You’re looking for your next beach vacation destination and keep hearing about this little seaside village called Guayabitos on Mexico’s gorgeous Riviera Nayarit. Well, you’ve come to the right place to get the lowdown on everything Guayabitos has to offer. Nestled between the vibrant city of Puerto Vallarta and the up-and-coming surf town of Sayulita, Guayabitos boasts miles of sandy beaches, killer waves, and a super laidback vibe. Whether you’re planning a surf trip, a family vacation, or a romantic getaway, this comprehensive guide will tell you how to get here, where to stay, what to eat, and the best things to do during your time in paradise. With spot-on recommendations for beach bars, taco stands, and budget-friendly hotels, you’ll be an expert on all things Guayabitos by the time you’re done reading.
Introducing Guayabitos, Mexico: A Hidden Gem
A small fishing village located in the Riviera Nayarit region of Mexico, Guayabitos is an ideal tropical escape. Only a 45-minute drive north of Puerto Vallarta, its secluded beaches and laid-back vibe provide a perfect retreat from the crowds.
Location
On the Pacific coast of Mexico, Guayabitos is situated between the Sierra Madre Mountains and the open sea. Its quiet beaches stretch over 10 miles along Highway 200, also known as the Costalegre. You can fly into nearby Puerto Vallarta or Manzanillo and then drive or take a bus to reach this Pacific paradise.
Beautiful Beaches
With soft golden sands and swaying palm trees, the beaches of Guayabitos entice you to slow down and relax. Playa Los Cocos and Playa Las Piedras offer secluded spots to swim, sunbathe or try your hand at surfing. At night, watch the sunset from the sands with a cold cerveza in hand.
Fresh Seafood and Local Flavor
The catch of the day is always on the menu in Guayabitos. Sample freshly grilled red snapper, shrimp ceviche and fish tacos at beachfront palapas. Or head into town to dine on homemade tortillas, sopes and tamales. Wash it all down with a margarita or an ice-cold Mexican Coke.
Activities for All
There’s plenty to keep you busy in Guayabitos without feeling rushed. Go bird watching or hiking in the Sierra Madre mountains. Take a surfing lesson, ride horses on the beach or go sport fishing. You can also visit nearby colonial towns like San Blas or the Marietas Islands for a day.
Where to Stay
Choose from beach bungalows, vacation rentals or all-inclusive resorts. For a budget-friendly stay, try Hotel Guayabitos with simple rooms and a pool just steps from the beach. Las Palmas Beachfront Resort offers stylish suites, restaurants and pools in a lush garden setting. Or live like a local in a vacation rental with a fully equipped kitchen and patio.
Getting to Guayabitos, Riviera Nayarit
To reach this Pacific paradise, you’ll fly into Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR), about an hour south of Guayabitos. From there, you have a few options to get into town.
Public Bus
The cheapest way is to take a bus from right outside the airport terminal. Look for the Compostela-bound bus and take it to the Guayabitos stop, about a mile from the beach. The ride takes around 2 hours and costs only a couple of dollars.
Private Transfer
For a little more convenience, book a private shuttle transfer to take you directly to your hotel. Several companies offer this service for around $30-$50 per person. The drive time is usually 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic.
Rent a Car
If you want maximum flexibility exploring the area, rent a car at the airport. Major agencies like Hertz, Avis, and Alamo have counters right in the terminal. The drive to Guayabitos is straightforward – just head south on Highway 200, then west on Highway 544. Count on 1 to 1.5 hours in the car.
Taxi
Taxis are also available at the airport, though the fare to Guayabitos will be quite pricey, around $100-$150. Only choose this if you’re traveling with a group to split the cost.
The various options mean you can easily get from the airport to the shores of Guayabitos, Riviera Nayarit, in comfort and style. Then your beachfront paradise awaits!
Top Things to Do in Guayabitos: Beaches, Food and Activities
Relax on the Beach
Guayabitos is home to over 10 kilometers of golden sand beaches along the Riviera Nayarit. Head to Playa Los Cocos or Playa Guayabitos, the main public beaches in town. Grab a lounge chair, umbrella and cerveza and spend the day swimming, sunbathing or beachcombing along the shore. As the sun sets, beach vendors start cooking up fresh seafood like shrimp, fish tacos and ceviche.
Indulge in the Local Cuisine
The food in Guayabitos is as vibrant as the culture. For breakfast, grab chilaquiles, fried tortilla chips topped with salsa, cheese and eggs. Or try pan dulce, Mexican sweet bread. For lunch and dinner, have some tacos al pastor, marinated pork tacos, or tostadas, flat crispy corn tortillas topped with beans, salsa and avocado. Wash it all down with a michelada, a spicy beer cocktail.
Go on an Adventure
When you want a break from the beach, Guayabitos offers opportunities for adventure. Go sport fishing for dorado, sailfish or marlin. Take a boat tour to see whales, dolphins and seabirds in their natural habitat. Explore the jungle canopy on zip lines or ATVs. Visit a coffee plantation or tequila distillery. Play a round of golf with ocean views at Vista Vallarta Golf Club. As the sun sets, catch the spectacular show at the beachfront plaza.
With scenic beaches, flavorful food and thrilling activities, Guayabitos has something for everyone seeking a memorable Mexican getaway in an authentic beach town. Come experience the pura vida in Riviera Nayarit.
Where to Stay: Guayabitos Hotels, Bungalows and Vacation Rentals
When it comes to accommodations in Guayabitos, you’ve got options. Whether you want an all-inclusive resort, a secluded beach bungalow, or a vacation rental to call home, Guayabitos has you covered.
Resorts
For convenience, you can’t beat an all-inclusive beachfront resort. Places like the Azul Ixtapa Grand Suites by Karisma offer luxury amenities, multiple pools, restaurants and bars, kids clubs, and entertainment—all just steps from the sand. The golf courses, spas and room service won’t leave you wanting for anything.
Bungalows
If seclusion is what you’re after, stay in a palapa-roofed bungalow right on the beach. Spotted throughout Guayabitos are small, rustic bungalow communities with amenities like hammocks, beach chairs, and outdoor showers. Some recommended beach bungalows are Los Naranjos, Villas Paraiso and Playa de Oro.
Vacation Rentals
For budget-friendly stays and a local feel, check out the vacation rentals in Guayabitos. You’ll find everything from studio apartments to multi-bedroom villas with kitchens, living rooms, and patios. With a vacation rental, you can live like a local and enjoy home-cooked meals with fresh produce from the market. Many rentals are also pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along for the adventure.
No matter your travel style or budget, Guayabitos has accommodations to suit your needs. Book in advance, especially if traveling during peak season from December to April, and you’ll be well on your way to a relaxing beach getaway in no time. The hardest part will be leaving!
Guayabitos FAQs: Your Most Common Questions Answered
How do I get to Guayabitos?
Guayabitos is located in the state of Nayarit on Mexico’s Pacific coast, about a 45-minute drive north of Puerto Vallarta. The closest airport is in Puerto Vallarta, where you can rent a car or take a bus to Guayabitos. Shuttle services and taxis are also available to take you straight to your hotel. The drive up Highway 200 offers stunning views of the Sierra Madre mountains and Banderas Bay.
What are the beaches like?
Guayabitos is home to over 10 kilometers of sandy beaches along the Bahía de Banderas, or Bay of Flags. The main beach right in town is popular for swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, and sunset strolls. You’ll also find beaches with scenic rock formations and tide pools at both ends of town. The beaches are fairly undeveloped, so you can often have a long stretch all to yourself.
What is there to do?
Aside from enjoying the beaches, there are many activities to experience in Guayabitos. Go whale watching or snorkeling, take a jungle canopy tour, or go golfing at a nearby course. You can go sport fishing, surfing or kayaking, or simply rent a bike to explore on your own. Check out the sea turtle conservation center, or visit a coffee cooperative in the mountains. There are also opportunities for cultural experiences like cooking classes, language exchanges, and temazcal ceremonies.
Where should I stay?
There are hotels, vacation rentals, and resorts for all budgets in Guayabitos. For a luxury beachfront stay, try the Marival Residences or the Grand Sirenis Matlali Hills Resort & Spa. Mid-range options like the Emporio Hotel or Casa Karma offer comfortable rooms and amenities at lower rates. You’ll also find budget-friendly motels and hostels, as well as vacation rentals where you can stay in a beach house or condo. Most accommodations are within walking distance of the beach, restaurants and shops.
Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, the picturesque beach town of Guayabitos has something for everyone. Come discover the beauty and magic of this little slice of paradise in Riviera Nayarit.
Conclusion
So there you have it, everything you need to know to plan an amazing trip to Guayabitos! With incredible beaches, cheap and tasty food, and plenty of activities, this little fishing village turned tourist destination has so much to offer. The hardest part will be dragging yourself away when your vacation ends. But don’t worry, once you experience the magic of Guayabitos you’ll be planning your next visit before you even leave. With direct flights from plenty of major cities, it’s easier than ever to return to this paradise again and again.