75. Banderas Bay (Bahía de Banderas)
Bahía de Banderas, or Banderas Bay, is one of the largest and most inviting natural bays on Mexico’s Pacific coast. Encompassing the vibrant city of Puerto Vallarta and the tranquil towns of La Cruz, Nuevo Vallarta, and Yelapa, this region is a boater’s playground—offering excellent marinas, warm weather, rich culture, and endless cruising options.
Here’s your complete guide to exploring Banderas Bay by boat.
📍 Where Is Banderas Bay?
- Located in Jalisco and Nayarit, on Mexico’s southwest Pacific coast.
- Roughly 60 NM south of San Blas, 190 NM from Mazatlán.
- Naturally protected and over 25 miles wide—ideal for day sails, anchoring, and seasonal cruising.
⚓ Top Marinas in Banderas Bay
🛥️ Marina Vallarta (Puerto Vallarta)
- Closest to downtown and the airport.
- Good for provisioning, restaurants, and nightlife.
- Limited slips and slightly older facilities.
🛥️ Paradise Village Marina (Nuevo Vallarta)
- Full-service marina with resort access.
- Amenities: pools, gym, laundry, immigration, fuel dock.
- Very popular with seasonal cruisers.
🛥️ Marina Riviera Nayarit (La Cruz de Huanacaxtle)
- Modern and spacious with slips for boats up to 400’.
- Home to the vibrant cruiser community with workshops, events, farmer’s market, and sailing school.
- Great access to boat services and chandlery.
⚓ Anchorage Hotspots
La Cruz Anchorage
- Great holding in sand.
- Dinghy dock access to the marina and town.
- Social hub for long-term cruisers.
Yelapa
- Remote, picturesque village on the southern bay.
- Anchor off the beach and take a panga ashore.
- No road access—only by boat!
Punta de Mita
- Western tip of the bay, excellent for surfing and beach days.
- Good daytime anchorage, exposed to swell at night.
🐋 Things to Do on the Bay
1. Whale Watching (December–March)
- Humpback whales come to mate and calve—sightings are almost guaranteed.
2. Fishing & Diving
- Sailfish, dorado, and tuna are plentiful.
- Dive sites include Los Arcos and offshore reefs.
3. Explore Puerto Vallarta
- Colonial charm meets resort town.
- Malecon boardwalk, markets, nightlife, and gourmet dining.
4. Visit Sayulita or San Pancho
- North of the bay—great day trips for surf, shopping, and artsy beach life.
🛒 Provisioning & Services
- Excellent provisioning with Costco, Walmart, and Mexican supermarkets nearby.
- Marine services are abundant in La Cruz and Puerto Vallarta.
- Fuel docks at all major marinas.
- Easy access to mechanics, sail repair, marine electronics, and more.
🛂 Clearance & Paperwork
- Official port of entry—clear customs and immigration at:
- Marina Vallarta
- Paradise Village
- Marina Riviera Nayarit
- All the usual documents: TIP, FMM, crew list, insurance, and registration.
🌮 Culture & Cuisine
- Famous for fresh seafood, tacos al pastor, and tuba (palm wine).
- Weekly markets in La Cruz, cultural events in PV, and beach bonfires in Yelapa.
- Popular cruising events: Banderas Bay Regatta, SailFest, and Cruiser’s Breakfasts.
🌊 Boating Tips
- Best season: November to May.
- Hurricane season: June to November—summers are hot and humid but the bay is relatively protected.
- Social VHF net: Channel 22 at 8:30 a.m. daily (La Cruz-based).
🛥️ In Summary
Banderas Bay is a cruiser’s dream—calm waters, world-class marinas, a warm social scene, and unforgettable day trips. Whether you’re waiting out weather, preparing for a Pacific crossing, or just enjoying the rhythm of Mexican coastal life, this bay offers it all.
Need a slip, crew, or provisioning help in Banderas Bay? BoatNCrew.com connects you with trusted marina partners, expert skippers, and local services from La Cruz to Puerto Vallarta.
Drop anchor in the heart of Mexico’s Pacific Riviera—you won’t want to leave. 🇲🇽⛵🐋