Mexico draws more American visitors than any other country and among its many splendors, the beaches are arguably its most precious gems. From the romantic getaway of Tulum to the inviting azure waters of Cabo San Lucas, the country’s 5,800 miles of coastline is home to some amazing stretches of sandy shoreline.
Situated on the central Nayarit coast is the town of Chacala, a laid-back little beach burg that offers plenty of sun-kissed ocean bliss without the braying hordes found in more touristy, party-scene destinations such as Sayulita and Puerto Vallarta. Long on the radar for surfers keen to catch its regular Pacific waves, Chacala has now emerged as a nice alternative to the bigger beach towns. With a sleepy, crescent-shaped beach, chilled-out vibes, and verdant surroundings teeming with birds and other wildlife, Chacala is a perfect spot to unwind next to the sea.
Chacala offers a slice of Mexican coastal life without megaresorts and the high prices, schlocky souvenir shops, and low-quality eateries that often come with such overdevelopment. While there are ways to avoid tourist trap restaurants in Mexico, when it comes to beach time, you may want to consider heading somewhere a bit off the beaten path if it’s tranquility you seek, and Chacala is just that kind of place.
Find sun, surf, and ceviche in Chacala
Discover Chacala’s wildlife and outdoor spaces
Chacala is not only an ideal beach getaway: it’s a terrific ecotourism destination. The area is home to over 350 avian species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. You can take a boat tour through a mangrove swamp just thirty minutes north of town, where you’ll spot not only plenty of birds but also crocodiles, turtles, and other wetland creatures. If you happen to be there in the winter, you can also head out in the hope of catching a glimpse of migrating humpback whales, which make their way along the coast from December through March.
The rolling Pacific Ocean waves have also been bringing surfers to Chacala for some time, with most heading to the break at La Caleta Beach. Like others in the area, La Caleta is only accessible by boat, which can be arranged in town. The water is pristine, the waves mighty, and best of all, it’s never crowded. It is a strong swell, however, and best for those who have plenty of experience on the back of a board.
To get to Chacala, it’s best to fly into Puerto Vallarta International Airport. Then, you can rent a car, take a bus, or hire a taxi to take you into town. It’s about an hour and 20-minute drive, while the bus takes about two hours. It also doesn’t stop in Chacala but rather the nearby town of Las Varas. From there, it’s just a 15-minute taxi ride into town. For more adventure, check out these underrated bucket-list destinations in Mexico.
