Nayarit is a compact state but extraordinarily diverse. Three days are enough to put together a memorable getaway based on your interests. Here we suggest three distinctly different weekend routes.

Route 1 — Southern Pueblos Mágicos corridor

Profile: culture, architecture, traditional cuisine.

Day 1 — Jala

Arrival from Tepic or Guadalajara. Visit the Lateran Basilica, a traditional meal and a short hike on the El Ceboruco volcano. Stay at a boutique hotel in town.

Day 2 — Ahuacatlán + Ixtlán del Río

In the morning, temples and artisanal sweets in Ahuacatlán. In the afternoon, visit the Los Toriles archaeological site and downtown Ixtlán del Río. Try the pollo a la plaza.

Day 3 — Amatlán de Cañas

The El Manto natural springs, an artisanal chocolate workshop and the return trip via the highway.

Route 2 — Classic Riviera Nayarit

Profile: beach, surf, nightlife and international cuisine.

Day 1 — Nuevo Vallarta and Bucerías

Arrival at the Puerto Vallarta airport. Lodging in Nuevo Vallarta. Afternoon in Bucerías: galleries, beach and dinner at a beachfront restaurant.

Day 2 — Sayulita and San Pancho

A surf lesson in Sayulita in the morning. Lunch on the plaza. In the afternoon, visit San Pancho, quieter and with galleries. Sunset on the beach.

Day 3 — Islas Marietas

A tour to the Islas Marietas from Punta Mita (book in advance). Lunch in Punta Mita and the return trip.

Route 3 — Authentic North Coast

Profile: history, nature, traditional cooking and less crowded beaches.

Day 1 — San Blas

Arrival from Tepic. A boat tour through La Tovara. A seafood dinner in Matanchén and lodging in town.

Day 2 — Santiago Ixcuintla and Mexcaltitán

Breakfast in San Blas. Transfer to La Batanga and a boat ride to Mexcaltitán. A tour by canoe (or on foot depending on the season), a meal of shrimp tamales and the return to Santiago.

Day 3 — Tecuala and El Novillero

El Novillero beach —the longest in Mexico— and a meal in Tecuala. Return to Tepic.

General tips

  • Travel with a rental car: it is the most flexible way to get around.
  • Book lodging in advance during high season.
  • Bring cash for rural communities.
  • Allow generous driving times: Nayarit has winding roads.

Three routes, three personalities of the state. Which one will you choose first?