Your Perfect Day Trip to Bucerías from Marival Emotions
May 07, 2025
Category: Lifestyle
Category: Lifestyle
Let’s just say it. Nuevo Nayarit is amazing. Gorgeous beaches, awesome resorts (hello, Marival Emotions!), and all the sunshine your heart desires. But there’s so much more to this beautiful stretch of the Pacific Coast. Ready to wander just a little further? Let us introduce you to Bucerías, a colorful beach town where time slows down, the art scene dazzles, and tacos are always a good idea.
Bucerías: The Beach Town That’s Just Around the Corner
Bucerías is set along Banderas Bay in the state of Nayarit. It’s got that sweet small-town charm, plus a great location. You’re still close to all the popular resort areas, and less than 20 minutes from Marival Emotions! That makes it perfect for a quick day trip if you’re in the mood for local flavor, a new beach to explore, and maybe a margarita or two.
How Do I Get to Bucerías? Easy Directions for a Quick Escape
Getting to Bucerías from Marival Emotions is a breeze. You’ll be there in about 15 to 20 minutes by car. Here's the play-by-play:
- Exit the resort and turn left onto Paseo de los Cocoteros, heading north.
- Turn right at Boulevard Central.
- Keep going until it merges with Highway 200.
- Merge left (northbound) onto the highway and drive about 5 more minutes.
- You’ll see signs for Bucerías. When you pass the Chedraui grocery store, you’re basically there.
- Turn left into town and follow the signs for the beach, plaza, or dining area, depending on your vibe.
- Parking? No problem. Street parking is available near the plaza and beach. Just keep an eye out for the no-parking zones.
Small Town, Big Personality: Things to Do in Bucerías
Bucerías might be small, but it packs in the fun with art, nature, beaches, and a healthy dash of adventure. Shall we explore?
El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary
This one’s for wildlife lovers. Just a few minutes from the resort and located in a lush estuary, El Cora is home to crocodiles, macaws, coatis, and more. It’s open 10:00 am to 5:00 pm (closed Mondays), and you can visit on your own or take a guided 1-hour tour to really get the scoop on the local critters.
The Bucerías Art Walk
If you're around between November and April, don’t miss this vibrant experience! Every Thursday, the Art Walk transforms the town’s Art District into a colorful, creative wonderland. Local artists open their galleries and studios, and you can browse everything from blown glass to photography. Start at Art Walk Plaza on Calle Lázaro Cárdenas, grab a map, and wander away.
Parroquia Nuestra Señora de la Paz (Our Lady of Peace Parish)
Right in the town’s central plaza, this lovely white church is peaceful and picturesque, with a traditional Mexican style. It’s an easy stop for photos, a bit of quiet reflection, or to attend a daily mass if that’s part of your travel rhythm.
Playa Bucerías (Bucerías Beach)
This is not just a beach… This is the beach. Bucerías Beach is the longest in Banderas Bay, stretching over 5 miles of soft sand and swimmable waves. It’s great for families, windsurfers, boogie boarders, or anyone looking to relax with their toes in the sand and a drink in hand. Tons of beachfront bars and restaurants line the shore too, so you’ll never go hungry (or thirsty).
Boat Tour to the Marietas Islands
Want to level up your beach day? Book a tour to the famous Marietas Islands, just offshore from Bucerías. You can snorkel, swim, spot wildlife, and even visit the Hidden Beach: one of Mexico’s most iconic spots. Tours range from half-day to full-day adventures, so pick the one that suits you best.
Bucerías Bike and Food Tour
Ready to pedal and eat your way through town? This 3-hour bike tour covers over 6 miles, stopping at some of the area’s best local eats, both in town and out in the countryside. Come hungry and leave happy.
What Transportation Can I Take? Pick Your Adventure.
No car? No problem. When staying at Marival Emotions, you have a few easy, fast, and affordable options available to get from the resort to Bucerías for a memorable day trip and to explore the town’s attractions.
Taxi: The easiest and quickest way to get from Marival Emotions resort to Bucerías is with a taxi, which you can request with the bell staff directly from the resort lobby for $500 pesos one way.
Uber: Uber also provides service in the Riviera Nayarit. You can order an Uber to pick you up directly at the hotel and take you to Bucerías for about $180 pesos one way, depending on the time and ride type.
Public bus: The most affordable option at less than $20 pesos, the ATM bus has routes that run from Nuevo Vallarta to Bucerías. Look for the routes headed north that say Bucerias, Compostela or Punta de Mita.
Ready to Explore?
Bucerías is the kind of place that sneaks up on you, in the best way. It’s easygoing, walkable, and full of unexpected gems. Whether you’re in it for the beach, the food, the art, or just a break from the resort scene, it’s worth carving out a day to visit. So grab your sunglasses and sunscreen, pack your camera, and go see what this Nayarit treasure is all about.
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