The state of Jalisco is located on the north Pacific coastline of mainland Mexico. It is home to the second-largest metropolis in Mexico, Mexico’s largest export, tequila, and nearby Nayarit is home to some of the most stunning beaches in all of Mexico. While you probably can do this Mexico road trip in one week, we recommend two because Mexico’s beaches are simply stunning.
Our time on the Riviera Nayarit was our first glimpse at how great the beaches of Mexico really were. It is where we celebrated our birthdays (for Eddie the BIG 3-0). Where we fell in love with the Pacifico beer. And where we ate some of the best tacos in all of Mexico! Jalisco and Nayarit are two of our favorite states in Mexico, and I am sure you will love every minute of your Mexican road trip here!
A road trip through Jalisco and Nayarit starts in none other than the capital of Guadalajara where the old world meets the new world. Guadalajara is Mexico’s second-largest city and is dubbed the Silicon Valley of Mexico. Here you will find tech companies alongside historic buildings such as the Guadalajara Cathedral. Catch a football (soccer) game and root on one of Mexico’s most popular and successful teams in the league.
Next, you will venture out to Ajijic, the next retiree haven after San Miguel de Allende. Ajijic is nestled on the shore of Lake Chapala, Mexico’s largest freshwater lake. Here you can explore the area with one of the nearby hiking trails, take a dip in a relaxing hot spring, and simply enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of the Mexican culture. The sign of Ajijic on one of the road trips in Mexico
After relaxing in Ajijic, it is on to the party in Tequila. Tequila, the birthplace of Mexico’s most famous export, is a charming colonial town just an hour outside of Guadalajara. No trip to Jalisco would be complete without stopping here to taste Mexico’s most famous export in its origin. A host of nearby distilleries arrange tours and tastings from mom and pop shops such as Tres Mujeres to large name brands such as Jose Cuervo at La Rojeña Distillery.
Don’t forget to pick up a few bottles to go as you continue on this Mexican road trip to the beautiful coastline of Jalisco and Nayarit.
Once at the beach it is all relaxation, surfing, eating, and drinking. What else could you want out of a beach holiday? The beaches here are beautiful and you won’t want to end your holiday any time soon once you finally get to sink your toes into the soft white sand of San Pancho or grab a Pacifico from one of the beach bars lining Sayulita.