Santa María del Oro, Nayarit: Crater Lagoon and Adventure
The gem of central Nayarit
Although Nayarit is famous for its beaches, Santa María del Oro proves that the state is also a destination for mountains and fresh water. Its lagoon is a crater that changes color with the time of day and the weather, surrounded by forest and settings ideal for adventure.
Points of interest
- Distance from Tepic: 41.8 km
- Population: ~21,900
- Altitude: 939 meters above sea level
- Ideal if you like: nature, adventure, fishing, camping
How to get there
45 minutes from Tepic via the Tepic–Guadalajara highway.
What to do in Santa María del Oro
- Santa María del Oro Lagoon — snorkeling, paddle surfing, kayaking, fishing, and boat rides.
- Camping and restaurants with a view of the water.
- Natural waterfalls such as Real de Acuitapilco.
- Rappelling, zip-lining, and horseback riding on the surrounding crags.
- Hiking through pine and oak forests.
What to eat
Fish chicharrón is the culinary emblem, along with grilled zarandeado fish and homemade cooking on the shore of the lagoon.
Nature
The region is home to deer, puma, margay, armadillo, golden eagle, and peregrine falcon, as well as endemic aquatic species.
Area map
- 1Santa María del Oro lagoon Flooded volcanic crater; kayaking, paddleboarding and boat rides.21.36939, -104.5689 · Open in Google Maps
- 2Santa María del Oro (town) Municipal seat, about 8 km from the lagoon.21.3324, -104.5862 · Open in Google Maps
- 3Real de Acuitapilco Old mining village in Santa María del Oro with waterfalls.21.32871, -104.52589 · Open in Google Maps