The Western Pacific

Morelia. Photo by Stephany Slaughter.

By Christopher Minster

Mexico’s Western Pacific region includes the states of Nayarit, Jalisco, Colima and Michoacán. It is known for a generally mild climate (except for the coast) and some very nice beaches.

Jalisco is known for its bustling capital of Guadalajara, the city which gave Mexico not only Mariachi music but Tequila as well. It features some marvelous colonial architecture, including some particularly interesting government buildings, theaters and religious buildings.  It also offers some of the best golf courses in Mexico. The beach resort town of Puerto Vallarta is also in Jalisco state. Mismaloya Beach is known for celebrity sightings, and the malecón (boardwalk) is a great place for a stroll. Puerto Vallarta is a well-known stop on the cruise ship circuit.

The state of Nayarit is an often-overlooked visitor destination. Some of the highlights include Mexcaltitán Island, a popular spot home to wildlife and interesting flora, and Vallarta-Nayarit, a long stretch of gorgeous beaches. The small towns along the Nayarit coast are home to world-class fishing and many annual tournaments are held there. The historic city of San Blas is a dreamy visitor destination you won’t want to leave.

Colima is a tiny state—one of Mexico’s smallest—but it nevertheless has much to see and do. El Nevado de Colima is a picturesque mountain popular with hikers and photographers, and active El Volcán de Fuego (Fire Volcano) as also a popular attraction. On the coast, Manzanillo is a posh resort known as “The Sailfish Capital of the World.” Manzanillo boasts many fine hotels, restaurants and beaches.

Michoacán is a beautiful region of the country. The capital, Morelia, is a stunning city with colonial architecture and pleasant places to stroll. Nearby, the El Rosario Monarch butterfly reserve is an unforgettable trip: millions of butterflies covering everything…even visitors! There are several important national parks in this state as well. The Day of the dead celebration in Pátzcuaro draws visitors from around the world.

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