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 feedback from the noforeignland community:

Anchorages

	Playa Mazunte	5.0 ★	Review summary: 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	4.8 ★	Review summary: Anchoring conditions vary. A rocky seabed presents challenges for chain recovery, while also providing opportunities for snorkeling and birdwatching. The east side is regarded as the best anchorage, though the location can be rolly with strong swells.
	Bahia de Organo	4.8 ★	Review summary: The anchorage's setting is pleasant, with a beautiful beach and clear water. Many visitors reported comfort with stern anchoring, and a few experienced minimal roll. Accessibility to a nearby road facilitates taxi rides and hiking into town.
	Zihuatanejo	4.7 ★	Review summary: The anchorage offers good holding and easy access for beach landings. Many visitors comment on the friendly atmosphere in the town, highlighting the vibrant malecón and local events. While the water quality is noted as murky, the location remains a favored stop for cruisers.
	Tenacatita Bay	4.7 ★	Review summary: 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.
	Bahia Chachacual	4.6 ★	Review summary: Visitors appreciate the beautiful scenery and secluded anchoring after day tourists leave. Conditions can be rolly, but setting a stern anchor can improve comfort. The clear waters are ideal for snorkeling, and many enjoyed watching sea turtles along the beach.
	Barra de Navidad	4.6 ★	Review summary: 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.
	Papanoa	4.5 ★	Review summary: 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.
	Las Hadas	4.5 ★	Review summary: Anchorage is characterized by sand and mud bottoms with depths of around 24-25 feet. Visitors reported calm conditions, although swells could occasionally make it rolly. Access to amenities is convenient, with restaurants and shops available nearby.
	Isla San Augustin	4.5 ★	Review summary: This anchorage is noted for its peaceful environment and sandy bottom. Visitors mentioned anchoring was achievable at depths of 11 to 15 feet. The islands are designated as a wildlife reserve, with anchoring reported as generally acceptable.

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Marinas

	Marina El Cid	4.7 ★	Review summary: Marina El Cid features friendly staff and easy check-in procedures. Visitors appreciate the facilities, including pools, restaurants, and nearby beaches. Be aware of potential depth issues in slips, especially at low tide.
	Ixtapa Marina	4.4 ★	Review summary: 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 Riviera Nayarit, Mexico	4.1 ★	Review summary: A sense of community is evident, with events and educational activities enhancing the marina experience. Security and friendly staff contribute to a pleasant atmosphere. The marina is conveniently located near amenities, although some areas appear to require updates.
	Marina Puerto de la Navidad	3.9 ★	Review summary: Docks require maintenance and show signs of deterioration, according to multiple Reviews. The marina provides access to useful facilities and a pleasant pool area. Visitors appreciate the staff's attentiveness, but note limited waste pumpout options.
	Paradise Village Marina	3.8 ★	Review summary: Access to Paradise Village Marina is often highlighted for its facilities and security. Staff interactions receive mixed reviews. Channel depth varies, with reports of shallower areas at certain tides affecting entry.

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Moorings

	Acapulco - Vincente Moorings	4.8 ★	Review summary: Mooring services are available with responsive assistance from Vicente. Visitors can use mooring balls equipped with rings and arrange fuel delivery. The area is affected by city noise and debris from previous storms, but offers access to local amenities.
	Yalapa Mooring Buoys	3.9 ★	Review summary: 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 feedback from the noforeignland community:

Boatyards

	Marina Riviera Nayarit at La Cruz	4.8 ★	Review summary: Safe and professional services are available at this boat yard. The staff is attentive and experienced in handling catamarans and other projects. Visitors appreciate the nearby restaurants and amenities in the town.
	Marina Seca - FONATUR San Blas	4.5 ★	Review summary: Service capabilities include haul-out and maintenance for vessels. Fees for services reported are around 12000-14000 MXN for in and out, plus additional charges for mechanics and towing. Experiences indicate effective communication and operations, with the marina providing reliable facilities.

Chandlers

	La Casa d Pescador	5.0 ★	Review summary: 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.
	Mexico Marine	4.7 ★	Review summary: 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 ★	Review summary: 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.

This table summarizes first-hand reviews from sailors who have checked in to this part of Mexico.

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