Discovering Jalisco: Mexico’s Gem
Welcome to the heart of Mexico where jungle-shrouded mountains rise from the sea, blue agave fields blanket vast rolling hills, and ancient history comes alive in colonial and rural wonderlands.
Anyone looking to experience quintessential Mexico will certainly find it in the western Mexican state of Jalisco, the birthplace of mariachi music, tequila, and many other classic Mexican traditions.
At the center of it all stands the state capital Guadalajara, featuring exquisite colonial architecture, a vibrant crafts and art scene, and a diverse gastronomic offering that will tantalize your taste buds at every turn.
For some glorious beach time, head west to the Pacific coast town of Puerto Vallarta. Here, you can relax on palm-fringed sands and plunge into the wildlife-rich waters of Bahía de Banderas.
Even pandemic-wary travelers can rest easy here, perhaps on a wilderness escape to the cool mountains of San Sebastián del Oeste or on a day trip to Tequila (yes, it’s both a drink and a destination).
Here’s a closer look at a region that is so emblematic of Mexico.
Diving, Dining, and Wildlife Watching in Puerto Vallarta
You could easily spend weeks visiting the sights in and around Puerto Vallarta’s stunning Bahía de Banderas, with its glistening coastline. Most of the action unfolds along the charming cobbled streets of Puerto Vallarta’s historic center, yet there’s an abundance of outdoor fun waiting beyond the tourist zone.
For a Puerto Vallarta highlight, board a water taxi from Playa de los Muertos pier and venture to its southernmost beaches. You can hop off at the sparkling cove of your choice: the villages of Yelapa, Quimixto, and Playa Majahuitas are renowned for their cascading waterfalls and crystalline snorkeling sites.
Additionally, Puerto Vallarta boasts some of the best diving spots along the Pacific coast, and even non-divers rave about the iconic Majahuitas Cove.
After diving or snorkeling, return to Puerto Vallarta’s historic center to explore dining options ranging from affordable street food to upscale seafood restaurants featuring the catch of the day. Tacos Sonorita serves some of the best tacos al pastor (spit-roasted pork) west of Mexico City, while Joe Jack’s Fish Shack is famous for its Baja-style fish tacos. You can also sample a bit of everything on an enticing taco crawl with Vallarta Food Tours.
For a proper sit-down meal, head north of the tourist hub to the up-and-coming Versalles neighborhood, where chef Memo Wulff presents daily specials and delicious locally produced raicilla (a distilled agave drink) at Barrio Bistro.
As the sun sets, explore the downtown area where vibrant fiestas often last well into the early hours of the morning. Visit La Bodeguita del Medio in Zona Centro for live Cuban music and mojitos, or unwind in several welcoming bars in the LGBTQ+ friendly Zona Romántica.
Detour to San Sebastián del Oeste
Ready for a change of scenery? Head inland for the cool climate of San Sebastián del Oeste, a former 17th-century mining town perched at 4,855ft above sea level.
Half the fun is the journey itself, as you stop along the road at places like Panadería Carmen (a wonderful artisan bakery), Hacienda Jalisco (an old silver hacienda), and small raicilla distilleries. With a population of around 5,600, San Sebastián is ideal for social distancing, making it an excellent destination for those who enjoy hiking and relaxation.
Colonial-style hotel Mansion Real offers comfortable rooms in a serene mountain setting. You can make a day trip from Vallarta or absorb more historical context through a tour with Vallarta Adventures.
Discover Remote Costalegre
If you’re looking for a coastal setting known for its seclusion and jungle ambiance, drive a few hours south of Puerto Vallarta to the intimate region of Costalegre. Although it may be pricey, the Ocean Castles of Careyes and private villas of Cuixmala are among the most luxurious properties in Mexico. Surprisingly, you might even spot a herd of zebra and eland in Mexico, as Cuixmala’s 30,000-acre nature reserve is home to these exotic animals along with 270 different species of birds.
Cultural Capital Guadalajara
After unwinding on the coast, consider spending several nights in the sprawling metropolis of Guadalajara, Jalisco’s cultural capital. Despite being Mexico’s second-largest city, Guadalajara often feels like a collection of small neighborhoods, particularly in Tlaquepaque, a nearby crafts hub and famous mariachi hotspot.
Be sure to allocate time for exploring Guadalajara’s historic center, a bustling downtown neighborhood that has recently undergone revitalization. In the heart of downtown, you’ll find the emblematic, double-spired Catedral de Guadalajara, a 16th-century colonial landmark that is nearly as old as the city itself. Stroll across the lively plaza to admire the neoclassical Teatro Degollado, a lovely venue that hosts colorful folkloric ballets.
No visit is complete without stopping at the Cabañas Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring 57 stunning frescoes by famed muralist and Jalisco native José Clemente Orozco.
For a contemporary experience of Guadalajara, visit Avenida Chapultepec, a broad avenue lined with trendy bars, restaurants, and cafés. Nearby in the hip Santa Tere barrio is the original location of Karne Garibaldi, a Guadalajara institution famous for its carne en su jugo (meat in its own juices). Staying at the boutique hotel Villa Ganz, situated in a historic 1930s mansion, places you within walking distance of the lively Chapultepec nightlife scene.
Day Trip to Tequila
The town of Tequila, situated just an hour outside of Guadalajara, makes for a fantastic day trip to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Though several regions in Mexico can produce this beloved agave spirit, no area rivals Tequila for historical significance and production volume.
Tequila has been crafted since the 16th century. Although the process has become more industrialized, you can still find craft distilleries like Tequila Fortaleza producing the drink in traditional ways. A visit to the facility concludes with a tasting of their exquisite line of tequilas. Salud!
