Forget Cancun! Eight Reasons You NEED to Visit Vallarta-Nayarit This Year Kelby McNally - Express
go to original September 5, 2016

Express roving reporter Kelby McNally visited Mexico's Pacific Coast

Mexico has long been synonymous with spring-break partying and all-inclusive resorts. But thanks to the up-and-coming Pacific Coast area, that could be about to change.

With its lush beaches, robust nightlife, bustling water sports, glorious street food and luxury accommodation, this energetic area is the perfect long-haul spot for families, couples and friends alike.

I paid a visit to two of the area’s most coveted spots - Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit - and it was love at first sight.

With their mix of high-end luxuries and get-in-the-spirit-of-things local haunts, these areas are the perfect getaway for those of you wanting a real taste of Mexico, with a hint of opulence.

From swimming with wild dolphins to learning to paddle board in a bustling surfing town, or simply catching some rays on one of the town’s jaw-dropping beaches, here are the top eight things to do in the sun-soaked towns of Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit.

Go snorkelling on the Marieta Islands

Visiting the uninhabited Marieta Islands is a must if you’re on the North Coast. Around a half hour boat journey from Riviera Nayarit, these islands are breathtakingly beautiful - and one of only two places you can see the endangered blue-footed Booby bird.

There are 115 species of fish, sharks and rays that you can set your eyes on if you fancy a snorkel around the rocks - and even a secret beach that is only accessible by swimming through a short tunnel.

Stay at the W Hotel

The iconic W Hotel has just opened up in Punta de Mita, and it’s well worth the stay. The modern look of the rooms feels fresh and cool while the stunning sea views and tranquil spa area leave you feeling utterly refreshed.

The bar area is open to the public on a nightly basis, with Thursday-Saturday being the busiest, so even if you don’t stay it’s well worth visiting for a drink.

Have breakfast at Bistro Organico

Start your day in the most refreshing - if ever so slightly hipster - way. Bistro Organic is situated in the San Pancho area of Riviera Nayarit and is a home away from home, if you’re used to eating relatively healthy.

The veg juices and gluten free options are a nice break from the constant offering of local tacos (not that we were ever complaining). It’s situated in the most adorable B&B, just a stone’s throw away from the bustling town and delightful beach...

Visit the Romantic Zone
 
Puerto Vallarta has a bustling nightlife, with many bars, restaurants and clubs open well into the early hours of the morning. However, it’s the Romantic Zone, in the downtown area, which really pulls it out of the park.

The town - which has an extremely vibrant LGBT scene - is littered with local restaurants, wine and cocktail bars, stylish boutiques and a mixture of budget and luxury hotels and hostels.

Food prices and offerings range from budget to gourmet, so there’s something for everyone.

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