La Lancha: Surfers' Paradise With a Quiet Soul
Accessible via a jungle trail near Punta de Mita, La Lancha rewards adventurers with a crescent of powdery sand and mellow waves perfect for intermediate surfers. The wide shoreline provides room to spread out, so even on weekends it still feels serene.
Plan to bring reef-safe sunscreen, plenty of water, and reef booties for the rocky entrance. Local surf schools offer lessons and board rentals without overcrowding the lineup, making it a stellar spot for families and friends seeking a laid-back surf day.
Playa Patzcuarito: A Photographer's Dream
Just south of Sayulita, Playa Patzcuarito features dramatic rock formations, tide pools, and sunsets that paint the sky in gold and lavender. Because the beach requires a short drive on an unpaved road followed by a walk through palm groves, it remains blissfully uncrowded.
Visit during low tide to explore the natural pools and snap long-exposure shots of waves sweeping around the boulders. Pack a picnic and stay until dusk for a front-row seat to one of Riviera Nayarit's most colorful sunsets.
Playa Litibu: Luxury Meets Untamed Coastline
Playa Litibu sits adjacent to an exclusive gated community, yet its shores are open to the public and feel wild. Roller-coaster waves attract bodyboarders while birdwatchers delight in spotting herons and pelicans along the coastal lagoons, especially at daybreak.
Combine your beach day with tee time at the Greg Norman-designed Litibu Golf Course or reserve a table at the beachfront restaurants tucked inside luxury resorts. Your concierge can arrange access to private amenities such as beach clubs and cabana service.
Responsible Exploration Tips
Help keep Riviera Nayarit's secret beaches pristine by adhering to Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all trash, avoid trampling vegetation, and use eco-friendly sunscreen to protect marine life. If bonfires are allowed, extinguish them completely before departing.
Check tide charts and local advisories before setting out-some coves experience strong currents or limited accessibility during rainy season. Traveling with a local guide ensures safe passage and unlocks cultural stories associated with each hidden gem.
