You Know Riviera Maya, But Have You Experienced Riviera Nayarit? Kristina Rundquist - Travel Pulse
go to original July 25, 2016

The Iberostar Puerto Vallarta in Riviera Nayarit, one of several hotels part of a Southwest Vacations package. (Courtesy Southwest Airlines Vacations)

By now, most people are familiar with Mexico’s Riviera Maya. Even if they haven’t experienced it personally, they know where it is and no doubt (and rightly so) have it on their list of places to explore.

But there’s another Mexican Riviera – the Riviera Nayarit – that is rapidly giving the Riviera Maya a run for its money and one of the many great destinations offered by Southwest Airlines Vacations packages.

Located on Mexico’s West Coast, this 192-mile stretch of coastline sits between the offshore islands and the jungle-clad Sierra Madres.

Whether visitors are in search of luxury accommodations, prime surfing beaches or back-country adventure, the Nayarit Riviera has it.

Things to do, places to see include ...

Whale watching: Along the southern section of the Nayarit Riviera sits Banderas Bay, which is home to thousands of humpback whales and where visitors will have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to watch these ocean behemoths.

Puerto Vallarta: Famous for its exciting nightlife and long boardwalk, this town has been a popular port for cruise ships, and with good reason.  Nearby, Nuevo Vallarta and Punta Mita appeal to luxury travelers, with golf courses, marinas and excellent shopping opportunities.

Cobblestones and camping: Depending on what you’re after—and who’s to say you have to pick just one?—the Nayarit Riviera is also home to some quiet villages that offer a nice counterpoint to their more vibrant neighbors...

Read the rest at Travel Pulse.