Best Places to Visit in Pacific Coast | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Pacific Coast Travel Guide
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Welcome to the stunning Pacific Coast of Mexico! Stretching over 1,000 miles, this breathtaking region offers a diverse range of experiences for every type of traveler. From the vibrant city life of Puerto Vallarta to the tranquil beaches of Zihuatanejo, there is something here to captivate and enchant everyone. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous communities, explore the lush jungles and hidden waterfalls, or simply relax on the pristine sandy shores. With its warm climate, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, the Pacific Coast of Mexico is a destination that promises unforgettable memories and endless adventures.
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Best Places To Visit in Pacific Coast
1. Puerto Vallarta : Located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, Puerto Vallarta is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. The city is home to a variety of attractions, including the Malecon boardwalk, the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and the Vallarta Botanical Gardens. Visitors can also enjoy a range of outdoor activities, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and zip-lining.
2. Cabo San Lucas : Another popular destination on the Pacific Coast of Mexico is Cabo San Lucas, which is known for its stunning beaches, world-class golf courses, and lively nightlife. The city is also home to a number of natural attractions, such as the El Arco rock formation and the Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park. Visitors can also take a boat tour to see whales, dolphins, and other marine life.
3. Mazatlan : Located in the state of Sinaloa, Mazatlan is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage. The city is home to a number of museums, art galleries, and theaters, as well as beautiful beaches and a lively nightlife. Visitors can also explore the historic Old Town, which is filled with colonial-era architecture and charming cobblestone streets.
4. Sayulita : A small town located north of Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita is a popular destination for surfers and beach lovers. The town has a laid-back vibe and is known for its colorful buildings, street art, and bohemian atmosphere. Visitors can also enjoy a range of outdoor activities, such as surfing, paddleboarding, and hiking.
5. Zihuatanejo : Located in the state of Guerrero, Zihuatanejo is a charming fishing village with a relaxed atmosphere. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and traditional handicrafts. Visitors can also explore the nearby Sierra Madre mountains, which offer hiking and birdwatching opportunities.
6. Huatulco : A resort town located in the state of Oaxaca, Huatulco is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation. The town is also home to a number of eco-tourism attractions, such as the Huatulco National Park and the Copalita Eco-Archaeological Park.
7. Puerto Escondido : Another popular destination for surfers, Puerto Escondido is located in the state of Oaxaca and is known for its world-class waves. The town also has a laid-back atmosphere and is home to a number of beautiful beaches, such as Zicatela Beach and Playa Carrizalillo.
8. Manzanillo : Located in the state of Colima, Manzanillo is a port city with a rich history and culture. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can also explore the nearby Sierra Madre mountains, which offer hiking and birdwatching opportunities.
9. Acapulco : A classic Mexican beach destination, Acapulco is known for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and iconic cliff divers. The city also has a rich cultural heritage, with a number of museums, art galleries, and historic landmarks.
10. La Paz : Located in the state of Baja California Sur, La Paz is a charming coastal town with a laid-back atmosphere. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and outdoor activities, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking. Visitors can also explore the nearby Espiritu Santo Island, which is home to a variety of marine life.
Hotels Map Of Pacific Coast
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Tours And Activities In Pacific Coast
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Food & Drinks To Try In Pacific Coast
1. Tacos de pescado: A must-try dish along the Pacific Coast of Mexico is tacos de pescado, which are delicious fish tacos. The fish is typically grilled or fried and served in a soft tortilla with fresh toppings such as cabbage, salsa, and a squeeze of lime.
2. Ceviche: Another popular dish in this region is ceviche, a refreshing seafood dish made with raw fish or shrimp marinated in lime juice and mixed with onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and sometimes avocado. The acidity of the lime juice "cooks" the fish, resulting in a tangy and flavorful dish.
3. Aguachile: Similar to ceviche, aguachile is a spicy seafood dish that originates from the Pacific Coast. It typically consists of raw shrimp or fish marinated in a mixture of lime juice, chili peppers, and cilantro. The dish is known for its intense flavors and is often served with sliced cucumbers and onions.
4. Michelada: When it comes to drinks, the Pacific Coast is famous for its refreshing micheladas. This popular Mexican beverage is made by combining beer with lime juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. It is often served in a salt-rimmed glass and garnished with a lime wedge or celery stalk.
5. Mezcal: For those looking to try a traditional Mexican spirit, mezcal is a must. Mezcal is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from the agave plant and is known for its smoky flavor. It is often enjoyed neat or used as a base for cocktails.
6. Mango margarita: The Pacific Coast is also known for its abundance of tropical fruits, and one delicious way to enjoy them is through a mango margarita. This fruity twist on the classic margarita combines fresh mango puree, tequila, lime juice, and a touch of sweetness. It is the perfect drink to sip on while enjoying the coastal views.
7. Tostadas de mariscos: Tostadas de mariscos are another popular dish along the Pacific Coast. These crispy tortillas are topped with a variety of seafood such as shrimp, octopus, or ceviche, along with fresh toppings like avocado, tomatoes, and cilantro. They are often served as an appetizer or a light meal.
8. Pozole: If you're looking for a heartier dish, don't miss out on trying pozole. This traditional Mexican soup is made with hominy (dried corn kernels), meat (usually pork), and a flavorful broth. It is often garnished with shredded cabbage, radishes, onions, and lime, and is a comforting and satisfying meal.
9. Pina colada: While not exclusive to the Pacific Coast, the region's tropical climate makes it the perfect place to enjoy a pina colada. This creamy and refreshing cocktail is made with rum, pineapple juice, and coconut cream. Sipping on a pina colada while lounging on the beach is the epitome of relaxation.
10. Chiles rellenos: Chiles rellenos are a popular Mexican dish that can be found throughout the country, including the Pacific Coast. They consist of roasted poblano peppers stuffed with cheese or meat, dipped in egg batter, and fried until golden. They are often served with a tomato
Best Time To Visit Pacific Coast
The best time to visit the Pacific Coast of Mexico is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. This is when you can expect warm and sunny weather, with minimal rainfall. The peak tourist season is from December to March, so if you prefer less crowded beaches and lower hotel rates, it's advisable to visit in November or April. However, it's important to note that hurricane season in the Pacific Coast of Mexico runs from May to November, so it's best to avoid visiting during this time to avoid potential weather disruptions.
Flight Calendar For Pacific Coast
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Transportation To Pacific Coast
There are several transportation options to get to the Pacific Coast of Mexico.
1. Flight: You can fly into one of the major airports along the Pacific Coast, such as Puerto Vallarta International Airport or Acapulco International Airport. There are direct flights available from many cities in the United States and other countries.
2. Bus: Mexico has an extensive bus network, and you can take a bus from various cities to the Pacific Coast. There are luxury buses available with comfortable seating and amenities.
3. Car: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and drive to the Pacific Coast. The major highways in Mexico are well-maintained, and there are toll roads available for faster travel.
4. Train: While there is no direct train service to the Pacific Coast, you can take a train to a nearby city and then continue your journey by bus or car.
Once you arrive at the Pacific Coast, you can use local transportation options such as taxis, buses, or rental cars to explore the area further.