Don’t let the sun on Puerto Vallarta’s beaches fool you into thinking this area of Mexico is just that.
Working in real estate here for over ten years, I’ve introduced numerous clients to picturesque locations along the coast and in the inland province of Jalisco.
Sayulita, this bohemian paradise that investors love.
For tourism and real estate investment, Sayulita has become one of my all-time favorite places to recommend. It’s a magical town about an hour’s drive from Puerto Vallarta that has seen exponential growth in just the last few years, and I saw it myself.
What I find most fascinating about Sayulita is its unusual combination of bohemian vibe and strong real estate market. Its colorful cobblestones, vibrant street art, surf culture, and the diverse international community of residents who have put down roots here from all over the world have made Sayulita a haven for wandering souls.
Everywhere you turn, from the machete-shaped lutes of wooden boat builders with water dwellers and beverage vendors specializing in healthy herbal teas, to those offering the native brand of organic Argentine empanadas, are businesses owned by people who came from elsewhere and decided they wanted a particular place in this world to call home. It’s not just that these smart people realized they could make much more money doing business here than where they were born, nor merely what it’s like to live among people whose roots are in totally different lands without commercial ties between them.
The most attractive feature of this culture is that people can live where they work, but they don’t need to be tied to doing just one thing their entire lives.
It’s a truly spectacular surf spot on Sayulita Beach, completely deserted except for the occasional curious onlooker. But what really makes this so out of the ordinary is that Monkey Mountain, which everyone knows and talks about, is visible from here. I’ve seen the most captivating sunsets of my life from its summit, where the 360-degree panoramic view should live forever in your mind.
For those willing to explore beyond the main beach, Patzcuaro Beach is a hidden gem I discovered years ago and now recommend to all my clients seeking peace and quiet. This virtually unspoiled beach offers fabulous views of Monkey Mountain and is often without a soul in sight.
Bucerías: A better bet with tremendous potential.
In my years in the real estate industry, Bucerías has witnessed a fantastic transformation. Just 30 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta, it’s a coastal town with modern amenities that still retains its authentic feel. For both permanent residents and investors, the results are outstanding.
What I love most about Bucerías is its established international community and its relatively unspoiled ethos despite the population increase. In my several years working here, the cobblestone streets with bright flags and artfully designed buildings have been something that attracted a large number of clients to move there—they could immediately see that this was the place they wanted to live!
Eight kilometers of beach make Bucerías perfect for horseback riding, an activity I often recommend to families. Here, you can have an authentic ranch experience, and I’ve seen this tradition remain intact despite tourism development. The local market is another highlight. I’ve been able to take countless international clients there to experience true Mexican culture.
There are robust waves at Bucerías Beach for bodyboarding, and this is an activity I often see entire families enjoying as well. The local cuisine is excellent, and whether at sunset on the beach or in gourmet restaurants—from traditional taco stands to more modern eateries—you can savor Bucerías food in a unique setting.
As my travels have taken me to the hills of Jalisco, I’ve found some of the most attractive towns in Mexico. The minute I arrived in Mascota, nestled in the mountains two hours from Puerto Vallarta in the Sierra Madre, I simply felt like I belonged there.
Mascota is one of the few tourist destinations in Mexico that retains much of its colonial character. The streets are cobblestone and the buildings are brightly painted; the warm, natural welcome of the local residents is occasionally enough to change visitors’ attitudes toward Mexico. The cool mountain temperatures can provide a welcome respite from the coastal heat.
Mascota’s terrain contains craters where the views are almost otherworldly. I’ve taken professional photographers to this location, and they are always amazed by the pristine landscapes containing dormant volcanoes as far as the eye can see, dominated by farmland. The Guadalupe Lookout offers fantastic 360-degree panoramic views.
Talpa de Allende, when combined with Mascota, provides a complete mountain experience. I’ve been fortunate enough to witness an important pilgrimage route that ends in this historic mining town, surrounded by pine forests and epic landscapes. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary is the religious center where thousands of Mexicans end their sacred pilgrimage.
If you’re lucky, you might be able to try some locally made guava candy while you’re here. I’ve seen foreign tourists try and then take with them the local culture and traditions in a meaningful way, one that I’m sure must have lasting implications. I haven’t found guava candy like this anywhere else in Mexico.
Coastal destinations in the south: Boca de Tomatlán and Mismaloya.
In the entire region, and indeed in all of Mexico, Boca de Tomatlán is my favorite fishing village. A paradise on earth, this small town south of Puerto Vallarta has provided me with some of my most memorable experiences on the Mexican coast.
Furthermore, because it’s located around a bay surrounded by green hills, these different types of birds—some 500 varieties/sectors—especially pelicans and herons (especially the grey heron) can be seen here. It just so happens that I moved to this small fishing village by the sea. The peace and quiet are a huge benefit to me. With clients looking for authentic and true experiences, I still value the authenticity of this traditional fishing village.
The walk from Boca de Tomatlán to Las Ánimas Beach is one of the most beautiful hikes I’ve taken along Mexico’s Pacific Coast. The trip takes us to hidden beaches only accessible on foot or by wrought-iron boat, with stops for cold coconuts, and this invariably boasts spectacular ocean views. Ideal for those seeking harmony and nourishment in nature. The contrast of wild adventure with sophisticated serenity.
In Boca, there’s also kayaking through green avenues and mangroves (a must on rocks). In the (extremely rare) case that I slightly forget somewhere in the itinerary, it included all meals, waterfall excursions, and a red open-sided four-wheeler on this island less than a mile long, though I couldn’t wish for anything more.
Mismaloya, in sharp contrast to the tranquility of Boca de Tomatlán, encompasses pure adventure. I’ve organized ATV tours, ziplining, and hiking for guests seeking an adrenaline rush. The fact that the movie “Predator” was filmed here adds a cinematic element of interest that always fascinates visitors. / a movie scene in many places around Mismaloya. Los Arcos National Marine Park offers excellent diving and snorkeling. I’ve seen manta rays, tropical fish, and all kinds of marine life that make every dive a special experience.
San Pancho and Punta Mita: luxury and nature in perfect harmony.
San Pancho, with its genuine hippie vibe and dedication to conservation, has won my heart. This quiet town, located 50 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta on the Riviera Nayarit coast, is an eco-community that has formed quite naturally over the years.
The surf and yoga culture in San Pancho is genuine, not commercialized. I have participated in turtle releases organized by Tortugas San Pancho, an experience I consider one of the most magical available in the region. This conservation project works year-round to protect sea turtles and their habitats.
This beach is located in San Pancho, not far from here. Therefore, of all the beaches on this coast, it receives the fewest visitors—I’d say just what’s needed for any day at sea!
This artistic and ecological community can be seen in the murals, posters, community events, etc., which have a beneficial effect on public opinion and environmental health.
Punta Mita is a paradise that invigorates the senses, offering five-star hotels with world-class courses. I’ve had several clients move to their own properties on this coast, drawn by the unique combination of luxury and natural beauty. Punta Mita is just 45 kilometers (28 miles) from Puerto Vallarta and offers a lazy afternoon on the beach with crystal-clear Caribbean waters surrounding you and soft white sand beaches beneath your feet—it doesn’t get more exclusive than this!
Lancha Beach, just 15 minutes deep into the lush green tropics, is known among surfers for its waves. It’s also home to some of the most beautiful sunsets I’ve seen in Mexico, unmarred by violence and drugs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit Punta de Mita?
Based on my own experience, the best time is between November and April, when it’s dry and not too hot. But each season has its own beauty; the rainy season (May-October) brings more greenery and fewer people, especially to the mountain towns.
Is it safe to travel to these destinations alone?
Absolutely. From my years of experience taking clients to these places, I’ve found them all to be safe for independent travelers. Especially the magical mountain towns, where the local communities will treat you with great hospitality as long as you’re a welcome visitor.
Where is a good place for my first visit?
For a first taste, I’d say Sayulita. It has everything: beach life, cultural life, and adventure. It’s close enough to Puerto Vallarta to visit in a day, but it really has enough to see for a longer stay.
What is the approximate cost to visit?
Costs vary considerably. Mountain towns like Mascota and Talpa are extremely affordable; a meal starts at 50-100 pesos. Meanwhile, Punta Mita is more expensive due to its upscale nature, while Sayulita and San Pancho offer something for everyone, regardless of budget.
Do I need a car to explore these destinations?
Not necessarily! Many of these places are accessible from Puerto Vallarta via public transportation. But having a car offers more flexibility, especially for reaching mountain towns and exploring secret beaches like Playa Patzcuaro.
Conclusion: Your next adventure.
During my years in the Puerto Vallarta real estate market, I’ve traveled to every corner, valley, mountain, and river. The destinations shared in this chapter represent the best of Mexico: from Caribbean-style beaches and authentic colonial towns to adrenaline-filled adventures and spiritual experiences.
Each place is unique in what it offers and has left lasting impressions on my clients. Whether it’s the bohemian atmosphere of Sayulita or the peacefulness of Boca de Tomatlán, the best places to visit are the best of the best. The authenticity of Mascota, the luxury of Punta Mita: these destinations near Puerto Vallarta allow you to experience a true taste of Mexico.
I suggest not letting yourself be limited by visiting just one place. Within a two-hour radius of Puerto Vallarta, there is an incredible diversity of experiences. Each town and beach has its own unique character, offering different aspects of that rich Mexican culture.
As someone who has seen this region grow and develop over the years, I can confidently say that these destinations will remain unique. The key is to visit them with an open mind and heart, prepared for Mexican hospitality and the incredible natural beauty of Jalisco and Nayarit.