Southern Pacific Coast

Cruising routes along Mexico’s Pacific coast connect North American departure points with the Sea of Cortez, the wider Pacific, Central America, the Panama Canal, and the Caribbean. Southbound boats work their way from Baja and the Sea of Cortez, then either continue along the coast of Central America or turn west across the Pacific.

Midway along this coast, a key services hub lies at Bahía de Banderas, with multiple marinas, haul‑out and repair options, and full provisioning on hand in La Cruz and Puerto Vallarta.

The Playa del Amor, or Hidden Beach, is a tiny pocket of sand enclosed by a near‑circular rock crater, forming a sheltered “hidden” cove that opens to the sea through a low tunnel. It sits at the entrance to Bahía de Banderas within the protected waters of Islas Marietas National Park, a small offshore island group at the bay’s mouth.

La Quebrada in Acapulco is famous for its cliff divers, who leap from around 35 meters into a narrow ocean inlet. The tradition began in the 1930s as informal challenges among local swimmers and evolved into an organized tourist spectacle, now performed daily by professional divers from multi‑generation local families.

National parks and other protected areas along Mexico’s Pacific coast may have no‑anchoring zones, access controls, or permit requirements; skippers should confirm current rules and any conservation fees with CONANP (Comisión Nacional de Áreas Naturales Protegidas) before entering.

Hurricane season on this coast runs from mid‑May to late November. Most boats head south from Baja and the Sea of Cortez between October and March, then move north again between March and May, before the start of summer.

Places to stay

Below are the most popular and highly rated places to stay, based on reviews from the noforeignland community:

Anchorages

	Playa Mazunte ★ 5.0 The anchorage offers good protection and holding conditions, accommodating about three boats comfortably. Visitors appreciate the vibrant town atmosphere, with various dining options and local culture. Swells can be significant, particularly with southeast winds.
	Isla Isabela ★ 4.7 Celebrated for its breathtaking wildlife, Isla Isabela attracts visitors with opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, and stunning views. The anchorage can be challenging due to rolling conditions, but its natural beauty and unique bird species create a memorable experience.
	Bahia de Organo ★ 4.7 This anchorage provides good holding and is generally calm, with a few boats manageable. A stern anchor is recommended for comfort during swells and changing winds. Easy access to taxis and hiking trails enhances the experience for visitors.
	Isla Isabela South ★ 4.7 The anchorage offers clear waters for snorkeling and bird watching. Hiking trails provide views of whales and the surrounding area. Visitors noted the presence of a sandy patch for anchoring, accommodating at least two boats.
	Tenacatita Bay ★ 4.7 Tenacatita Bay features excellent protection and a sandy bottom suitable for anchoring. The anchorage can become crowded at peak times, yet it offers easy access to beautiful beaches and activities such as dinghy tours through the mangroves. The community is welcoming and enriching.
	Barra de Navidad ★ 4.6 Entering the lagoon requires careful attention to depth due to shallow areas, with reported muddy conditions affecting anchor retrieval. Visitors enjoy the calm waters, charming local town, and reliable water taxi service for access to provisions. The French baker’s offerings are well-liked among guests.
	Las Hadas ★ 4.6 Anchorage has a calm environment with good holding and welcoming services. Several restaurants offer dining options nearby. Access to town is straightforward via dinghy, taxi, or bus, enhancing the overall experience.
	Bahia Chachacual ★ 4.5 Bay conditions vary, with reports of a rolly anchorage. Visitors can enjoy good snorkeling and a quiet setting after day-trippers leave. Anchoring may require care due to swell and other vessels, particularly in crowded conditions.
	Papanoa ★ 4.5 The anchorage is well-protected and offers a calm environment for staying overnight. Visitors appreciated the various activities nearby, including a water park, but some mentioned the anchorage bottom being rocky. There are also numerous dining options accessible by dinghy.
	Zihuatanejo ★ 4.3 The anchorage presents challenges with murky water that can lead to significant growth on hulls, as mentioned in multiple reviews. Visitors appreciate the easy beach landing and the town's vibrant atmosphere, but note issues with boat traffic and swell. Good holding is reported on sandy bottom.

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Marinas

	Marina El Cid ★ 4.7 Facilities include pools, hot tubs, and restaurants. The marina has friendly staff and provides good access to resort amenities. Depth management can be challenging due to dredging operations, and visitors should be cautious of low tides.
	Ixtapa Marina ★ 4.4 The marina has a tight entry requiring focus on the center with a depth of around 6.7 feet at mid-tide. Security is noted as visible, and the staff generally provide friendly assistance. Access to local transport, including collectivos, enhances the convenience for visitors.
	Marina Puerto de la Navidad ★ 4.1 Facilities are available for visitors to use, including a hotel pool. The docks are reportedly in poor condition, with some falling apart. Multiple Reviews mention a nice atmosphere and that staff provide good service.
	Marina Riviera Nayarit, Mexico ★ 4.0 Docks are secured, but several visitors reported maintenance issues. Water quality is problematic with odors from holding tanks and debris present. Staff assistance is noted positively, and proximity to amenities enhances convenience.
	Paradise Village Marina ★ 3.9 The marina features clean and modern docks, with excellent amenities such as nice showers and pools. Service quality is highlighted consistently, although there are concerns regarding communication and response times for reservations. Access may be limited during low tides.

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Moorings

	Acapulco - Vincente Moorings ★ 4.6 Mooring services at Vincente Moorings are available at 400 pesos per night. Visitors found the moorings secure, with easy access to nearby attractions. Communication with Vicente was generally efficient, assisting with logistics such as fuel and water taxi arrangements.
	Yalapa Mooring Buoys ★ 3.9 Mooring conditions can be rolly, especially in calm weather when boats align with the swell. Most moorings are priced at 500 pesos per night, with stern ties available for an additional 300 pesos. Visitors are advised to confirm arrangements in advance.

Boat services

Below are the most popular and highly rated boat services, based on reviews from the noforeignland community:

Boatyards

	Marina Riviera Nayarit at La Cruz ★ 4.8 Service at the marina is attentive and professional. Various amenities are available, including a dinghy dock and pool. Haul-out services are executed with care, catering primarily to both local and visiting vessels.
	Marina Seca - FONATUR San Blas ★ 4.7 Services for hauling out boats are available, with visitors reporting comprehensive maintenance and skilled support. Costs for hauling out vary, with specific prices noted. Communication with staff is emphasized, contributing positively to the overall experience.

Chandlers

	La Casa d Pescador ★ 5.0 A solid variety of boat supplies and parts is available. The chandlery offers reasonable pricing compared to both Amazon Mexico and US prices. Be prepared to pay in cash as card reader issues may occur.
	SERVICIOS MARITIMOS DE ACAPULCO ★ 5.0 Access to boat-specific parts is available at this chandler. It is one of only two locations in Acapulco supplying such parts for boating needs. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.
No image	Fishing shop in San Blas ★ 5.0 The chandler offers limited selection. The owner, Ignacio, speaks English and assists with contacting services for boat work. Visitors should check recent Reviews for additional context or updates.
	Mexico Marine ★ 4.7 A variety of marine supplies is available, including engine oil sold in bulk and hose connections. The staff is friendly and speaks English. Visitors mention the good selection of parts and the organized layout within the small space.
	Accesorios Maritimos SA de ★ 3.5 The chandler has a well-stocked inventory, including hypalon patch glue, West System epoxy, and various marine cleaning products. Inventory limitations may include the absence of plastic plumbing connections. The location requires a cab ride from nearby marinas.

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Useful yacht clearance links:

Yacht clearance reviews

The following lists summarize noforeignland user reviews for clearing in at ports of entry and when using clearance agents in Mexico: