ATM
Chacala is largely a cash economy and there are two ATMs in Chacala. One can be found in the center of town at Deposito Jorge, a small store along the beachfront road. The other, at Lalaxtli Restaurant at the north end of the malecon. See map for ATM locations.
Chacala Cultural Foundation
The Chacala Cultural Foundation promotes and encourages cultural development in Chacala and nearby Riviera Nayarit communities. They support a number of events and activities which currently include a Literary Festival in December, an Artist Residency Program in January, a Music & Art Festival in March and a Mariachi Institute in June. See our Community Calendar for upcoming events.
El Jardin School
Chacala is home to a world-class school inspired by Waldorf and Montessori pedagogy. This beloved school, along with the teachers and administrators who run it, are shaping the next generation of Chacala. If you are looking for a way to get involved, a school for your children, or a worthy recipient of your donation, please learn more here.
Cambiando Vidas
This non-profit Chacala scholarship and educational program has been supporting local students since 1999. Cambiando Vidas hosts summer camps, music programs, and does annual fundraisers to support the educational development of local kids. For more information or to get involved click here.
Getting Around
One advantage of vacationing in Chacala is that you won't need a car or to rely on a taxi once you are here. The residences, amenities, restaurants and excursions are all within walking distance. If you prefer, you can zip around on golf carts which just adds to the fun and convenience of life in Chacala. So should you rent a car? Oftentimes we suggest not. Our team at VivaChacala can set you up with comfortable and reliable private shuttles to and from the airport, along with golf carts, if desired for your group
Medical Services
Chacala has a free community clinic which is open during office hours and supports the basic medical needs of the village. The nearest hospital is Hospital Real Nyar, 15 miles away in the town of La Penita. Major medical centers are also located in Sayulita, Punta Mita and Bucerias. Puerto Vallarta has world-class cardiac and trauma centers. Puerto Vallarta is one of the world’s top locations for medical tourism.
Safety
Chacala is a safe and family friendly village. Its people are warm and welcoming. The roads to and from Chacala are very well maintained and comfortable to travel on. Media outlets can highlight unfortunate isolated events in any county, though Chacala and its surroundings have always been known as particularly peaceful and tranquil locations for decades. Many expats have moved to the area in retirement or with their young kids to enroll in the local Montessori school, El Jardin.