About 15 restaurants line the crescent shaped beach of Chacala. Spanning a half-mile in length, the tide always allows for plenty of family-friendly space to play in the soft sand. Vendors often roam the beach selling ice cream, fruit, and hand-made crafts. The North shore of the bay is the private community of Marina Chacala and the South shore of the bay is a dormant volcano topping 400ft in elevation. Chacala beach is often described as one of Mexico's most beautiful beaches.
Several large infrastructure projects are now underway at this once remote and secluded beach that stretches almost 7 miles along the coast. On the southernmost point, the Mexican government is developing a high-speed ferry port that will usher tourists from Boca de Chila to the acclaimed Islas Marias. Adjacent to the port project is a new naval base and many hotels that are currently under construction. These developments will bring many tourists and much more attention to the region once completed.
La Caleta literally means "Rocky beach". This beautifully hidden cove is home to one of the area's most coveted surf waves which shares the same name, La Caleta. Surfers come from all over to enjoy this left point break but do not be lulled by the peaceful paradise of this cove. The wave is unpredictable and breaks into a sea-urchin-filled rocky shore. La Caleta is 2km from Chacalilla beach, 2mi from Chacala beach -- a short boat ride or paddle away.
Truly one of Mexico's most beautiful beaches, this stunning oasis has silky white sand and a large coconut grove along its shores. The unique geography of this Northwestern-facing cove provides protection from the ocean's waves making this beach extremely mild. It's an easy place to launch a paddleboard or to have your chartered boat pick you up. At times the water turns bioluminescent making for an other-worldly experience. Just off the beach lies the private beach club of the Marina Chacala Resort Community.
Chacala was once an important Spanish port and Las Cuevas is rumored to contain some hidden Spanish treasure. This story fits perfectly for this mysterious and majestic beach which remains untouched by surrounding development. This virgin beach has multiple caves along its banks and emerald-colored water that's often great for snorkeling. It's a short boat ride from Chacala or Chacalilla but the most adventurous folks arrive by kayak or paddleboard.
Located four miles to the south of Chacala, this beautiful beach is experiencing a massive 1.8 billion dollar development. The Ritz Carlton will be first to open their doors in 2025. Soon to follow will be a new marina, a PGA-level golf course designed by Greg Norman, luxury residential units, miles of mountain biking trails and many additional resort-hotels. Branded as Costa Canuva, this project will transform the area bringing new jobs and more attention to the Riviera Nayarit.