san pancho mexico travel

Your Friend the Nomad

Mexico , Puerto Vallarta , San Pancho , Travel Guides · February 28, 2023

San Pancho, Mexico: Complete Travel Guide

San Pancho is a small Mexican beach town in the state of Nayarit. Just over an hour north of Puerto Vallarta and ten minutes from Sayulita, San Pancho is a vibrant yet relaxed surf town. 

If you’re looking to vacation on the beach somewhere away from the crowds, safe and close to an international airport, you must check out San Pancho!

San Pancho also makes a memorable day trip from nearby Sayulita or  Puerto Vallarta . 

Beautiful Pacific Ocean sunset at Playa San Pancho

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What is San Pancho like?

San Pancho Nayarit is unlike any other Mexican beach town I’ve visited. It’s small and rustic yet developed enough to be a comfortable vacation spot. 

The moment you step foot in town, you can tell there is something unique about San Pancho. More than a tourist destination, it feels like a community. As a visitor, you’re welcomed into a beachside haven where locals and expats alike love the place they live. 

San Pancho is the place to go if you want to escape from the noise and relax but don’t want to be in the middle of nowhere. You’ll be able to reach everything you need—the beach, restaurants, groceries, and your hotel—within a few blocks. There isn’t much to do in San Pancho other than relax on the beach, watch surfers, and converse with locals. There also isn’t much nightlife in San Pancho—but you can drive ten minutes to Sayulita for nightlife.

Still, San Pancho can be a great hub if you’re looking to explore the surrounding natural beauty of the Riviera Nariyat, like going whale watching or exploring the Marietas Islands. You’re also close to Puerto Vallarta, a major city and tourist hub with many things to do. 

Despite being a small town, San Pancho’s restaurant scene features a diversity of cuisines, from mouth-watering Mexican delights and fresh Thai noodles to smoothie bowls and veggie burgers. Better yet, you can reach any of San Pancho’s restaurants by walking just a few blocks.

Where is San Pancho?

San Pancho is located along the Riviera Nayarit on Mexico’s Pacific Coast. The small beach town is right along the Pacific ocean and off highway 200. San Pancho is also called San Francisco, Mexico , so you may see that name appear on your map.

This idyllic beach town is ten minutes from the popular backpacker haven, Sayulita, and one hour from the Puerto Vallarta International Airport. It’s also about four hours away from Guadalajara, Jalisco. 

Essential Mexico Travel Resources

Have a Mexico trip coming up soon? There are a lot of travel companies out there, but some are better than others. After traveling to dozens of countries and living abroad on several continents, here are some of my favorite websites and resources for planning unforgettable trips.

🗺️ Hotels + Vacation Rentals : I always use this site for hotels. They have an easy-to-use platform and great rewards. When I’m looking for a vacation rental, I compare Vrbo and Airbnb.

💪 Travel Insurance : Travel insurance is essential for any trip! I use SafetyWing , which has affordable rates and coverage for many adventure sports.

🚠 Tours + Activities : Viator (owned by Trip Advisor) is the best site for comparing and booking experiences with local tour operators.

🚗 Car Rentals : Use DiscoverCars , a highly-rated platform for comparing and booking rental cars around the world.

📱 Easy phone plans abroad : Use this company to get an eSIM for phone coverage while traveling—without getting a SIM card or canceling your existing plan (unless you want to!)

🎒 Essentials always in my bag : Check out my ‘ in my bag ‘ page for the items I always have in my carry-on.

Things to do in San Pancho

Enjoy playa san pancho.

It’s simple, but spending time at San Pancho’s beach (San Pancho Playa) is the best thing to do in San Pancho. Unlike most popular Mexico beach towns, San Pancho’s beach does not get very crowded. You can set up your spot along the shore with a beach towel or rent a few lounge chairs for a few hundred pesos for the day. 

Along the south side of the beach, you can watch surfers, enjoy food and drinks from a beach bar, rent a beach chair, and gaze into the estuary. The further north you walk along the beach, the fewer people you’ll see. 

My favorite place to eat on the beach in San Pancho is  Organi-K , a cafe with delicious smoothie bowls, juices, avocado toast, healthy breakfast staples, and poke bowls. They have plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. The cafe is a two-minute walk to the left when you enter the beach, right next to the estuary. 

San Pancho’s main beachfront restaurants include La Perla, Olivia’s Restaurant and Bar, and Las Palmas. Each restaurant is located near the main beach entrance and offers similar menu items. I’ve found the service to be slow and the food quality mediocre at these restaurants, but they are a great place to grab a margarita and snacks right on the beach.

Some of my favorite things to do at San Pancho beach include enjoying a beachside breakfast at  Organi-K , reading on a beach lounge chair, and watching the sunset.  

Photo by Alice Kotlyarenko

Surf or watch surfers at San Pancho Playa

You can watch surfers ride powerful waves on the southern part of the beach (near the main entrance). It’s mesmerizing!

You easily rent a surfboard on the beach for a couple hundred pesos if you want to join in the fun. However, San Pancho’s break is powerful. If you’re a beginner or intermediate surfer, I recommend you head to another nearby beach to surf. Sayulita is just ten minutes away and is one of the best places in Mexico to learn to surf. 

Take a boat tour to Isla Marietas

Sometimes called the Galapagos of Mexico, the Marietas Islands are two incredibly biodiverse islands off the coast of San Pancho. These gorgeous islands are incredible place to bird watch, snorkel, and dive. This beautiful Marine National Park is home to the famous hidden beach, a unique beach formed inside a crater that is only accessible by swimming through a small tunnel. 

You can visit the Marietas Islands by booking a tour from Sayulita or booking a tour from Puerto Vallarta . I recommend booking a tour from Sayulita since you can easily reach Sayulita from San Pancho by a 10-minute drive or bus ride. 

Most tours include snorkeling and a bird-watching tour around the island by boat, but only some include access to the hidden beach . I opted for a tour without hidden beach access and thoroughly enjoyed it!

One of many stunning, unique views at La Isla Marietas .

Beautiful rock formations spotted on a Marietas Islands boat tour.

Visit nearby beaches

If you’re looking for a change of scenery, there are several gorgeous, secluded beaches near San Pancho. I recommend:

• Playa Malpaso , a beautiful quiet beach between Sayulita and San Pancho. Accessible by a hike through the jungle or along the beach from San Pancho or Sayulita. 
• Playa De Barro , a secluded beach north of San Pancho. Many visitors enjoy a DIY spa treatment on the beach with mud from the hillside along the beach. 
• Playa Clavellinas , a small, almost secret beach north of San Pancho.

Powerful waves at Playa Malpaso, my favorite beach near San Pancho.

You usually get the beach to yourself at Playa Malpaso.

Day trip to Sayulita

Just ten minutes away, Sayulita is an easy day trip from San Pancho. Sayulita is a great place to visit if you want to learn to surf, shop, try incredible food, get a beachside massage, or go on a hike. 

You can reach Sayulita by bus, taxi, or rental car. 

Margaritas at my favorite beach bar in Sayulita, Bar Miramar Sayulita

Strangers took this photo of me and my husband because we “looked so cute watching the sunset”

Volunteer at Entreamigos Community Center

There is a wonderful community center located on the main street in San Pancho.  Entreamigos’  many local-run community development programs support those most in need. 

A few of their inspiring programs include environmental education programs, a community closet with clothes that only cost a few pesos, public school improvement projects, and beach cleanups. The center also hosts a library, a thrift shop, English classes, gardening classes, sports clubs, parenting classes, entrepreneurship programs, and more. 

I always encourage travelers to give back when they travel. Supporting Entreamigos is an incredible and impactful way to give back to the San Pancho community. If you have time, you can serve as a volunteer. You can also  make a donation online  to support their ongoing work. 

Release baby sea turtles

Depending on the time you visit San Pancho, you can release baby sea turtles into the ocean with  Project Tortuga .

Wildlife conservation organizations like Project Tortuga collect sea turtle eggs to protect them from poachers and predators. These organizations allow tourists and volunteers to release recently hatched baby turtles on the beach, ensuring they each safely reach the ocean. It’s a memorable experience knowing that you helped one of these beautiful animals make a big step in their life.

Email  Project Tortuga  in advance to join their turtle release program.

Where to stay in San Pancho

Palmar hotel tropical.

A relaxing, tropical eco-hotel

During my last visit to San Pancho, I stayed at PAL.MAR Hotel Tropical and absolutely loved it. This eco-hotel is just a few blocks from the beach and all the restaurants, yet it feels quiet and secluded. The rooms are cute and comfortable, and all of them have kitchenettes. The tropical courtyard and pool are incredibly beautiful and peaceful. 

Book your stay at Palmar Hotel Tropical

Hotel Ysuri San Pancho

A peaceful beachfront hotel

Hotel Ysuri is one of the few beachfront hotels in San Pancho. Although the rooms are a bit far from the beach, most rooms have a view of the water through the trees. Most rooms have a balcony, and the property has a nice pool. This hotel is right by the main beach entrance and Organic-K. 

Book your stay at Hotel Ysuri

Hotel Casa Pancho

An architecturally unique hotel

Hotel Casa Pancho is a beautiful hotel with a unique architectural design melding Mexican and Southeast-Asian styles. The hotel has a stunning inner courtyard with a pool and several terraces overlooking tropical vegetation. It’s close to the center of San Pancho, but you feel like you’re in a different world.

Book your stay at Hotel Casa Pancho

Agua de Luna Boutique Hotel

Luxurious bohemian-style boutique hotel

Agua de Luna has fifteen suites, each completely unique. Some suites have bathtubs, which can be difficult to find in Mexico. The property features a gorgeous heated saltwater pool, a rooftop area with two jacuzzis, and a co-working area. 

Book your stay at Agua de Luna Boutique Hotel

The view overlooking Playa Malpaso.

San Pancho Itineraries

No matter how much time you have in San Pancho, you will leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. The first time I visited San Pancho, I was just there for a day trip from Sayulita. It only took me a few hours to realize how special this place is. The next chance I got, I returned to San Pancho for a long weekend when I was living in Puerto Vallarta. Both visits left me aching for more, yet grateful for my time in San Pancho.

One day in San Pancho

Spend the day at the beach. Rent a beach chair and umbrella along the shore and soak in the sun while watching surfers ride waves. Enjoy brunch without leaving the beach by heading to Organi-K, then go to town for dinner after the sun sets. 

A weekend in San Pancho

Book your stay at  Palmar Hotel Tropical  in town or  Hotel Ysuri  on the beach. Spend one day lounging at the beach, enjoying guacamole, Mexican food, and margaritas from the beachside bars. Walk along the estuary and spot birds and other wildlife. In the afternoon, pack up your stuff and bring it back to your hotel. Take a nap or shower before returning to watch the sunset and grab a delicious dinner in town.

On your second day, explore the surrounding areas. Head to a nearby beach, book a tour to see the beautiful hidden beach on Isla Marietas or take surf lessons in Sayulita. Head back to San Pancho in the late afternoon to watch the sunset on the beach while enjoying a tasty drink. 

On your last day, soak up the sun at the beach or a smaller beach nearby San Pancho. Don’t forget to try any restaurants you missed and explore the artisan markets before you head out.

A week in San Pancho

Book a room at  Hotel Casa Pancho  for a cheaper but still quality stay or  Agua de Luna Boutique Hotel  for a luxurious experience. 

On your first day, recover from your travels at your hotel and then walk to the beach. Watch the sunset while enjoying a cocktail at a beach bar, and then grab dinner in town. Top the night off with vegan ice cream from  Chichili . 

Spend your second day at the beach, watching the surfers and carefully wading in the water to cool off. Walk the length of the beach and observe wildlife in the lagoon. 

Book a boat tour to the Marietas Islands on your third day. You can book with the option to swim to the secluded hidden beach or book a wildlife boat tour that takes you around the islands. Arrive back in San Pancho just in time to catch the beautiful sunset.

On your fourth day, relax at your hotel before grabbing brunch in town. Spend a few hours at the beach and then explore the shops along San Pancho’s main street. Enjoy a delicious dinner in town. 

Visit Sayulita on your fifth day. Leave San Pancho early and start your day off with surf lessons at Playa Sayulita. After catching a few waves, reward yourself with a delicious, filling meal at one of Sayulita’s restaurants. Walk the streets of Sayulita and do a little shopping. Refresh with a yummy frozen chocolate-dipped banana at  ChocoBanana . Watch the sunset on Sayulita’s beach, catch some live music during dinner, and then head back to San Pancho for the night. 

Enjoy one last full in San Pancho by relaxing at the beach or exploring a nearby beach like  Playa Malpaso . Finish off your time in this special place by watching the sunset and enjoying a delicious meal. 

Final Thoughts: Is San Pancho Worth Visiting?

San Pancho (or San Francisco Nayarit) is a true gem on the Riviera Nayarit . I’ve absolutely loved every minute I’ve spent in San Pancho. If you want to relax on a beach in a small, safe, welcoming community, you’ll also love San Pancho. 

About Annie

Annie is the founder of Your Friend the Nomad and an expert in the digital nomad lifestyle and vegan travel. She's lived abroad in Mexico, Italy, and Palestine, and traveled extensively in Latin America, Europe, and Asia.

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March 6, 2023 at 8:14 pm

This places sound like a little gem! Thanks for the inspiration.

March 7, 2023 at 3:10 pm

It truly is a gem. 🙂

March 7, 2023 at 7:17 am

You’ve sold it to me! Adding to my travel inspo list

Yay! Glad I brought this wonderful place to your attention 🙂

March 7, 2023 at 8:33 am

Looks like a fabulous place for a holiday! Putting it on my bucketlist!

Thanks for sharing, and great photos by the way 🙂

March 7, 2023 at 3:09 pm

It is the perfect spot! Thank you 🙂

March 7, 2023 at 7:23 pm

I just visited Mexico for the first time a few weeks back but went to Quintana Roo which was very commercialised. This little gem looks like somewhere to get away from the crowds and experience a different side of Mexico, and the beaches don’t have sargasso all over them!!

March 7, 2023 at 8:14 pm

I just spent a few months in Quintana Roo. It’s beautiful (love the cenotes) but yes, very commercialized. San Pancho is very different and definitely one of my favorite places in all of Mexico.

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San Pancho Mexico Travel Guide: Tropical Bliss in Nayarit

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You’ve heard about Puerto Vallarta, you’ve heard about Sayulita – but have you heard about San Pancho? 

This laidback coastal village on the Riviera Nayarit was one of our favourite beach towns in Mexico. 

San Pancho has the best of both worlds, with plenty of tourist amenities without the overdevelopment of its neighbours. 

You won’t find any highrise resorts, noisy nightlife or throngs of tourists. 

What you will find is a gorgeous stretch of sand, stunning sunsets each evening, a tight-knit community with a passion for the environment and a special vibe.

If you’re looking to experience the golden coastline and lush jungle of the Riviera Nayarit without the crowds, San Pancho is for you. 

In this post, I’ll share everything you need to know about visiting the charming San Pancho Mexico. From how to get there and around, choosing from the gorgeous boutique hotels around town, the top things to do and the best restaurants and cafes. 

Don’t have time to read this whole post? Here’s the lowdown 👇🏼

• San Pancho is a laidback beach town in the state of Nayarit on the Pacific Coast of Mexico
• The town has a special vibe, with a tight-knit community that advocates for the environment and social causes
• It’s a quieter, less touristy alternative to neighbouring Sayulita
• Get there via the larger cities of Puerto Vallarta or Guadalajara
• There are some beautiful tropical-style boutique accommodations, as well as affordable hostels
• November – April is the best time to visit for dry, mild weather
• Minimum 3 nights is a good amount of time to see the highlights, you could easily stay a week or longer if you want to relax
• The best things to do are enjoy the beach, watch the sunset each day, visit the community centre, release a baby sea turtle and take a yoga class
• There is a great variety of restaurants, with Mexican, international and a lot of vegan options

Table of Contents

About San Pancho Mexico

Welcome to San Pancho, the better version of Sayulita. 

In my opinion at least! 

I don’t like to diminish a destination’s unique identity by comparing it to another one, but really, that’s what makes San Pancho so special. 

The town is often overshadowed by neighbouring Sayulita , which has boomed in popularity in the past few decades, becoming one of Mexico’s most happening beach towns. 

Situated just 15 minutes apart, these two towns couldn’t be more different though. 

At their roots, both are just laidback surf towns. But the beauty of San Pancho is that it has managed to retain a small-town feel, while still becoming an established tourist destination. 

You’ll find gorgeous boutique hotels, wonderful Mexican and international eateries, cute cafes and enough activities to keep you busy. But it’s flown under the radar and avoided the crowded streets, raging nightlife and gringo vibe of Sayulita. 

Many people say San Pancho is the Sayulita of 20 years ago. I can’t confirm that, but it’s certainly a much quieter, laidback town with an authentic hippy and spiritual vibe. There is an amazing community here, both local and expat, who value the environment, and each other and you can feel it. 

San Pancho Mexico is a special place, and it was somewhere we both felt we could easily live in.

Next to Quimixto , it was a highlight of our time in Jalisco and Nayarit, which we had begun to doubt after not really vibing Puerto Vallarta or Sayulita that much.

San Pancho or San Francisco?

It’s easy to get confused with the name, as San Pancho is officially called San Francisco. 

San Pancho is a local nickname that has stuck. But when you’re looking on the map, on Booking.com etc. the town is actually called San Francisco.

Just use ‘Nayarit’ as your identifier, whether you’re searching for San Pancho Nayarit or San Francisco Nayarit.

Where is San Pancho

San Pancho is located on the west coast of Mexico in the state of Nayarit.

It is part of the Riviera Nayarit, a 200-mile stretch of coastline along the Pacific Ocean. This region encompasses multiple destinations between Nuevo Vallarta in the south and San Blas in the north. 

Nayarit shares a border with the state of Jalisco, and it’s very common for travellers to visit both states on the same trip.

Puerto Vallarta in Jalisco hosts a major international airport, so most visitors will transit via PV at the very least, if not spend a few days there in addition to San Pancho and Nayarit.  

How to get to San Pancho

FROM PUERTO VALLARTA

Puerto Vallarta is the largest city in the coastal area of Jalisco/Nayarit. It houses the biggest international airport, PVR Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport, and if you’re making a beeline for San Pancho, you should fly in here.

It takes around 1 hour to get from Puerto Vallarta to San Pancho.

From Puerto Vallarta, you’ve got a couple of ways to reach San Pancho:

• 🚗 Drive – if you’re planning to get a rental car for your trip, you can drive yourself to San Pancho in an hour. There are rental options inside the airport , or in town if you’re staying in PV for a few days first.
• 🚕 Taxi – if you’re arriving at the airport, a taxi is the easiest way to get to San Pancho, as Ubers are not allowed inside the terminal. Expect to pay at least 1,000 pesos ($60 USD).
• 🚙 Uber – if you’re already in Puerto Vallarta or you’re willing to haul your luggage out of the airport terminal to save some money, you can get an Uber. It is usually much cheaper than a taxi, starting from around 600 pesos ($35 USD). There aren’t any Ubers in San Pancho for the return trip though. 
• 🚍 Bus (coach style) – if you’re spending a few days in Puerto Vallarta before you head to San Pancho, you can catch a coach-style bus. These leave from the Terminal de Autobuses de Puerto Vallarta . This isn’t a suitable option if you’re coming from the airport as you’ll have to backtrack into PV to get to the bus stop.
• 🚌 Bus (local) – if you’re flying into PV and heading straight for San Pancho, you can take a local Compostela bus. You need to exit the airport, cross the road via the footbridge and look for a bus with either San Francisco, Rincon de Guayabitos or Compostela written on it. If in doubt, ask the driver – va a San Pancho? . These local buses can be slower as they stop frequently, but it is by far the cheapest option. You’ll get dropped on the highway, about 1 km (0.6 mi) out of the centre of town. 

FROM SAYULITA

A lot of people will stay first in Sayulita, and then a few days in San Pancho (we did).

To get between the two towns, you can use the local Compostela bus, which departs from the bus station in Sayulita.

Otherwise, take a taxi from the main plaza in Sayulita. It should be 200 pesos for the trip.

FROM GUADALAJARA

It’s possible to reach San Pancho from Guadalajara , the capital city of neighbouring Jalisco. 

There is a big airport here that is well-connected domestically and internationally. Alternatively, the city is easily reachable by bus from other parts of Mexico (e.g. Mexico City), depending on your route.

If your trip is primarily in San Pancho, I wouldn’t travel via Guadalajara as it’s a 5 – 6 hour drive. But if you’re on a broader trip around Mexico, Guadalajara is a worthwhile stop.

To get from Guadalajara to San Pancho, you can take a comfortable long-distance bus. You usually won’t be able to book for San Pancho (San Francisco). But if you can book a ticket for Sayulita (which will be the Guadalajara – Puerto Vallarta route), the bus will let you off on the highway in San Pancho. They won’t drive you into town though. 

How to get around in San Pancho

• 👣 Walk – San Pancho is a very small town that is easily walkable. Most accommodations, restaurants and activities are clustered within a short distance of the beach. Some are further north, but you can wander up and down the beach to get into town.
• 🚕 Taxi – there are taxis plying around town if you’ve got luggage. This can be helpful to get from the bus station on the highway. 
• 🚌 Bus – local buses don’t actually come into the town of San Pancho. They just pass by on the highway near the Oxxo here . Head north to Lo de Marcos, Rincon de Guayabitos etc. or south to Sayulita, Punta de Mita and Puerto Vallarta. 
• 🚗 Rental car – a car can come in handy if you’re planning to do lots of day trips around the area or surf at different beaches. But it’s not really necessary if you’re just hanging in San Pancho. If you do want to rent, rent in PV , as there aren’t any rental agencies in town. 

Best places to stay in San Pancho Mexico

• 💰 Hostal Shaka Surf House – a fantastic hostel, top-rated, super laidback and relaxed in a great location very close to the beach. 
• 💰 Hostel San Pancho – the OG hostel in town, a little further away from the beach. It’s nothing fancy, but friendly staff, good chill vibes and nice tropical hang-out areas. 
• 💰 Habitaciones Samy – if you’re looking for something private, but affordable, this is the spot! It still has those famous San Pancho tropical vibes and a bit of aesthetic to it, without the high price tag. 
• 💰 Camping San Pancho – if you’re on a very tight budget and can’t get into the hostels, this is an option, but I’d avoid it otherwise. The vision is nice, but the execution isn’t up to scratch.

• 💰💰 Casa Cora – minimalist, earthy-styled rooms, most with small kitchenettes. Centrally located, a small but nice pool and a rooftop hot tub. Exceptional reviews. 
• 💰💰 Verde Luna – excellent value for money, with fully equipped apartments a stone’s throw from the beach on the main street. Nothing super fancy or modern, but the rooms are very spacious and impeccably clean, and the staff are friendly. 
• 💰💰 Hotel de Asis – very nice Bali-style apartments with kitchenettes. Centrally located just off the main street. Lovely pool and tropical garden area. 
• 💰💰 Hotel Hacienda San Pancho – rates are often reduced dramatically here, and when they’re discounted, it’s worth it. A little secluded at the northern end of town, but with a stunning beach frontage and multiple pools on the sprawling property.

• 💰💰💰 Marii Hotel Boutique – palm thatched rooves? Check. Tropical pool and gardens? Check. Minimalist, airy rooms? Check. Central location? Check. This is a top option.
• 💰💰💰 Hotel Ysuri San Pancho – this gorgeous property is right on the beach, with towering palm trees, expansive lawns with a pool and tropical gardens, and lounges lined up on the sand. The rooms are slightly dated but are large and well-equipped. 
• 💰💰💰 PAL.MAR Hotel Tropical – boho minimalist lovers unite. I walked past PAL.MAR every day in San Pancho and longed to be inside. It’s centrally located, but behind its gates, it feels like a tropical oasis. Opt for a suite with a kitchen to get more bang for your buck. 
• 💰💰💰 Maraica – we stayed here and loved it. Gorgeous grounds with tropical gardens, a beautiful pool, and an elevated yoga deck with stunning beach views. Rooms were nice with hammocks and ocean views from the balcony, but not equipped with anything kitchen-wise. You can read our full review of Hotel Maraica .

Best time to visit

The best time to visit San Pancho is between November – April, which is Mexico’s dry season. There is little rain, and the temperatures are milder.

December, February and March are the best months weather-wise, with daily temperatures averaging 80° F / 27° C.

But this coincides with the peak travel period. 

Although San Pancho is not anywhere near as busy as Sayulita or Puerto Vallarta, I’d still recommend avoiding the Christmas/New Year period, and booking in advance if you want to visit over these months. 

By April, temperatures begin to soar, and it is very hot in May and June. The rainy season usually begins in earnest by July and continues until October, with hurricanes possible during this time.

How long to stay

You could spend a week or more relaxing in San Pancho. Time slows down and this special place draws you in. 

I’ll touch more on this below, but I would actually recommend spending a few days in Sayulita or Puerto Vallarta before you get to San Pancho. So once you arrive, you can use it as your downtime to relax. 

You could easily spend 3 – 5 nights here seeing all the sights and exploring the town. Any longer, you would be spending a lot of time relaxing or working – which might be totally fine for you!

10 Best things to do in San Pancho​​

There aren’t a lot of tours or activities in San Pancho itself. 

If you want to take a tour, you’d probably need to first get yourself to Sayulita and depart from there. 

My suggestion would be to stay in either Puerto Vallarta or Sayulita for a few days first, and do all your activities (whale watching, Marietas Islands, snorkelling/diving etc.), so by the time you come to San Pancho, you’re ready to relax. 

There’s just something about this place that makes you want to hang around. I guarantee you won’t be interested in heading off for an entire day of activities once you arrive.

1. Watch the sunset on the beach

You can see the sunset over the horizon year-round in San Pancho. In Sayulita, the sun is concealed by the point for part of the year, so it’s a real treat of San Pancho to watch the sunset any time!

It’s a special time of day in town, and all the locals, tourists and doggos are hanging out on the beach watching nature’s show. 

Everyone claps when the sun finally slips down below the horizon, it’s a lovely thing to be a part of. 

Plan to be on the sand for sunset every day! You can check the times here . 

2. Visit or volunteer at Entreamigos

One of the best things about San Pancho is the community. A tight-knit group of locals and expats, they have a strong sense of community spirit, and Entreamigos is at the heart of it. 

This community centre supports a number of social and environmental causes. They run hundreds of workshops and classes for kids and adults and have a community library, a recycling centre and a community thrift store and gift shop showcasing local artisans. 

If you’re just visiting San Pancho for a short trip, you can wander through the centre and check out all the great work going on. There is a great restaurant on-site, Burrito Piñata, which I’ll talk more about below. 

If you’re in town for a longer stint, consider volunteering . They have a lot of different roles for both Spanish and English speakers. 

3. Enjoy the beach

Playa San Pancho is a beautiful long, wide sandy beach that rarely feels crowded. 

Besides a couple of sections of beachfront restaurants and lounges around the main street, it feels quiet and natural, which is unlike the beach in Sayulita. 

I will warn you, the waves here are very rough, so it’s not necessarily a great beach for swimming. The area around town is generally the calmest if you’re okay with some waves and rips, or splashing in the shallows. 

Instead, it’s the perfect place for a long, peaceful beach walk. We walked all the way south up the beach early in the morning and it was a beautiful way to start the day. 

At the northern end of the beach, there is a really funky beach club, Tierra Tropical . It’s not a party vibe like some beach clubs area, they’ve got a beautiful pool, lovely lawn area and great food and drinks. Considering the waves are so strong, this can be a nice place to set up for a day. 

4. Go surfing

Although it’s not as famous as Sayulita, San Pancho is still a surf town at heart. 

It’s not for the inexperienced though. The surf in San Pancho is hard-core, and usually best for intermediate or experienced surfers. If you’re just learning, you’re better to practice at Sayulita. 

If you’re keen to rent a board or take some lessons try Nativa or Santa Madre . 

5. Stroll around town

Take some time to stroll around San Pancho town. It’s not very big, but it’s colourful and full of gorgeous murals. We loved all the art about the environment, animals and social causes. 

The streets are actually all named after third-world continents and countries. The main street ‘ Calle Tercer Mundo’ means Third World Street, and you’ll find streets like Africa, Asia, Latin America etc. 

Be sure to check out the town’s main plaza , the cute little church and the park . 

6. Browse the Tuesday markets

And if you happen to be in town on Tuesday, head to the plaza for the weekly market. 

From 10 am – 2 pm, you can browse stalls selling organic produce, handmade jewellery, souvenirs and handicrafts, and grab a bite to eat. There’s usually live music, and it’s just a nice atmosphere to stroll around and enjoy. 

The market is definitely geared towards tourists/expats, and a lot of the stall holders are foreign expats. But the community comes together, no matter where they’re from originally. 

7. Release baby sea turtles into the ocean

Every year, the beaches of San Pancho are blessed with mama turtles coming to lay their eggs. 

Sadly turtles have a very low rate of survival, and the eggs are at risk of being stolen by poachers, eaten by predators or crushed by ATVs, foot traffic or cars. 

So a local NGO, San Pancho Turtles , patrols the beach throughout the nesting season, collecting clutches of eggs and transporting them to a safe hatchery where they can incubate. 

Once the little bubbas hatch, you can watch them being released into the ocean at sunset, to start their lives out there in the big blue. 

The turtles generally nest from around June – December, but it differs each year. Releases usually start from around August and happen at sunset time whenever babies have hatched that day. 

San Pancho Turtles will post on their Facebook and also in a specific turtle release WhatsApp group by 4 pm. Releases happen at the northern end of the beach near the Tierra Tropical Beach Club. 

8. Take a yoga class

San Pancho is the perfect place to relax, unwind and unplug. There are lots of yoga studios around to take a class. El Estar has a full weekly schedule of drop-in classes, for just 200 pesos. 

9. Go for a hike in the jungle

There are some beautiful trails around San Pancho, most skirting the coastline and passing through the jungle. 

I’ll admit, we did not do any hiking when we were in San Pancho. We were about 2 months into our trip, and we definitely used this as a place to crash, relax and recoup. So we weren’t as active as we usually would be, and I regret it!

It’s popular to hike all the way from San Pancho to Sayulita (although part of the trail is now private property and the locals charge a small fee to pass). 

There are also some really nice looking hikes north of town, that lead you through the jungle to a secluded beach a few bays over. Check out the route on AllTrails . 

10. Spend the day in Sayulita

If you haven’t already spent some time in Sayulita, it’s worth visiting for the day. 

If you’re not up for hiking all the way, you can jump on the bus (from the Oxxo on the highway, anything heading south should get you to Sayulita), or take a taxi. 

With just one day, I would suggest exploring the centre of town. It’s a lot busier and happening than San Pancho. There are some fantastic restaurants, cafes and bars to try. 

If you want to learn or improve your surfing, this is the place to do it on Playa Sayulita! You can organise a lesson here or rent boards from Marea , Lunazul or WildMex . 

If you’re not into surfing and want to go swimming at a calmer beach, take a short walk to Playa los Muertos . 

Read more about things to do in Sayulita and our fave restaurants in our guide . 

Where to eat in San Pancho

• 🌯 Burrito Piñata – located inside the Entreamigos centre, this little restaurant has delish vegan food, and a cheap lunch deal each day with an entree, main and drink for 100 pesos.
• 🌮 Taqueria Los Arbolitos – a great option for good, cheap tacos with tons of different flavours on offer. Most are 20 pesos each, they have yummy aguas frescas and some delicious chocolate flan for dessert. 
• 🍜 Yasmina’s – a very unique spiritual, part-vegan restaurant. There is a gorgeous garden out the back for a lovely dining experience, and they have amazing vegan Asian dishes (which we hadn’t eaten for a long time in Mexico!). We got a noodle and a rice dish, both were delicious. 
• ☕️ Amar y Ya – super underrated cafe, and our favourite breaky spot in San Pancho. They make great coffee and have a range of loaded breaky burgers (on English muffins!), croissants and bagels. Super lovely and leafy area to sit in and work too. 
• 🍩 The DoughJoe – a great little cafe with delectable doughnuts, good coffee, sandwiches and some breaky options like pancakes and breaky burgers.  
• 🍚 Muveri – this is the restaurant at Hotel Maraca where we stayed, and we were really impressed. They had a lot of fresh, healthy options including sushi bowls, smoothie bowls etc. and the prices were fair.

San Pancho Nayarit travel tips

• 💰 ATMs – there are a decent number of bank-affiliated (safe, legit) ATMs around San Pancho, but they do run out of money occasionally. It’s best to come stocked with cash. 
• 💳 Credit cards – many larger hotels, restaurants and bars will accept credit cards, but don’t rely on them everywhere. Some places will charge a merchant fee, check before you tap.
• 🧺 Laundry – it’s unusual for accommodations to have washing machines. Most hotels offer a laundry service, but you’ll pay more for it. There are a few laundromats around town, Lavanderia Mona is rated well. 
• 🥭 Supermarkets – there aren’t any huge supermarkets in San Pancho. It’s just a collection of small mini-marts and convenience stores. You can usually find the basics, but you’ll need to wander around to a few different places. 
• 💧 Water – you can’t drink the water in San Pancho. Good accommodations will provide purified drinking water in large 20-litre jugs. If you don’t have one in your room, it’s worth buying one from a supermarket or convenience store to avoid single-use plastic bottles. It’s cheaper to buy in bulk too.

San Pancho travel guide: Final thoughts

I hope you love San Pancho as much as we did and this guide comes in handy when planning your trip.

I know you’ve probably heard a lot more about Sayulita, and it can be tempting to follow the trend and go where you’ve become most familiar with on social media.

But if you’re looking for a tranquil beach destination, you can’t go past San Pancho.

MORE JALISCO & NAYARIT POSTS

• Sayulita Travel Guide: Mexico’s Hippy Surf Town (2024)
• Hotel Maraica San Pancho – Tropical Eco-Resort in Nayarit, Mexico
• 10 Unique Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta – Guide for Independent Travellers
• Quimixto Travel Guide: Puerto Vallarta’s Hidden Gem
• Complete 5-Day Guadalajara Itinerary for First Timers

Sally Rodrick

Sally Rodrick is the voice behind Sally Sees. She has spent 12 months travelling in Mexico and Central America, and has her sights firmly set on South America. Sally helps thousands of readers discover the magic of Latin America. Sharing detailed guides to inspire and equip them with the knowledge they need to plan their own epic adventures in this incredible part of the world.

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Maddy's Avenue

By: Maddy Cornelius · Last Updated: January 23, 2024

San Pancho, Mexico Guide: Best Things to Do, See & Eat in San Pancho!

Hidden away along a stretch of white sand, in the mountainous, jungle-covered state of Nayarit, awaits your dream Mexican beach vacation. San Francisco, Mexico (more commonly known as San Pancho, Mexico) is a vibrant and cool, yet tiny, laid-back beach community that’ll steal your heart and leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.

A stone’s throw from bustling and touristy Sayulita, San Pancho is a breath of tropical, fresh air. In San Pancho, traditional Mexican eateries , street food stalls, and local artisan markets mix effortlessly with cool cafés, internationally inspired restaurants , cocktail bars, and boho-chic shops and idyllic boutique hotels .

And did I mention, the beaches? Well, palm-tree-lined shores , great surf , and stunning sunsets at Playa San Pancho (San Pancho Beach) will make you never want to leave.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know for your trip to San Pancho – including the best things to do in San Pancho, where to eat, where to stay, and plenty of practical tips!

Plus, if you love to volunteer while you travel , the big-hearted locals of San Pancho will welcome you to join in on their recycling, turtle-saving, and other amazing, life-giving initiatives .

San Pancho, Mexico Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

This travel guide to San Pancho, Mexico has it all.

Feel free to use this table of contents to jump to specific San Pancho content – or simply read on!

Table of Contents

• San Pancho, Mexico Travel Guide:Everything You Need to Know

1. Watch the Sunset

2. hang out at playa san pancho, 3. go surfing, 4. browse the tuesday market, 5. watch live music, 6. hike to playa malpaso (secret beach), 7. take a yoga or pilates class, 8. stop by (and volunteer at) entreamigos, 9. shop at san pancho’s many boutiques, 10. salsa dance at el gallo, 11. admire san pancho’s street art, 12. get spiritual in san pancho, 13. get a massage, 14. take a day trip to sayulita, 15. go whale watching, 16. visit the marieta islands, 17. check out lo de marcos, 18. cruise the coast (in luxury) to yelapa, san pancho cafés; breakfast, coffee, san pancho restaurants & eateries, san pancho bars, dessert in san pancho:, day trip or stay overnight, affordable luxe accommodation ($$$), mid-range accommodation ($$), budget accommodation ($), what to expect from san francisco (san pancho), nayarit, quick facts about san pancho, is san pancho worth visiting, how to get to/from san pancho, getting around during your trip, wifi & co-working, what to pack for san pancho, mexico, quick tips for san pancho, mexico, san pancho, mexico faqs.

Best Things to Do in San Pancho

For a tiny fishing village, there’s a surprising amount of fun things to do in San Pancho – and in the surrounding areas.

From surfing and savoring a San Pancho sunset, to whale watching , boating out to the Marieta Islands , and exploring nearby Sayulita, here are the best things to do in San Pancho!

How can I not kick off this list of the best things to do in San Pancho with anything other than watching a magnificent sunset?

The sunsets are seriously next-level here… Pretty much every evening.

Everyone (and their dogs!) in San Pancho tries to make it down to the beach to watch the sun set. Followed up by drinks and dancing at the beach bar, La Tarraya.

My favorite part? Everyone claps and whoops when the sun sinks below the horizon. Once the spectacular show is over. So quirky, I love it.

With blue skies, tall palm trees, and green mountains as the backdrop, and warm waves crashing onto the white sandy shore, the beach in San Pancho couldn’t be more beautiful!

Unlike Sayulita’s main beach (which is packed with people, restaurants, vendors, massage huts, and lounge chairs), San Pancho’s Beach has just enough of that. But more so, plenty of pristine beach and peaceful vibes.

There are lounge chairs with umbrellas for rent – for 200 pesos per chair (umbrella included), for the whole day.

My pro tip? You can hang out at a shady table on the sand at La Terraya all day long , as long as you’re buying food/drinks. I don’t know about you, but I’d rather spend 200 pesos on five Pacificos!

You could easily hang out at San Pancho Beach all day long, soaking up the sun and tranquility. And if you’re lucky, a mariachi band or a jazz act will appear to serenade you.

P.S. Banangrams is the game we’re playing in the picture above. Such a fun game to travel with! Get it here.

Surfing is another one of the best things to do in San Pancho.

San Pancho is a beach break, and when a decent swell comes in, the waves can get pretty big. The surf is pretty consistent daily, and it’s good for all levels.

I’m not personally big into surfing, but my boyfriend is. We spent a few months in the area, and found that the surf was been so much better in San Pancho than in Sayulita; the waves were generally bigger and better, and the line-up atmosphere is a lot friendlier – amongst both locals and travelers. But also, it’s way less crowded . (Like night and day, compared to Sayulita.)

If you’re in the Riviera Nayarit to surf, you won’t be disappointed by the waves in San Pancho.

To really get a sense of what San Pancho is all about, head to the Tuesday morning artisanal market at the Plaza del Sol.

Here, you’ll find a bustling, friendly atmosphere, where locals and travelers come together to share organic produce, Huichol art, handmade beauty products, local clothing brands, Oaxacan rugs and tapestries, delicious made-to-order food, paintings on indigenous bark paper (amate), and so much more. From mole to salsa roja, you can bring the flavors of México home with you.

San Pancho has a knack for attracting beyond talented musicians. It’s a privilege to enjoy!

From impromptu beach performances to amazing booked acts at restaurants, the music flows in San Pancho.  And you’re pretty much obligated to dance along.

The San Pancho Music Festival is held annually on the last weekend of February. It’s free to attend, but donations are welcome to support the performers.

Plus, if you have a chance to see Batalá San Pancho (Batalá is an international samba reggae music project) perform, then you’re in for a heart-exploding spectacle of epic, rhythmic drumming, dance, and good times. Their Día de Muertos processions were something I’ll never forget!

Craving a beautiful, secluded, seemingly undiscovered beach, without the chaos of beach bars and vendors trying to sell you everything from snacks and oysters to jewelry and bowls?

Then hike to Playa Malpaso.

This semi-secret beach, located in between San Pancho and Sayulita, is breathtakingly beautiful – and there’s a good chance you’ll have the place all to yourself! You can only reach Playa Malpaso by hiking the nature trail from one of the two towns. Ask any local to point you in the direction of the trailhead, or follow this AllTrails guide .

Make sure to bring natural bug spray for the jungle trail! Water, sunscreen, and anything else you’ll need. There aren’t any restaurants or snack shacks at this beach.

Beware: Never leave valuables unattended on the beach while you swim, as there have been many reports of theft at Playa Malpaso.

If you don’t practice yoga while in San Pancho, you’re missing out.

I attended a few yoga classes at El Estar , and each time, the experience was absolutely sublim e.

The teachers I met and classes I attended were incredible, but the setting is equally fabulous! The bamboo yoga shala is airy as can be, and the sound of trickling water (from the water feature) is the perfect soundtrack to a hot and sweaty vinyasa or deeply relaxing yin class.

If reformer pilates is more your speed, then Pilates San Pancho is your place. There’s also acro yoga classes in town.

Entre amigos translates to among friends in Spanish, and the name sums up this San Pancho non-profit perfectly. Entreamigos exists to create a more sustainable, conscious, and diverse community through different educational and environmental initiatives.

Upon visiting, you’ll feel overwhelmed (in the best way) by the way the community has come together, creatively and intentionally, to offer scholarships, an extensive library, and play and sports areas for the local children , as well as different classes and workshops for everyone; to spearhead the community’s recycling efforts (from 2008-2019, Entreamigos collected 78 tons of plastic and 420 tons of glass, and 36 tons of cardboard to recycle!); to create the Eco-Design center, which offers glass upcycling, sewing, screenprinting, and other workshops ; and to host community beautification projects that help keep San Pancho (and neighboring communities) clean, colorful, and beautiful! And that’s just to name a few of the incredible things happening at Entreamigos.

Make sure to stop for a delicious meal at the vegan cafe, Burrito Piñata . Stay for a workshop (like glass upcycling, so cool!). Browse the local artisan’s gallery. Be inspired by the recycling center.

And ask about volunteer opportunities (this organization’s amazing work depends on donations and volunteers).

As mentioned, San Pancho’s streets are lined with beautiful (albeit, pricey) boutiques.

Ready to stock up on handmade swimsuits, beachy linen tops, flowy pants, woven beach bags, stunning clay homewares, and hand-painted ceramics? The best souvenirs are the kinds you actually want to wear – or adorn your home with. This is what you’ll find here! And of course, there a handful of surf shops as well.

Some of my favorite shops include:

• Elote Arte (pictured above)
• Nativa Surf Shop

Ready for a big night out? Then take a 10-minute taxi to Sayulita!

Partying (super) hard is not really the vibe in San Pancho. But if you want to salsa dance and drink a few beers or some pulque (a traditional fermented agave drink – TBH it’s smiley, and therefore, a love-it-or-hate-it kind of thing), then El Gallo is the best (and most fun!) spot in town.

Don’t know how to salsa dance?

No worries, El Gallo hosts Salsa Social every Friday night. It starts out with a one-hour salsa class at 7:30 pm, followed by live music from 8:30 pm. Drink, dance (AKA practice your new skills!), and laugh the night away on the d-floor.

El Gallo also hosts open mic nights and other fun events. Check out their Instagram to see what’s on during your visit!

As you roam around the town, keep your eyes out and you’ll notice all of the colorful murals and papel picado – the festive paper strung up from building to building – everywhere!

Two of the best places to see street art in town are in the main plaza (Plaza La Hermandad) and on the lesser-traveled pathway leaving the beach, to the left of the only big beachfront hotel.

San Pancho locals are spiritually tapped-in. You’d be hard-pressed to walk down the main street (Avenida Tercer Mundo) without passing at least a few posters advertising yoga retreats, sound healings, intuitive dance, temazcal ceremonies, kambo medicinal rituals, and other health and wellness offerings.

If you’re curious, why not join in? If I were you, I’d go for temazcal – also known as a sweat lodge.

Steeped in pre-Hispanic, indigenous heritage, sacred temazcal healing rituals have been performed in Mexico for centuries. Among the many benefits are body detoxification, respiratory cleansing, mental clarity, clearer skin, and stress reduction. Plus, it’s an amazing cultural experience.

Hot tip: Nirvanna Spa hosts a temazcal ceremony every Friday night in Sayulita. You can book your spot by popping into their San Pancho location.

What would a Mexican beach vacation be without a massage? I usually go to Nirvanna Spa, though El Estar (the yoga studio), Angelical Spa, and the spa inside of the Punto Las Olas market also offer massages.

You can expect to pay around $40 USD for a 60-minute massage. Not great , but not bad either!

Sayulita is too close not to visit! There, you’ll find a bigger, busier, more touristy version of San Pancho. But don’t worry, Sayulita still clings onto enough of its hippy-surfer vibes and magical beach town charm. Especially in the low season of May-October.

While in Sayulita, make sure to…

• Have coffee and breakfast at Miscelanea
• Browse the many local and artisan markets
• Get a massage on the beach
• Walk from Sayulita Beach, past the cemetery, over to Playa de Los Muertos
• Take a photo on “Selfie Street” (if you must!) and check out the Zócalo (main square)
• For lunch, savor fresh ceviche and mariscos at Matiz , sushi at Tierra Viva , fish tacos at Mary’s (TBH, I think Mary’s is overrated), or wood-fired everything at El Rustico
• Indulge in happy hour; pretty much every bar has an amazing happy hour deal on margaritas in Sayu – my favorite is the tangerine margarita for 70 pesos at Lucid
• For dinner, eat al pastor tacos in the main plaza, at Tacos De Pastor Diaz (right by YamBak); trust me, order tacos “gringas” al pastor (traditional al pastor with cilantro, onion, and pineapple, but with flour tortillas and cheese… heaven!)
• Drink local beer at YamBak

To get to Sayulita from San Pancho, you can either take a quick, 10-minute taxi (for 200 pesos), or make your way to the main highway (Carretera Federal 200) and hop on the green “Compostela” bus heading south. Buses pass by every 30 minutes or so, and the journey costs about 50 pesos. Get off at the first stop. For more transportation information, read on.

Humpback whale season in the Bahía de Banderas typically runs from December through March, but if you’re lucky, you might see them breaching as early as November and as late as May.

Going on a whale watching tour (departing from Sayulita) is one of the best things to do in San Pancho!

Of course, these tours are only available during whale season.

• Whale Watching Experience All-Inclusive Adventure
• Whale Watching Sunset Cruise Mega Yacht
• Whale Watching and Snorkeling in Marietas Islands National Park

Just off the coast of the Bahía of Banderas lies a small chain of uninhabited islands, the Marieta Islands (or Islas Marietas ). A UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve, these islands are home to an impressive array of marine life – offering you a chance to see whales, dolphins, and endangered blue-footed boobies, snorkel with sea turtles and schools of fish on the volcanic reefs, and kayak or paddleboard through sea caves.

From San Pancho, take a 10-minute taxi (or bus) to Sayulita to join one of these tours: 

• All-Inclusive Full-Day Marietas Islands Boat Tour (from Sayulita): Cruise to Sayulita on this all-inclusive (read: open bar!) boat tour to the islands. When you arrive, paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkeling, fishing, water tubing, floating, or simply admiring the islands’ beauty from the top deck are a few of your options. This full-day tour is fun from start to finish, and 6-7 hours long. Click here to book it.
• Snorkel in Marietas Island (from Sayulita): On this shorter (3.5-hour), snorkeling tour, you’ll have the chance to explore some of the Islas’ best underwater environments. Click here to book it.
• Scuba Diving Marietas Islands (from Sayulita): Already scuba dive certified? This small-group dive trip to one of Mexico’s most popular dive spots is for you. Gliding above this 60,000-year-old volcanic reef, expect to see turtles, puffer fish, dolphins, and more. Click here to book it.

Want to explore more of the Riviera Nayarit? Then make your way up to sleepy Lo de Marcos.

After a 10-minute drive (or an easy bus ride) north, you’ll find the most tranquil Mexican beach village you can imagine. If possible, visit Lo de Marcos on Saturday to browse the weekly tianguis (outdoor market) in the main square.

Then, venture down the main street, and check out the shops, before heading to the main Lo de Marcos beach. Walk on the sand, all the way to the left, along the rocks, and you’ll be rewarded with yet another unspoiled, peaceful, white-sand beach. You’ll likely be the only one there!

South of Puerto Vallarta is the most charming fishing village of all: Yelapa. If you have time for another day trip, then consider booking a boat excursion – or driving yourself – down there.

On this Mega Yacht All-Inclusive Yelapa Waterfall & Snorkeling Adventure Tour , cruise down the beautiful Pacific coast while eating (bottomless) Mexican food, sipping cocktails from the yacht’s premium open bar, and enjoying a massage! When you arrive in Yelapa, choose to relax on the beach or go kayaking, paddle boarding, or snorkeling. Click here to book it.

P.S. If you have time, consider spending a night or two in Yelapa (at Casas Garcia or Casa Vista Magica ), rather than taking a day trip. The rustic seaside vibes and tranquility you’ll find here are all you need.

Other Things to Do in San Pancho, Mexico

• Hike the coastal jungle trail from San Pancho to Sayulita (follow this guide )
• Visit the sea turtle nursery or volunteer long-term with Project Tortuga
• Drink, dine, and play/watch polo in luxury at La Patrona Polo & Equestrian Club
• Take an educational jungle walk through the gardens at Lo de Perla to see countless species of flowers, ferns, butterflies, birds, orchids, cacti, strange insects, and more

Ready to book your Mexico trip now? These are my go-to sites to snag the best deals!

• Find amazing, affordable accommodation in Mexico , from luxury jungle eco-lodges and colonial city hotel stays to chic beach villas. Click here for hotel deals.
• Reserve your Mexico adventure tours , from whale-watching and horseback riding on the beach, to authentic food tours and ancient ruins excursions. Click here for adventure deals.
• Book your Mexico rental car . Make sure to set the pick-up/drop-off location as the airport you arrive at. Click here for rental car deals.

The Best Restaurants & Bars in San Pancho

You’ll find the best dining options in all of the Banderas Bay in San Pancho… Which is surprising, given how small this town is! From street tacos and fresh ceviche to homemade pizza and sushi, you can find it all here!

I’ve tried pretty much every place in San Pancho (at least) once. These eateries listed below are the ones that make the cut! And if you know me, you know I adore food more than anything, so my standards are… the opposite of low.

P.S. This list is accurate and up-to-date for 2023. Sadly, many places have closed since COVID, so some of the other information you see online may no longer be accurate.

• The Dough Joe : My daily go-to, because their coffee is the best coffee in the area – yes, including Sayulita. But also, The Dough Joe’s massive American country-style breakfasts (I’m talking country omelets, biscuits ‘n’ gravy, hash browns, blueberry pancakes) and made-daily doughnuts, cakes, and cookies are beyond delicious!
• Mexicolate : Bean-to-bar chocolate bars, truffles, brownies, hot chocolate, and more. Is this heaven? I love their hot chocolate with coconut milk.
• Amaryya : Skip the coffee, but go for the fresh bagels, smoothies, and super lovely surroundings down on quiet Calle Asia.
• Miscelanea : This Sayulita café mainstay has come to San Pancho. Find their little coffee window for a cuppa to-go, or sit at a street-side table and enjoy brunch classics, like decked-out avocado toast, berry pancakes, and spicy chilaquiles.
• Chido Greens : I love to grab a hearty salad here before I head down to the beach! Their chilaquiles and smoothies make for a yummy breakfast too. And it’s cheap!
• Restaurante Victor’s : For traditional Mexican breakfast fare – your chilaquiles , huevos rancheros , huevos divorciados , and more – head to Victor’s. Classic, cheap, and delicious, you can’t go wrong.
• Maria’s : Another solid option for delicious, classic Mexican food.

• Barracuda : My absolute favorite place for dinner in town; the marlin burrito with caramelized onions and peppers is ridiculous . Barracuda give you six different salsas and sauces to experiment with as you chow down on all kinds of epic seafood dishes – from tacos and burritos all the way to fresh oysters, whole-grilled fish, and sizzling molcajetes.
• Punto Pizza : This little street-side shop serves up the best gourmet sheet-pan pizzas, lasagna, and sandwiches. At 50 pesos per slice, I dare you not to have five! An easy choice after a long beach day.
• Dolce Jardin : Italian food, anyone? Pizza, pasta, and salads in a cozy garden atmosphere. At first, you may think it seems a little pricey, until you realize that every dish is prepared family-style (read: big portions! ) and designed to feed 2+ people.
• Bistro Orgánico at Hotel Cielo Rojo : Open for dinner on the weekends, Bistro Orgánico’s food focuses on organic produce and fresh, local seafood. My kind of place!
• Punto Las Olas Mercado Gastronomica : “Hipster” vibes have well and truly arrived in San Pancho with Punto Las Olas. This double-decker food market features various internationally inspired eateries – from Mexican and Greek to Japanese, Thai, and American – plus a bar (the cocktails are good!), a coffee shop, and live music in the evenings.
• Burrito Piñata : A near-daily lunch staple for me on workdays, this cute little vegan eatery inside of the Entreamigos community center is surprisingly delicious! Go for the fresh juices, the lentil burger with grilled pineapple, or the daily rotating lunch menu that includes a main, a side, and an agua del dia . Everything is 100 pesos or less. Cheap, healthy, super yummy!  
• Arigato Bake & Brew : The freshest local and organic ingredients come together to make San Pancho’s finest fusion: craft beer, fresh bread, sushi, and Argentine sandwiches. Love it.
• Casa Chucho : A casual spot for a post-playa margarita and mezcalita happy hour… With bottomless, gratis tortilla chips and really good salsa. The gourmet tacos are delish as well. All proceeds go to the Wet Noses Rescue in Sayulita, so your refreshment is going to a great cause!
• Cervecería Artesenal San Pancho : San Pancho’s craft brewery and tap room. Spend a chilled-out evening here, drinking cold beer outside in the warm air, listening to live music. Perfection.
• Barpango: Walk through their boho homewares shop to find a cool garden bar in the back, complete with good music, string lights, and minimalist-chic décor.
• Chichili Helado Vegano : The only way I am walking by without a passionfruit sorbet is if they’re closed. Definitely the best (vegan) ice cream shop in town!

Whether you come for a day or a week, the important thing is that you do!

You can easily take a day trip to San Pancho from Sayulita (10 minutes away) or Punta Mita (35 minutes away) or Puerto Vallarta (1 hour away). But there’s plenty to hold your interest here for a week, if you have the time!

Since I live on and off as a digital nomad in Mexico , my most recent trip to San Pancho was six weeks long. If you’re working online, you could easily stay for a month in San Pancho.

Where to Stay in San Pancho

Great accommodation options in San Pancho are pretty limited. This is a small town, after all! But I’ve got you covered.

Here are my top recommendations on where to stay, in order of preference! No doubt, if you can stay at the Agua de Luna Boutique Hotel , you should!

• Agua de Luna Boutique Hotel : Beach-chic design meets luxury at this beautiful adults-only boutique hotel. While it’s not beachfront, this hotel is tucked into a cute, quiet corner of town (five minutes walking from the beach). There’s a lovely saltwater pool and jacuzzi – and the café attached has the best smoothies and healthy breakfasts! Agua de Luna also offers a co-working area and fast, reliable wifi throughout the hotel. Click here to book it.
• PAL.MAR Hotel Tropical : Say hello to your tropical oasis in San Pancho. Spacious and bright guest suites, extra-comfortable beds, a sweet little pool, and Mexican contemporary design await you at PAL.MAR. Click here to book it.
• Hotel Ysuri San Pancho : Cute, palapa-style bungalows give way to an expansive grass lawn and a pool that back right up to the main beach, Playa San Pancho. Morning beach walks, waves, and sunset drinks are all just steps from your front door. Click here to book it.
• Hotel Cielo Rojo : This cute little hotel is surrounded by boutique shops and restaurants, just a 5-minute walk from the beach. You’ll love their Organic Bistro (yum!), leafy garden, plunge pool, and warm hospitality. Click here to book it.
• Hostal San Pancho : No frills, perfect for solo backpackers on a budget. Click here to book it.

This tiny slice of paradise offers everything you could want in a beach getaway. Like…

• An authentic Mexican beach town vibe
• Indigenous Huichol culture
• A quaint and quiet, yet lively and colorful atmosphere
• A long, endlessly beautiful stretch of pristine, palm-tree-lined beach
• Nature activities, like hiking, horseback riding, whale watching , and snorkeling
• Great surf (when there’s swell!)
• Fresh-off-the-hook seafood (Ever had a marlin burrito before? Life-changing.)
• A surprising array of delicious cafés, restaurants, local eateries, and street food stalls
• Opportunities to give back to the community (there are many incredible organizations to volunteer with)
• Sandy beach bars, cocktail bars, and even a couple of local breweries!
• Yoga and pilates studios, spas, and gyms
• Boho-luxe boutique shops filled with clothes, homewares, and souvenirs you actually want
• A vibrant weekly food and artisan market
• Everything in walking distance
• The most incredible sunsets

And those are just some of the reasons why I know you’re going to love San Pancho!

• San Pancho is located on the Pacific Ocean; more specifically in the Bay of Banderas, in the tiny, green, mountainous state of Nayarit, Mexico.
• The nearest international airport is Puerto Vallarta (PVR), located about an hour south of San Pancho.
• Roughly 3,000 people live in this quaint fishing village.
• San Pancho is known as the cultural capital of the indigenous Huichol people; you’ll start to understand Huichol culture through the colorful artwork sold in shops and at street market stalls around town. From intricately painted wooden bowls, to beaded cow heads and yarn paintings, you’ll definitely want to bring their art home with you.
• San Pancho is home to a small, yet thriving activist community (of both locals and ex-pats!), passionate about supporting the environment and local people and animals in need. From Entreamigos and San Pancho Animales to Project Tortuga and Casa Chucho , this is an amazing community you’ll be more than happy to support!

Yes! San Pancho, Mexico is absolutely worth visiting. For a day, for a week, or even longer.

Here, balmy beach days breeze by into low-key nights filled with delicious seafood, Pacificos, chili mezcal margaritas (my go-to cocktail, always! ), laughter, and salsa dancing to live music in the streets – interrupted only by the most incredible of sunsets. And, of course, beach vendors selling jewelry.

Take it from me; I stumbled upon San Pancho, Mexico by accident… And then ended up staying a lot longer than I had originally planned! This hidden gem of a place is definitely worth visiting.

MORE MEXICO TRAVEL INSPIRATION

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Helpful San Pancho Travel Tips

• Uber: You can take an Uber from the Puerto Vallarta airport to San Pancho, but you’ll need to cross the over-street pedestrian bridge and call it from there (Ubers aren’t allowed inside the airport). You’ll get a better price this way.
• Taxi: From the airport, you can hop straight into a taxi, but you’ll pay a premium for it (anywhere from 1000-1500 pesos). But same as with Uber, if you walk across the over-street pedestrian bridge, and hail a taxi from the street, you can get a taxi to San Pancho for between 800-900 pesos. Always negotiate the price with your driver before you get in the taxi!
• Walking: San Pancho is tiny, so you can easily walk everywhere!
• Buses: The Compostela bus line is useful for getting from San Pancho to other towns in the area. You’ll have to walk all the way to the main highway (Carretera Federal 200) and wait outside the restaurant, opposite the Oxxo. Buses heading north and south pass by roughly every 30 minutes.
• Taxis: If you want to take a taxi to Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita, Lo de Marcos, or elsewhere, you can find the main taxi hub in town, at the Plaza La Hermandad (where the skatepark is). A taxi to Sayulita costs 200 pesos. (Don’t pay more than that!) A taxi to the PVR airport should not cost more than 1000-1200 pesos (if you have surfboards or a big group); if you don’t, you should be able to negotiate a price between 800-900 pesos. You can NOT call an Uber from San Pancho.
• Rental car: If you plan to explore the Riviera Nayarit in depth, then you may want to rent a car. This is my favorite rental car website for snagging the best rental car prices! Make sure to set Puerto Vallarta Airport (PVR) as your pick-up and drop-off location for best results.
• Golf carts: Driving golf carts around town is common. If you prefer, you can rent a golf cart from one of the rental shops in town, for upwards of $50 USD per day. In my opinion, it’s not really worth it, but if you have small kids or mobility issues, then this is a great option.

From taxis to food, a lot of your purchases in Nayarit will be cash-only.

There are a few ATMs in San Pancho “downtown”, inside of convenience and souvenir shops. There’s one in a shop called El Indio (my go-to), and there’s also one in the lobby of the Agua de Luna Boutique Hotel . Just to name a couple. The main issue is that you can only get a small amount of pesos out (about $200 USD) and the fees are roughly $10 USD. In the high season, the ATMs run out of cash. Further out of “downtown”, you’ll come across the Banorte bank and ATM, though the conversion rate here is bad. These are your options in a pinch!

However, your best option is to plan ahead and make use of the ATM at the airport, or at the Intercam Banco in Sayulita whenever you visit. You’ll get a reasonable exchange rate, a low fee, and the withdrawal limit is much higher!

Note that the random ATMs you see on the streets in Sayulita are well-known scams. Don’t use them. Only use the ATMs at the Intercam bank.

Some vendors and businesses will take USD (at the exchange rate that pleases them!), but obviously, it’s always best to pay in the local currency.

Need to get work done while in San Pancho? No worries. You can find good wifi and places to work easily.

Amaryya is the best café to work from; the wifi is great and it’s quiet. Tons of other digital nomads work from there.

Our long-term rental had fiberoptic wifi; it was fast, though it dropped out sometimes. A little annoying, but manageable. You shouldn’t have trouble finding good wifi at your accommodation.

There’s also fast and stable wifi available at Entreamigos. But note, it’s not exactly ideal for making calls there! The environment is a bit chaotic with the library tables right next to the kids’ play area.

• Comfortable shoes: You never want to ruin a trip by walking around in uncomfortable shoes so make sure you pack shoes you have worn in a few times and are super comfortable. This is a beach town so you’ll be perfectly fine in sandals. I love these sandals .
• Suncream and bug spray: Always make sure you are prepared with these in advance, don’t go scrambling around on your first day looking for a store that sells suncream and bug spray , pack good stuff so you don’t waste any time.
• Swimwear: You will wan to spend time on the beach so this is essential!
• Sunhat: The sun in Mexico is understandably strong so you will be grateful for a sunhat . A fabulous one also adds to the obligatory vacation photos!
• Scarf: It is always good to pack a scarf no matter the season, in colder nights a good cashmere scarf can double as a blanket when traveling or sitting outside, and in the summer a lightweight one works for sun protection in the middle of the day, a light cover-up on cooler evenings and also when visiting religious sites.
• Money belt: It is better to be safe and keep your valuables secure and close to you, ideally not in your bag. A money belt is a safe way to keep your cash, cards and passport close to your body under your clothes, so if the worst happens and you do have your bag stolen you have the essentials still with you.
• HOTEL : I use this website for scoring amazing deals on accommodation worldwide. Agua de Luna Boutique Hotel is the ultimate choice here but maybe not in everyone’s budget!
• HOSTELWORLD : If you’re traveling on a budget, this is the best website to score cheap hostel deals.
• VACATION RENTAL : I use this site for finding the perfect vacation rental for an unforgettable getaway.
• TRAVEL INSURANCE: Never go on a trip without travel insurance! SafetyWing has an awesome monthly subscription for frequent travelers (I currently use SafetyWing ).
• GUIDED TOURS & EXCURSIONS : Many of the tours I recommend are hosted with Viator , which also works with local tour operators.
• CHEAP FLIGHTS : Puerto Vallarta is the obvious choice if you are flying straight in. Get great deals on flights using my favorite flight fare aggregator .
• TRAVEL GEAR : A collection of all of my must-have travel gear are all listed here . But most important to remember is bug spray , and suncream , nobody needs bites and burns on their vacation photos! And for those stunning beaches remember to pack your swimsuit !
• STAY CONNECTED: Get a local eSIM for your phone so you can use your maps app, talk, text, and post to Instagram without roaming fees!

Whether you’re taking a day trip or staying for a whole week, San Pancho is well worth visiting. The vibrant and authentic, yet peaceful, fishing village vibes are enough to make you want to stay for a month! Plus, the beach is wildly beautiful, the surf is good, and there are so many fun things to do in San Pancho. This San Pancho travel guide includes all of the best things to do in San Pancho, as well as where to eat, where to stay, how to get there, and plenty of other practical tips.

San Pancho, Mexico – officially called San Francisco, Mexico – is known as the cultural heart and hub of the indigenous Huichol people of Mexico, and their amazing art. It’s also known as a quiet fishing village, home to a thriving activist community of ex-pats and locals (and plenty of non-profits you can volunteer with), as well as “hippies” and yogis, musicians, a beautiful beach, and excellent restaurants, bars, and cafés. And of course, San Pancho is known to boast Nayarit’s most beautiful sunsets.

In Spanish-speaking countries, Pancho is a common nickname for Francisco. So, San Francisco = San Pancho. Don’t ask me why!

Yes, you can definitely swim in San Pancho! Some days, the bay looks more like a lake, totally calm and glistening, with lots of fish jumping out. Other times, big waves crash right on the shore – but once you get past those, you’ll be fine!

It depends what you’re looking for, really! If you like big crowds, a constantly lively and bustling atmosphere, always being on the go, and partying a lot, then Sayulita is for you. If you prefer tranquility, beautiful beaches, delicious food, and an all-around more authentic experience, then choose San Pancho. Both towns offer endless outdoor activities, from hiking and surfing to whale watching, fishing, horseback riding, and boating out to the Marieta Islands. While in Sayulita, you’ll hear whispers about a cool town called San Pancho, and the fact that it’s what Sayulita was 15 years ago – a hub for chilled-out vibes, beach hangs, surf, yoga, and authentic Mexican beach magic. That’s how I found out about it – and I definitely prefer it!

The high season in San Pancho is December-May. When June rolls around, many of the restaurants, bars, and hotels shut down partially or completely for the low season (also known as hurricane season!). By mid-October, the town starts to open up again gradually. My choices for the best months to visit would be November, February, and March. In November, hurricane season is pretty much over, the weather is warm and sunny (but not too humid!) almost every day, and it’s quiet, but not too quiet! In February and March, it’s hot and dry (with very little rain), the town is in full swing, and you’ll miss the peak holiday crowds from Christmas, New Years, and Semana Santa.

Yes, San Pancho is very, very safe. As always when traveling, make sure to stay away of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings – but know that you should feel safe and secure on the streets of San Pancho, any time of day or night. To be sure, always take out a travel insurance policy before you leave home, just in case something goes awry.

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About Maddy Cornelius

Hey! I'm the cook, world explorer, chief wordsmith, and photographer behind Maddy's Avenue. A California native, I've lived in many countries around the globe, but I'm currently traveling through Latin America. Slowly. Running two businesses. Livin' the "digital nomad" life. I’m here to learn, grow, and explore this planet - ever in search of big flavors and epic adventures. My goal? To inspire you to live a bold life: to discover yourself and the world around you at greater depths – one forkful, or one plane ticket, at a time. Thanks for being here!

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January 23, 2024 at 9:42 am

Heads up – Amaryya no longer allows coworking. They have signs on all the tables requesting that you only use your laptop while consuming your purchases as they are a family business.

January 23, 2024 at 12:28 pm

Thanks for that! I just updated my post :)

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The ULTIMATE Guide to San Pancho, Mexico

01/04/2023 by Kristin Addis 6 Comments

The waves crash fast on the yellow sand, stirring up flecks of gold in the green-hued Pacific. I’ve known this ocean all my life and yet never felt it so warm and inviting. It’s like the sol, and the soul too, have spent a little more time here.

This is San Pancho, Mexico, Nayarit. About an hour’s drive from Puerto Vallarta, but a world away in many respects. It’s quiet, beautiful, and delicious. There’s a reason we’ve been back twice! Here’s everything to know about planning your visit to San Pancho:

San Pancho or San Francisco?

It’s all in the name, darling. If you’ve been wondering how in the world to get to San Pancho when all of the buses go to San Francisco, it’s worth knowing that name “pancho” is actually a nickname for Francisco. So you’ll be wanting to head to this part of the Nayarit coast. (More on ways to get there in a bit).

What to Do in San Pancho

Generally I spend my days in San Pancho lying under the palm trees, willing the perfectly yellow coconuts to fall down with my mind. This is a chill place that, instead of offering tons of packages and tours, is more of a place to come and relax, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to do!

Sea Turtles

The first time we visited and November 2019, while walking down the beach we had the best surprise – baby sea turtles making their journey to the water! I’d been part of organized releases in the past in bigger areas like Cancun , but to see it happening naturally without any intervention was pretty special! There is a major turtle conservation organization – Project Tortuga – in the area as well, which accommodates volunteers.

This is a big surf area, with the more gentle waves closer to San Pancho town. Although you won’t be the only one trying to catch waves, it won’t be nearly as crowded as Sayulita.

Check out San Pancho Surf Shop, Nativa Surf Shop, and Santamadre adventures in town for surf rentals and lessons. You can check out the surf report here .

Visit Sayulita

Although I much prefer San Pancho to Sayulita, there’s a lot more happening in Sayulita in terms of places to eat, things to do, and a party scene if that’s what you’re after.

There are more tours that depart from Sayulita as well, from zip-lining, to ATV tours and a very highly-rated horseback riding tour. Check out your options here .

– Read More –

Things to Do in Sayulita

Boutique Shopping

If you’re digging the outfit I’m wearing in the photo above, you can find something similar at one of the many boutiques on the main road in San Pancho.

As you walk around town, you’ll find plenty of little clothing boutiques with handmade options of the BoHo chic variety. Sadly, however, this outfit ended up going to a much shorter friend of mine after going through the wash. Be forewarned that what you buy might not be pre-shrunk!

Whale Watching

From November to March, if you stare at the horizon long enough, you’re bound to see humpback whales on their migratory route. While on the beach, we saw them breaching and playing in the water, bringing me back to my whale swim days in French Polynesia.

If you want to get a closer look, you can head to Punta Mita, which is the midway point between San Pancho and Puerto Vallarta, and book with one of these tour companies . They tend to offer snorkeling on the same trips as well.

When we visit San Pancho, we usually choose to stay in a beach house rental with a pool, this time a hot tub, and some easy beach access. I’ll talk more about where we’ve stayed in the next section, but it’s fair to say we spend most of our time on the sand on the uncrowded beach, enjoying the day as it turns into sunset.

We usually stay in the north end of the beach which results in a long walk to town, which we don’t mind at all, but be forewarned the surf is bigger at that end, and you may have more luck swimming closer to town.

Yoga and Aerial arts

San Pancho is a haven for community, yoga, and body movement. While you’re there, check out Pilates San Pancho and El Estar yoga.

Where to Stay in San Pancho

Since the last time we visited in 2019, there’s been a fair amount of construction along the beach. It’s bittersweet, because it does mean that the town is growing, but it also means that there are more beautiful places to stay.

It was by chance that I ended up here the first time. I had originally been looking at Sayulita, but upon finding nothing on the sand, cast a wider net and found a bungalow on Playa San Pancho. It’s like fate stepped in because we came to love this area.

Can you think of a more perfect place to do nothing?

The original place we booked isn’t offering rooms anymore, but we loved the house we rented this most recent trip on Airbnb, which you can book here .

It had a rooftop terrace with a hot tub, a pool, a gorgeous garden, and our living area, which had two bedrooms, a kitchen, and a lovely sitting area.

The only downside was the constant sound of construction, since the area is growing. We were also about a 20-minute walk on the sand to town. That was just fine with us, but if you’d prefer to be in the town itself, there are many boutique hotels to choose from. I recommend Hotel Casa San Pancho , Marii Hotel Boutique , and PAL.MAR Hotel Tropical .

Some of the boutique hotels in Sayulita are even more impressive. Consider staying there and taking a day trip to San Pancho if you want a bit more luxury and action.

The Best Places to Eat in San Pancho

There’s a veritable cornucopia of options in San Pancho, from fancy restaurants to smaller taco stands with plastic chairs on the street, healthy salads, and coffee/dessert bars. Here’s what we tried and loved:

• Taquería Los Arbolitos: Cheap tacos that were unfortunately less delicious the second time we visited.
• La Ola Rica: higher end Mexican food.
• Restaurante El Rinconchito: Decent cheap tacos.
• Chido Greens: Salads and acai bowls.
• Maria’s Restaurant Bar: Great brekkie and brunch.
• Yasmina’s Itzalanyasayan: Cute, hidden restaurant with delicious kombucha and Mexican/Asian fusion.
• Ikan Cocina Marina: Fresh Seafood.
• Dolce Jardin: Pasta with big portions.
• Victor’s Tacos: Another decent, cheap taco joint.
• Café Paraíso: coffee and cake.
• El Indio for groceries.

Getting to San Pancho

Chances are good you’ll be coming from the Puerto Vallarta airport. You have the option of taking an official airport car/taxi for around $50, the local bus for just a few dollars, though you’ll have a long walk from the bus depot if you stay up the beach like we did, or you can cross the orange bridge outside of the airport and catch an Uber for about $40.

We used Uber the first time, which worked great, though you’ll need to make sure you have connectivity and are not relying on airport wifi as you’ll have to walk out of the airport and cross the street to get the ride due to local Uber regulations.

For our second trip, we hired a private driver. I wish I could recommend him, but he was almost an hour late picking us up to go back to the airport. In the future I would ask at the Airbnb for help booking transport there and back. Don’t rely on Uber for your return ride to the airport out of San Pancho, as there are far fewer cars available going that direction.

How often do we, even when on vacation, actually just slow down, sleep, and have no agenda? For me, it’s a constant state of doing, and in San Pancho I do a lot more just being, and it was exactly what I need.

If it’s exactly what you need too, I hope you come check it out. But don’t let the word get out too much, okay? Let’s just keep this little secret between you and me.

Enjoy this little gem!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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jhondew says

04/15/2022 at 4:57 am

thanks for the amazing blog.

01/04/2023 at 7:29 pm

Thanks for sharing this Kristin. What I love about this post is this little secret looks wonderful, whether going solo or with a family! That is great to know and makes it a great find. Loved the fam pics!

Yakelin says

04/22/2023 at 1:53 pm

Thank you for sharing, how many days do you recommend staying at San Pancho?

Kristin says

04/29/2023 at 2:23 am

We stayed for a week this time but just because it was so relaxing and that’s what we wanted, not because that’s how much time you need to see it. You could probably do it all justice in a couple days if you wanted to sightsee more.

02/05/2024 at 7:16 pm

Hello! Wondering if there’s anything you’d recommend when travelling with a 16 month old?

Thanks in advance!

Kristin Addis says

02/10/2024 at 3:37 am

Yes! I wrote about traveling with our baby to the same area on my other blog: https://parenthoodadventures.com/is-mexico-baby-friendly/

Unveiling San Pancho Mexico: 12 Must-Do Activities

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Although it has grown a lot in recent years, San Pancho, Mexico, retains its quaint atmosphere of a small, relaxed town where everyone knows and cares for each other, making it a safe destination.

There are now more hotels and houses for rent, restaurants, cafes, and even an organic market awaiting your visit.

Believe me, this is a little hidden gem in Nayarit, with incredible beaches and many attractions worth discovering.

Where is San Pancho, Mexico?

San Francisco (in the State of Nayarit) , also known as San Pancho , is north of Sayulita , about 7 minutes away and 50 minutes from Puerto Vallarta .

It is a small community surrounded by jungle and hills that reaches the shores of the Pacific Ocean, so a day will be enough to get to know it and marvel at its natural and cultural attractions.

Although its long and wide soft sand beaches with good waves are its most popular attraction, here is a list of 12 unmissable activities to enjoy in San Pancho.

12 top things to do in San Pancho, Mexico

1. Get to know the town

About 45 minutes from Puerto Vallarta, after passing Bucerías and heading towards Tepic , keep an eye out for the crossing to the coast that gives access to San Pancho .

It is a charming place of little more than 1,500 inhabitants, where most Mexican village traditions are preserved.

You can ride a horse, chat with the locals for any reason, and coexist with the more modern customs of beach sports and gourmet food.

Strolling through the cobblestone streets of San Francisco in search of a good coffee or delicious chocolate is something you can’t miss.

2. Enjoy the beach at San Pancho

San Pancho Beach is the reward the Pacific offers after going to the coast through the beautiful town.

It is long and wide enough to accommodate many bathers on the sandy beach without being too narrow.

You may want to read : 15 Best Beaches in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico

The sand is light-grained and smooth, and the surf is good for beginners .

You can also dive or lie in the sun watching the landscape in which the mountain’s green competes in intensity and beauty with the blue of the sea.

3. Try the delicious food

If you want to try authentic tacos and birria , there are several stands where you can enjoy these Mexican delicacies in the town of San Pancho.

For beachside dining, any selection of seafood is guaranteed to be fresh, and the locals claim that their huachinangos (red snapper) are the best in Banderas Bay.

The town also has highly praised a la carte restaurants, such as Maria’s, La Ola Rica, and Bistro Orgánico.

4. Do yoga or relax at a spa

If you’ve arrived in San Pancho Mexico with some muscle tension, put your body in the expert hands of one of the local specialists in relaxing massages.

They offer hot stones, polarity therapies, and other treatments that leave your neck, back, and limbs feeling new.

I recommend Angelical Spa, which combines the professionalism of its therapists with a very well-cared-for atmosphere.

Your visit to San Pancho could also be the occasion for you to start experiencing yoga’s physical and mental benefits in one of the town’s yoga centers.

5. Enjoy a cup of locally grown coffee overlooking the mountains

San Pancho is a postcard of a blue-colored ocean side and greenery on the mountainous flanks of the Sierra Madre Occidental on its way down to the Pacific.

In some of the mountains of Jalisco and neighboring Colima and Nayarit, there are excellent coffee plantations.

In the Bay of Banderas, innumerable cafes use the best beans from the Pacific coffee belt and other regions, such as Veracruz .

Sitting in a terrace cafe in San Pancho to enjoy this beverage while observing the surrounding mountains is a gastronomic and spiritual experience.

6. Meet San Pancho’s environmental groups

The tourist stream that travels to observe other regions and countries’ animal and plant life is growing.

Unfortunately, the sustainability of ecotourism is threatened by the extermination of species.

Why would I go to the Mexican Pacific to observe turtles if hardly any are left to see?

That is why it’s essential to know and support the activities of local groups that, under the radar and with little support, work to preserve biodiversity.

In San Pancho, groups work to protect the jaguar and several turtle species.

7. Whale watching

One of the most regular visitors to Banderas Bay is the Humpback Whale.

They have the advantage of not having to make reservations and staying in the bay’s endless space and the infinite ocean.

These striking cetaceans, which can reach 16 meters long and 36 tons in weight, always arrive in winter, between December and March, when the bay’s temperature is ideal for their reproduction.

Tours depart from San Pancho to see the humpbacks at a reasonable distance, guaranteeing good observation and safety.

8. Try the local fruits and vegetables

Almost all towns in Mexico, beach and inland, very touristy or less touristy, have a tradition, almost an obligation, to plant and harvest much of what they eat.

Even in the deserts’ less fertile areas, Mexican farmers pluck some fruit from the earth.

Farmers in San Pancho are in the minority, but they produce some delicious fruits, among which mango, pineapple, and papaya stand out for their sweetness and lemon for their delicate acidity.

Taste San Pancho’s fresh fruits and enjoy a shot of Tequila with a fresh lime wedge.

9. Take a fishing tour

Another recreational activity in San Pancho Mexico is a fishing excursion.

Don’t worry if you are inexperienced; the instructors can prepare beginners step by step in the art of fishing, from bait placement to rod handling skills when something is biting.

You may want to read : Top Fishing Destinations in Mexico: Saltwater & Freshwater

If you are already an experienced angler, you may just want to wish yourself luck and hope you catch an excellent piece for dinner.

Unless you prefer to throw it back in the water after taking a selfie with it.

10. Meet with friends

The “meet with friends” program is a private, playful, and educational initiative based on volunteer work to teach San Pancho’s children the recycling of materials and self-sustainability.

Children learn, have fun, and proudly show their work on this site in downtown San Pancho.

Language classes and other cultural events are also held there. They will gladly accept your contribution.

 11. Observe nature in San Pancho Mexico

Walking tours depart from San Pancho to get to know the surrounding nature.

There is an interesting diversity of birds and other species around the town’s lagoon and in the mountains.

You can admire blue herons, squirrel cuckoos, orange-headed parrots, and other rarities you will probably never see in your hometown.

Don’t worry if your eyesight is not what it used to be because binoculars are provided.

12. Live a new “cocoa” experience

Cocoa and its transformation into delicacies is another Mexican tradition .

It is said that the emperor Moctezuma had to drink about 20 cups of cocoa a day to leave his harem moderately satisfied.

Mexico produces good cocoa in Tabasco, Chiapas, and Guerrero.

These fruits are used by many artisans who make both traditional and contemporary wonders.

In San Pancho Mexico, an artisan house called Mexicolate has achieved a magnificent understanding between tradition and modernity, offering some products worth tasting.

Discover San Pancho Mexico: Conclusion

San Pancho offers visitors a unique and authentic travel experience that will leave a lasting impression.

From its stunning beaches and lush tropical scenery to its vibrant culture and friendly locals, San Pancho is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life and immerse themselves in the beauty and charm of Mexico.

With so many things to see and do, from surfing and horseback riding to exploring the local art scene and indulging in delicious cuisine, it’s no wonder why San Pancho is becoming increasingly popular among travelers from around the world.

So why not book your trip today and discover all that San Pancho offers for yourself? Vamonos!

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The Ultimate Guide to San Pancho: The Hidden Gem of Nayarit, Mexico

last Updated: March 27, 2024 mexico nayarit san pancho

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Headed to Mexico and looking for the best things to do in San Pancho, Nayarit?! You’re in luck! I’m sharing all my favorite things to do in San Pancho, as well as how to get there, where to eat, and tons of other helpful tips!

San Pancho is tranquil and relaxing, quiet and quaint. It’s everything you want in a tiny Mexican beach town. There’s enough to keep busy for a few days, but not so much that you feel like you’re missing out. It’s the kinda place you may never wanna leave – and I totally get it! 

We had to peel ourselves away from this quaint Mexican town!

I bet you haven’t heard much about San Pancho. We hadn’t either until visiting! We tend to love unpretentious little towns not many people have heard of. Kinda like when we visited Borrego Springs on our Southern California desert road trip , and Todos Santos as a side trip to Los Cabos .

When planning our trip to Jalisco and Nayarit, we had an extra 2 nights to spend somewhere. So I found an eco hotel in San Pancho, and decided we’d head there before Sayulita . I had heard it was kinda like the Sayulita of the past (before it got overrun with tourists and expats), but I didn’t know much else. 

I admit, as we made the turn into town after heading over from bustling Puerto Vallarta, I was worried I had made the wrong choice booking 2 nights here. The streets seemed relatively dead, I didn’t see many shops/restaurants, and upon first glance it looked kinda rundown. But as soon as we checked into our (gorgeous) hotel and took a short walk, I’m glad that all my initial doubts quickly faded away. I can promise you a visit to San Pancho is well worth the effort!

Overview of San Pancho

San Pancho is the Sayulita of 15 years ago. It’s unassuming and unpretentious, with an eclectic community full of artists, expats, locals, and tourists. It’s way more down to Earth and even considered the “cultural capital” of Riviera Nayarit. 

We woke up to roosters every morning, felt like we had sections of the beach to ourselves, and it was relatively quiet at night. Way quieter than in nearby Sayulita which had music blasting until the wee hours of the night.

Unlike Sayulita , San Pancho remains relatively unknown – it really is Riviera Nayarit’s best kept secret. This quaint surfer town is definitely a special place, with a laid back vibe and a strong sense of community (with virtually no crime).

The town is technically called San Francisco (no, not the same San Francisco in California of course!), but everyone calls it San Pancho. We sure had fun telling people we were from San Francisco when asked, haha. It’s literally the San Francisco you’ve never heard of! 

Psst → If small towns aren’t your thing and you’re looking for more nightlife, you may enjoy visiting Sayulita instead.

The People of San Pancho

It was the people of San Pancho that really made our trip. Looking back now, I see why we had such a great time. Everyone was so friendly, helpful, warm, and generous. And I don’t say that lightly. The vibe just felt different – in the best way possible. Everyone knew each other, stopping on the street to say hi and catch up. I think I could see myself living here, at least for a little while.

We met the owner of Su Pancha Madre (a sope truck on the outskirts of town) who invited us to his International Sope Festival that night (the first ever), expats in Casa Gourmet who gave us tons of local recommendations, and locals on the beach who graciously let us play with their dogs. Even the woman outside Limbo making fresh tortillas – who I dubbed the “Tortilla Lady” – treated us to warm tortillas with cheese and wide smiles every time we walked past. 

San Pancho Trip Planning Logistics

Where is San Pancho 

San Pancho is located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico in the state of Nayarit. It’s about 30 miles north of Puerto Vallarta and only 15 minutes north of nearby Sayulita, so you can totally combine the three towns for an amazing trip!

It’s tucked away, surrounded by mountains and lush jungle. And thankfully it’s not hard to get to, conveniently located near major cities and the Puerto Vallarta airport.

Psst – when you type San Pancho into Google Maps, the name automatically changes to San Francisco. Don’t be alarmed! As noted before, San Francisco is the actual name of the town; everyone just calls it San Pancho.

How to Get to San Pancho

Coming from the states? You’ll first need to fly into Puerto Vallarta (to Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport, airport code PVR), and then head an hour or so north to the small town of San Pancho.   

PVR is an international airport with plenty of nonstop and connecting flights, so you won’t have a hard time finding flights. We were pleasantly surprised that our flight from San Francisco to Puerto Vallarta was less than 4 hours! I fully expected it to be way longer for some reason. Here’s a small sampling of the flight times to give you a general idea of how long your flight may be. 

• From Mexico City (MEX): ~1 ½ hours non stop
• From Dallas (DFW): ~2 ½ hours non stop 
• From Los Angeles (LAX): ~3 hours non stop
• From San Francisco (SFO): ~4 hours non stop
• From New York City (JFK): ~6 hours non stop
• From Miami (MIA): ~7 hours (connecting)

Already in Nayarit or Jalisco? A lot of people visit San Pancho, Nayarit after visiting Puerto Vallarta and/or Sayulita (that’s what we did!). We took a taxi from Puerto Vallarta for about 800 pesos ($~40USD), although we could have gotten a better deal bargaining on the street most likely (we had our hotel in the Romantic Zone in PV call a taxi for us). 

Expect the ride from Puerto Vallarta to San Pancho to be roughly 60 minutes. From Sayulita it’ll be much less expensive at around 300 pesos (~$15USD, and only a 15 minute ride.

How to Get From the Airport to San Pancho

If San Pancho’s your first stop, once you reach the Puerto Vallarta airport, you’ve got a few choices on how to get to San Pancho itself. 

1. Uber: Technically, Uber drivers aren’t allowed inside Puerto Vallarta airport (or within San Pancho itself). But don’t fret – you can easily use Uber just outside the airport to head to San Pancho. You’ll just need to walk across the pedestrian bridge to the other side of the highway (taking you away from airport grounds) first. 

Don’t worry, it’s really easy to find – just look for a large orange bridge after walking outside of the arrivals hall. You’ll need to obviously bring all your luggage with you across the pedestrian bridge, so be prepared (thankfully there’s a ramp up). 

Expect an Uber to cost 500 to 700 pesos (~$25 to $35USD), depending on the time of day and how busy it is.

2. Taxi: Taxis are everywhere at the airport – you’ll have no problem finding one. There are essentially two types of taxis you can get from the airport. 

The first are authorized taxis allowed to pick up passengers directly from the airport grounds. While they are definitely the most convenient option, they’re more expensive at 1200-1500 pesos (~$60 to $75USD) due to the airport tax. Simply arrange a taxi from one of the taxi booths right at the airport after you exit customs if you don’t mind the expense.

However, to save the most money on a taxi, cross the pedestrian bridge to the other side of the highway. Here you’ll find street taxis, which are typically 800-1000 pesos (~$40 to $50USD). Always bargain and agree upon a price before getting into the taxi – it’s common here in Mexico to haggle! And make sure you have enough pesos as they don’t take credit cards.

3. Public bus: If you’re looking to save some money, take the public bus from the airport to San Pancho! Just like Uber, you’ll need to cross the pedestrian bridge described above. Once you’re across the highway, look for the green and white “Compostela” buses (make sure the bus says “San Pancho” in the windshield as not all of them go to San Pancho!). 

The buses come every 20 minutes or so, and only cost around 50 pesos (~2.50USD). Can’t beat that! But since this is a public bus there’s no room for luggage – meaning if you have a lot of stuff this might not be the best option for you!

4. Rental Car: If you’re planning on checking out the surrounding beach towns, you may wanna rent a car (Uber is difficult in many of the smaller towns, including San Pancho, Sayulita, Punta Mita, etc). 

I typically rent cars ahead of time, but if you’re visiting in the lower, rainy season (summer), you may be able to find a good deal directly at the airport at the last minute. Personally, I wouldn’t rent a car as we saw plenty of traffic jams on the one-way cobblestoned streets, and I imagine parking is a bit of a nightmare.

5. Day Trip from Puerto Vallarta: If you’re tight on time and basing yourself in PV, you can easily take a guided day trip to San Pancho from Puerto Vallarta ! Now, I HIGHLY recommend more than a day tour, but better than nothing, right?! 

The tour also stops in Sayulita, so you’ll get to see both beach towns on the same day trip!

How to Get Around San Pancho

Walk! The town is super, super tiny with a main street and some small streets off of it.

If you went up and down each individual street it would probably take less than 20 minutes! 

And plus, the streets are cobblestone, there’s little to no parking, and plenty of dogs wandering in the street. I wouldn’t wanna drive over here, that’s for sure! And there’s honestly no reason to. You will see some super cute old buggies — I couldn’t resist not photographing them all!

San Pancho is even smaller than Sayulita , so there’s no need for a taxi, golf cart, or uber unless you’re visiting a nearby town.

When to Visit San Pancho

HIGH SEASON: WINTER (LATE-OCTOBER TO MAY)

Winter is the high season in San Pancho, with sunny days and low humidity. The air temps are warm and comfortable (high 70’s, low 80’s) but never scorching. There’s hardly any rain between November and May, and the nights are cool enough to wander around and sleep comfortably without AC.

If you’re visiting from December to March, you may get lucky and see humpback whales breaching from the beach! This is prime whale-watching season – we saw at least a dozen on our trip to the Marietas Islands. So special. If this is high on your bucket list, you’ll definitely wanna sign up for a whale watching tour!

Unlike Sayulita and Puerto Vallarta, I wouldn’t worry about crowds. We visited over Christmas break (one of the busiest times of year to travel) and felt like we had parts of the beach to ourselves at times. So nice and quiet after a few days in buzzy Puerto Vallarta and Sayulita. 

In terms of weather when we visited (late December), it was absolutely perfect, with hardly any clouds and so much sun! The air felt hot but not disgustingly sticky, and there was very minimal humidity. It did get a bit chilly at night, but nothing that a light sweater couldn’t fix (around 65°F once the sun went down).

LOW SEASON: SUMMER (JUNE TO MID-OCTOBER)

Summer is the low season in San Pancho, with high humidity, high (high) heat, and tropical rainstorms at night. This is the rainy season, with the wettest days of the year happening in June. And yes, don’t worry, you can still enjoy all the best things to do in San Pancho in the rainy season as it hardly ever rains all day. 

So if you’re looking for cheaper hotel rates and still plenty of sunshine, a visit to San Pancho in the low season is a great option! 

With that being said, if you’re not a fan of constantly sweating in high humidity and heat, choose a different time to visit. There’s a reason the locals flee San Pacho and travel during this time of year (the weather is almost unbearable for them).

Do note that most of San Pancho (including some hotels and restaurants) close for renovations during this time as it’s just simply too hot and there’s too much rain.

Additional Tips When Visiting San Pancho

Is English Spoken? Yes – but that doesn’t mean everyone is fluent nor should you expect them to be. While English is widely spoken in town, locals will greatly appreciate it if you use a bit of Spanish (or at least try!). So download Duolingo and practice the basics before you go! After a few days in Mexico I guarantee you’ll pick up on a few common words anyways. 

Local Currency: Like the rest of Mexico, the local currency in San Pancho is the Mexican Peso. I highly advise you to take out some pesos at an ATM at the Puerto Vallarta airport upon landing (as you’ll get the best conversion rate using an ATM and never at a currency exchange kiosk). 

Don’t expect all restaurants and shops in San Pancho to take credit cards, so always be prepared. In addition, you’ll want some cash for tips (see below), at small handicraft shops, and road-side taco stands, as well as for any taxis you may be taking. 

At the time of writing (January 2022), the peso is equivalent to 5 cents USD (or 1 USD = ~20 Mexican pesos). I found it easy-ish to convert in my head by thinking of 100 pesos = roughly $5USD (or 200 pesos = ~$10USD). It takes a bit of practice but after a day or two you’ll be able to do the conversion super quickly in your head.

ATMs : I had read online that there were no ATMs in the town of San Pancho, so we took out a fair amount of cash beforehand in Puerto Vallarta. I’m happy to report that the town now has a few ATM machines, so I wouldn’t recommend taking out more than you need for a day or two. 

Hate paying those pesky ATM fees? I feel you – those are the worst and really add up over time. Look into a no-fee debit card before your trip. We’ve been using Charles Schwab for years and haven’t paid a pesky fee in forever.

Tipping in San Pancho: Tipping is not expected, but always greatly appreciated as Mexican salaries are very low. Common practice is 10-20% for wait staff, although we typically gave closer to 20% for most meals, considering it was almost Christmas and all. 

How Long to Stay in San Pancho: We stayed in San Pancho for 2 nights and 2 ½ days, and felt it was the perfect amount of time. Note that we also stayed in Sayulita for 3 nights and Puerto Vallarta for 4, so if you’re planning to base yourself in San Pancho, I’d stay a few extra nights so you can see more of the area!

Health and Safety in Nayarit

Health : YOU CANNOT DRINK THE TAP WATER IN MEXICO, and yes, this includes San Pancho. But don’t worry, you’ll easily find bottles of purified water in all restaurants and markets. And rest assured, all ice is made from purified water. Our hotel had bottles of water for us everyday, and we thankfully didn’t get sick from any fresh veggies or fruit we ate.

In terms of food, when ordering from street vendors, ensure it’s fully cooked and hasn’t been sitting out for too long (if foods not selling this is a good indication it’s been there a while). We had no problems with any drinks or food in San Pancho, and felt everything was of great quality.

Safety : We felt exceptionally safe in San Pancho. The town holds no history of crime or violence, and there’s a charming community-like feeling. Everyone we met was super friendly and helpful.  

Regardless, it doesn’t hurt to use precautions like you would elsewhere in the world – like keeping expensive jewelry/watches at home, hiding electronics, being extra careful and observant at banks and ATMs, and knowing your alcohol limit. Better safe than sorry!

Dogs in San Pancho

I swear almost everyone has a dog in San Pancho, and 85% of them are off-leash (I don’t recall seeing any homeless pups thankfully). With that being said, we were pleasantly surprised by how clean the streets and sidewalks were, but always watch where you’re stepping just in case! 

On another note, San Pancho may not be for you if you’re scared or get nervous/anxious around off-leash dogs. Many of the dogs we saw were quite big, and kinda just wandered near their owner, although occasionally wandered up to other people. If you know me you know I’m mildly obsessed with any and all dogs, so I welcomed this, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re not a dog lover.

Wifi and Cell Reception in San Pancho

To put things simply, the internet is pretty mediocre here in San Pancho. Even the wifi at our hotel hardly worked in our room and we only got (spotty) service in the main lobby. In addition, it’s not uncommon for the internet and cell reception to completely drop off for the day. 

We ran into one lady who was supposed to be meeting a date in San Pancho shortly and unfortunately they were unable to communicate!

With that being said, if you rely on the outside world, this may not be the place for you. But if you’re looking for a little peace and quiet, San Pancho will be a welcomed escape!

Where to Stay in San Pancho

The town is super small, with one main street and a bunch of smaller streets branching off it. With that being said, there’s no bad location to stay in San Pancho. 

You won’t find any major hotel chains here, and small boutique hotels are the majority of accommodation (which I loved, because boutique hotels are my favorite). 

• Agua de Luna : This is where we stayed and I’d definitely recommend it! The hotel is one of the newer ones in San Pancho, with a bohemian-chic Mexican contemporary design, leafy pool, and hot tubs on the roof. Our room was super spacious with a cute little outdoor patio.
• Palmar Hotel Tropical : We almost booked this place as the overall vibe seemed similar to Agua de Luna, but didn’t feel like changing our reservation (haha). Palmar is a calm and serene spot, with a minimalistic and boho-chic design. There’s also on-site yoga and massages right next door if that’s what you’re looking for.
• Marii Hotel Boutique : I mean, the rooms border a jungle garden with a pool. What could be better? Even if you don’t stay here, consider this spot for lunch! I heard it’s great!
• Hotel Casa San Pancho : Looking for something a bit more homey, rustic, and colorful? Check out Hotel Casa San Pancho – there’s touches of Balinese design and a heated saltwater pool.  

Do note there are quite a few thatched-roof bungalow-type places located right along the beach, which at first glance looked pretty cool when I was researching. After reading lots and lots of reviews (that’s what I do), none of them appealed to me. I was really bummed because I wanted to live out my jungle fantasy in San Pancho! 

If anyone’s been to any jungly, palapa-style accommodations they loved, please let me know!

What to Pack for San Pancho

No one dresses up much here in San Pancho; it’s got more of a hippy, boho vibe. Plan to wear loose-fitting, flowy clothes, and it can’t hurt to wear your bathing suit underneath for the beach! 

Definitely bring along a cute bathing suit coverup or two (I have this one and this one and love both!), as well as some comfy sandals for the pool, beach, and walking around town! 

Other miscellaneous items you’ll wanna bring along:

• Polarized sunglasses (better for blocking out the harsh UV rays)
• Beach bag and/or backpack : make sure it’s large enough to fit a beach towel or two!
• Hat/s: The sun is strong here! I love taking a wide-brimmed sun hat for the beach and a fun trucker hat when hiking.
• A waterproof kindle or other e-reader for reading at the beach and hotel pool (I’d be worried a physical book may accidentally get wet!)
• Your hotel may give you towels, but we love traveling with a sand-free beach mat
• Reusable water bottle : better for the environment and a must at the beach! 
• Reef Safe sunscreen (always apply when you’ll be in the ocean water, as other sunscreen is harmful to marine life): We love ThinkSport (make sure the bottles are less than 3.4 ounces if you’re bringing them in your carryon)! Don’t forget about SPF lip balm as well!
• Aloe Vera Gel : always have some handy in case you get a sunburn; aloe will give the burn some much-needed relief
• Dramamine : This will help with motion sickness if you’re planning to do a snorkeling or boat tour (the waves can get rough depending on the day!).
• Bug spray will come in handy during San Pancho’s humid months (June to September), and calamine lotion/hydrocortisone cream is good to have on hand for when you undoubtedly get bitten
• Underwater camera: All my underwater photography tips and gear here . I’d check out an underwater phone case , too.
• Portable battery charger : Charge your phone on the go and never run out of battery! I always need to borrow my friends so I’ve finally made it a habit to start bringing my own.
• Noise-cancelling headphones: Great for both the plane and the beach! I’m obsessed with my AirPods and Noah loves his Bose Quiet Comforts .
• Tote bag: If you’re planning on doing some shopping in San Pancho, bring your own fold-up tote bag! I love this collapsible reusable tote bag (hardly takes up any room in your suitcase and it’s so lightweight)
• Some meds for an upset stomach/antidiarrheal medicine (just in case you accidentally drink the water or something doesn’t agree with you – bound to happen, just be prepared)

Best Things to do in San Pancho

San Pancho is the kind of place where you can do a whole lot or absolutely nothing at all, and still be completely satisfied. And after a busy few days in Puerto Vallarta, it was nice to have some downtime without feeling like we were ultimately missing out on must-do activities.

Here’s all the best things to do in San Pancho – from my favorite markets and shops to stunning sunsets on the beach and everything in between.

1. Be a beach bum at Playa San Pancho

This is an obvious choice! One of the best things to do in San Pancho, and ultimately, why so many come here, is the beach! And why?! Well, Playa San Pancho is absolutely gorgeous. Imagine pristine golden sand framed by lush jungle foliage, tons of space to spread out, and some of the most spectacular sunsets you’ve ever seen (more on that later). Plus tons of dogs frolicking freely in the sand!

And thankfully, because of community beach clean-ups, the beach is relatively clean.

Unlike the main beaches in Puerto Vallarta and Sayulita, we found Playa San Pancho to be hardly crowded! Even when we visited during Christmas week (one of the busiest times to visit Riviera Nayarit). Yes there were definitely people enjoying the water and tanning on the sand, but we had a lot of space to ourselves at the beach.

Don’t miss grabbing some chips and guac and margaritas at the beach bars lining the sand – we went to both La Perla and Las Palmas and loved our drinks. Do note non-customers will need to pay a small fee (~10 pesos) in order to use the restrooms.

Local Tip: If you’re visiting from December through March, keep your eyes peeled on the horizon! You may be lucky enough to see a humpback whale in the ocean!

2. Go Surfing – or just watch the pros

San Pancho is not the place to learn how to surf – the waves are just too wild (meaning the breaks are faster and shorter). But if you’re a more advanced surfer and looking to rent a board, walk to the left of the beach and you’ll see plenty of spots for rentals right on the sand.

Not ready to paddle out? I feel you – I guarantee you I’d fall smack right off the board. Watch instead! I always have a great time watching experienced surfers riding the waves, and I did a fair share of that here in San Pancho (just like I did in other surf towns like San Clemente and the North Shore of Oahu ). To say I was super impressed with their skills is a massive understatement. 

Psst – beginner surfers should head to nearby Sayulita as the waves are much better suited for those just learning how. 

3. Watch the Stunning Sunsets

Ohhh the sunset – easily one of my favorite things to do in San Pancho every night! Unlike the main beach in Sayulita (where the sun sets behind the mountains and cliffs), due to the position of Playa San Pancho, there’s an unmissable sunset every single night on the beach. Right over the crashing waves.

I swear, the sunsets are legendary here. And there’s kinda like an unofficial sunset party here every night. I watched the sun go down with dozens of others, and even the locals clapped once the sun dipped below the horizon. Make sure to plan your other activities around sunset – and stay at the beach 20 minutes afterwards to really watch the sky explode with color.

If you’re spending a few nights here, buy a day pass to La Patrona Beach Club – I heard the sunsets are absolutely lovely over there as well.

4. Wander around town

While the town of San Pancho is super tiny, it’s worth a quick walk around the quaint cobblestone streets. And to prove how tiny it is, you can literally walk from the highway (Hwy 200) to Playa San Pancho in under 15 minutes. 

You’ll find lots of restaurants, coffee shops, and local boutiques along the main street, Calle Tercer Mundo. Walk all the way down and you’ll actually end up straight at the beach!

Unlike other Mexican beach towns, you’ll be walking directly past locals homes as you stroll around off the main street, so be sure to be extra courteous and friendly.

5. Release Baby Sea Turtles

San Pancho is home to one of the largest turtle conservation projects in Riviera Nayarit, The Grupo Ecológico de la Costa Verde . I was SO excited when I read turtle releases happen here, but unfortunately the last release happened a few weeks prior to our visit. 

With that being said, the public sea turtle releases happen between June/July and November/December (depending on the nests). So if this matches up with your timeframe, don’t miss the chance to help release the little babies! I promise, watching them scurry down the sand into the water at sunset is something you’ll never, ever forget.

You can even volunteer for a month if that’s something that interests you. What a dream! 

We were lucky enough to participate last year in Todos Santos , and it was such a magical experience. One of the most rewarding things to do in San Pancho for animal lovers! I can’t stress enough how magical of an experience this was – the hatchlings you help release are literally born that day! Find more info here.

6. Practice Yoga

Yoga is a way of life here in San Pancho, so why not join in the fun?! I swear, you’ll see tons (and tons) of yogis wandering the town – some of them even barefoot! Ouch, haha!

The most popular yoga studio in San Pancho is El Estar Yoga and Healing Center (where we got our massages!). And it’s gorgeous – classes are held under a palapa and the whole space is just so tranquil. The studio offers different classes every day of the week, so either pop over or check their Facebook page for the monthly calendar. They also offer plenty of massages and meditation practices!

Other studios offer multi-day yoga retreats a few times a year, as well as outside wellness companies using San Pancho as a base for their own wellness and yoga retreats! It’s kinda the perfect place for it, so I get it!

7. Get a Massage 

We got massages at El Estar Yoga right next to Palmar Tropical Hotel. And lemme tell you – after a few days of running around Nayarit, it felt so nice to soothe my aching muscles. Because lounging by the pool and sipping cocktails is hard work, wink wink.

You’ll need to sign up in advance (we made a same-day reservation that morning), and pay a deposit to hold your spot (just FYI). So bring your pesos!

8. Go shopping

Despite San Pancho’s small size, there’s plenty of shopping opportunities over here. Yes, you can stock up on all your favorite Mexican goodies in town, at the beach, and right outside the beach! You’ll probably need to pick up a tote bag or two to bring everything home.

And if you’re looking for even more textiles and handmade, local products, you’ll find those are the San Pancho Tuesday Market – more on that below!

Note that some shops in San Pancho close mid-day for a quick snooze. They usually reopen around 5ish or so, so you can browse/shop on your way to dinner!

In Town : A quick walk around town and you’ll find lots of jewelry, paintings, ceramic work, and more. San Pancho is home to lots of artists and artisans, and I loved browsing the local shops.

Beach Plaza: These are less traditional stores, and more like stalls right on the beach plaza (malecon). If you’re walking to the beach from Calle Tercer Mundo (the main road in San Pancho), you won’t miss them. Here you’ll find handmade jewelry, handwoven hats, and more.

But the stars of the show are definitely the meticulously beaded designs by the Huichol Indians. They display their traditional colorful, beaded bracelets and hand woven baskets, and they are GORGEOUS. I highly suggest buying a piece or two.

Beach Vendors: Hanging on the beach? The beach vendors will undoubtedly find you (whether you like it or not). They carry woven Mexican tote bags, silver jewelry, hats, and among other things. Some very beautiful pieces, but not guaranteed to be made in the area.

If you don’t want to be bothered, simply say “No Gracias” and they’ll be on their way. There’s definitely way less of them than in nearby Sayulita and Puerto Vallarta, I can promise you that.

9. Shop at the Tuesday Market

I’m a sucker for local artisan markets – especially ones in Mexico (I recently loved the markets in San M i guel de Allende and San Jose del Cabo ). I always find way too much I want to buy, whoops! 

Here in San Pancho, you’ll find the Mercado Artesanal Tuesday Market, taking place during high season on Tuesdays from 10am-2pm, hence the name! It’s one of the best things to do in San Pancho – only on a Tuesday obviously! Find the Tuesday Market right near the main street in the Plaza Principal of San Pancho

Local vendors sell their beautifully woven textiles, handicrafts, healthy foods, and organic produce. And there’s typically live music and always a great local scene!

And you most definitely won’t go hungry – there’s plenty of stands selling Colombian arepas, blue-corn quesadillas, empanadas, and other delicious snacks. Don’t miss some fresh fruit juice as well – I can’t go back to regular old OJ at home now (I need it fresh!).

10. Hang at La Patrona Beach Club

Ready for the best kept secret in San Pancho? It’s La Patrona Beach Club! Imagine sipping handcrafted cocktails in the infinity pool overlooking the beach and then eating in a towering open-air palapa with more great views at sunset. Now that’s my kinda afternoon. 

The space is absolutely stunning – the architecture was even internationally awarded for an amazing design! I’m super bummed we missed out on this (it’s easily one of the best things to do in San Pancho)! I think we were just too blissed out and chill to even remember that it was high on my list of places to check out. Next time!

And one of the best parts – kids under 13 aren’t allowed (#sorrynotsorry!).

It’s truly one of those luxury meets nature kinda places, and you won’t wanna leave. Although you totally should to ensure you check out all the other great things to do in San Pancho.

Buy a day pass and find out more info about La Patrona Beach Club here ! The bar lounge is THE place to be at sunset (meaning it may very well get crowded).

Psst – it’s also sometimes referred to as Tierra Tropical Beach Club, but don’t worry, they’re the exact same place.

11. Try the restaurants

One of the best things to do in San Pacho – eat! Yes, you read that correctly! Despite being so small, San Pancho is a foodie’s paradise. We were completely surprised by how much great food there was. 

There’s a lot of authentic Mexican food here (think tacos al pastor in the street) as well as some international cuisine (like Argentine-style steak and even Asian fusion). The area is known for fresh fish and seafood, so be sure to order some during your time in San Pancho. 

I’ve compiled a list of all the spots we enjoyed a bit further down. Don’t miss Barracuda and Limbo – our two fave spots in town. 

And if you see the woman outside Limbo making fresh tortillas, befriend her! She’s super friendly and such a sweet woman – she may even gift you a warm tortilla. I saw her multiple times and she’s one of my fondest memories of our time in San Pancho. It’s the little things, right? 🙂 

12. Go riding at the polo club

Yes, San Pancho has their very own riding and polo club! Who would’ve thought?! Kinda unique to a tiny beach town on the coast of Mexico, right? 

If you’ve never even been on a horse, no worries! You’ll still find the perfect riding experience. I mean, the surroundings couldn’t be better – imagine riding around lush vegetation with beautiful views of the Sierra Madre mountains in the distance. Sounds like the perfect ride to me! 

And if you’re already a pro, there’s dressage and jump lessons, or you can even learn how to play Polo (or just watch a match if that’s more your style). Find out more information about La Patrona Polo & Equestrian Club here.

13. Visit the community center

Entreamigos , the community center in San Pancho, is a 501(c)3 non profit organization (and has been working since 2006!). The main focus of Entreamigos is on education (they’ve built a beautiful little library for the kids), the environment (including beach clean-ups and tree planting projects), and the San Pancho community as a whole. 

The name literally means “between friends”, so it makes sense that a lot of their outreach is for community action.

Stop in for a quick visit to see what the organization is all about! And if you can’t get over there to volunteer yourself, you can support their important work by donating! 

Day Trips from San Pancho (Even more things to do in San Pancho!)

If you’re spending more than 2 days in San Pancho, I highly recommend taking a day trip or two! The ones listed below are the most common, but know you can also go to Bucerias, Punta Mita, and Yelapa!

14. Sayulita

The beach town of Sayulita is less than 15 minutes away, so there’s no reason not to take a short taxi ride over! It’s colorful, laidback and bohemian, with lots of chill, beachy surfer vibes. There’s impressive street performers, gentle surf breaks, and beach bars to hang at while watching the sunset. And plenty and plenty of yummy restaurants (don’t miss a chocolate dipped banana from ChocoBanana).

Read Next → The Complete Guide to Sayulita: 25+ Best Things to Do!

15. Puerto Vallarta

I’m sure you’ve heard of Puerto Vallarta – it’s where you flew into after all! I highly recommend spending more than a day in PV, but if that’s all the time you have, you can really see a lot in just a few hours! 

Take a long walk along the malecon, hit up the (overly-crowded) beach and see the famous sculpture on the pier, try all the street food (mmm that esquina with cheese), wander around the Romantic Zone, check out the Isla Cuale Flea Market, and watch the sunset with a drink in hand. You can also hike up to Mirador Cerro de La Cruz for some spectacular views!

16. Marietas Islands

One of the best things to do in the Riviera Nayarit is a visit to the Marietas Islands, a group of small, uninhabited islands off the coast. As soon as we bought tickets to Puerto Vallarta and Sayulita, I instantly booked a tour to the Marietas Islands (Islas Marietas). That instagrammable hidden beach was high on my Mexico bucket list! And it didn’t disappoint!

Don’t miss the famous hidden beach (which you need to swim through a cave to reach), whale watching – we saw at least a dozen humpback whales (in season), and snorkeling with all the tropical fish. There’s also blue footed boobies here which I was especially excited about!

We took this EXACT tour and I can promise you we made it to the hidden beach! Here’s another with the possibility of the hidden beach if that first one’s already sold out. You’ll need to make your way to the Puerto Vallarta marina for pickup, but it’s really not that far, I promise.

If the hidden beach tours are already sold out (bummer), check out this snorkeling and beach tour of Marietas Islands instead! The water really is iridescent! And if you’re a diver, even better – there’s an option for certified divers as well!

17. Whale Watching

Visiting in the winter months between December and April? You’re in luck! Whale watching is one of the best things to do in San Pancho! Due to its location, San Pancho (and the surrounding areas) are a prime spot for incredible whale watching – humpback whales are commonly seen along the Nayarit coast. 

Imagine seeing a humpback whale breach – what an incredible sight! But for the best viewing (and to get up close), you really need to book a whale watching tour ! 

Suggested San Pancho Itinerary

The great thing about San Pancho is that you don’t really need to show up with a planned itinerary. It’s one of those places you can wake up and decide what you wanna do that day (unless you wanna head to the hidden beach of the Marieta Islands – you gotta book that in advance for sure). 

We had no set plan when we arrived in San Pancho, and wouldn’t have it any other way. Kinda felt like laid-back island life! Here’s a rough example of what we did:

• Day 1: check into hotel, quick stroll on Calle Tercer Mundo, stop for date shakes at Casa Gourmet, margaritas/mojitos and chips/guac at La Perla, *turtle release (from May to December), watch the sunset on the beach, dinner at Limbo
• Day 2: breakfast at Marias, hang at hotel pool and hot tub, lunch at Su Pancha Madre, massages at El Estar Yoga, relax at the beach/watch the surfers, check out handicrafts on the malecon near beach, sunset drinks at Las Palmas, dinner at Barracuda
• Day 3: sleep in, wander around town/check out shops, sip an agua de cacao from Mexicolate, long walk on the beach, head to Sayulita

See, nothing too strenuous. You can do as much or as little as you’d like. Just whatever you do, don’t miss the sunsets here!

Where to Eat and Drink in San Pancho

• Restaurante Limbo: The cocktails are inventive. The seafood is fresh. The ambiance is upscale boho-chic. And there’s typically live music at dinner. Sounds pretty perfect to me!
• Barracuda: Tuna tostadas. Enough said. But really though, everything on the menu looked delicious. Just don’t miss a tuna tostada or two! Noah had the marlin tostada as well and he enjoyed both.
• Cafe Gourmet: The best bread, pastries, and date shakes in town. I stopped here every day for a chocolate banana date shake, and it was just what the doctor ordered.
• Su Pancha Madre: Do NOT miss this spot – they make the most delicious gourmet sopes ever. We were actually invited to the first annual International Sope Festival by the owner himself which took place when we were in town, and it was such a fun event/experience!
• La Perla: We came here for drinks on the beach one night for sunset, and it was the perfect end to our day.
• Mexicolate : While there’s lots of sweet treats here, don’t leave without trying the agua de cacao. It’s like sipping a chilled hot chocolate that’s not as sweet. Pure perfection.
• The Dough Joe: I was originally intrigued by their cute branding, so of course had to go. The shop is filled with lemon poppyseed muffins, over-the-top donuts, and blueberry pancakes stacked high.
• Amar Y Ya: The cutest coffee shop right next to our hotel (Agua de Luna). My husband grabbed a mocha every morning, and I always ended up drinking half of it – whoops.
• Bistro Organico: A plant and seafood based restaurant with a completely organic menu (hey, it’s in the name right?). We unfortunately missed this spot but I heard great things about it.
• Maria Bonita Restaurante : Come here for breakfast one morning (I can confirm the breakfast chilaquiles are delicious). The outside patio in the back is so cute!
• Taqueria Los Arbolitos: It’s taco time in San Panchos! Delicious, inexpensive, and great salsas. What else could you want? Probably the cheapest meal you’ll have in Mexico.
• Kokonati Coffee: Another great option for a healthy and delicious breakfast with organic ingredients. Plus, it’s only a block from the beach, the wifis great, and it’s super dog friendly. Try the chicken mole and beef and potato empanadas – mmm…. And they have the most wonderful pastries too!
• Local hole-in-the-walls : We asked the hotel manager where he’d recommend grabbing chilaquiles for breakfast one morning, and he gave us directions to his favorite place (which was like 2 blocks away). Unfortunately we never caught the name of the place, but I recommend asking some locals and you’re bound to discover some unknown (but delicious) local spots.

Hope this helps you plan the best trip ever to San Pancho! Which of these things to do in San Pancho will you be adding to your itinerary? Any questions? Ask below in the comments!

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August 18, 2022 at 10:03 am

Hi Jessica! This is such an amazing resource as my husband and I are getting ready to travel to Sayulita this December! Question for you… I don’t see that you had a blog post on Puerto Vallarta. Do you mind me asking where you stayed there? We were looking to possibly stay in the Romantic Zone but are open to other options… I recall from another post that you said you guys stayed at a boutique hotel south of downtown PV. If you loved your stay and are willing to share the name, I’d love to know! Also, how easy was it for you to get into PV from there? We’re not big on nightlife/crowded scenes, so I’m hesitant to book in the Romantic Zone but from what I’ve read it’s also a very accessible area to stay in. Thanks so much for your work and input — it’s truly appreciated!

August 18, 2022 at 10:08 am

Hi Danielle, thanks so much for your comment! I don’t have a post on PV just yet — it’s in the works! We stayed in two spots in PV — one in the romantic zone (which was good enough and in a great location), and the other was at Hotel Mousai which I 100% recommend! The infinity pools were ridiculously amazing and everything was top notch. I cannot wait to stay there again! Have a great trip!

August 20, 2022 at 8:49 am

Thanks for getting back to me! I looked up Hotel Mousai, looks so modern and posh! I think it’s a little further out than we want to be since we’ll be going to Sayulita and San Pancho before we head back to PV and we want to find some things to do while in/around PV for the couple days we’re there. Do you know when you’re planning to have your PV post published? Hoping I can check back before December to see what you’ve recommended! 🙂 Thanks again!

September 4, 2022 at 10:26 pm

Great article!!! It helped me a lot!!! I’m also planning a similar trip this December!

September 5, 2022 at 9:24 pm

Glad it was helpful! You’re gonna love the area! Don’t miss Sayulita and PV too!

November 21, 2022 at 12:33 pm

How incredible are your blog posts – so thoughtful and detailed. AMAZING! I’m going to Sayulita December 3-January 6 and cannot wait to explore so much thanks to your post 🙂

November 28, 2022 at 7:48 pm

Thanks so much Courtney — that’s so sweet of you to say! Ohhh have the best time! You’re there for a whole month?! wow!!! Don’t miss San Pancho — one of our favorite little spots! 😉

April 6, 2023 at 10:52 pm

Is the only place to stay hotels? I’d like to stay for several weeks. Do they have an abnb type system there?

April 7, 2023 at 10:43 pm

There are definitely airbnbs in San Pancho, although I haven’t stayed in any myself so don’t have any personal recommendations to give!

December 2, 2023 at 11:56 am

You talked us into a two week stay based in San Pancho ..thanks so very much.this guide will be our first reference the entire time..just wondering if there are any travel books and or guides for the region by you or othes that you’d recommend. We are senios interestedin a laid back budget friendly authentic and sustainable holiday

December 5, 2023 at 11:54 am

Oh I’m so glad — you’ll love San Pancho! I don’t have any recommendations for other travel guides at the moment, sorry! Be sure to take a look at my post on Sayulita — you should definitely take a day trip over there, it’s close to San Pancho!

February 4, 2024 at 12:55 pm

Thanks so much for the informative and well-written writeup! My wife and I are heading to San Blas for a week of birding and then three days in Puerto Vallarta and we’re looking for somewhere between the two cities to stay for three nights. We spent time in Sayulita maybe 20 years ago and then visited for a day around 10 years ago and it changed dramatically in those 10 years! It was very quiet the first time we were there, but noisy and overcrowded the second time and I can’t even imagine how it is now. I walked on the beach from Sayulita to San Pancho and had drinks and appetizers on the sand, but I’ve never stayed in San Pancho. I hope it hasn’t changed much since I was there last. Are there any other small towns on the coast between San Blas and Puerto Vallarta you would recommend? We’ve stayed in Bucerias twice and we really liked the laid back vibe and $20 hour long massages on the beach.

February 9, 2024 at 4:34 pm

Hi Jessica! Thank you so much for sharing this great information. Would you happen to know if body boarding is possible at Playa San Pancho?

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San Pancho, Nayarit: Mexico Travel Guide

Published: November 16, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Taryn Cosentino

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Introduction

Welcome to San Pancho, a charming and picturesque village located on the Pacific coast of Mexico. Nestled in the state of Nayarit, San Pancho offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and laid-back coastal vibes. With its pristine sandy beaches, lush tropical jungles, and vibrant local community, San Pancho has become a popular destination for travelers seeking an authentic Mexican experience.

Once a sleepy fishing village, San Pancho has evolved into a thriving tourist destination while still maintaining its warm and welcoming atmosphere. Unlike some of the more crowded and developed resort towns in Mexico, San Pancho offers a more tranquil and intimate setting, perfect for relaxation and immersion in the local culture.

The journey to San Pancho is an adventure in itself, as you wind through rugged hillsides and lush vegetation. The town’s secluded location brings a sense of serenity and seclusion, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

San Pancho is renowned for its stunning beaches, where crystal-clear waters and golden sands beckon visitors to unwind and soak up the sun. Whether you’re looking to catch a wave and surf the Pacific swells or simply lounge on the shore and watch the breathtaking sunsets, the beaches of San Pancho will leave you rejuvenated and inspired.

Beyond its natural beauty, San Pancho is also home to a thriving artistic and cultural community. The town boasts numerous art galleries, where you can admire and purchase unique pieces created by local artisans. Additionally, San Pancho is known for its commitment to sustainability and the environment, with various eco-conscious initiatives and organizations that preserve the natural beauty of the area.

As you wander through the streets of San Pancho, you will be captivated by the colorful facades of the buildings and the friendly smiles of the locals. The town’s small size makes it easy to navigate on foot, allowing you to explore charming shops, cafes, and restaurants at a leisurely pace.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, San Pancho has something to offer every traveler. So pack your bags, immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in this hidden gem of Mexico’s Pacific coast.

Getting to San Pancho

San Pancho is conveniently located just 45 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta International Airport, making it easily accessible for travelers from around the world. Here are a few options for getting to San Pancho:

• By Air: The closest major airport to San Pancho is Puerto Vallarta International Airport, which offers direct flights from various cities in Mexico, the United States, Canada, and other international destinations. Once you arrive at the airport, you can either rent a car, hire a taxi, or book a shuttle service to take you to San Pancho.
• By Car: If you prefer the freedom of exploring at your own pace, renting a car is a convenient option. From Puerto Vallarta, you can take Highway 200 north towards Guadalajara. After driving for approximately 45 minutes, you will reach the turnoff for San Pancho. The drive is scenic and allows you to enjoy the beautiful coastal views along the way.
• By Public Transportation: For a more budget-friendly option, you can take a bus from Puerto Vallarta to San Pancho. Buses are available from the Puerto Vallarta Bus Terminal and run regularly throughout the day. The journey takes approximately 1-1.5 hours, depending on traffic and stops along the way.

Once you arrive in San Pancho, getting around the town is relatively easy. The village is relatively small, and most attractions, restaurants, and accommodations are within walking distance. However, if you prefer not to walk, you can rent bicycles, hire a taxi, or use the local bus service to explore the area.

It’s worth noting that San Pancho can also be a great stop on a road trip along the Mexican Pacific coast. If you’re driving from other parts of Mexico, San Pancho is located along the scenic Highway 200, which stretches from Puerto Vallarta to Tepic. You can incorporate San Pancho into your itinerary and explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.

Regardless of how you choose to get to San Pancho, the journey itself is part of the adventure. Enjoy the stunning landscapes, immerse yourself in the local culture, and get ready to experience the beauty and charm of this hidden gem on Mexico’s Pacific coast.

Best Time to Visit

San Pancho enjoys a warm and tropical climate year-round, making it an enticing destination for travelers seeking sunny days and pleasant temperatures. However, the best time to visit San Pancho depends on your preferences and what you plan to do during your stay.

The high tourist season in San Pancho typically runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is sunny and dry with average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (mid-20s to low 30s Celsius). The calm ocean waters are perfect for swimming, surfing, and other water activities. This is also the time for popular festivals and events, such as the San Pancho Music Festival and the International Polo Tournament, which showcase the vibrant local culture.

If you prefer a quieter and more budget-friendly experience, consider visiting San Pancho during the shoulder seasons of October and May. The weather is still pleasant, and you can enjoy fewer crowds and lower accommodation rates. These months are also a great time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the nearby jungle areas.

The rainy season in San Pancho occurs from June to September, with August being the wettest month. While the rainfall can be heavy at times, it usually comes in short bursts and is followed by sunny periods. This is a great time to experience the lush greenery and natural beauty of the area. It’s also the season when sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs, offering a unique wildlife experience for visitors.

Keep in mind that during the peak of the rainy season, some outdoor activities may be limited, and certain roads and trails can be temporarily closed due to weather conditions. However, if you don’t mind occasional showers and want to take advantage of discounted rates on accommodations and tours, visiting San Pancho during the rainy season can be a great option.

Overall, San Pancho welcomes visitors year-round with its warm hospitality and captivating beauty. Whether you choose to visit during the high season for a bustling and vibrant atmosphere, or during the shoulder or rainy seasons for a more peaceful and immersive experience, San Pancho offers something special for every traveler.

Accommodation Options

San Pancho offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. From cozy boutique hotels to luxurious beachfront resorts and charming vacation rentals, you’ll find a wide range of choices in this enchanting village.

For those seeking luxury and indulgence, there are several beachfront resorts in San Pancho that offer world-class amenities and breathtaking ocean views. These resorts boast spacious rooms or private villas, and often feature on-site restaurants, spas, and swimming pools. Staying in a luxury resort allows you to relax in style and enjoy the beauty of the Pacific coast right at your doorstep.

If you prefer a more intimate and personalized experience, boutique hotels in San Pancho are a great option. These smaller accommodations offer a unique blend of comfort, style, and local charm. Many boutique hotels are nestled within the town center, providing easy access to shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. You’ll often find cozy rooms, personalized service, and communal spaces where you can mingle with fellow travelers.

For those looking for a home away from home, vacation rentals in San Pancho are widely available. From beachfront villas to cozy apartments, there are options for small groups, families, or solo travelers. Renting a vacation property allows you to have your own space and the freedom to create your own schedule. Many rentals come equipped with kitchens and other amenities, making it convenient for those who prefer to cook their own meals or have a longer stay.

Additionally, San Pancho offers a range of eco-friendly and sustainable accommodations, including eco-hotels and eco-lodges. These establishments prioritize environmental practices and offer a more conscious and eco-conscious stay. By choosing an eco-friendly accommodation, you can enjoy your vacation while minimizing your impact on the environment.

Regardless of where you choose to stay in San Pancho, you can expect warm hospitality and a comfortable and memorable experience. It’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the high season, to secure your preferred option. Whether you’re seeking luxury, boutique charm, or a home away from home, San Pancho has the perfect accommodation to make your stay unforgettable.

Top Attractions in San Pancho

San Pancho may be a small village, but it is brimming with captivating attractions and activities that showcase the natural beauty, culture, and charm of the area. Here are some of the top attractions that you won’t want to miss when visiting San Pancho:

• San Pancho Beach: The main attraction of San Pancho is its stunning beach, a pristine stretch of golden sand and turquoise waters. Whether you’re interested in swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing with a book, San Pancho Beach offers the perfect setting for a day of coastal bliss.
• EntreAmigos Community Center: This unique community center is a must-visit when in San Pancho. Dedicated to education, sustainability, and creativity, EntreAmigos offers a variety of programs and workshops for both locals and visitors. Explore the colorful classrooms, art gallery, and second-hand store to learn more about the organization’s impactful initiatives.
• Polo fields: San Pancho is known for its passion for polo, and you can witness the sport in action by attending a polo match at the La Patrona Polo & Equestrian Club. Watch skilled riders and their magnificent horses compete in this exciting and elegant sport.
• Galería Nepantla: Art enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to Galería Nepantla, a prominent art gallery that showcases contemporary works from local and international artists. Browse through a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and mixed media pieces that reflect the vibrant art scene of San Pancho.
• San Pancho Bird Observatory: Nature lovers and bird enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to the San Pancho Bird Observatory. Take part in a bird-watching tour and marvel at the wide array of bird species that inhabit the region. The observatory also conducts research and educational programs for the conservation of local avian populations.
• Cultural Center: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Cultural Center of San Pancho. This lively hub hosts various art exhibits, live performances, and workshops that highlight the creativity and talent of the community. Check the schedule for upcoming events and immerse yourself in the vibrant artistic scene.
• Jardin del Pulpo: Located in the heart of San Pancho, Jardin del Pulpo is a charming community garden filled with colorful flowers, plants, and sculptures. Take a leisurely stroll through this serene oasis and appreciate the beauty of the natural surroundings.
• Turtle Release: If you visit San Pancho during the nesting season (typically from June to November), you have the opportunity to witness one of nature’s wonders – the release of baby sea turtles into the ocean. Join a guided tour or volunteer with local conservation organizations to learn more about these fascinating creatures and contribute to their preservation.

These are just a few of the many attractions that San Pancho has to offer. With its blend of natural beauty, artistic expression, and community initiatives, San Pancho promises an enriching and unforgettable experience for all visitors.

Activities and Things to Do

San Pancho offers a plethora of activities and things to do, ensuring that visitors of all interests and ages will find something to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, here are some of the top activities and attractions in San Pancho:

• Surfing and Watersports: San Pancho’s pristine beaches and favorable surf conditions make it a paradise for surfers. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, you can catch some waves and enjoy the thrill of surfing. Additionally, you can try other watersports like paddleboarding, kayaking, or snorkeling to explore the vibrant marine life.
• Hiking and Exploring: San Pancho is surrounded by lush jungle and rolling hills, providing ample opportunities for hiking and exploration. Take a hike to the nearby Las Cuevas or Monkey Mountain for panoramic views of the coastline and the chance to spot wildlife such as iguanas and bird species.
• Yoga and Wellness: Find your inner Zen by participating in a yoga class or a wellness retreat in San Pancho. Many studios and centers offer yoga sessions for all levels, allowing you to rejuvenate your body and mind amidst the tranquil surroundings of nature. Some retreats also offer spa treatments, meditation, and other wellness activities.
• Golfing: Golf enthusiasts can tee off at one of the nearby golf courses, such as the Litibú Golf Course. Enjoy a round of golf amidst lush green fairways, scenic landscapes, and stunning ocean views.
• Horseback Riding: Embark on a horseback riding adventure and explore the surrounding countryside and beaches of San Pancho. Enjoy the gentle breeze as you gallop along the shoreline or meander through the picturesque trails, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
• Indulge in Local Cuisine: San Pancho offers a diverse culinary scene that caters to all tastes. Sample authentic Mexican dishes and local seafood at charming restaurants and beachside cafes. Don’t miss trying the fresh ceviche or indulging in traditional street food during your stay.
• Explore the Nearby Islands: Take a boat trip to the nearby Las Marietas Islands, a protected marine reserve known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Snorkel, kayak, or simply relax on the pristine beaches of these uninhabited islands.
• Learn Traditional Arts and Crafts: Engage in a workshop or class to learn traditional Mexican arts and crafts. Choose from pottery making, painting, paper mache, or even traditional dance classes. These activities provide an opportunity to connect with the local culture and create your own unique souvenirs.

These activities and things to do in San Pancho cater to a wide range of interests and offer a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and vibrant culture of this charming coastal village.

Dining and Nightlife

San Pancho may be a small village, but it offers a vibrant dining and nightlife scene that will satisfy even the most discerning foodies and night owls. Whether you’re in the mood for authentic Mexican cuisine, international flavors, or a lively evening out, San Pancho has something for everyone.

When it comes to dining, San Pancho boasts a variety of restaurants and eateries that showcase the region’s culinary offerings. From casual beachfront taco stands to upscale dining establishments, you can indulge in a diverse array of flavors and dishes. Fresh seafood is a highlight, with local catches prepared in traditional Mexican and fusion styles. Don’t miss the opportunity to try ceviche, fish tacos, or seafood paella, accompanied by a refreshing local drink like a michelada or a margarita.

In addition to Mexican cuisine, San Pancho also offers international fare to cater to different tastes. You can find Italian trattorias, French bistros, Asian fusion restaurants, and more. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a delicious meal.

After a satisfying dinner, San Pancho comes alive with its vibrant nightlife scene. You can head to one of the cozy beach bars or rooftop lounges to unwind with a cocktail and savor the ocean breeze. Live music performances are common, featuring both local talents and visiting musicians. Enjoy a night of dancing to eclectic beats or simply relax and take in the lively atmosphere of San Pancho after dark. The village also has a few clubs where you can dance the night away to the sounds of DJ mixes.

For a more laid-back evening, take a stroll through the town center and explore the local bars. These intimate venues often feature live acoustic music, creating a cozy and welcoming ambiance. You can also grab a drink at one of the local cantinas and strike up a conversation with fellow patrons to immerse yourself in the community spirit.

San Pancho is known for its warm and welcoming vibe, making it easy to connect with locals and fellow travelers while enjoying a delicious meal or a night out. Whether you’re seeking a fine dining experience, a casual beachfront hangout, or a memorable night of music and drinks, San Pancho’s dining and nightlife scene is sure to meet your expectations.

Shopping in San Pancho

San Pancho may be a small village, but it offers a delightful shopping experience that showcases the creativity and craftsmanship of the local community. Whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs, handmade artwork, or stylish fashion items, San Pancho has a variety of shops and boutiques to explore.

One of the highlights of shopping in San Pancho is the abundance of artisanal and handicraft products. Visit the local art galleries and studios where you can admire and purchase a wide range of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and jewelry created by talented local artists. These pieces often reflect the vibrant culture and natural beauty of the area, making them unique mementos of your visit to San Pancho.

In addition to artwork, San Pancho is also known for its traditional Mexican crafts. Explore the local markets and shops to find colorful textiles, embroidered clothing, woven baskets, and hand-painted ceramics. These authentic handicrafts are not only beautiful but also serve as a connection to Mexico’s rich cultural heritage.

If you’re a fashion lover, San Pancho won’t disappoint. You’ll find stylish boutiques offering trendy clothing, beachwear, and accessories. Many of these pieces are designed by local designers and artisans, incorporating vibrant colors and natural materials inspired by the surrounding environment. Whether you’re looking for a unique swimsuit, a bohemian dress, or artisanal jewelry, San Pancho’s fashion scene has something to suit your style.

San Pancho also has a few shops specializing in eco-friendly and sustainable products. From organic skincare and beauty items to eco-conscious home decor and clothing, these shops aim to promote a more mindful and environmentally-friendly lifestyle.

To truly experience the local culture, don’t miss the weekly Mercado del Sol market. Held every Tuesday during the high season, this vibrant market features a variety of vendors selling fresh produce, local food, handmade crafts, and more. It’s a great opportunity to mingle with the locals, sample delicious street food, and shop for unique products.

As you explore the streets of San Pancho, you’ll find that shopping is not just about acquiring material goods—it’s about supporting local artisans and fostering a deeper connection with the community. So take your time, browse the shops, and bring home a piece of San Pancho’s vibrant culture and creativity.

Local Culture and Festivals

San Pancho is a village rich in culture and traditions, offering visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant local way of life. From arts and music to traditional festivities, here are some highlights of the local culture and festivals in San Pancho:

The artistic community in San Pancho is thriving, with numerous galleries, studios, and workshops showcasing the talent of local artists. You can explore these creative spaces and engage in art classes or workshops to learn about various artistic techniques. The town’s commitment to the arts is further evident through the San Pancho Music Festival, a vibrant event that features musicians from Mexico and around the world. This festival takes place in February and offers an opportunity to enjoy concerts, workshops, and community jam sessions.

Another important cultural hub in San Pancho is the EntreAmigos Community Center, a non-profit organization that focuses on education, sustainability, and social empowerment. The center hosts a range of events and workshops, including art exhibits, theatre performances, and music concerts, allowing visitors to engage with the local community and contribute to its development.

Throughout the year, San Pancho celebrates various traditional festivals and events that showcase the region’s culture and heritage. One of the highlights is the San Pancho Patron Saint Festival, held in early December to honor the village’s patron saint, San Francisco de Asis. The festival includes religious processions, live music, dancing, performances, and traditional Mexican cuisine. It’s a vibrant and colorful celebration that brings the community together.

San Pancho is also known for its commitment to sustainability and environmental awareness. The annual Vallarta-Nayarit Gastronómica Food Festival, held in Puerto Vallarta and Nayarit, brings together renowned chefs and food enthusiasts to celebrate the culinary heritage of the region. As part of this festival, San Pancho hosts various food-related events, including cooking workshops, tastings, and culinary competitions.

Furthermore, the nearby town of Nuevo Vallarta hosts the Tianguis Cultural, a cultural market that showcases the creativity and craftsmanship of local artisans. This market offers a unique opportunity to browse and purchase handmade crafts, artwork, jewelry, and other authentic Mexican products.

When visiting San Pancho, it’s highly recommended to participate in these cultural festivals and events. Interact with the locals, explore the arts, taste traditional cuisine, and experience the vibrancy of the community. It’s through these cultural celebrations that you can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the rich heritage and traditions that make San Pancho truly special.

Practical Information

Before visiting San Pancho, it’s useful to have some practical information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here are some essential details to keep in mind:

• Currency: The official currency of Mexico is the Mexican Peso (MXN). It is recommended to carry some local currency for small expenses, as not all establishments may accept credit cards or foreign currencies. Currency exchange services are available at the Puerto Vallarta International Airport and in nearby towns.
• Language: The official language of Mexico is Spanish. While English is spoken and understood in many tourist areas, it’s helpful to have some basic Spanish phrases and expressions to communicate with locals.
• Visa Requirements: Visitors from many countries, including the United States, Canada, and most European countries, do not require a visa for stays of up to 180 days. However, it’s important to check the specific visa requirements for your country of citizenship before traveling to Mexico.
• Health and Safety: San Pancho is generally a safe destination, but it’s always advisable to take basic precautions. Ensure you have travel insurance to cover any medical expenses and emergencies. It’s also recommended to drink bottled water and take precautions to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
• Transportation: San Pancho is a compact village that can easily be explored on foot. However, if you’re planning to explore the surrounding areas or visit nearby towns, renting a car or hiring a taxi is convenient. Public transportation in the form of buses is also available for traveling to and from San Pancho.
• Electricity: The electricity supply in Mexico is 110-120 volts, with a frequency of 60 Hz. Electrical outlets typically use plugs with two flat pins, so travelers may need a voltage converter and adapter for their electronic devices.
• Climate: San Pancho has a tropical climate, with warm and humid weather year-round. The average temperatures range from the high 70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (mid-20s to low 30s Celsius). The rainy season occurs from June to September, with occasional tropical showers.
• Time Zone: San Pancho is in the Central Standard Time (CST) zone, which is 6 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-6). Mexico does not observe Daylight Saving Time.

It’s also advised to check any travel advisories or specific guidelines issued by your home country’s government before traveling to San Pancho or Mexico in general. This will ensure you have the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding safety and travel requirements.

By being aware of these practical details and preparing accordingly, you can enjoy a seamless and unforgettable experience in San Pancho.

San Pancho, Nayarit, is a hidden gem on Mexico’s Pacific coast that offers a unique and authentic travel experience. From its pristine beaches and lush jungles to its vibrant arts scene and rich cultural heritage, San Pancho has something to offer every type of traveler.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, San Pancho has it all. Enjoy surfing the Pacific swells, hiking through the jungles, or simply lounging on its beautiful beaches. Engage with the local community by visiting art galleries, attending cultural events, and exploring the iconic EntreAmigos Community Center.

Indulge in the delicious cuisine, from fresh seafood to international fare, and experience the village’s vibrant nightlife scene. Shop for unique handicrafts, artwork, and fashionable items that reflect the creativity and talent of the local artisans.

When planning your visit to San Pancho, consider the best time to go, taking into account weather conditions, festivals, and events. Familiarize yourself with practical information such as currency, language, and transportation options to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Whether you’re a nature lover, an art enthusiast, a foodie, or simply looking for a place to relax and rejuvenate, San Pancho will captivate you with its natural beauty and warm hospitality. Discover this hidden Mexican treasure and create lasting memories in the charming village of San Pancho.

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The 15 best things to do in San Pancho Nayarit in Mexico for a relaxing getaway

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Puerto Vallarta and the towns around it have quite a reputation in Mexico. They’re known as crazy tourist towns where you can party the night away. But not San Pancho Nayarit! In fact, it’s one of the most relaxing places you can visit on the Pacific Coast. We loved spending a few days here, and want you to enjoy the same peace we did, so here are the top 15 things to do in San Pancho Nayarit in Mexico.

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Where is San Pancho Nayarit?

San Pancho Nayarit, also known as San Francisco Nayarit, was probably the best-kept secret of the whole Riviera Nayarit… until people discovered how amazing it was and started spreading the word.

We can’t blame them! Our friends Bre and Daniel from Theloveandadventure.com told us about it, and we’re so happy we took their recommendation to visit San Pancho. Initially, we only had Sayulita on our list, but since San Pancho was only a 15-minute bus ride from there, we figured why not visit! What a great decision.

San Pancho Nayarit is located about 1-hour thirty from Puerta Vallarta when you take the bus. It’s a cute little pueblo known for its community living and eco-conscious mindset.

How to get to San Pancho Nayarit from Puerto Vallarta

The best way to get to San Pancho from Puerto Vallarta is to take the bus. The bus provider we used is called La Compostela. They’re known for their white and green buses that run all around the area.

We caught the bus to Sayulita from the airport in Puerto Vallarta. You can do the same to go to San Pancho – just make sure San Pancho is on the list of destinations written on the bus.

To get to the bus from the Puerto Vallarta airport, you have to cross the pedestrian bridge located outside the airport, right by the highway. There, you’ll see a bunch of people waiting for the bus. You can ask a few locals to tell you which one goes to San Pancho, but they usually have the destinations written on the windshield of the bus.

The ride will cost you about 60 pesos per person. And the bus makes a few stops along the way, notably in Bucerias, Sayulita, San Pancho, and beyond.

You can also hop on the bus to San Pancho from the bus station in Puerto Vallarta if you’re already spending time in the city.

Getting from Sayulita to San Pancho

There are a few ways to get to San Pancho from Sayulita. You can either hike, take the bus, or even hitchhike.

Since we had a lot of bags with us, we chose to take the bus. But if you’re going on a day trip from Sayulita, the hike may be a nice option as well. You can read all about it here . And hitchhiking can also be a good option if you are fluent in Spanish.

The bus ride from Sayulita to San Pancho is about 15-20 minutes – depending on how quick the driver is, and if you get stuck behind a truck or not. The cost for the bus from Sayulita to San Pancho is about 30 pesos per person. You can grab the bus from the main bus station in Sayulita. Once again, you’ll be riding with La Compostela.

Depending on the type of bus you get, you may be able to put your bags in the boot below. If not, you’ll have to carry them on the bus with you. We managed to store our bags below on the bus ride from San Pancho back to Puerto Vallarta, but for all the other rides, we held them with us.

The only thing to note is that the bus gets really full, depending on when you take it and from where. Weekend buses tend to be quite full as people travel for weekend getaways from Puerto Vallarta to San Pancho, Sayulita, or Bucerias.

The bus stop in San Pancho

There is no formal bus stop or bus station in San Pancho. The way to know you have to get off is the bus driver will yell out “San Pancho”.

If you’re coming from Sayulita or Puerto Vallarta, your stop will be across town. So you’ll need to cross the ‘highway’ to get into the town. There’s a gas station on the corner of the main street, so you should be able to orient yourself easily.

If you’re heading out of San Pancho Nayarit, you can take the bus on the corner of the main road, across the gas station, but on the same side of the highway. Again, you’ll see buses with their destinations on the windshield. Just flag them down. You can also ask the driver if he is heading to your destination. Just ask “Te vas a Sayulita?” (Are you going to Sayulita?) and wait to see their response. Usually, they yell out the stop, so you can know where to get off.

The 15 best things to do in San Pancho Nayarit

Ok. We’re going to be honest. We saw a few articles talking about the 100 best things to do in San Pancho (we’re barely exaggerating). They kind of missed the point about the essence of San Fransico Nayarit. This isn’t the type of place you want to spend your time doing everything and anything possible.

San Fransisco Nayarit (aka San Pancho) is known for being laid-back and chill. It’s known for being a quiet town where people go to enjoy peace and tranquility. So the goal why you are here is not to have jam-packed days, but instead, to enjoy every moment possible.

So here are some of the amazing things you can do in San Pancho.

1. Enjoy the beaches in San Pancho, and don’t be afraid to venture off

San Pancho has one of the nicest beaches we’ve seen in Mexico. The main beach stretches across town, about one kilometer, and it’s soft sand all throughout. There is one section of the beach, near town, that has a few restaurants and beach clubs that offer food, seating and parasols.

However, if you walk down the beach, you’ll find a large stretch of it that is pristine and empty. If you’re looking to enjoy some time away from the crowds, we recommend you head out further and chill on the deserted part of the beach in San Pancho Nayarit. Make sure you bring your towel, water and food.

2. Check out the weekly market at Plaza del Sol

Just like in many cities across Mexico, there is a local artisan market that takes place in San Pancho Nayarit on Tuesdays. The market unfolds at Plaza del Sol – it’s impossible to miss.

Here, you’ll find a ton of tents set up selling everything from jewelry to food, clothes, art, textiles, lotions, potions, soaps and more. There’s really something for everyone, and for every budget. It’s a great place to discover local artisans, buy some souvenirs to take home and to immerse yourself in the energy of the place.

This market does move around (we were told they head to Sayulita on Saturdays), so if you’re in the area and regret not buying something, you can check them out in another town too.

The vendors are all super sweet, and although haggling is expected, it’s always important to be mindful and respectful of their work. For many, this is their livelihood, so if you plan on buying something and negotiating its price, make sure it stays fair for the person who made it. You may only be asking for $5-10 discount, but at the end of the day, it makes a big difference to these vendors

3. Catch a sunset on the beach

San Pancho Nayarit is known as one of the best places in Mexico to catch a sunset. It may have the official title for it too! (Just kidding! Well, it could. That’s how nice they are).

We always make time to catch sunsets when we travel, and the ones in San Fransisco Nayarit did not disappoint. They were absolutely beautiful. The sky lit up and was absolutely stunning.

We were able to catch some sunsets on the beach, but we were also very lucky to catch them from the comfort of our room at the Maraica eco-hotel in San Pancho. We had a room with an ocean view and a hammock hanging on the balcony, so we loved watching the waves crash as we slowly swayed to the rhythm of the wind.

Whatever you have planned that day, make sure you catch the sunsets in San Pancho. They are absolutely epic. And, as we mentioned, life in San Pancho is all about the Pura Vida . Don’t forget to slow down and enjoy the little moments.

4. Volunteer at the community centre

No visit to San Pancho would be complete without paying homage to the great work done by Entreamigos Community Centre . When people admire the community-oriented living in San Pancho Nayarit, Entreamigos is often cited as being the main force behind this mindset.

The Entreamigos community center was started by an American woman as an after-school activity club. Today, it has grown into so much more. It includes a library, computers for local kids and schools to use, a thrift store, a ton of activities for kids and adults alike (yoga, language lessons, dance classes, and so many others fun pastimes).

What we love about Entreamigos is that they really do what they can to reinforce their pillars of community, education and sustainability. It’s all about giving back to the community and to the people.

If you have the time while you’re in San Pancho, make sure you go visit the centre and see how you can help. If you are feeling generous, you can also donate to the cause, or take part in their annual fundraiser.

5. Walk around town to enjoy life off the main trail

Most people will walk around the main part of town, but one of the best things to do in San Pancho is to go off-the-beaten-track. In fact, there are a ton of little homes, galleries and hidden gems to discover if you walk around town.

We loved taking in the sights and getting away from the crowds on the same trail as usual. Don’t be afraid to venture out when you’re in San Pancho.

6. Catch live music and shows at night

San Pancho is quite lively yet chill during the day. But at night, the town comes to life to the rhythms of all sorts of different musical genres.

While walking around looking for a restaurant, we noticed a few places had live bands or solo musicians creating a unique ambiance for diners. From full mariachi bands to songstresses and even some young kids putting on a break dancing show, there was something for everyone.

Whether you’ll be eating at the restaurant with the show, or just grabbing a drink, you want to venture out and enjoy the talents of the musicians in San Pancho.

7. Practice yoga in the many centres in San Pancho Nayarit

If you’re looking for what to do in San Pancho, and you’re a big fan of yoga, well, look no further! San Pancho has a ton of amazing places to practice yoga. And if you’re really looking to get grounded and connect on a deeper level, this is the place to do it.

Although there are a ton of places that offer yoga classes in San Fransisco Nayarit, we loved being able to practice at Maraica hotel . They have daily courses there offered in English. With the amazing view we had, it was quite a lovely place to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature and ourselves.

8. Eat some amazing food in San Pancho

With an influx of visitors, San Pancho is growing on the culinary scene as well. And as vegan travelers , there is no shortage of amazing places to eat. And best of all, quite a few places offer vegan options as well.

We absolutely loved the Muvieri restaurant at the Maraica hotel . When you’re not looking to go far, and you’re looking for amazing food, this is the place to go. Carine enjoyed the variety of vegan dishes they had, like the coconut ceviche, the smoothie bowl and the mushroom pozole. Derek fell in love with his avocado toast on a brioche, the tuna tartar and the tuna steak. No matter what you choose to have, you’ll love it!

Plus, being an eco-hotel, the restaurant uses produce they grow on their farm or that they purchase from local producers. Everything is in season and fresh. And they compost the food scraps and waste, which is a great way to create a circular cycle.

We also loved Yum Yum restaurant . Everything there was vegan and delicious! Carine enjoyed the bowl with a ton of fresh and cooked veggies, and falafels. Derek devoured his wrap and potatoes. We also spotted a few of the other orders at nearby tables, and everything looked amazing.

Another place we really enjoyed was Yasmina’s Itzalanyasayan . Located right on the main road, next to Chichili’s – a vegan ice cream place, Yasmina’s is a chill place to enjoy brunch or supper. What’s great about this place is that they have a ton of dishes that they make in a vegan and non-vegan version as well. Derek and I ended up enjoying the same bowl, his with tuna, and mine with tofu.

9. Release turtles into the wild

Although we weren’t here at the right time for this, one of the things to do in San Fransisco Nayarit is to release turtles into the wild. If you’re looking for another way to give back to the community and Mother Earth.

Project Tortuga or Marine Turtle Conservation is another one of those great local initiatives worth supporting. It’s also one of the largest turtle conservation projects in Banderas Bay and the Riviera Nayarit. Starting in 1992, the team here has been working on protecting the leatherback turtles in the area for the last 30 years. You can also choose to volunteer here if you’re looking for something different to do in San Pancho.

Project Tortuga runs programs and visits at different times of the year. From July through November, you can visit their marine turtle nursery in San Pancho. If you’re looking to release hatchlings, it happens nightly, in front of the town, at sundown between mid-November and mid-February. The best time to visit San Pancho for turtle release is from July to December, and volunteers are accepted from May to November.

10. Enjoy one of the many festivals in San Pancho Nayarit

There are a ton of festivals in Mexico, and San Pancho is no exception. There are a ton of events and festivals happening all year round.

• In February, come to San Fransisco Nayarit for the San Pancho Music festival . It’s a great time to hear music from all over and discover new artists. Unfortunatley, the festival has been cancelled for the last two years, for obvious reasons. But hopefully, it will be back in 2023.
• In March, you can enjoy the Circo de los Niños fundraising event. Started in 2011, a brainchild of Cirque du Soleil’s Gilles Ste-Croix, his wife Monique Voyer, and the children of the Entreamigos community centre, this event showcases the talent of local kids. It’s also a great way to support the projects of Circo de los Niños – they currently have over 140 children enrolled in their programs, they own a space for training, and they operate a cultural center.
• In late September to early October, San Pancho celebrates its patron saint. San Pancho, also known as San Fransisco de Nayarit, celebrates a nine-day festival honoring its namesake, Saint Francis of Assisi. During this time, you can expect a ton of food and drink, music, parades, nighttime candlelight processions and a ton of other traditions.
• In December, there’s the SinergiArte festival. It’s an annual art festival organized by a collective of artists fro San Pancho, that they have been holding for the last 13 years. The event now goes beyond traditional art and includes live music, dane, theatre performances, visual art exhibitions and more. There are also workshops held where you can try your hand in different fields like dance, music, literature, photography, and so many other activities.

11. Visit the Islas Marietas while you’re in San Pancho Nayarit

Whether you are a certified scuba diver or looking to snorkel while you’re in San Pancho, Las Islas Marietas are the perfect place to go. Some tours will take you from San Pancho, while for others, you’ll need to go to Sayulita. Since it’s a 15-minute drive, it’s really easy to go there.

We chose to go scuba diving in the Marietas Islands. And we had the best experience ever! Since it was March, whale migration season, we heard the whales singing underwater and when we headed back to shore, we met a whale splashing around. It was such an amazing experience! We highly recommend it.

If you’re not a certified diver, there are plenty of tours that go to the Marietas Islands where you can snorkel, go to the hidden beach and explore more of the islands. This may be a great option to visit the islands.

12. Go surfing, if you already know how to

San Pancho is a great place for surfers who already know how to surf. If you’re looking to learn how to ride the waves, Sayulita may be a better bet for you.

If you want to watch the surfers hit the waves, the late afternoon is the best time to head to the beach. That’s when locals go surfing after a long day at work.

If you do want to learn to surf, there are a few places that will teach you in San Pancho, but whatever you do, make sure you watch out for the undertow and the currents. They can get surprisingly strong.

13. Go on a hike in San Pancho Nayarit

San Pancho Nayarit is a great place to go hiking. You have a few options here, depending on how much time you have to spend and your skill levels.

Your first option is to hike from San Pancho to Sayulita. This 6-km hike will take about 1.5-2-hours to complete. It’s pretty easy overall – it’s mainly flat, terrain, but it does tend to get tricky in parts. The hike is free to do, but you will either need to walk back or grab a bus back to San Pancho. Make sure you pack plenty of water, snacks and a towel, if you plan on jumping into the beach at any point.

A second hiking trail in San Pancho is Monkey Mountain. Located near Punta Mita, Cerro del Mono in the Riviera Nayarit (aka Monkey Mountain) is a 2-hour hike round-trip. You can either choose to hike it on your own, or you can go with a local guide. This hike is a little tougher than the first. The hiking trail varies a lot between stretches of loose dirt, firmer ground and rock climbing. You may want to take it a bit slower, especially if it’s very hot out there.

Either way, these are two great hikes to enjoy in the Riviera Nayarit.

14. Check out the street art in San Pancho

San Pancho, like many other Mexican towns, has a ton of street art all around. Being such a bohemian town, it’s not so surprising to see such beautiful art all around.

You’ll find street art sprinkled all throughout the town and in the plazas. With so many artists living in the area, it’s so lovely to walk around in what feels like a

15. Stroll the art galleries and shops in San Pancho

If street art is not your thing, you’re in luck, because San Pancho Nayarit is also home to some of the best art galleries and shops in the area. They have a wide array of galleries sprinkled all throughout town, but particularly on the main street.

It’s lovely to walk, take a look at the different artists’ work and take in the beauty of their world. If you can, buy a piece to help encourage them.

4 amazing day trips from San Pancho

Although San Pancho is small, you can still use it as a base to visit other towns and cities around. If you’re spending an extended amount of time here, there are a few day trips you can do.

A day trip from San Pancho to Sayulita

Located about 15 minutes by bus, or 1.5-2 hours hiking away, Sayulita is the perfect place to explore from San Pancho.

Much bigger and rowdier, Sayulita is perfect for those looking to party or go surfing. It’s a chill beach town with much more to do. Compared to San Pancho, there are a few more beaches to visit, a ton more restaurants and bars in Sayulita.

Getting here is quite easy by bus. Just follow the instruction we listed above. You’ll get dropped off at the small bus station in Sayulita, about 5 minutes walking from the city center.

Take a day trip from San Pancho to Bucerias

Located about 45-minutes south of San Pancho, Bucerias is a beautiful beach town worth the detour. With lovely beaches, a chill vibe and more affordable pricing than Sayulita, Bucerias has quite a bit going for it.

It’s a destination popular with snowbirds, retirees and digital nomads. You can explore the town, chill on the beach, get a massage there, and enjoy one of the many new restaurants.

Head on a day trip to Puerto Vallarta from San Pancho

Located about 1-1.5 hours away by bus, Puerto Vallarta is a much bigger city to visit from San Pancho. Chances are, you probably flew into Puerto Vallarta to get to San Pancho.

Puerto Vallarta has a ton of beaches to chill on, a boardwalk, shops and stores, bars and restaurants, parties, shows and cruises. Basically, anything you could possibly need and want from a big city. There are a ton of places to explore in Puerto Vallarta that a day wouldn’t be enough. Between the Malecon, the Zona Romantica, the beaches, and even day trips from Puerto Vallarta, you would need a few days here to get your fill!

But if you’re looking for a major change of scenery, or if you need to purchase items only found in big cities, Puerto Vallarta is the place to go!

Visit las Islas Marietas or Punta de Mita from San Pancho

We mentioned it before, but there are great tours that go to la Islas Marietas. It’s the perfect way to spend a day outside of San Pancho. You can explore the hidden beach, go snorkeling or scuba diving.

But if that’s not your thing, you can also head to Punta de Mita. It’s located about 30 minutes away from San Pancho. Although Punta de Mita has been taken over by 5-star hotels, there are still some fun and authentic things you can do here.

You can explore more beaches (notice a theme here?!). The hidden gem here is Playa de La Lancha. It’s the perfect place to go surfing. You can also walk around town or the marina, and go shopping.

Where to stay in San Pancho

If you’re looking for a beautiful and eco-friendly place to stay in San Pancho, look no further than Maraica eco-hotel . This place has everything you need to reconnect to nature, while still enjoying the comforts of a high-end hotel.

We already mentioned how much we loved the Muveri restaurant at Maraica hotel, and how we enjoyed being able to practice yoga in their amazing studio overlooking the ocean. But there are so many other reasons to love this eco-friendly hotel in San Pancho… and yes, them being eco-friendly is only one of those reasons.

An amazing eco-friendly hotel in San Pancho

Let’s talk about their environmentally conscious efforts. First, the power at Maraica comes from solar panels which you can actually see. We love that they have made this shift to get power from a renewable source. They also recycle their waste – using food scraps and waste to create compost. The compost in then reused in their gardens on location or their farms. They also re-incorporate their treated wastewater and use it to irrigate their beautiful gardens.

Unlike many other places in Mexico and the world, they have gotten rid of single-use plastics, styrofoam and straws. Instead, they provide everything in a reusable format.

The water in Mexico is not potable, and to reduce use of plastic water bottles, Hotel Maraica has made drinking water available in all common areas and in the rooms as well. Water bottles in the rooms are refilled daily, while there are also large bottles of water in the halls, restaurant and lobby. All you need to bring is your reusable water bottle.

Finally, Hotel Maraica takes things a little further. They provide 100% natural personal hygiene and beauty products for each guest. In your room, you’ll find bottles of body lotion, shampoo, body wash and hand soap. All their products are locally sourced. And yes, they smell heavenly and make your skin feel amazing.

Enjoying the amenities at Hotel Maraica in San Pancho

Beyond the delicious food and drinks available at the beautiful restaurant at Maraica Hotel , there are so many other amenities we enjoyed.

The first was their amazing pool. No matter what time of year you choose to visit, the weather in Mexico is bound to get hot. March was no exception. We adored having a pool we could cool down in.

We also loved all the different spaces outdoors where we could hang out. Overlooking the property. On their beautiful terrace. In the restaurant. We loved being connected to nature all the time.

We really enjoyed the open space above the restaurant as well. It was the perfect place to work from, to hang out, or to do yoga. If you don’t want to follow a class, the yoga space is available at any time of day, with mats and some tools available.

The amazing rooms at Hotel Maraica

No, we didn’t forget to tell you about the amazing rooms at Hotel Maraica . It’s one of the things we loved the most!

We had a double room overlooking the ocean. It was perfection, to say the least. The high ceiling and spacious room still felt cozy. With big windows and sliding doors that connected to the balcony, we felt like we were immersed in nature. The best thing was falling asleep to the sound of the waves crashing.

The balcony, with its lounge chairs and hammock, was the perfect place to hang out after a long, yet relaxing day in San Pancho Nayarit. We loved swinging from the hammock and reading our book to the sounds of nature.

A few things to know before visiting San Pancho

We loved our time in San Pancho Nayarit, and can’t wait to go back! But there are a few things we would have liked to have known before we came. To avoid the same mistakes we made, here are some tips for you.

There are not many ATMs

Although most places take credit cards, ATMs are hard to find in San Pancho. That’s why we recommend coming with a fair amount of money. Obviously, don’t walk around with all your money on you!

Be sure to hit up the ATMs in Sayulita or Puerto Vallarta before heading to San Pancho. Of course, there are some ATMs in San Pancho, but often, we found they didn’t work. There are also a lot of scammers out there, so some street ATMs are just not safe to pull from (they clone your cards). As a rule of thumb, always pull out from a bank ATM.

Bring your own container to restaurants in San Pancho

We absolutely loved the fact that San Pancho was so eco-friendly! But that also comes with some challenges. For example, if you want to take food to go (“ Para llevar “) you need to bring your own container.

This has been a big push in recent years to make San Pancho as sustainable, clean and plastic-free as possible. As eco-travelers , we’re big fans of this, and encourage you to do your part as well.

We have a ton of articles to help you reduce your footprint as you travel, and even at home. Make sure to check out our sustainability section for some tips to be an eco-warrior too.

Choose the best time to visit San Pancho

Well, this is one thing we got right! We didn’t know the best time to visit San Pancho Nayarit, but we did end up picking it!

Although December to May is the best time to go to San Pancho – it’s the dry season, so you can expect nice warm and sunny days, we recommend going from February to April. This way, the holiday crowds will be gone, and you’ll actually get to experience San Pancho in a more relaxing way. Which is the way San Pancho was meant to be experienced!

This is also when there are quite a few events and festivals happening, so if you want to immerse yourself in some Mexican culture, make sure to visit San Pancho during the dry season.

Don’t forget to chill out and enjoy your relaxing getaway to San Pancho

We gave you a ton of ideas of things to do in San Pancho, but don’t forget to just stop and chill out.

Sure, you can spend your days packing in activities, going to a million places, but another option is to use your time in San Pancho to just relax. Chill out on the beach. Read a book in your hammock at Maraica hotel. Enjoy some delicious food in a local restaurant. Talk to some locals. Reconnect with nature.

This is what San Pancho is all about, after all!

Top 15 relaxing things to do in San Pancho Nayarit

There you have it! A quick little list of the best things to do in San Pancho. It will give you enough to spend a good 3-4 days here… or even longer, if you have the time.

But like we said, make sure you disconnect and enjoy living the chill life while you’re in San Pancho. As a recap, here are the best things to do in San Pancho Nayarit:

• Enjoy the beaches in San Pancho, and don’t be afraid to venture off
• Check out the weekly market on Tuesdays at Plaza del Sol
• Catch a sunset on the beach
• Volunteer with the community center
• Walk around town to enjoy life off the main trail
• Catch live music and shows at night
• Practice yoga in the many centers in San Pancho Nayarit
• Eat some amazing food in San Pancho
• Release turtles into the wild
• Enjoy one of the many festivals in San Pancho
• Go diving at las Islas Marietas
• Surf, if you already know how to
• Hike to Sayulita from San Pancho
• Check out the street art
• Stroll the art galleries & shops in San Pancho

We’d love to hear your thoughts. What are you most looking forward to experiencing in San Pancho? And if you’ve been, what did you think of San Pancho? Did you enjoy it as much as we did? Did we miss out on anything? Let us know in the comments.

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We’re Carine and Derek, two Canadians in love with each other, the environment and this world. We left our old routines behind to discover all the wonders our planet has to offer. We want to inspire everyone to chase their dreams and leave a positive impact on Earth.

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San Pancho, Mexico – A Secret Pacific Beach Escape

Last month I visited San Pancho, Mexico , a little beach town on Nayarit’s Pacific coast.  For years, I’d been hearing that San Pancho was the new Sayulita… a town that retained its small size, local charm, community atmosphere and great surfing.

It’s true that San Pancho today has a lot of similarities to the Sayulita of 2005, but it is also a unique destination in its own right.  With a community center fully committed to preserving the town’s culture, ecosystem and quirkiness, and a multicultural population that celebrate both Mexican and international traditions, San Pancho is a great place to spend a weekend… or longer!

Where is San Pancho, Mexico?

Can’t find San Pancho on your map of Mexico?  That makes sense, as the town’s official name is actually San Francisco.  “Pancho” is the Spanish abbreviation for Francisco (kind of like how we shorten “Michael” to “Mike”), and this little town has always preferred the little version of its full name.

You’ll find San Pancho on your map of Mexico by looking a little bit north of Puerto Vallarta, on the country’s central Pacific Coast.  It’s less than five kilometers from Sayulita , its more-famous neighbor that is slightly to the south.  While it’s possible to walk through the jungle from Sayulita to San Pancho, it’s generally easier to get between the two towns by private car, taxi or local bus.

Hotels in San Pancho, Mexico

San Pancho is a small town with a small(ish) selection of hotels, hostels and vacation rentals.  I would recommend looking for a place that is one or two blocks back from Avenida Tercer Mundo so that you can have a quiet night’s sleep while still being close to the action in the center of town.

Hotel Cielo Rojo

Of all of the hotels in San Pancho, I would highly recommend that you stay at Hotel Cielo Rojo .  This is where I stayed during my most recent visit (which was not sponsored – they didn’t know I was a blogger and I paid full price for my room) and I am still obsessed with the stunning decor and top-notch customer service.  For a full run-down of all the things I loved about my stay, check out my review of Hotel Cielo Rojo .

Hotel Casa San Pancho

This is the top-rated hotel in San Pancho.  Set back from the main street, it is a ten-minute walk away from the beach and five minutes from popular restaurants and shops.  At Hotel Casa San Pancho , the design is more modern and minimalist than at Hotel Cielo Rojo, but what it lacks in personality it makes up for in amenities (including a swimming pool and shared lounge area) and a wider assortment of breakfast dishes (including homemade bread every morning!).

Hostal San Pancho Hostel

Spent all your money on a new surfboard? Hostal San Pancho Hostel is the best budget hostel in San Pancho with clean, comfortable dorms and private rooms, a shared kitchen area and a spacious lounge to relax in after a taxing day of surfing.  It’s a five-minute walk from the hostel to the main beach, along San Pancho’s main road.

Other Vacation Rentals & Hotel Options

Restaurants in san pancho, mexico.

For a small town, San Pancho has a surprising number of really great restaurants.  There’s a good balance of traditional Mexican cuisine, healthy food and international flavors at the many restaurants lining Avenida Tercer Mundo (the main street running from the highway to the beach).

Bistro Organico Restaurant

Located inside Hotel Cielo Rojo , Bistro Organico is open daily for breakfast and lunch, with seasonal opening hours for dinner.  They have a fantastic menu of both sweet and savory dishes, mostly plant-based but also featuring some local dairy and seafood (but no red meat!).  Check out my review of the hotel to see the pretty fruit bowl they serve to hotel guests for breakfast, or just stare at that omelet with herb-roasted potatoes and avocado (with a fresh green juice to boot!) until your mouth waters.

El Gallo Restaurant

Before I stayed overnight in San Pancho, I first visited as a day trip from Sayulita . As I was walking into town I passed El Gallo, a large courtyard restaurant built around an open kitchen.  It was actually their expansive menu of traditional Mexican breakfast dishes that sealed the deal and had me checking into Hotel Cielo Rojo the next day.  Service here is a little bit slow because it’s a big restaurant and they don’t have tons of servers, but the food is definitely worth the wait. My chilaquiles enmoladas (fried tortilla strips sauteed in a dark Oaxacan mole sauce) were served with refried black beans, sauteed mushrooms and an assortment of fresh salsas, and everything was delicious.

La Voz de Mi Tierra Restaurant

A cute little 100% vegan restaurant popped up on the corner of Avenida Tercer Mundo and Calle Africa.  Called La Voz de Mi Tierra ( The Voice of My Land ), it had a great concept, with a curated menu of sandwiches, bowls, smoothies, baked goods, coffee and tea.  I had a sandwich with guacamole, hummus, grilled portabello mushroom, lettuce, tomato and onion, along with a pot of loose-leaf peppermint tea.  There was only seating for about four or six people here, but it’s a great place to grab a to-go meal before a hike or excursion.

* La Voz de Mi Tierra is now closed. 

Cafe Paraiso Bakery and Coffee Shop

Cafe Paraiso is a homey cafe and bakery on Avenida Tercer Mundo.  Every day they serve an assortment of fresh-baked goods (I opted for a pineapple-carrot muffin as a light lunch during my first day trip to San Pancho) and many locals say they have the best coffee in town.  Sit inside on the comfortable couches and lounge chairs, or grab an outdoor table for a little people watching.

La Michoacana Ice Cream Shop

If you’ve ever traveled in Mexico, you are probably familiar with the La Michoacana brand name.  Chances are good you’ve seen – and probably visited – an ice cream shop serving hard ice cream and a huge assortment of pre-made ice cream bars (called paletas ).  What you might not have known is that over the years, La Michoacana has essentially gone rogue, and today there are approximately 15,000 ice cream shops using this brand name, mostly operated somewhat underneath three completely unrelated parent companies but with a few operating completely independently.  Basically, anyone can open a La Michoacana, serve whatever they want and use the name in their branding, but it’s not corporate-owned or even a franchise.  There are actually two ice cream shops in San Pancho that use the La Michocana name – the one shown above, which is quite large, and a smaller corner store closer to the beach.  Stop by either if you’re looking for a cool treat on a hot day (and a business lesson!).

Maria’s Restaurant

Sorry, no photo!  Maria’s Restaurant was so packed during my entire stay that I felt weird about taking a photo that would inevitably show the other diners, ranging from other travelers to families celebrating a q uinceanera .  I visited for dinner on my first night in San Pancho, opting for a two-course meal featuring their house salad and a vegetarian pasta dish (with a margarita too, of course!).  Both of my dishes were delicious, even if they weren’t particularly Mexican. I can see why this is one of the busiest restaurants in San Pancho!  This is a great place for dinner with a group, but definitely swing by earlier in the day to make a dinner reservation if you want to dine at normal dinner hours.

Things to Do in San Pancho, Mexico

San Pancho isn’t the place to visit if you’re looking for an action-packed holiday.  However, if you’re looking to relax and recharge, or if you’re a confident surfer, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for on San Pancho’s shores.

San Pancho Beach / Playa San Pancho

The expansive beach at the end of Avenida Tercer Mundo is San Pancho’s gem.  The rougher waters and stronger undertows make swimming a near-impossibility, but there’s plenty of space for everyone to lay out their beach blanket, pop up their umbrella and relax with a good book or a cold beer.  There are a few beach chair rentals available from the bar on the beach, but it’s also worth asking your hotel if they can provide the essentials (Hotel Cielo Rojo provided me with a beach chair, umbrella and towel).

Surfing in San Pancho, Mexico

If you’re already a confident surfer, you won’t want to miss the surfing in San Pancho.  There are surf board rentals right on the beach and at the surf shops along Avenida Tercer Mundo. The experts at the surf shop can direct you to the best breaks, but during my visit it was pretty clear that most people were surfing on the south end of the beach.

If you’re not a confident surfer, it’s best to get comfortable on the waves in Sayulita before trying the larger waves in San Pancho.

Shopping in San Pancho

San Pancho has a nice assortment of independent boutique entshops, most of which are still featuring local and handmade items (rather than mass market souvenirs imported from China).  There are some lovely clothing, jewelry shops and home decor, and the Galeria San Pancho (near the beach) has an eclectic mix of all three.  San Pancho has lots of surf shops that can hook you up with all the gear you’ll need while you’re on the water (buy or rent) plus all the cool clothes you’ll want to wear on land.

The Entreamigos Community Center

One of my favorite things about San Pancho was the Entreamigos Community Center .  This huge building is clearly the community hub, featuring a multilingual library, youth programs, classes for the local community on topics like gardening, parenting and entrepreneurship, athletic facilities, a vegan cafe and – yes – clean public toilets.  There is also a lovely gift shop inside, where the products include local artisan goods, organic health and beauty products made from local ingredients, and accessories and home decor made from recycled materials.  It’s lovely to see the community coming together for the common good… and it’s definitely worth leaving a donation during your visit!

San Pancho Turtle Releases

As you approach the main beach in San Pancho, you’ll see this sign that proudly announces the one million baby turtles that were released on San Pancho’s beaches between 1990 and 2015.  Led by Project Tortuga , San Pancho is working to save its local sea turtle population through conservation efforts that include protecting sea turtle eggs, releasing the hatchlings and educating the community about environmental issues.  Nesting season typically runs from May through November, so contact Project Tortuga if your visit falls in that time frame and you’d like to help out!

Day Trips From San Pancho, Mexico

There are lots of interesting day trips that are accessible from San Pancho.  You can try scuba diving or whale watching with a Sayulita- or Punta Mita-based tour operator, who can easily arrange transfers from Punta Mita.  They can also organize excursions to the Marietas Islands, where you can see the world-famous blue-footed boobies and visit the pretty hidden beach.

Brave travelers might want to visit the El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary in nearby Nuevo Vallarta, or head north to the La Tovara Springs near San Blas to see crocodiles in their natural habitat (rental car required).

Of course, you can always escape San Pancho for the day by hopping one of the regular regional buses that travel to Sayulita , then Bucerias, and finally onward to Puerto Vallarta.

San Pancho Life

Thinking of setting down in San Pancho, Mexico for more than a week or two?  There are quite a few things that make San Pancho life special, from the wide array of holistic lifestyle services to the town’s commitment to eco-friendly practices.

Healthy Living in San Pancho

San Pancho is an up-and-coming hot spot for travelers and digital nomads interested in living a healthy lifestyle.  There are several yoga studios in San Pancho, including Yoga in San Pancho, Paraiso Yoga,  and El Estar Yoga.  Most offer drop-in and registered yoga classes, as well as occasional teacher training programs.

Body treatments are available at Angelical Spa, and I also saw a weekly drop-in meditation class being advertised on one of the community noticeboards.  Keep an eye on these bulletin boards for information about services offered by visiting natural health professionals!

San Pancho Co-Working Spaces

I saw a small co-working space on Avenida Tercer Mundo; you can contact them via Facebook to see their current opening hours and services.  If they’re closed during your visit to San Pancho, your best access to (relatively) high-speed internet with a side of strong coffee is probably at Bistro Organico.

San Pancho Recycling

As a frequent visitor to Mexico, I have often bemoaned the amount of recyclable materials that end up in the trash.  I was so impressed to learn that Entreamigos Community Center has implemented a recycling program for plastic, glass and metal, with recycling bins set up all around town.  Do you part to keep San Pancho clean by generating less waste and, when you can’t avoid using disposable packaging, making sure that it gets recycled.  Future San Pancho will thank you!

If you’re traveling in Nayarit, Mexico , make sure to spent a few days in Sayulita (San Pancho’s larger neighbor) where you can eat at some of Sayulita’s best restaurants .

In case you missed it, I recommend staying at Hotel Cielo Rojo during your visit to San Pancho.

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