If you’re anything like me, then the chances are that you too have an insatiable appetite for travel escapism at the moment. So it was a real treat this week to learn about the hidden beach in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico! writes Andrew Forbes @andrewaforbes
This spectacular natural wonder is a pristine haven for nature, making its transparent waters and coral reefs ideal for diving and snorkeling.
There’s a very good reason why this beach is ‘hidden’, as access is underground and only possible by swimming through a tunnel.
It’s evocative of Alex Garland’s mythical Beach – yet don’t expect all the problems of overcrowding that sadly forced Thailand’s Maya Bay to close.
Instead, this hidden beach in the Marietas Islands National Park in Riviera Nayarit, is truly protected.
Privileged, Restricted Access
If you want to be one of the 100 or so super privileged people that can access the beach each day (for an allocated time) then you need to book.
From Punta Mita, in the south of Riviera Nayarit, you need to take a 45-minute boat ride. Once there, you must jump off the boat and swim to the entrance.
Rare Wildlife
The fauna that we can find in this paradise is made up of turtles, barber butterflies, humpback parrots or steel swallows, various species of fish, dolphins and humpback whales. Among these species, the peculiar blue-footed booby stands out, which we can only find in two parts of the planet: Marietas Islands and the Galapagos Islands.
Information
Renowned for its eclectic charm, luxurious hospitality and authentic appeal, Riviera Nayarit has earned global recognition as the Pacific Coast’s treasure destination. Situated within Mexican state Nayarit, the region offers 192 miles of pristine Pacific coastline, the wondrous Sierra Madre Mountains, the spectacular Banderas Bay and endless protected natural marvels. Riviera Nayarit is home to resort town Nuevo Vallarta, historic village San Blas, exclusive celebrity haven Punta de Mita, “boho-chic” surf mecca Sayulita and a variety of picturesque fishing villages. Activities include from world-class golf courses, zip lining, diving and surfing to bird watching, whale watching and turtle release programs. Accommodations range from luxury branded resort destinations and family-friendly all-inclusive to intimate boutique properties and everything in between. A further testament to the destination’s hospitality offerings, Riviera Nayarit boasts four AAA Five Diamond hotels, 11 AAA Four Diamond hotels and 13 AAA Three Diamond hotels. Rounding out the destination’s allure, superior quality international gastronomy awaits including a AAA Five Diamond restaurant, six AAA Four Diamond restaurants and 26 AAA Three Diamond restaurants. Riviera Nayarit is just 10 minutes north of Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR).
Getting to Riviera Nayarit
TUI operates direct flights to Puerto Vallarta International Airport, Riviera Nayarit’s main airport of entry from Manchester and London Gatwick. Daily connections are also available with Aeromexico from London Heathrow via Mexico City airport. Check cancellation policy and T&Cs ahead of booking.
Website: www.RivieraNayarit.com,
