BuceriasMexico

Bucerías is a family-friendly seaside town on the northern shores of the beautiful Banderas Bay. Once a humble fishing community, Bucerías maintains its serene charm and invites visitors to discover its beautiful beach and quaint cobblestone streets. Swim in perfectly clear blue water, go on a wildlife-spotting adventure, browse artisan stalls and play a round of golf.

For many, the first port of call is Playa Bucerías, a 3-mile-long (5-kilometer) stretch of soft, clean sand. Stroll along the seashore or enjoy swimming in the warm, shallow water. Get active with watersports such as kayaking, kitesurfing, surfing and stand-up paddleboarding. Go in search of humpback whales between December and March and join an excursion to the Marieta Islands, an enchanting UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Leave the beach and experience the slow pace of the town center. Visit the Church of Nuestra Senora de la Paz and admire the colorful houses. Market stalls and food stands line the streets; peruse them for souvenirs and sample delicious seafood snacks. Stroll down Paseo del Beso, an alley decorated with paintings of couples in loving embraces.

If you are in the mood to shop, go to the Mercado de Artesanías. Find local artisans selling everything from Aztec-print clothing to ceramics, embroidered textiles and jewelry. Poke around the boutiques and galleries on the Bucerías Art Walk, which runs along Lázaro Cárdenas street. On Thursday evenings gallery owners invite guests to share drinks with them.

Within a 30-minute drive from the town lie other interesting attractions, including El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary. See crocodiles in their natural environment, learn about their behavioral characteristics and have your picture taken holding a baby croc. Play 18 holes at Flamingos Golf Club.

Bucerías is located 13 miles (22 kilometers) northwest of Puerto Vallarta. Rent a car and visit other beach resorts of the South Coast Nayarit region. Experience time-honored fishing traditions at La Cruz de Huanacaxtle and bask in the idyllic setting of El Anclote beach, in Punta Mita.