The heart of Nayarit beats with renewed energy every year, and in 2025 a prestigious recognition has once again turned the spotlight on the treasures that make this state an incomparable destination. More than a simple list, these awards are a compass for travelers seeking authentic experiences, from pure adrenaline on its rivers to absolute serenity in its luxury spas, along with the flavors that tell centuries of tradition. Discovering the winners means charting the definitive map for an unforgettable adventure along the coast, the mountains and the magical towns of this jewel of the Mexican Pacific.

Nature, Adventure and the Essence of the Magical Towns

Nayarit is a canvas of outdoor experiences, and this year’s recognitions confirm it. For the adventurous spirit, nothing beats the thrill of navigating the rapids of an iconic river. In the municipality of Ruiz, rafting down the Río San Pedro stands out as the quintessential nature and adventure experience, offering a dose of adrenaline amid jungle landscapes. Meanwhile, a deep connection with nature is found in San Blas, where a guided expedition through the legendary La Tovara estuary, at the heart of the magical town, allows an intimate encounter with crocodiles, birds and the tranquility of the mangroves. This journey, recognized as the best guided expedition, is a trip to the very origin of the Nayarit ecosystem.

Luxury, Rest and Breathtaking Views

Nayarit’s lodging offerings reach levels of world-class excellence, and the awards highlight options for every type of traveler. For an experience of absolute luxury woven into nature, a resort in Compostela, nestled between the jungle and private cliffs, stands as the benchmark. Those seeking charm and authenticity find their refuge in Jala, where a boutique hotel captures the historic and serene essence of this magical town. Holistic well-being finds its finest expression in Punta de Mita, with a resort offering luxury tented camps immersed in the jungle, while the state’s best panoramic view is enjoyed from another exclusive resort in the same area, with vantage points looking out over the infinite blue of the ocean. For golf lovers, a spectacularly designed course in Compostela, winding through native vegetation, offers the round of your dreams.

A Feast for the Senses: Cuisine and Tradition

Nayarit’s cultural richness is meant to be tasted. In Jala, a centuries-old celebration honoring corn, with fairs, music and, of course, elotes prepared in a thousand ways, is the most outstanding traditional festival. At the table, innovation and tradition are in dialogue. Tepic is home to the leading gourmet restaurant, where culinary creativity shines, as well as the best corner of traditional cooking, a place where family-recipe dishes transport diners straight to the essence of Nayarit. The innovation of the year has a name: a chef reinterprets a local classic with a crispy crust and a vibrant green mole, creating a dish that is set to become a trend. To accompany it, Tepic’s artisanal scene flourishes with a brewery notable for its innovative projects, and the gastronomic event of the year, also in the capital, celebrates the perfect pairing of local products with the finest wines.

Wellness, Sport and Events That Connect

The perfect balance between activity and relaxation defines the Nayarit experience. At sea, a standout aquatic sports experience in San Blas rises above the rest: humpback whale watching with specialized operators, a natural spectacle of power and grace. For the most active, an ultra trail sporting event connecting the mountains of Tepic and Xalisco with the coast of San Blas is recognized for boosting the state’s trails, offering an epic journey “from the mountains to the sea.” After the adventure, well-being awaits. In San Pancho, a holistic experience guides you toward inner harmony, and in Punta de Mita a top-tier spa, with treatments incorporating local elements, offers the perfect relaxing finale to any trip.

Tips for Your Visit

  • Plan ahead: For experiences such as whale watching or rafting, book with your award-winning operators several weeks or months in advance, especially during high season (December-April).
  • Respect the ecosystems: On your expeditions to La Tovara or on the beaches, always follow the guides’ instructions, don’t leave any trash and avoid using non-biodegradable sunscreen when swimming in rivers or estuaries.
  • Explore beyond the resort: Nayarit is living culture. Take a day to visit Jala, San Blas or Tepic to try the traditional cuisine and feel the pulse of its communities.
  • Dress appropriately: Bring comfortable, lightweight clothing and shoes for walking and for water. A light jacket comes in handy on mountain nights or for early-morning boat rides.
  • Enjoy the season: Each time of year has its own magic. December to April is ideal for dry weather and whales; from June to October, although there are rains, the landscape is greener and there are fewer tourists.

Traveling through Nayarit by way of these recognitions is to open yourself to a world of deep sensations. It is the promise of a sunrise over the Pacific from a privileged viewpoint, the taste of a recipe that has traveled through time, the thrill of a river rapid and the peace of a spa treatment set to the sound of the waves. More than a destination, Nayarit is a collection of extraordinary moments waiting to be lived. Your adventure through the best of 2025 begins now.