try your hand at catching marlin, sailfish, or tuna.
Because of the lagoon, freshwater fishing is also available. The possibilities are endless.
6. Take a Day Trip to Melaque
Just a short drive or boat ride away, Melaque offers more beaches, great restaurants, and a lively vibe.
Depending on your travel conditions and itinerary, I highly recommend renting a car. There are many little towns and hidden beaches within the Costalegre for you to discover.
7. Explore Isla Navidad
A small island accessible by boat, home to the luxurious Grand Isla Navidad Resort, which features a golf course and marina.
8. Sunset Watching
The sunsets over the Pacific Ocean are breathtaking. Enjoy them from the beach, a rooftop bar, or while walking along the Malecon.
There is something about this area that makes sunsets (and sunrises) a magical spectacle. You will love it as much as I do.
9. Surfing and Water Adventures
If you’re into surfing, nearby spots like La Manzanilla or Boca de Iguanas may have suitable waves.
The best waves are usually during the high season in Mexico, between December and April. However, always check the weather and sea conditions before traveling.
10. Experience Local Festivals
Plan your visit around events like the Fiesta de San Antonio de Padua (in June) or the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe (in December), when the town comes alive with parades, music, and traditional dances.
11. Visit the Local Church
Stop by San Antonio Parish, a quaint church in the center of town, to admire its simplicity and historical significance.
Barra de Navidad, Jalisco: Summary
Other highlights of Barra de Navidad include the Sailfish Monument, located on Federal Highway 200 at the entrance to town, and the Maleconcito del Sol.
These complement the charms of this emblematic town on the southern coast of Jalisco, where you can also enjoy an exquisite gastronomic offer based on seafood products.
In addition, important events are held such as sport fishing tournaments for species such as marlin and sailfish, as well as the Costalegre Barra de Navidad Carnival, which takes place during the first months of the year and features parades and stage presentations of talents, artists and ensembles from the municipality of Cihuatlán and its surroundings.
In summary, Barra de Navidad has established itself as one of the most emblematic and attractive sites in the Costalegre region on the coast of Jalisco.
This picturesque town offers a delightful combination of cultural richness, amazing natural scenery, and moments of tranquility in its calm waters.
The Costalegre region in Jalisco emerges as one of the best options to get in touch with nature in a respectful and sustainable way.
A delight for local, national, and international tourism, Barra de Navidad is a magical destination that can be easily reached from Manzanillo, just 40 minutes by car or cab.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit this unique town, with its great natural wealth, and enjoy exciting sporting adventures or immerse yourself in its vibrant culture.
Barra de Navidad is definitely a place worth visiting.
