Guide to Mexico's Central Pacific Coast

Snorkeling and diving

The deep blue waters off the Pacific coast offer some excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. The most popular location for diving is Puerto Vallarta, where many dive schools operate from the marina or downtown areas. Snorkeling tours depart from the town daily and take in some of the scenic bays where you can observe the abundant marine life.

Fishing

Puerto Vallarta and Manzanillo are excellent destinations for sports fishermen. Some of the best sailfish fishing in the world is said to be found around Manzanillo, with November to March being the best season for sailfish. Dorado, marlin and other fish can be caught year-round.

Golf

There are some spectacular courses in this region, including the Jack Nicklaus course at the Four Seasons Punta Mita (the optional 19th hole is on a natural island) and the breathtakingly scenic course at the Tamarindo near Manzanillo.

Sunsets

Here on the Pacific coast you'll find that great sunsets mark the start of wonderful evenings. Sip a margarita as you watch the sun slide down over the ocean, then enjoy some of the region's great nightlife, or maybe a romantic dinner for two.

Beaches

Our favorite beaches in the area are the beautiful cove at Majahuitas Resort, the secluded beaches around Punta Mita, and the palm-fringed bays at the Tamarindo. In these places the ocean is generally calm and clear, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a major resort, but still has a quaint old town and an attractive waterfront for strolling. The streets around the old town have some surprisingly good boutiques and art galleries, and Puerto Vallarta is renowned for its array of gourmet restaurants. Excellent fishing, snorkeling, diving and other water sports can be enjoyed here, so the resort truly has something for everyone.

Haciendas

It's possible to combine a beach resort with a stay in a magnificent Hacienda hotel as part of a two-center vacation in this area. Our favorite historical hotel is the wonderful Hacienda San Antonio near Colima, about 90 minutes drive from Manzanillo airport. The hacienda's estate includes a coffee plantation, horse stables and a huge swimming pool overlooked by the Volcan de Fuego (Fire Volcano).

Hideaways

Hollywood stars and business tycoons (we can't mention any names!) escape the limelight by visiting some of this regions exclusive hideaway hotels. Join the jet set at our favorites of these secluded resorts. You'll experience outstanding service, privacy and tranquility. If you are looking for a relaxing vacation and don't need much in the way of nightlife, this could be for you.

Eco-resorts

For a truly different vacation, we recommend a visit to one of the rustic and remote ecological hotels located on this beautiful coastline. Our favorites are the incredible Hotelito Desconocido (where - in the absence of any conventional electricity - over 1,000 candles are lit every evening) and Verana, a unique retreat perched on the hillside overlooking the Bay of Banderas.