Lo de Marcos, Nayarit: The Cozy Escape You’ve Been Dreaming Of
Mexico never ceases to amaze with its charming small towns, and Lo de Marcos Nayarit is no exception.
At first glance, you might think it’s just another small town without much to offer—but you’d be mistaken.
Lo de Marcos boasts a beautiful beach lined with bungalows; there’s so much to enjoy here.
Every corner of Mexico has something unique to leave us in awe, and Lo de Marcos is no different.
Did you know there’s a Virgin statue submerged in the sea? Neither did I! There’s always something new to discover and learn here.
The story of the Virgin is fascinating. Donated by Raúl Gradilla in 2002, the statue was submerged a decade later.
Different legends surround it, including attempts to steal it, which led to the decision to place it underwater. Today, it rests at the bottom of the sea between Guayabitos and Coral Island, secured with an iron base to prevent theft.
The statue stands 1.6 meters tall, is made of metal, and is considered the protector of fishermen and water sports enthusiasts.
You can see it while snorkeling, and locals ensure it is cleaned every year.
Beyond the beach, I recommend exploring the town of Lo de Marcos, particularly its recently renovated kiosk and the variety of local eateries.
Where is Lo de Marcos, Nayarit?
First, let’s locate Lo de Marcos. It’s in the state of Nayarit, about two hours southwest of Tepic.
To reach this small town, you’ll need to get to Tepic, take a bus toward Puerto Vallarta, and get off at the Lo de Marcos stop.
If coming from PV, take a bus across the airport. Ask any of the locals there, and they’ll point you in the right direction.
You may want to read: 7 Best Things to Do in San Pancho, Mexico
If you love road trips, the drive offers an excellent opportunity to visit other small towns in Nayarit that you might not know about.
Personally, I’d prefer to make the trip by car. Sure, it’s long and may take many hours (depending on your starting point), but I enjoy driving and soaking in the beautiful landscapes.
If you’re starting from Mexico City, a road trip to Lo de Marcos takes around 10 hours.
Yes, it’s quite a journey! On the other hand, flying to a nearby airport will significantly cut down travel time, even with the extra hours needed for airport procedures.
However you choose to travel, the bungalows and warm beaches of Lo de Marcos Nayarit await!
Things to do in Lo de Marcos, Nayarit
The serene atmosphere of Lo de Marcos allows you to enjoy a tranquil experience, surrounded by the sun, stunning scenery, perfect weather, and the authentic lifestyle of the locals.
Local families who live by the beach are primarily fishermen, meaning most of the services here are provided directly by them.
Lo de Marcos is much quieter than its big brothers: San Pancho and Sayulita.
This offers a unique and genuine experience that stands out from the usual commercialized setups often dominated by large companies.
Enjoy the Beach (of course)
Let’s start with the main attraction of this small town: The Beach.
This tranquil beach remains relatively undiscovered, offering a peaceful escape due to its lack of vendors.
Its vibrant tropical trees, crystal-clear waters, and pearly white sand create a breathtaking contrast that captivates visitors.
While the beach may not boast tours or a bustling nightlife—spanning only 2 km—this simplicity adds to its charm.
Where to Eat in Lo de Marcos, Nayarit
As you might expect from a coastal town, seafood and fish dominate the menu.
However, the freshness here is unparalleled, as fishing is a primary livelihood for local families.
This ensures that your meal features the freshest catch of the day.
There are several charming palapa-style restaurants where you can savor delicious seafood dishes.
Let me highlight two notable eateries near the beach:
- Tomatina: If seafood is not necessarily your thing, Tomatina offers yummy pizzas and burgers!
- Restaurante Olivia: BUT, if you love seafood as much as I do, Olivia has some of the best in town. Right by the beach
Additionally, there are several other good cafes and Mexican restaurants throughout town.
Del Toro Scenic Viewpoint
The Mirador del Toro in Lo de Marcos Nayarit is one of the area’s most popular attractions.
It is perched at the top of Playa del Toro, offering breathtaking views.
Located near Rincón de Guayabitos, the trail to the cliff begins at Compostela Beach.
The hike takes less than an hour, and the journey is enjoyable as you pass through lush tropical landscapes and encounter various animals and birds along the way.
The view from the top is stunning, and while the hike may be challenging for those unaccustomed to it, I assure you it’s worth every step.
You may want to read: Top Beaches in Riviera Nayarit: A Sun-Soaked Adventure Guide
Be sure to wear comfortable clothing and sturdy tennis shoes suitable for the trail. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.
The path is well-marked with signs, so getting lost isn’t a concern. Along the way, you’ll also come across other charming beaches, including Frideras.
Snorkeling at Coral Island
Coral Island, designated as a Clean Beach by the Mexican Marine Bureau, is a pristine natural treasure.
To reach Coral Island, you’ll need to take a boat. Boat rentals typically cost between 180 and 250 pesos, depending on the operator.
The ride is short and pleasant, taking less than 10 minutes. After you get there, you can spend anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours exploring.
For all visitors, it’s your responsibility not to leave garbage and help preserve its beauty for future generations.
Known as a natural underwater aquarium, Coral Island is teeming with marine life and vibrant coral reefs.
Its crystal-clear waters make it an ideal spot for snorkeling, allowing you to easily observe the abundant aquatic species.
This quick and enjoyable journey to Coral Island offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Stay at Quinta Santa Monica
Quinta Santa Monica is a charming hotel in the heart of Lo de Marcos Nayarit. Perfect for all types of travelers, it offers a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.
The hotel features three types of rooms: Jr. Suite, Suite, and Master Suite, with nightly rates ranging from 1,000 to 2,500 pesos (depending on the season).
Each room is equipped with Wi-Fi and a full kitchen, making it ideal for families and longer stays.
Opened in 2021, Quinta Santa Monica is a new family-run project. While the corridors of the rooms serve as balconies overlooking the streets of Lo de Marcos, the hotel also features a relaxing pool and is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from the beach.
Although the hotel doesn’t have parking, nearby lots are available, either for free or for a small fee.
If you’re planning a visit to Lo de Marcos, Quinta Santa Monica is an excellent choice for accommodation. For more information or to make reservations, you can visit their official website.
Bungalows Tlaquepaque
Are you familiar with bungalows? They are cabin-like structures, smaller than a traditional room but still very comfortable, offering an excellent place to relax.
In Tlaquepaque, you’ll find not only bungalows but also villas and rooms, many equipped with a kitchen, making them perfect for long stays.
If you’re bringing a group, they provide accommodations for 20 to 30 people, depending on your needs.
The property features amenities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, hammocks, a barbecue area, children’s play areas, and access to the beautiful Lo de Marcos Nayarit beach.
In addition to being a great lodging option, this location also hosts events and boasts a delightful on-site restaurant.
Another fantastic lodging option in Lo de Marcos is Mar al Cielo, a secluded one-bedroom house situated in the higher parts of the area.
It offers privacy, a private bathroom, and stunning views that will make your stay unforgettable.
Los Venados Beach, near Lo de Marcos Nayarit
Looking for a quieter beach? Consider visiting Playa Los Venados, an almost untouched, serene destination just five minutes from Lo de Marcos.
A guided path will lead you to the beach, but there’s no designated parking, so you’ll need to park along the roadside.
If you’d like to stay overnight, there’s a small lodging option available—or you can bring your tent for a more adventurous experience.
The tranquility of Playa Los Venados means there’s not much commerce in the area. However, you’ll find a local restaurant specializing in shrimp preparations.
For activities, the beach is perfect for snorkeling or surfing, thanks to its favorable waves.
One of the most breathtaking aspects of Playa Los Venados is its natural beauty. From its lush tropical fauna to the starry skies at night, the scenery is nothing short of spectacular.
Whale Watching: A Must-See in Lo de Marcos
One of the most exciting experiences in Lo de Marcos (and the entire Bay of Banderas) is whale watching.
Head to Coral Island, where you can observe whales, dolphins, and other marine life.
When is the best time for whale watching? The prime season in Riviera Nayarit runs from December to March.
For a more intimate experience, opt for smaller excursions that allow you to get closer to these majestic creatures.
During their migration, whales can be spotted along Nayarit’s coastal towns, making Playa de Marcos an ideal spot to witness this incredible event.
A typical whale-watching tour lasts up to four hours, giving you the chance to see humpback whales, orcas, and dolphins.
As December begins, there’s no better time to visit Lo de Marcos and enjoy the peaceful yet awe-inspiring spectacle of whale watching.
Trekking
Do you know what trekking is? It’s a hiking activity that involves walking long distances.
If you enjoy adventure tourism, you must visit Lo de Marcos to hike and challenge your physical endurance.
There are many ways to explore the places you visit and various options for tours, but hiking always leaves a deeper impression.
With trekking, you truly experience the journey. You observe the landscape, encounter wildlife and flora, and feel the climate more intimately.
For me, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as reaching the endpoint of a trek. Knowing that every step was worth it for an incredible view or destination fills me with joy.
In Lo de Marcos, there’s a company specializing in adventure tourism, where you can book guided hiking tours.
Surfing
As I mentioned earlier, the adventure tourism company located in Lo de Marcos, Nayarit, is called Xplore Mexico.
Besides hiking, they offer an array of activities including boat tours, scuba diving, sport fishing, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, and, of course, surfing.
They also provide surfing lessons for private or group tours where you can meet new people. After all, part of the adventure is making friends along the way.
Surfing in Lo de Marcos, Playa Los Venados, and other nearby spots is an excellent experience.
The calm waters provide great stability, making them ideal for both beginners and seasoned surfers.
If you’re confident in your skills, you might prefer to explore these serene beaches and surf on your own.
While surfing, you might even spot a variety of marine species in the crystal-clear waters of Lo de Marcos and its surroundings.
Bird Watching
Believe it or not, just as there is whale watching, there’s also bird watching. Various routes have been established for this activity.
Near Bahía de Lo de Marcos, there are guided tours to observe the diverse species of birds that migrate to Nayarit.
The best season for bird watching is from October to March, so there’s still time to plan your visit.
In the main square, you’ll find signs with more information about these guided tours, including photos of some of the birds you might encounter.
Currently, the most popular routes include Las Minas, La Laguna, and La Boquita. You can choose the one that appeals to you most.
Lo de Marcos also hosts the Migratory Bird Festival, which features lectures on bird conservation and environmental preservation.
Lo de Marcos Nayarit: Conclusion
Lo de Marcos isn’t just a destination; it’s a feeling—a peaceful oasis where life slows down, and every moment invites you to savor its beauty.
Whether you’re lounging on its pristine beaches, exploring local flavors at the vibrant weekend market, or simply soaking up the village’s warm, friendly vibe, this coastal gem offers a rejuvenating escape from the rush of everyday life.
For those yearning for simplicity, authenticity, and natural splendor, Lo de Marcos delivers an unforgettable experience.
It’s a place where you can reconnect with yourself, your loved ones, and the magic of Mexico’s Pacific coast.
Once you visit, you might just find yourself planning your next trip before you even leave.
Come for the tranquility, stay for the memories—Lo de Marcos is waiting to welcome you.
