Magical Towns of Nayarit

Nayarit has 9 Magical Towns: Ahuacatlán, Amatlán de Cañas, Compostela, Ixtlán del Río, Jala, Mexcaltitán, Puerto Balleto, San Blas and Sayulita. The first to receive the designation was Mexcaltitán (2001) and the most recent, San Blas (2023). Discover their history, traditions and what to see in each one.

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  Magical Town since 2023

  Ahuacatlán

  On southern Nayarit's tourist corridor: historic churches, the Ceboruco volcano, natural pools and its October patron-saint festival.

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  Magical Town since 2023

  Amatlán de Cañas

  A rural corner among mountains in southern Nayarit: hot springs, waterfalls such as El Manto and quiet village life.

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  Magical Town since 2018

  Compostela

  One of Nayarit's oldest towns (founded 1530): colonial architecture, regional food and a gateway to the Riviera Nayarit.

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  Magical Town since 2023

  Ixtlán del Río

  The Los Toriles archaeological site and its round temple, the Cristo Rey viewpoint and natural pools in southern Nayarit.

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  Magical Town since 2012

  Jala

  At the foot of the Ceboruco volcano: the Lateran Basilica, rural traditions and a corn fair with a contest for the world's biggest ear of corn.

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  Magical Town since 2001

  Mexcaltitán

  The “Mexican Venice”: a tiny island in Nayarit whose streets turn into canals in the rainy season, tied to the legend of Aztlán and famous for shrimp.

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  Magical Town since 2023

  Puerto Balleto

  On Isla María Madre, the former Islas Marías penal colony: guided tours, history, trails and nature in a protected area.

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  Magical Town since 2023

  San Blas

  A historic Nayarit port: the Contaduría fort, La Tovara mangroves, birdwatching, a crocodile sanctuary, beaches and seafood.

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  Magical Town since 2015

  Sayulita

  The bohemian surf town of the Riviera Nayarit: beach, surf lessons, street art, design shops, cafés and nightlife.