Pacific Coast
Why go?
The turquoise waters and white sands of Mexico’s Pacific
coast have been attracting beach lovers and sun seekers for
decades. Its popularity has spurred the development of major
resorts like Acapulco and the smaller, glitzier Puerto Vallarta - a
Hollywood hangout since the 1960s and worth a visit for its chic
boutiques, cobblestoned old town and stunning setting on the
beautiful Bay of Banderas. But away from the sprawling holiday
centres are sleepy fishing villages, secluded bays backed by
jungle-clad mountains, hidden waterfalls, and coconut and banana
plantations. The coast also encompasses staggering biodiversity -
dolphins, manta rays, turtles, whales, iguanas and a huge array of
bird species.
The beaches and wildlife aren’t the only draws, however; with
wilder waves than the Caribbean, the coast is the setting for some
of the world’s top surf spots. Laid-back Puerto Escondido in
the far south hosts the surfing world championships every November,
and the breaks at Punta Mitla in the north are legendary. And there
are more adventures to be had out of the water, with stunning hikes
and horse-riding in the Sierra Madre.