Today’s modern traveler probably already has Mexico pegged as a bucket list destination, but have they thought of trekking across it by car? The adventure’s worth the ride! Over the past decade, Mexico City’s been making its mark for those who want to shy away from the resort life. Yet, for some, nothing beats the allure of the all-inclusive oceanfront stay. One area of the country offers the best of both worlds. In Guadalajara, a large metropolis with a temperate climate captivates the traveler’s spirit. Only six hours away, there’s a full-on party-on-the-beach experience awaiting in Puerto Vallarta. The locals do the trip all the time. For many in Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta (with Riviera Nayarit) is the go-to beach getaway. In between the two cities, a few hidden gems reveal why this road trip plan is one of Mexico’s best-kept secrets. The ultimate way to enjoy this road trip is by renting a car, but it is possible to do the same tour by bus. Busses are secure and offer a great way to travel. That said, the thrill of a road trip is manning the wheel through unknown foreign terrain. Although this could easily be a weekend trip, you’re going to get a lot more out of it if you extend it toward five or six days. Spend a night or two in Guadalajara, one in Tequila, and divvy up the rest of the time between Bahia de Banderas or Puerto Vallarta. El Camino Largo: GDL to PV
We recommend picking up in Guadalajara. A major metropolitan area, the city sits in a valley in the Sierra Madre mountains. Getting there is easy thanks to a large international airport. From there, you’ll head to Tequila, Jalisco. Yes, the city that produces the very same tequila we revel in with tacos back home. Get back out on the road and set your GPS for Bahia de Banderas where you can pick your stop: Sayulita, Punta de Mita, or Bucerias. After a day or two at your favorite seaside pueblo, wrap the trip up with a bang; it’s party time in Puerto Vallarta. From there, the airport’s not far off. Drop off the rental car and head to your next destination. What Makes a Roadtrip Ultimate?
The ideal road trip should meet certain expectations. For instance, the driving distance and time should be manageable. There should be decent stops and sights to check out along the way. Additionally, the route should be safe and comfortable. Mexico offers a lot of decent road trip options these days. From Mexico City, a journey to Taxco or Acapulco takes city dwellers to the countryside in a snap. Near Cabo, you can head out to Todos Santos to crash at the hotel that supposedly inspired the classic Hotel California. Second place goes to the route from Cancun to Chetumal through Quintana Roo. This route offers stops in Playa Del Carmen, Cozumel, Tulum, and Bacalar. The sights are breathtaking though the route is a bit arduous. And so, nothing stacks up to the simplicity of the Guadalajara-Puerto Vallarta trip. Riders have said it feels like a throwback to “California in the 70s,” and we dig that. That’s the spirit of a quality road trip: aviators, good music, great company, and a map (or GPS). Gas up in Guadalajara
The journey unfolds in Guadalajara. Whereas one could do this route in reverse, taking on the big city upfront is recommended for a few reasons. You have all the urban amenities you could want before heading to Provincia. Secondly, it’s often easier to reach by plane. One of the most charming aspects of Guadalajara is that it’s neighborhood-centric. You could stay in many different parts of the city for a totally different experience. Two popular options are las colinas de San Javier and the Avenida Chapultepec. The hills of San Javier is an upscale and family-friendly neighborhood in town, and it’s close to major shopping and culinary options. If you want to assemble a new look before heading out on the open road, a stop by the shopping center is necessary. We recommend Los Andares. Avenida Chapultepec is a different story. It’s a large road that pushes its way through town. This is the big night out if you’re hot to have one. The vibes are funky but classy, so it’s a great area to mix and mingle with the locals and other visitors. Guadalajara may be close to Tequila, but it’s actually the craft beer that’s been getting buzz in Mexico as of late. Consider taking a bar tour, or at least ordering a flight of artisanal brews, before moving onto the next destination. Taking on Tequila
Tequila’s only one hour down the road from the big city, so it’s possible to make this more of a day trip as well. Getting to Tequila from Guadalajara is easy. When you pull into town, you’ll immediately see everything there is to do. It is entirely centered around the tantalizing alcohol known as tequila. Find a local hotel room to crash for the night. Airbnb likewise comes highly recommended here. Then, book the glorious Tequila tastings. This part seems a little educational as most tours walk the guests through the tequila-making process, complete with an agave-themed show and tell. Stop by the city center, el centro, to grab some ice cream and get some pictures. There’s a church to visit. The setting appears picturesque, giving travelers some time to step back and get a new perspective. Sightseers can scope out murals at the Municipal Palace, and a tour through the National Museum of Tequila could pique your interest. Many of the tours offer unlimited tequila, so be sure to slather on your SPF, take a hearty lunch, and grab a bottle of aspirin (in case you wake up with a headache). Our advice is to go with the small vendors. Often, they’ve got a bar set for a maximum of four people, and hanging out there is like chilling with old friends on a patio, chatting over tequila for hours and hours.
See more about - The 10 Best Things To Do In Mexico City
Bahia de Banderas or Bust!
Here, customization is key. On the route from Tequila to Puerto Vallarta, you’ll eventually reach the municipality called Bahia de Banderas. This large area is home to Riviera Nayarit, a string of beachside towns that rival those of any European summer holiday. The road from Tequila to the Pacific coast transitions from desert-like mountainsides to lush and verdant bosques. It’s just a taste of the greenery that awaits in Puerto Vallarta, however. Pick one town and stay put or make time to explore two options. The first town you’ll come across is Sayulita, famous for the surf and sun. This little beach town keeps the party scene in full force. Markets up and down the river make souvenir shopping a bit of a morning adventure. To top it all off, it’s known as a place where models crash when in Mexico. You’re sure to spy a few beautiful people on the beach. Stay at a Villa at the Amor Boutique Hotel for the luxury touch. Further down the stretch, the regal Punta Mita area offers privacy and tranquility. Rent a house on one of the old country roads or stay at one of the exclusive high-end hotels. Rumor has it that celebrities are in and out of the region all the time, so keep your eyes peeled. The St. Regis is near the original pueblo and offers some of the most renowned brunch views in the bay. The final option is a little different. Bucerias is the OG of the beachside stops. Originally a fishing village, its plaza is now filled with locals throwing back cold ones, street art, skaters, and taco stands. If you’re into long days on the beach with beer in the cooler, Bucerias is the spot for you. Here, you’ll find the in-crowd watching the sun go down with DJs and delicious eats at La Negra. Party Hard in Puerto Vallarta Bentfotos / Shutterstock.com From Sayulita or Punta de Mita, Puerto Vallarta is about 90 minutes. From Bucerias, it’s about 45 minutes. Once you get to Puerto Vallarta, you’ve reached the final destination. Puerto Vallarta is said to be the friendliest city in the world. That sounds about right. The people here go out of their way to make everybody’s trip one for the books. With a top-notch commitment to service, any hotel you can find in the city is going to be a hit. The city has been famous in Mexico for generations, and everybody used to flock to it in the 90s. The spirit of the city’s heyday is all but dead. Instead, the vibe stays just above a dull roar, keeping the trips light and breezy. Puerto Vallarta’s relatively small scale puts everything within walking distance though tourists regularly take the bus to go north to the Marina. The same cannot be said for Cancun, Playa del Carmen, nor Tulum. In Guadalajara, you have the urban flair and artisanal beer. In Tequila, the chance to familiarize yourself with the craft of tequila production provides new knowledge. Of course, relaxing and lounging on the beach in a quiet town has its perks. Then, Vallarta concludes the trip with una fiesta grande. Stay near el malecon or la zona romantica to get the most out of this final stretch. These neighborhoods are where the 24/7 party resides. There are plenty of big clubs that attract both tourists and locals. La vaquita is one of the most popular. In the Zona Romantica, drag queen shows, sweaty dance floors, and two for one margaritas evoke memories of spring break, wild ragers, and nights filled with music and passion. Try Blondie’s. If you’re bent on going all out, consider charting a yacht and passing through La Casita Maraika. When it’s all over, nurse the hangover by sunning at a local beach club before heading to the airport. Rules of the Road Paying Tolls There are two highway systems that run across Mexico. The first one is the free highway (libre). Be careful of this option. It will take longer and the roads are in less-than-spectacular conditions at times. These are local roads riddled with speed bumps and the occasional caballero on horseback. The new expressways require tolls, called casetas. You will observe the word cuota on the signs that point to the toll road. Bring plenty of cash; the tolls are hefty. It’s recommended that you keep some pesos set aside. Some, but not all, accept debit/credit card payments. Gas Stations The expressway doesn’t have many exits. You’ll pass plenty of towns, but there will be no exit to reach them. This means that you have to keep an eye on the gas tank needle. Remember that in Mexico, there are attendants that fill up the tank for you. A small tip is customary. You will buy your gas in liters, not gallons. Ask the rental car provider if you can purchase gas from them. At the end of your trip, you don’t have to stop by the gas station for a final fillup. Usually, the service doesn’t cost more than one additional peso per liter. If you pass by a gas station, and you have less than half of a tank, it’s in your best interest to fill up, especially if driving a small car. Renting Cars Renting a car in Mexico is easy. The rental agencies usually only require a credit card and a valid driver’s license from your home country. Be sure to tell the agency you will pick up in one city and drop off the vehicle in another. Beware of fees that seem very low. Often, quoted car rental prices do not include government-mandated insurance. At the end of the day, the price is on par with what one might expect to pay for a car rental in most of the United States. If you have a choice between going in a car and an SUV or larger vehicle, know this: the trip is a lot more comfortable with adequate legroom. That being said, sometimes small cars fare better on Mexico’s local roads! Is There Internet? We hate the idea of being tethered to the Internet on a road trip. That being said, we realize how we have been wired to connect and share. You’re going to want to download maps and playlists before heading out. Cell signal drops on the remote sections of the expressway. Unchartered Territory The pit stops on this list are a must, but if you get hungry or want to use the bathroom along the way, don’t be afraid to take a detour through one of the local cities. You might discover the best tacos you’ve ever had. You’ll just have to dust off those old Spanish lessons!
See more about - 8 Best American Road Trips To Experience This Summer
Today’s modern traveler probably already has Mexico pegged as a bucket list destination, but have they thought of trekking across it by car? The adventure’s worth the ride! Over the past decade, Mexico City’s been making its mark for those who want to shy away from the resort life. Yet, for some, nothing beats the allure of the all-inclusive oceanfront stay. One area of the country offers the best of both worlds. In Guadalajara, a large metropolis with a temperate climate captivates the traveler’s spirit. Only six hours away, there’s a full-on party-on-the-beach experience awaiting in Puerto Vallarta. The locals do the trip all the time. For many in Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta (with Riviera Nayarit) is the go-to beach getaway. In between the two cities, a few hidden gems reveal why this road trip plan is one of Mexico’s best-kept secrets. The ultimate way to enjoy this road trip is by renting a car, but it is possible to do the same tour by bus. Busses are secure and offer a great way to travel. That said, the thrill of a road trip is manning the wheel through unknown foreign terrain. Although this could easily be a weekend trip, you’re going to get a lot more out of it if you extend it toward five or six days. Spend a night or two in Guadalajara, one in Tequila, and divvy up the rest of the time between Bahia de Banderas or Puerto Vallarta. El Camino Largo: GDL to PV
We recommend picking up in Guadalajara. A major metropolitan area, the city sits in a valley in the Sierra Madre mountains. Getting there is easy thanks to a large international airport. From there, you’ll head to Tequila, Jalisco. Yes, the city that produces the very same tequila we revel in with tacos back home. Get back out on the road and set your GPS for Bahia de Banderas where you can pick your stop: Sayulita, Punta de Mita, or Bucerias. After a day or two at your favorite seaside pueblo, wrap the trip up with a bang; it’s party time in Puerto Vallarta. From there, the airport’s not far off. Drop off the rental car and head to your next destination. What Makes a Roadtrip Ultimate?
The ideal road trip should meet certain expectations. For instance, the driving distance and time should be manageable. There should be decent stops and sights to check out along the way. Additionally, the route should be safe and comfortable. Mexico offers a lot of decent road trip options these days. From Mexico City, a journey to Taxco or Acapulco takes city dwellers to the countryside in a snap. Near Cabo, you can head out to Todos Santos to crash at the hotel that supposedly inspired the classic Hotel California. Second place goes to the route from Cancun to Chetumal through Quintana Roo. This route offers stops in Playa Del Carmen, Cozumel, Tulum, and Bacalar. The sights are breathtaking though the route is a bit arduous. And so, nothing stacks up to the simplicity of the Guadalajara-Puerto Vallarta trip. Riders have said it feels like a throwback to “California in the 70s,” and we dig that. That’s the spirit of a quality road trip: aviators, good music, great company, and a map (or GPS). Gas up in Guadalajara
The journey unfolds in Guadalajara. Whereas one could do this route in reverse, taking on the big city upfront is recommended for a few reasons. You have all the urban amenities you could want before heading to Provincia. Secondly, it’s often easier to reach by plane. One of the most charming aspects of Guadalajara is that it’s neighborhood-centric. You could stay in many different parts of the city for a totally different experience. Two popular options are las colinas de San Javier and the Avenida Chapultepec. The hills of San Javier is an upscale and family-friendly neighborhood in town, and it’s close to major shopping and culinary options. If you want to assemble a new look before heading out on the open road, a stop by the shopping center is necessary. We recommend Los Andares. Avenida Chapultepec is a different story. It’s a large road that pushes its way through town. This is the big night out if you’re hot to have one. The vibes are funky but classy, so it’s a great area to mix and mingle with the locals and other visitors. Guadalajara may be close to Tequila, but it’s actually the craft beer that’s been getting buzz in Mexico as of late. Consider taking a bar tour, or at least ordering a flight of artisanal brews, before moving onto the next destination. Taking on Tequila
Tequila’s only one hour down the road from the big city, so it’s possible to make this more of a day trip as well. Getting to Tequila from Guadalajara is easy. When you pull into town, you’ll immediately see everything there is to do. It is entirely centered around the tantalizing alcohol known as tequila. Find a local hotel room to crash for the night. Airbnb likewise comes highly recommended here. Then, book the glorious Tequila tastings. This part seems a little educational as most tours walk the guests through the tequila-making process, complete with an agave-themed show and tell. Stop by the city center, el centro, to grab some ice cream and get some pictures. There’s a church to visit. The setting appears picturesque, giving travelers some time to step back and get a new perspective. Sightseers can scope out murals at the Municipal Palace, and a tour through the National Museum of Tequila could pique your interest. Many of the tours offer unlimited tequila, so be sure to slather on your SPF, take a hearty lunch, and grab a bottle of aspirin (in case you wake up with a headache). Our advice is to go with the small vendors. Often, they’ve got a bar set for a maximum of four people, and hanging out there is like chilling with old friends on a patio, chatting over tequila for hours and hours.
See more about - The 10 Best Things To Do In Mexico City
Bahia de Banderas or Bust!
Here, customization is key. On the route from Tequila to Puerto Vallarta, you’ll eventually reach the municipality called Bahia de Banderas. This large area is home to Riviera Nayarit, a string of beachside towns that rival those of any European summer holiday. The road from Tequila to the Pacific coast transitions from desert-like mountainsides to lush and verdant bosques. It’s just a taste of the greenery that awaits in Puerto Vallarta, however. Pick one town and stay put or make time to explore two options. The first town you’ll come across is Sayulita, famous for the surf and sun. This little beach town keeps the party scene in full force. Markets up and down the river make souvenir shopping a bit of a morning adventure. To top it all off, it’s known as a place where models crash when in Mexico. You’re sure to spy a few beautiful people on the beach. Stay at a Villa at the Amor Boutique Hotel for the luxury touch. Further down the stretch, the regal Punta Mita area offers privacy and tranquility. Rent a house on one of the old country roads or stay at one of the exclusive high-end hotels. Rumor has it that celebrities are in and out of the region all the time, so keep your eyes peeled. The St. Regis is near the original pueblo and offers some of the most renowned brunch views in the bay. The final option is a little different. Bucerias is the OG of the beachside stops. Originally a fishing village, its plaza is now filled with locals throwing back cold ones, street art, skaters, and taco stands. If you’re into long days on the beach with beer in the cooler, Bucerias is the spot for you. Here, you’ll find the in-crowd watching the sun go down with DJs and delicious eats at La Negra. Party Hard in Puerto Vallarta Bentfotos / Shutterstock.com From Sayulita or Punta de Mita, Puerto Vallarta is about 90 minutes. From Bucerias, it’s about 45 minutes. Once you get to Puerto Vallarta, you’ve reached the final destination. Puerto Vallarta is said to be the friendliest city in the world. That sounds about right. The people here go out of their way to make everybody’s trip one for the books. With a top-notch commitment to service, any hotel you can find in the city is going to be a hit. The city has been famous in Mexico for generations, and everybody used to flock to it in the 90s. The spirit of the city’s heyday is all but dead. Instead, the vibe stays just above a dull roar, keeping the trips light and breezy. Puerto Vallarta’s relatively small scale puts everything within walking distance though tourists regularly take the bus to go north to the Marina. The same cannot be said for Cancun, Playa del Carmen, nor Tulum. In Guadalajara, you have the urban flair and artisanal beer. In Tequila, the chance to familiarize yourself with the craft of tequila production provides new knowledge. Of course, relaxing and lounging on the beach in a quiet town has its perks. Then, Vallarta concludes the trip with una fiesta grande. Stay near el malecon or la zona romantica to get the most out of this final stretch. These neighborhoods are where the 24/7 party resides. There are plenty of big clubs that attract both tourists and locals. La vaquita is one of the most popular. In the Zona Romantica, drag queen shows, sweaty dance floors, and two for one margaritas evoke memories of spring break, wild ragers, and nights filled with music and passion. Try Blondie’s. If you’re bent on going all out, consider charting a yacht and passing through La Casita Maraika. When it’s all over, nurse the hangover by sunning at a local beach club before heading to the airport. Rules of the Road Paying Tolls There are two highway systems that run across Mexico. The first one is the free highway (libre). Be careful of this option. It will take longer and the roads are in less-than-spectacular conditions at times. These are local roads riddled with speed bumps and the occasional caballero on horseback. The new expressways require tolls, called casetas. You will observe the word cuota on the signs that point to the toll road. Bring plenty of cash; the tolls are hefty. It’s recommended that you keep some pesos set aside. Some, but not all, accept debit/credit card payments. Gas Stations The expressway doesn’t have many exits. You’ll pass plenty of towns, but there will be no exit to reach them. This means that you have to keep an eye on the gas tank needle. Remember that in Mexico, there are attendants that fill up the tank for you. A small tip is customary. You will buy your gas in liters, not gallons. Ask the rental car provider if you can purchase gas from them. At the end of your trip, you don’t have to stop by the gas station for a final fillup. Usually, the service doesn’t cost more than one additional peso per liter. If you pass by a gas station, and you have less than half of a tank, it’s in your best interest to fill up, especially if driving a small car. Renting Cars Renting a car in Mexico is easy. The rental agencies usually only require a credit card and a valid driver’s license from your home country. Be sure to tell the agency you will pick up in one city and drop off the vehicle in another. Beware of fees that seem very low. Often, quoted car rental prices do not include government-mandated insurance. At the end of the day, the price is on par with what one might expect to pay for a car rental in most of the United States. If you have a choice between going in a car and an SUV or larger vehicle, know this: the trip is a lot more comfortable with adequate legroom. That being said, sometimes small cars fare better on Mexico’s local roads! Is There Internet? We hate the idea of being tethered to the Internet on a road trip. That being said, we realize how we have been wired to connect and share. You’re going to want to download maps and playlists before heading out. Cell signal drops on the remote sections of the expressway. Unchartered Territory The pit stops on this list are a must, but if you get hungry or want to use the bathroom along the way, don’t be afraid to take a detour through one of the local cities. You might discover the best tacos you’ve ever had. You’ll just have to dust off those old Spanish lessons!
See more about - 8 Best American Road Trips To Experience This Summer
Today’s modern traveler probably already has Mexico pegged as a bucket list destination, but have they thought of trekking across it by car? The adventure’s worth the ride!
Over the past decade, Mexico City’s been making its mark for those who want to shy away from the resort life. Yet, for some, nothing beats the allure of the all-inclusive oceanfront stay.
One area of the country offers the best of both worlds. In Guadalajara, a large metropolis with a temperate climate captivates the traveler’s spirit. Only six hours away, there’s a full-on party-on-the-beach experience awaiting in Puerto Vallarta.
The locals do the trip all the time. For many in Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta (with Riviera Nayarit) is the go-to beach getaway. In between the two cities, a few hidden gems reveal why this road trip plan is one of Mexico’s best-kept secrets.
The ultimate way to enjoy this road trip is by renting a car, but it is possible to do the same tour by bus. Busses are secure and offer a great way to travel. That said, the thrill of a road trip is manning the wheel through unknown foreign terrain.
Although this could easily be a weekend trip, you’re going to get a lot more out of it if you extend it toward five or six days. Spend a night or two in Guadalajara, one in Tequila, and divvy up the rest of the time between Bahia de Banderas or Puerto Vallarta.
El Camino Largo: GDL to PV
We recommend picking up in Guadalajara. A major metropolitan area, the city sits in a valley in the Sierra Madre mountains. Getting there is easy thanks to a large international airport.
From there, you’ll head to Tequila, Jalisco. Yes, the city that produces the very same tequila we revel in with tacos back home. Get back out on the road and set your GPS for Bahia de Banderas where you can pick your stop: Sayulita, Punta de Mita, or Bucerias.
After a day or two at your favorite seaside pueblo, wrap the trip up with a bang; it’s party time in Puerto Vallarta. From there, the airport’s not far off. Drop off the rental car and head to your next destination.
What Makes a Roadtrip Ultimate?
The ideal road trip should meet certain expectations. For instance, the driving distance and time should be manageable. There should be decent stops and sights to check out along the way. Additionally, the route should be safe and comfortable.
Mexico offers a lot of decent road trip options these days. From Mexico City, a journey to Taxco or Acapulco takes city dwellers to the countryside in a snap. Near Cabo, you can head out to Todos Santos to crash at the hotel that supposedly inspired the classic Hotel California.
Second place goes to the route from Cancun to Chetumal through Quintana Roo. This route offers stops in Playa Del Carmen, Cozumel, Tulum, and Bacalar. The sights are breathtaking though the route is a bit arduous.
And so, nothing stacks up to the simplicity of the Guadalajara-Puerto Vallarta trip. Riders have said it feels like a throwback to “California in the 70s,” and we dig that. That’s the spirit of a quality road trip: aviators, good music, great company, and a map (or GPS).
Gas up in Guadalajara
The journey unfolds in Guadalajara. Whereas one could do this route in reverse, taking on the big city upfront is recommended for a few reasons. You have all the urban amenities you could want before heading to Provincia. Secondly, it’s often easier to reach by plane.
One of the most charming aspects of Guadalajara is that it’s neighborhood-centric. You could stay in many different parts of the city for a totally different experience.
Two popular options are las colinas de San Javier and the Avenida Chapultepec. The hills of San Javier is an upscale and family-friendly neighborhood in town, and it’s close to major shopping and culinary options. If you want to assemble a new look before heading out on the open road, a stop by the shopping center is necessary. We recommend Los Andares.
Avenida Chapultepec is a different story. It’s a large road that pushes its way through town. This is the big night out if you’re hot to have one. The vibes are funky but classy, so it’s a great area to mix and mingle with the locals and other visitors.
Guadalajara may be close to Tequila, but it’s actually the craft beer that’s been getting buzz in Mexico as of late. Consider taking a bar tour, or at least ordering a flight of artisanal brews, before moving onto the next destination.
Taking on Tequila
Tequila’s only one hour down the road from the big city, so it’s possible to make this more of a day trip as well. Getting to Tequila from Guadalajara is easy. When you pull into town, you’ll immediately see everything there is to do. It is entirely centered around the tantalizing alcohol known as tequila.
Find a local hotel room to crash for the night. Airbnb likewise comes highly recommended here. Then, book the glorious Tequila tastings. This part seems a little educational as most tours walk the guests through the tequila-making process, complete with an agave-themed show and tell.
Stop by the city center, el centro, to grab some ice cream and get some pictures. There’s a church to visit. The setting appears picturesque, giving travelers some time to step back and get a new perspective. Sightseers can scope out murals at the Municipal Palace, and a tour through the National Museum of Tequila could pique your interest.
Many of the tours offer unlimited tequila, so be sure to slather on your SPF, take a hearty lunch, and grab a bottle of aspirin (in case you wake up with a headache). Our advice is to go with the small vendors. Often, they’ve got a bar set for a maximum of four people, and hanging out there is like chilling with old friends on a patio, chatting over tequila for hours and hours.
See more about - The 10 Best Things To Do In Mexico City
Bahia de Banderas or Bust!
See more about - The 10 Best Things To Do In Mexico City
Here, customization is key. On the route from Tequila to Puerto Vallarta, you’ll eventually reach the municipality called Bahia de Banderas. This large area is home to Riviera Nayarit, a string of beachside towns that rival those of any European summer holiday.
The road from Tequila to the Pacific coast transitions from desert-like mountainsides to lush and verdant bosques. It’s just a taste of the greenery that awaits in Puerto Vallarta, however. Pick one town and stay put or make time to explore two options.
The first town you’ll come across is Sayulita, famous for the surf and sun. This little beach town keeps the party scene in full force. Markets up and down the river make souvenir shopping a bit of a morning adventure.
To top it all off, it’s known as a place where models crash when in Mexico. You’re sure to spy a few beautiful people on the beach.
Stay at a Villa at the Amor Boutique Hotel for the luxury touch. Further down the stretch, the regal Punta Mita area offers privacy and tranquility. Rent a house on one of the old country roads or stay at one of the exclusive high-end hotels.
Rumor has it that celebrities are in and out of the region all the time, so keep your eyes peeled. The St. Regis is near the original pueblo and offers some of the most renowned brunch views in the bay.
The final option is a little different. Bucerias is the OG of the beachside stops. Originally a fishing village, its plaza is now filled with locals throwing back cold ones, street art, skaters, and taco stands. If you’re into long days on the beach with beer in the cooler, Bucerias is the spot for you. Here, you’ll find the in-crowd watching the sun go down with DJs and delicious eats at La Negra.
Party Hard in Puerto Vallarta
Bentfotos / Shutterstock.com
From Sayulita or Punta de Mita, Puerto Vallarta is about 90 minutes. From Bucerias, it’s about 45 minutes. Once you get to Puerto Vallarta, you’ve reached the final destination.
Puerto Vallarta is said to be the friendliest city in the world. That sounds about right. The people here go out of their way to make everybody’s trip one for the books. With a top-notch commitment to service, any hotel you can find in the city is going to be a hit.
The city has been famous in Mexico for generations, and everybody used to flock to it in the 90s. The spirit of the city’s heyday is all but dead. Instead, the vibe stays just above a dull roar, keeping the trips light and breezy.
Puerto Vallarta’s relatively small scale puts everything within walking distance though tourists regularly take the bus to go north to the Marina. The same cannot be said for Cancun, Playa del Carmen, nor Tulum.
In Guadalajara, you have the urban flair and artisanal beer. In Tequila, the chance to familiarize yourself with the craft of tequila production provides new knowledge. Of course, relaxing and lounging on the beach in a quiet town has its perks. Then, Vallarta concludes the trip with una fiesta grande.
Stay near el malecon or la zona romantica to get the most out of this final stretch. These neighborhoods are where the 24/7 party resides. There are plenty of big clubs that attract both tourists and locals. La vaquita is one of the most popular.
In the Zona Romantica, drag queen shows, sweaty dance floors, and two for one margaritas evoke memories of spring break, wild ragers, and nights filled with music and passion. Try Blondie’s. If you’re bent on going all out, consider charting a yacht and passing through La Casita Maraika. When it’s all over, nurse the hangover by sunning at a local beach club before heading to the airport.
Rules of the Road
Paying Tolls
There are two highway systems that run across Mexico. The first one is the free highway (libre). Be careful of this option. It will take longer and the roads are in less-than-spectacular conditions at times. These are local roads riddled with speed bumps and the occasional caballero on horseback.
The new expressways require tolls, called casetas. You will observe the word cuota on the signs that point to the toll road. Bring plenty of cash; the tolls are hefty. It’s recommended that you keep some pesos set aside. Some, but not all, accept debit/credit card payments.
Gas Stations
The expressway doesn’t have many exits. You’ll pass plenty of towns, but there will be no exit to reach them. This means that you have to keep an eye on the gas tank needle.
Remember that in Mexico, there are attendants that fill up the tank for you. A small tip is customary. You will buy your gas in liters, not gallons.
Ask the rental car provider if you can purchase gas from them. At the end of your trip, you don’t have to stop by the gas station for a final fillup. Usually, the service doesn’t cost more than one additional peso per liter.
If you pass by a gas station, and you have less than half of a tank, it’s in your best interest to fill up, especially if driving a small car.
Renting Cars
Renting a car in Mexico is easy. The rental agencies usually only require a credit card and a valid driver’s license from your home country. Be sure to tell the agency you will pick up in one city and drop off the vehicle in another.
Beware of fees that seem very low. Often, quoted car rental prices do not include government-mandated insurance. At the end of the day, the price is on par with what one might expect to pay for a car rental in most of the United States.
If you have a choice between going in a car and an SUV or larger vehicle, know this: the trip is a lot more comfortable with adequate legroom. That being said, sometimes small cars fare better on Mexico’s local roads!
Is There Internet?
We hate the idea of being tethered to the Internet on a road trip. That being said, we realize how we have been wired to connect and share. You’re going to want to download maps and playlists before heading out. Cell signal drops on the remote sections of the expressway.
Unchartered Territory
The pit stops on this list are a must, but if you get hungry or want to use the bathroom along the way, don’t be afraid to take a detour through one of the local cities. You might discover the best tacos you’ve ever had. You’ll just have to dust off those old Spanish lessons!
See more about - 8 Best American Road Trips To Experience This Summer
See more about - 8 Best American Road Trips To Experience This Summer
