Tenacatita Jalisco: Where Tranquility Meets Tropical Bliss
The Pacific coast of Jalisco is home to an area of extraordinary natural and scenic beauty: Costa Alegre.
This tourist corridor boasts a collection of remarkable beaches overlooking the ocean.
Among them, the Bay of Tenacatita stands out, captivating visitors with its breathtaking, movie-like landscapes.
The coves, beaches, and lagoons of Tenacatita have a unique charm. What’s more, this corner of the Mexican coast is one of the rare places where, at certain times of the year, you can witness both sunrises and sunsets over the same side of the sea.
Along with this remarkable feature, Tenacatita Bay is a haven for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts.
A whole new world of possibilities will unfold before your eyes when you visit this enchanting piece of Jalisco. You might find it so mesmerizing that you won’t want to leave.
What can you expect in Tenacatita Jalisco?
A universe of beaches—including La Manzanilla, Boca de Iguanas, and Tenacatita itself—surrounded by mountains, cliffs, and lush greenery filled with palm trees, almond trees, and tropical fruit trees.
Its fine golden sands and crystal-clear blue waters create a scene of unparalleled beauty.
I invite you to explore the main attractions of Tenacatita and plan your next vacation. Will you join me on this unforgettable adventure?
Jalisco’s Costa Alegre
Jalisco’s Costa Alegre is one of the most remarkable coastlines along the Mexican Pacific.
In the 1990s, both national and international tourists began to take notice of this stunning region, which was declared an Ecological Tourist Corridor during that time.
The Costa Alegre spans over 200 kilometers of coastline, stretching from Puerto de Manzanillo in Colima to Puerto Vallarta in Jalisco.
Read the full guide: Costalegre Mexico: Discover the “Happy Coast” of Jalisco
This region encompasses the municipalities of Cihuatlán, La Huerta, and Tomatlán, as well as several picturesque bays, including Navidad, Tenacatita, Chamela, Majahuas, Costa Careyes, and Cabo Corrientes.
Each of these bays boasts its own unique charm and attractions. Generally, they are known for their tranquil and relatively untouched beaches, surrounded by lush vegetation, towering cliffs, hidden coves, and vibrant mangrove forests.
The region also features extensive areas of tropical rainforest and farmland, along with a rich diversity of flora and fauna.
From the beaches, you can enjoy idyllic sunsets and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific.
For those seeking an alternative to the beach, the Costa Alegre is home to seven protected natural areas, including the Sierra de Manantlán Biosphere Reserve, which covers over 150,000 hectares of preserved land.
While the beaches in this region often have limited tourist infrastructure, this creates fantastic opportunities for camping and stargazing under a blanket of stars.
However, if you prefer more luxurious accommodations, you’ll also find excellent high-quality hotels.
Things to do in Tenacatita Jalisco
Tenacatita features a 6.5-kilometer-long coastline offering plenty of activities.
From relaxing horseback rides to peaceful beach walks at sunrise or sunset, Tenacatita welcomes visitors with a warm and inviting atmosphere.
It’s a haven for snorkeling, skimboarding, and scuba diving enthusiasts.
Additionally, boat tours through the area’s mangroves provide a chance to spot seabirds and explore the natural beauty of the region.
Tenacatita has a rustic and serene charm that captivates visitors. For those seeking a touch of exclusivity, the renowned Los Angeles Locos hotel is a must-visit, just 11 km from La Manzanilla, this four-star resort offers top-notch service and amenities.
The bay is also an excellent spot to shop for regional handicrafts and souvenirs.
Local beachside stalls sell a variety of items, from hats and hammocks to intricately decorated jewelry boxes made with coral and other marine elements.
Did you know? The name “Tenacatita” translates to “red rocks,” a nod to the reddish stone cliff that the area’s first inhabitants named after the distinctive feature in the bay.
A Tour of the Beaches of Tenacatita Bay
The Bay of Tenacatita is ideal for exploring by boat, allowing visitors to experience its vast expanse from a unique perspective.
This approach highlights the contrasting colors of the deep blue sea and the golden sands of its beaches.
The primary beaches of Tenacatita Bay include Boca de Iguanas, Tenacatita, and La Manzanilla.
However, within its 6.5 km stretch, there are many other hidden gems of great beauty. Most of the beaches in this area remain pristine, retaining their natural charm.
Without large tourist developments, the beaches are clean and surrounded by lush vegetation, including papaya trees, palm trees, tropical plants, and some mangrove forests that enhance the picturesque scenery.
Boca de los Gorriones
The southern central part of the bay is home to Boca de los Gorriones, where the lagoon’s waters merge with the sea.
The lagoon’s mouth features a narrow natural channel with crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming across. However, caution is advised, as boats frequently use this route to access the jetty.
From this point, boat tours take visitors to Marisma La Zacatosa, a lagoon encircled by dense mangroves that occasionally form a natural tunnel.
Navigating this area offers an excellent opportunity to spot wildlife, including pelicans, coots, caimans, crocodiles, and other fascinating species.
Punta Serena: A Paradise in Tenacatita Jalisco
Located in the heart of Tenacatita Bay is Punta Serena, where the renowned Blue Bay Hotel Ángeles Locos stands.
This tranquil beach is a true sanctuary amidst nature, offering a serene environment perfect for relaxation.
The area is adorned with palm trees, papaya trees, and banana trees, and is occasionally visited by flamingos, adding a touch of magic to the landscape.
The surrounding area of Punta Serena is dotted with untouched beaches.
Interestingly, Tenacatita is one of the few places in Mexico where the sun rises and sets over the sea during winter—a rare and mesmerizing phenomenon.
The calm waters here are perfect for swimming, sailing, kayaking, and diving. Diving is a popular activity year-round, except during March and April.
La Manzanilla Beach
La Manzanilla is a quaint fishing village known for its peaceful and welcoming atmosphere.
The town attracts both domestic and international tourists with its vibrant cultural life, including local art displayed in various galleries.
You can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the town, but the beach is the main attraction.
The sand here varies between golden and gray tones and may occasionally be dotted with stones, depending on the season. The waters are calm and safe, making it an ideal destination for families.
La Manzanilla is the only urban area in the bay, offering modest hotels and beachfront seafood restaurants.
Along the main street, which runs parallel to the beach, you’ll find shops selling local handicrafts at affordable prices.
At the end of this street lies the parish of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción and a unique kiosk crafted with marine elements such as sand, octopus sculptures, and starfish.
For those seeking adventure, La Manzanilla provides a designated camping area.
Setting up a tent under the stars, with the soothing sound of the sea, offers a truly unforgettable experience.
The beach at La Manzanilla is surrounded by palm groves that extend to a mangrove area known as Boca de Iguanas.
This mangrove ecosystem is home to over 270 crocodiles of various sizes, as well as many bird species.
Visitors can explore the estuary via a specially designed walkway, allowing them to observe the wildlife up close—sometimes just half a meter away.
Boca de Iguanas
Again, Boca de Iguanas is another beach option that highlights the beauty of Tenacatita Jalisco.
Stretching approximately 2 kilometers, it features light gray sand dotted with shells. The sea is generally calm, although it can be affected by changes in weather conditions.
Next to the beach lies a small fishing community with modest accommodations and palapas offering traditional dishes.
Its spacious shoreline makes it ideal for horseback riding, seaside walks, and connecting with nature. This tranquil spot is perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful and secluded environment.
Tamarindo Cove
On the eastern side of the bay, rocky cliffs teeming with birdlife create a striking landscape.
One of the area’s highlights is Tamarindo Cove, a serene inlet that is part of the El Tamarindo Ecological and Tourist Development.
Here, you’ll find luxurious amenities, including an 18-hole golf course set amidst the jungle and overlooking the sea.
This destination boasts three stunning beaches and an ecological reserve brimming with diverse flora and fauna.
Punta Hermanos
Punta Hermanos is situated on the western side of Tenacatita Bay. The most enchanting way to reach this area is by boat, as the journey itself is a delightful experience.
This location features a cluster of rocky islands, with Isla de los Pájaros standing out among them.
You can also access La Mora Beach, which faces a reef perfect for snorkeling and diving.
The crystal-clear waters range from greenish hues to light blue and are home to a vibrant variety of fish, offering an unforgettable marine adventure.
Tenacatita Cove
Thi picturesque spot stretches 2 kilometers and is renowned for its golden sand, which beautifully contrasts with the sea’s shades of blue and emerald green.
The water is so clear that marine life can often be observed without diving, though snorkeling remains the best way to explore its wonders.
Other Attractions near Tenacatita Jalisco
As I said at the beginning, the Costa Alegre region of Jalisco is home to some of the Pacific’s most stunning beaches, and Tenacatita is a prime location for exploring nearby attractions.
Here are a few options:
Chamela Bay
Chamela Bay is a natural paradise made up of nine islets, making it a top destination for ecotourism. Its beaches are ideal for scuba diving, snorkeling, and bird watching.
Did you know? Chamela Bay is home to the San Mateo Church, a uniquely designed temple built with local materials like palm leaves, reflecting the community’s respect for the environment.
Located about 45 kilometers from Tenacatita, Chamela Bay offers various beaches, including Las Alamandas, a golden sandy stretch known for its impressive waves, and Punta Perula, a curved beach perfect for swimming, boating, and snorkeling.
Nearby islands enhance the experience, and the area’s restaurants serve fresh seafood, including the locally praised red snapper.
Navidad Bay
About 42 kilometers from Tenacatita lies Bahía de Navidad, one of Costa Alegre’s most exclusive destinations.
This small port town is surrounded by green mountains and pristine beaches, offering a picturesque backdrop.
It’s a haven for water sports enthusiasts, hosting events such as the International Fishing Championship and the International Marlin Tournament.
Read the full guide: 11 Things to do in Barra de Navidad: A Treasure in Jalisco
Did you know? The area was named Bahía de Navidad after being discovered by Spanish conquistadors on December 25, 1541.
The bay features charming towns like San Patricio Melaque, with its lively beach and abundance of restaurants and hotels.
Barra de Navidad, located at the opposite end of the bay, is another oasis for vacationers. Cuastecomate, a small village within the bay, is ideal for snorkeling and sunbathing.
Its calm waters, fishing village charm, and dramatic cliffs make it a unique Costa Alegre destination.
Costa Careyes
Only 33 km from Tenacatita, Costa Careyes is another must-visit destination along the Costa Alegre of Jalisco.
This enchanting coastal retreat is renowned as a nesting site for hawksbill turtles, which inspired its name.
It boasts pristine beaches perfect for relaxation and offers world-class accommodations.
Costa Careyes is an exclusive gem of the Mexican Pacific. Its opulence is evident in the stunning mansions perched on dramatic cliffs, lush golf courses, and guests strolling in elegant white robes.
When I speak of exclusivity, Costa Careyes truly delivers. One of its most iconic landmarks is Sol de Oriente, a breathtaking mansion perched atop a cliff.
This luxurious property features two circular dwellings and a spectacular infinity pool that creates the illusion of floating between sky and sea. Staying here comes at a premium, but even a glimpse of this masterpiece is worth the trip.
Beyond the luxury, Careyes Beach is a marvel of nature. Adorned with reefs and cliffs, it exudes a magical charm. Playa Rosa, with its sand tinged pink by sunlight, is another heavenly spot.
Similarly enchanting is Careyitos Cove, with calm, crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling.
Sierra de Manantlán Biosphere Reserve
If you enjoy mountain landscapes in addition to beaches, the Sierra de Manantlán Biosphere Reserve is a must-visit destination near Tenacatita Bay.
Established in March 1987, this reserve was created to protect the rich biodiversity and natural resources of the southern Jalisco and northwestern Colima mountains.
This ecotourism haven spans nearly 140,000 hectares and is home to approximately 2,900 plant species and over 600 animal species.
Its diverse ecosystems offer ever-changing scenery, including mountain trails, pine forests, and fresh springs that inspired its name.
For birdwatching enthusiasts, the reserve is a treasure trove with more than 300 bird species, such as golden eagles, goldfinches, and woodpeckers. Hikers and nature lovers will find the trails equally rewarding.
To fully appreciate the reserve, consider camping for a couple of days to explore its vast landscapes and natural wonders.
Planning a visit before or after exploring Tenacatita Bay will give you a deeper appreciation of southern Jalisco’s stunning natural beauty.
How to Get to Tenacatita Jalisco
You might be wondering where Tenacatita is located.
As mentioned earlier, it is one of the stunning bays that make up the paradisiacal Costalegre, nestled between Puerto Vallarta and Manzanillo.
It is approximately 63 kilometers from Barra de Navidad, 85 kilometers from Manzanillo, and just over 195 kilometers from Puerto Vallarta.
Tenacatita is located at kilometer 30 on the Mexico 200 Federal Highway. If you’re traveling from Barra de Navidad or Melaque, take this route toward Puerto Vallarta and follow the signs to Tenacatita.
The road is well-marked and scenic. From Costa Careyes, the route is the same, following Federal Highway 200.
If you’re traveling from Guadalajara, the journey is over 380 km via the Mexico 54D highway. For long-distance travelers, Guadalajara’s airport offers excellent connectivity.
Alternatively, you can fly into Manzanillo’s airport, where taxis or rental cars are available for touring the area.
What to Eat in Tenacatita
Exploring local flavors is an integral part of discovering any destination.
Tenacatita Bay and the Costa Alegre offer a culinary journey rooted in the sea, with dishes featuring fresh fish and seafood.
The locals’ expertise transforms these ingredients into exquisite creations, ranging from flavorful cocktails to zesty ceviches.
Signature dishes include fried fish, zarandeado fish, red snapper fillets, shrimp a la diabla, garlic mojo fish fillets, and cocktails featuring shrimp, octopus, oysters, and clams.
One standout dish is the sea roll, a rolled fish fillet stuffed with octopus and shrimp, smothered in almond sauce, and wrapped in bacon.
Most of Tenacatita’s restaurants and palapas are set along the coast, allowing you to savor these culinary delights while enjoying breathtaking views of the sea.
This combination of flavors and scenery creates a truly unforgettable dining experience.
