Bucerías is a town just outside of Puerto Vallarta in Nayarit, Mexico. My family first visited this small town when I was less than a year old, and we still go back every two to three years. This is my favorite place in Mexico, and I hope my advice will help you enjoy it as much as I have.
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Where to Stay
Corita Bungalows (Corita Hotel y Suites)
This is my family’s all-time favorite place to stay. The rooms are simple, yet have everything you need for a comfortable stay. A typical room has two bedrooms, two baths, a kitchen with a full-sized fridge, dining table and chairs, a living room with two couches and a TV, and a balcony. Nearly every room faces the ocean, but if you book a room right on the beach you are ON the beach. You can literally drop something from your balcony and it would land in the sand, which I love! The pool is a comfortable temperature and the covered outdoor area by the pool is great for playing games and taking a break from the sun. You will see beach vendors, massages, and options for banana boat rides all from the comfort of your beach chair. Walk along the beach or the road just ten minutes and you will end up at the heart of Bucerías!
Places to Eat
Mariscos El Gordo (El Gordo’s)
If you want to eat with your feet in the sand (and trust me, you do), then El Gordo’s is the place to go! Conveniently located near the town center and shops, this is a great place for anyone who wants an authentic meal with great atmosphere. El Gordo’s has local singers almost every night, and if they don’t you can be serenaded (for a tip) by a mariachi singer walking along the beach. Seafood lovers and those of us who don’t love seafood are sure to find something amazing on the menu.
Red Apple Place
From the main square, walk across the “kissing bridge” to find this amazing rooftop restaurant! Under the “Red Apple Place” sign is the staircase up to the restaurant. Although it is open for other meals as well, my family loves to go here for breakfast. Fresh squeezed juice paired with an amazing view is the best way to start your day.
Street Cart
You really can’t get more authentic – or delicious – than the local street carts. These restaurants have carts comparable to hot dog stands in the states and the seating is usually plastic chairs in the street. There are several in Bucerías, so try them all! I personally love carne asada tacos, but you can get adventurous and try out some beef tongue!
Ice Cream
If you look up this store on Google Maps, it simply comes up as “ice cream”. This shop is located right next to the “plaza principal de Bucerías” (the town square). Nearly every night you can find local kids here playing the arcade games. If you’re a fan of lime, you MUST try the lime ice cream! I have tried every kind of lime ice cream around my house but nothing comes close to the tart, refreshing taste of the ice cream here.
Things to do
Shopping
The shops around the main square are filled with local work as well as typical souvenirs. The prices at these stands are not set in stone, so you can barter if you choose. The same thing goes for vendors you see walking along the beach. Be sure to check all of the store before purchasing anything as many stores have similar items and different prices.
Kissing Bridge
As mentioned earlier, you cross over the “kissing bridge” while walking to the Red Apple Place. This bridge has beautiful artwork painted along it, and can only be accessed by foot. It’s a perfect photo opportunity for a couple traveling together.
Banana Boat
If you are hanging out on the beach, you are sure to see a banana boat pass by. Sometimes the boat driver drives up and asks if you want a ride, and sometimes you will have to flag them down if you see them first. Ask the driver for the cost per person as it varies by driver. Each person will be required to wear a life vest and you can choose to be flipped over at the end of the ride or not. I always ask to be flipped off because I think it’s a lot of fun! The boat stays close to the shore, so don’t worry if you are not a strong swimmer.
Aquaventuras Park
This water park is a quick bus ride away from the center of Bucerías. Between the kiddie area, lazy river, tall slides, and dolphin encounters, you are sure to find something for everyone! Tanning in a lounge chair is a great option for those who don’t like the water. You are welcome to bring your own food and drinks, or you can purchase snacks there.
What else would you like to know about Bucerías? Let me know in the comments!
Anna’s Pick of the Week:
I bought this swimsuit at the beginning of summer for tanning, and I love it! The colors are just as bright in person and they are on the pictures, and I really couldn’t be happier with it! Check it out here!
