Los Cabos and the Pacific: Cabo, Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit and Mazatlán
From the Baja California desert to the green bays of Nayarit, Mexico's Pacific is the alternative to the Caribbean: sunsets over the ocean, humpback whales in winter, world-class golf and towns with a life of their own beyond the resorts. This guide compares the west coast's four main destinations.
Los Cabos: desert meets sea
At the tip of the Baja California peninsula, Los Cabos joins two poles linked by a 33 km corridor: Cabo San Lucas, with the marina, the Arch and nightlife, and San José del Cabo, quieter and artsy — the airport (SJD) sits 15–45 minutes away depending on the side. It's the Pacific's most upscale destination: luxury resorts, golf and sport fishing, with dry weather nearly all year.
Mind the ocean: many beaches have strong waves and currents — the swimmable ones, like El Médano and Chileno, are flagged.
Puerto Vallarta: the complete town
On Banderas Bay, Vallarta is the Pacific destination with the most urban life: the Malecón, the cobblestoned Zona Romántica, a strong food scene and an established LGBT scene, with hotels from boutique to all-inclusive 15–30 minutes from the airport (PVR). From December to March, humpback whales enter the bay.
Riviera Nayarit: from Punta Mita to Sayulita
North of Vallarta, the same bay becomes the Riviera Nayarit: Nuevo Vallarta and Punta Mita concentrate luxury resorts and developments, while Sayulita and San Pancho keep a surf-village feel. It's the pick for a quieter beach while using Vallarta's own airport.
Mazatlán and the short answer
Mazatlán, farther north, is the "Pearl of the Pacific": a restored historic center, a 21 km malecón and lower prices than its neighbors — big with domestic tourism. In short: luxury, golf and desert scenery: Los Cabos. City + beach with food: Puerto Vallarta. Quiet resorts or surf village: Riviera Nayarit. Value with authenticity: Mazatlán.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time for the Pacific coast?
November to April: dry, sunny, with pleasant sea temperatures — and from December to March humpback whales visit Banderas Bay and Los Cabos. Summer (July to September) is hot, humid and rainy in Vallarta, and very hot in Los Cabos.
Is the Pacific good for swimming?
It depends on the beach. In Los Cabos much of the shoreline has strong currents — respect the flags and stick to beaches like El Médano and Chileno. On Banderas Bay (Vallarta and Nayarit), the sea is more sheltered and calm most of the year.