Let’s have a discussion about Fantasy Vacations on the Coast of Nayarit, Mexico’s riviera along the spectacular Pacific coastline, is one of the leading vacation destinations in Mexico. However, travelers may be curious to know that as popular and well-traveled as this coastal gem north of Puerto Vallarta may be, there are still many more gems there to be found.
The village of San Blas is one of them. The pristine beach village around 100 miles from Puerto Vallarta and easily half that distance for those flying into Tepic (Riviera Nayarit International Airport TPQ).
Steeped in natural beauty, wildlife, cultural heritage, and history, San Blas is a gorgeous coastal community known for its ecotourism, undeveloped beaches, seafood cuisine, and easy access to adventure and cultural tourism.
Four miles of beachfront in San Blas remain untouched, rugged, and wild. As such, San Blas is a thriving environment for eco-tourism and wildlife and perfect for birders with more than 300 migratory species to track.
Fantasy Vacations on the Coast of Nayarit
Most visitors to San Blas in Nayarit enjoy the sparse beach stretch of El Borrego, whose fine golden sands stretch for two miles and has become a frequented destination, particularly among seasoned surfers. After a quick boat ride across the waters, visitors can explore the Isla del Rey, a rocky curiosity beckoning with natural beauty.
As for surfing passions, not far from San Blas is Playa Las Islitas Nayarit, a secluded beach on Bahía de Matanchén renowned for some of the best surfing conditions in Mexico. All along this beach, visitors find traditional thatched-roof huts serving up a variety of delicious traditional dishes such as freshly prepared fish and local seafood from the region.
Also essential is a visit to the Piedra Blanca, a small rock formation off the coast of San Blas Mexico where the image of the Nuestra Señora del Rosario Virgin —also known as La Marinera— is found. This virgin is the patron saint of sailors, and San Blas residents pay homage to her every year on October 7. The Piedra Blanca is also an important ceremonial center for the native Huichol people.
Best Option Of Fantasy Vacations on the Coast of Nayarit
But the beaches are just the beginning when it comes to the natural beauty of San Blas. Natural wonders include a tropical marsh featuring the El Pozo estuary, the La Tovara National Park, and the San Cristóbal River. La Tovara National Park is located just 1.2 miles from San Blas Mexico and is one of the region’s most impressive natural attractions.
Within the national park, lush mangrove forests that are home to turtles and birds can be explored on small boat tours. Visitors can also view the floating wooden homes. Occupied by the first settlers of the region. Further down the San Cristobal River is a community crocodile sanctuary. Where reptiles and other animal species are the subjects of wildlife research and conservation.
San Blas, if not all of Nayarit, brings its own stories and fascinating history. The origins of San Blas reach back to the late 17th century when the port was constructed as a shipyard. And point of departure for the colonization expeditions of the Spanish Crown. The first maritime customs house in Pacific Mexico was established in San Blas. And the town a thriving trade center and port in the region.
Historical Buildings
The historic buildings of San Blas flank the town square with impressive and colorful colonial motifs. Among these is the Contaduría stronghold constructed in 1770. A few steps away are the ruins of the Nuestra Señora del Rosario Temple, constructed in 1769.
The building near the pier where the Culture House now stands was once the Maritime Customs House, erected in the 19th century to control the traffic of merchandise that came through the port.
When it comes to hotels in San Blas, forget the international chains or all-inclusive resorts. San Blas is all about keeping accommodations locally owned and environmentally friendly.
Hotels like Hotel Garza Canela or Hacienda Flamingos are more indicative of the accommodation offerings. Focusing on attention to detail, personal touches, spectacular local gastronomy. And beautiful ocean views. Most of these inns must be booked through AirBNB or online agent platforms rather than directly.
At the end of each day, visitors to San Blas seek solace in the embrace of a slower pace of life. And immerse themselves in a side of Mexican beach life rarely witnessed by the masses of tourism.
In this idyllic town, time seems to move at a different rhythm, almost standing still, as haciendas, historic buildings, and quiet streets invite contemplative strolls. San Blas embodies a paradise where humans and nature coexist in perfect harmony, allowing for a profound connection to both.
10 Must-Do Experiences in San Blas, Nayarit
Explore La Tovara National Park
Discover the Historic Center:
Relax on Las Islitas Beach:
Climb El Cerro de San Basilio:
Indulge in Local Cuisine:
Visit the Mercado Municipal:
Take a Surf Lesson:
Explore the Surrounding Villages: Fantasy Vacations on the Coast of Nayarit
Go Whale Watching: Fantasy Vacations on the Coast of Nayarit
Unwind at a Beachfront Restaurant: Fantasy Vacations on the Coast of Nayarit
San Blas, Nayarit: Hotels to Love
+ Isla Privada San Blas Only Adults – This adults-only hotel is located on a private island and offers stunning views of the ocean. It has a variety of amenities, including an outdoor pool, a spa, and a restaurant.
+ Hotel Garza Canela San Blas Nayarit | Restaurante bar El Delfín San Blas Nayarit – This charming hotel is located in the heart of San Blas and features a restaurant, an outdoor pool, and free parking.
+ Hotel Marina San Blas – This laid-back hotel is located on the waterfront and offers gardens, an outdoor pool, and kayaks. It also has a private beach area.
+ Hotel Laru Spa Resort – This hotel is located on the outskirts of San Blas and features a spa, an outdoor pool, and a variety of restaurants and bars.
+ BLAS BAY – Finally, this hotel is located on the beach and offers a variety of amenities, including an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a bar

Get Social