La Penita is a bridge between the tourist side of Mexico and the real Mexican culture and life.
Sandwiched between two towns that are within walking distance yet worlds apart, La Penita arguably offers more unique experiences than other towns and destinations in the Puerto Vallarta – Riviera Nayarit corridor.
The two towns on opposite sides of La Peñita are Rincón de Guayabitos, a popular tourist destination, and La Colonia, a rustic and quaint authentic Mexican town. Two very opposite worlds but both that have great beaches. Each are so close to La Peñita that you could easily walk between the three towns should you have the desire, time, and stamina. A very affordable taxi ride will have you anywhere in but a few minutes.
On the other side of Guayabitos is the town of Los Ayala, which also has an excellent beach, as well as shopping and dining options. This destination is also minutes away by car.
If you want to venture out even further, you have other great beaches and destinations.
To the north of La Peñita is the beautiful beach and fishing town of Chacala. Make a stop at Las Varas for some great tasting authentic Mexican dishes at incredible prices. Stay on Hwy 200 for Chacala or make a turn west to get to the amazing beaches of Playa Las Tortugas and Platanitos.
To the south of La Peñita, you have very unique and authentic destinations that include San Francisco (aka San Pancho), Lo De Marcos, and Sayulita.
Further south are Punta Mita (you have to take a road going west), then Bucerias, Nuevo Vallarta, and Puerto Vallarta.
Puerto Vallarta is approximately 1 and a half hours from La Peñita. So all those towns are within a short drive away which gives you plenty of time to enjoy and return in a single day.
La Peñita also has many options for affordable long-term vacation rentals, if you want to pass the winter, for example. As well as short-term stay options that are more affordable than in the established tourist towns.
So make La Peñita your base for a great vacation on the Pacific coast of Mexico known as the Riviera Nayarit.
