Chacalilla Bay: A Coastal Refuge Sheltered by High Rocks

On Highway 200 North, after passing through Rincón de Guayabitos and La Peñita de Jaltemba, you will find a town named Las Varas. After passing it, you will reach a turnoff you need to take to get to Chacala. Just over half a mile from there is the Chacalilla Bay, a beautiful coastal refuge and the vast horizon of the Mexican Pacific, which stands out for its relaxing environment and beautiful landscapes.

With calm waves, the beaches of Chacalilla Bay are sheltered by high rocks where numerous species of fauna live. With a little luck and a lot of attention, you might be able to spot them in their natural habitat.

On this beach there are several palapa restaurants on the seashore, where you can taste refreshing drinks, as well as the typical dishes of the coast prepared with fresh fish and seafood. A recommendation is to try the typical Pescado Zarandeado, this dish features a sauce that is lighter and fresh, as it is prepared without so much spiciness and with fewer spices to leave a pleasant flavor to the palate. It is served with fried beans, rice, Mexican salsa and handmade tortillas.

This area also offers tourist services to get to know more attractions near the town of Chacala, such as Los Petroglifos de Altavista (a pre-Hispanic site of great importance for local anthropology) and other somewhat unnoticed beaches, including Las Cuevas and Caletas. If you choose to visit these places, it is highly recommended you go accompanied by a local guide who knows the area well.

By the way, in Chacala, Nayarit, there is an atmosphere of kindness and community spirit. In addition to finding houses with typical Mexican-style facades, craft shops and a variety of establishments to enjoy a cozy stay, as you meander through the narrow streets of this picturesque town you will quickly sense the small-town atmosphere and that all its residents know each other.