Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Nayarit, Mexico, lies a captivating coastal town boasting immaculate beachfront activities and endless fun.
Nestled on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, Lo de Marcos is a charming beach town that offers a unique blend of tranquillity, authentic Mexican vibes, and a vibrant atmosphere. Situated approximately 30 miles from Puerto Vallarta, this hidden gem on the Riviera Nayarit is an ideal destination for travellers seeking quiet, authentic beach experiences combined with great local food and nature immersion, away from crowded tourist spots.
Lo de Marcos is most renowned for its glorious golden-sand beach, which remains uncrowded even during peak season. The beach stretches for miles with few visitors, making it perfect for peaceful walks, swimming, and enjoying the natural beauty in solitude. The jungle-covered hills overlooking the beach offer hiking trails ideal for wildlife watching, with regular sightings of pelicans, coatis, deer, and on rare occasions, big cats like jaguar, ocelot, or jaguarundi.
The waves in Lo de Marcos are lively, making it suitable for various beach activities such as surfing, sea kayaking, and wind/kite surfing. For those seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures, nearby destinations like Sayulita and San Pancho offer jungle hikes to remote beaches and visits to protected natural parks like the Islas Marietas, where you can encounter sea turtles, dolphins, and whales (seasonal).
Lo de Marcos boasts a rich culinary scene, with several excellent restaurants and cafes in the main square. Las Glorias and La Marea are popular choices, known for their great breakfasts, fish tacos, and margaritas respectively. The town offers great food with a focus on fresh, regional ingredients and authentic flavours.
The main square is exquisitely beautiful, adorned with tropical greenery, picturesque papel picado flags, and a vibrant, pastel-coloured bandstand. It serves as a great spot for coffee, fresh juices, meals, or evening drinks. Lo de Marcos also offers a variety of unique experiences, such as Campamento Tortuga, a local turtle conservation effort, where visitors can observe turtle hatchlings being guided to the sea from July to November.
Accessible via Puerto Vallarta International Airport, Lo de Marcos can be reached in an hour's drive either by the toll road or the coastal highway. The Compostela bus line runs direct buses from the airport along the coast, stopping at Lo de Marcos and costing around $4.
In summary, Lo de Marcos is a paradise for wildlife lovers, offering secluded beaches, a tranquil atmosphere, and authentic Mexican beach town vibes without the usual tourist crowds. Whether you're seeking peaceful walks on the beach, exciting wildlife encounters, or delicious local cuisine, Lo de Marcos promises an unforgettable experience.
If you're an adventure-travel enthusiast, Lo de Marcos' lively waves offer opportunities for surfing, sea kayaking, and wind/kite surfing. Moreover, for those keen on exploring more, nearby destinations like Sayulita and San Pancho provide jungle hikes to remote beaches and visits to protected natural parks such as the Islas Marietas, where you might encounter sea turtles, dolphins, and whales during specific seasons.
