It’s in the Mexican Pacific, next to the sea, so we know you won’t resist the temptation of going to the beach the following day, or even on your first day there, and bask in the sun, drinking margaritas or icy beer as you try to stay away from your everyday life.

There are choices galore when it comes to beaches, some of them dominated by choppy waters, others better fit for surfers, and others cut out just for lovers or people eager to kick up their heels. There are others that will round out a better picture during your stay. Playa de los Muertos is the most sought-after beach of all. It’s the closest to town –within walking distance from downtownand is packed with casual and fancy restaurants, bars and the original little horse sculpture at the end of it.

The south is marked by beach of astounding beauty, of thinner sand and bluer waters. The best-known ones are Mismaloya or Playas Gemelas. They are just 10 to 15 minutes by bus or cab from the downtown area. The north –already in the state of Nayarit- boasts perfectly long and sandy beaches for easygoing hikers.

Don’t miss out on San Pancho, Sayulita, Destiladeras or Guayabitos. You can get there by bus, a shuttle service with departures from the Las Gloria Plaza and the nearby Wall-Mart.

Local Tours

I LEARNED quite something about the people’s feelings in the streets and the strength of the Pacific Ocean over the beaches by the bay.

We’d like to swing open an array of choices for more fun in and better knowledge of this place. The assortment of tours has grown so much that you’ll surely go through a tough time before making a pick.

From city tours to trips to Guadalajara, the state’s capital, the number of options comprises either adventure sports or nautical activities. Some of these choices include scuba diving, canopy, whale-watching, boat rides to the nearby beaches for snorkeling and kayaking, jeeps, ATVs and horseback rides.

We recommend you to make a daytime trip and take a nightly tour –two different ways of stealing a peek at Vallarta. You’re going to stare up at the moon from the sea –quiet a show- and gawk at the whole town in the morning as well.

Don’t you just look at the sea; the mountain is more magical and powerful. And if you want to grasp a more comprehensive image, don’t forget to drop by San Sebastian or the Huichole communities in Nayarit. Buy your tours at professional travel agencies or in your hotel. Don’t take any chances by making a purchase in the streets.