Is Nuevo Vallarta the Same as Riviera Nayarit?

If you’re looking for vibrant Mexican tradition, fresh seafood, and stunning coastline, set your sights on Riviera Nayarit nestled on Mexico’s west coast. One of the most popular destinations for many travelers within Riviera Nayarit is Nuevo Vallarta Mexico, a lush city with all inclusive resorts and miles of pristine beaches. While the two names are often used interchangeably, many travelers wonder what is the difference between Nuevo Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit. After a quick internet search, you’ll probably find that both Nuevo Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit are included in search results for the best places to vacation in Mexico. Each is located in the coastal state of Nayarit, one of Mexico’s 31 states, and they’re both incredible tropical destinations in paradise, but they actually refer to very different things.

Riviera Nayarit refers to 200 miles of tranquil Mexican coastline that stretches from the historic port city of San Blas in the north to Nuevo Vallarta Mexico in the south. If you look on a Riviera Nayarit map, you’ll see it ends where the Ameca River empties into the Pacific Ocean at the southernmost tip of the state in Nuevo Vallarta. Along the coast, you’ll find a variety of cities and villages, each bursting with its own unique style and culture. Two of the smaller yet still popular destinations for international travelers here are Sayulita and San Pancho, quiet surfing villages where you can watch surfers ride the waves, grab a fish taco from a street stand, and shop in artisan boutiques. Their cobblestone streets echo with the sounds of mariachi bands, children playing, and sizzling tacos coming off the grill. While these small towns are attractive in their own way, they are very different than Nuevo Vallarta, which is just another destination within Riviera Nayarit. One difference between Nuevo Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit is the size. Outside of Nuevo Vallarta Mexico, the other villages of Riviera Nayarit are relatively small.

When looking at a Riviera Nayarit map, it is easy to see why Nuevo Vallarta Riviera Nayarit has become one of the top destinations for families, romantic getaways, and vacations along the coast of Nayarit. Not only does it boast luxurious all inclusive resorts, miles of sandy shoreline, gourmet restaurants, bike trails, and exciting jungle tours, but it is also close to Puerto Vallarta, its sister destination, which lies just a short drive away. This close proximity allows you to enjoy the beauty and seclusion of Riviera Nayarit, while also enjoying the unique Mexican charm of Puerto Vallarta as much or as little as you’d like. If you’re looking to explore the country, Nuevo Vallarta Riviera Nayarit is a great starting point, near an international airport and major bus terminal, surrounded by all the idyllic seaside and jungle towns on the Riviera Nayarit map. If you’re choosing between Nuevo Vallarta or Riviera Nayarit, Nuevo Vallarta gives you access to all of the area’s stunning scenery and warm hospitality.

The difference between Nuevo Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit is what area you’re referring to. Nuevo Vallarta Riviera Nayarit is the most popular of all the towns on the Riviera Nayarit coast. If you’re debating between staying in Nuevo Vallarta or Riviera Nayarit villages, they’re all located on the same shores of paradise, and all easily accessible from Nuevo Vallarta. No matter where you stay on the coast, Nuevo Vallarta or Riviera Nayarit, you’ll find yourself surrounded by verdant jungle, breathtaking ocean views, and the warm Mexican culture that makes it the favorite destination of many travelers.