74. ⛵ Boating to San Blas, Nayarit: A Hidden Gem on Mexico’s Pacific Coast
Nestled along the lush coast of Nayarit, San Blas is a charming and historic town that offers a quiet, authentic alternative to Mexico’s more developed marinas. For boaters, it’s a tranquil anchorage with natural beauty, mangrove estuaries, and warm hospitality—ideal for those seeking serenity, wildlife, and cultural depth on their voyage down the Mexican Riviera.
Here’s your full boating guide to San Blas, Nayarit.
📍 Where Is San Blas?
- Located on the Pacific mainland, about 125 NM south of Mazatlán and 60 NM north of Banderas Bay (Puerto Vallarta).
- Set at the mouth of the Río San Cristóbal, surrounded by jungle and estuaries.
- A historic port with colonial roots and an old-world charm that sets it apart.
⚓ Approaching & Anchorage
⚠️ Approach Notes
- Shoaling is common—follow charts and arrive with daylight and rising tide.
- Watch for sandbars and swell at the river entrance.
- The channel is narrow—stay centered and cautious.
⚓ Anchorage Options
- Estuary Anchorage: Calm and well-protected, located inside the river mouth near the town.
- Depths around 8–12 feet. Good holding in mud/sand.
- Mosquitoes and no-see-ums can be aggressive—bring screens and repellent.
🛥️ Marina & Services
Marina Fonatur San Blas
- Government-run marina with 60 slips and basic services.
- Power, water, fuel truck delivery, showers, laundry, and Wi-Fi.
- Economical rates, but limited availability in peak season.
Onshore Services
- Small chandlery, groceries, mechanic availability (basic), and laundry nearby.
- Best provisioning in Tepic (45 mins inland) or Puerto Vallarta (by bus or delivery).
🦜 What to Do in San Blas
1. Jungle River Tour (La Tovara)
- Hire a panga tour through the mangroves—spot crocodiles, tropical birds, turtles, and freshwater springs.
- A must-do and great for photos.
2. Explore Historic San Blas
- Visit the 18th-century fort and church ruins with sweeping views of the bay.
- Walk cobblestone streets and enjoy peaceful plazas.
3. Bird Watching
- The surrounding wetlands are a birding paradise with over 500 species.
4. Surfing
- Surfers flock to Playa Las Islitas, famous for long breaks and relaxed vibes.
🧭 Clearance & Entry
- San Blas has a port captain but is not a major port of entry.
- Most boaters check in at Mazatlán or Nuevo Vallarta and stop at San Blas afterward.
- Ensure your TIP, FMM, and boat documents** are in order.
🌮 Dining & Culture
- Try Pescado Zarandeado (grilled fish) or shrimp aguachile.
- Street food and family-run eateries offer authentic flavors.
- Don’t miss a sunset drink at one of the riverfront palapas.
🌊 Boating Tips
- Mosquitoes/No-See-Ums: Bring repellents, screens, and long sleeves.
- Swells: Watch for large Pacific swell—especially during winter storms.
- Weather: Great from November to May. Rainy season brings humidity and bugs.
- Hurricane Watch: Like most of Pacific Mexico, June–November is hurricane season—San Blas is somewhat protected upriver, but not ideal as a storm hole.
🛥️ In Summary
San Blas is the kind of place cruisers either stumble upon or purposefully seek out for a more meaningful experience. It’s peaceful, affordable, and culturally rich—making it one of the Pacific’s best-kept cruising secrets.
Need help navigating to San Blas or arranging a slip? BoatNCrew.com helps boaters with marina bookings, panga tours, and provisioning coordination throughout Mexico’s Pacific Coast.
Come for the estuary, stay for the soul of San Blas. 🇲🇽⛵🌴