Things To Do
in Cihuatlán
Cihuatlán is a charming coastal town located in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. It is known for its beautiful beaches, palm-lined streets, and vibrant Mexican culture. Visitors can enjoy relaxing on the sandy shores, exploring the local markets and enjoying delicious seafood dishes.
With its laid-back atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings, Cihuatlán is a popular destination for travelers looking to experience the beauty of Mexico's Pacific coast.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $25 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing stroll on the beautiful beaches of Cihuatlán, enjoying the gentle sound of the waves. Grab breakfast at a local beachfront café for some fresh seafood and tropical fruits.
Spend your afternoon soaking up the sun and swimming in the warm waters. Try your hand at beach games like volleyball or surf some gentle waves.
As the sun sets, enjoy a cozy dinner at a beachside restaurant. Savor local dishes while watching the colorful sky transform.
Head out to explore the local flora and fauna in nearby nature reserves. Morning bird-watching can reveal amazing species unique to the region.
Take a guided tour to understand the ecosystem and see beautiful waterfalls. Bring a picnic to enjoy surrounded by nature.
Return to town and explore an open-air market for dinner. Sample various local cuisines and shop for crafts to remember your trip.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and coastal scenery
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Vibrant local markets and cuisine
- Warm and welcoming community
- Mild climate year-round
- Limited access to healthcare facilities
- Potential for seasonal tourism fluctuations
- Transportation may be less developed compared to larger cities
- Job opportunities can be limited
- Infrastructure may need improvement in some areas
Best Activities in Cihuatlán
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Cihuatlán is known for its excellent surfing beaches, with Playa El Tecuán and Playa La Manzanilla being popular spots for surfing enthusiasts.
Explore the stunning natural landscapes of Cihuatlán by hiking in the Sierra de Manantlán Biosphere Reserve, where you can discover diverse flora and fauna.
During the winter months, take a boat tour to witness the majestic humpback whales as they migrate along the coast of Cihuatlán.
Tours
Uncover the best of Cihuatlán with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Cihuatlán
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning seaside views and a picturesque boardwalk, ideal for photography.
Provides panoramic views of the coastline and the surrounding area, perfect for capturing sunset and sunrise shots.
Features a beautiful beach with rock formations and clear waters, offering fantastic photo opportunities.
A scenic spot overlooking the ocean and caves, providing a unique backdrop for memorable photos.
Food in Cihuatlán
Cihuatlán Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Marinated and grilled fish, often snapper or sea bass, seasoned with a flavorful mixture of chili, garlic, and soy sauce. Best enjoyed at beachfront restaurants like Mariscos Tino's and Mariscos Mary.
Must-Try!
A spicy and citrusy shrimp or seafood ceviche marinated in lime juice, chili, and cilantro. Try authentic Aguachile at La Garra restaurant for a genuine local experience.
Crunchy corn tortillas topped with fresh ceviche made with fish, shrimp, or octopus. Visit the local street food vendors near the town square for a delightful and affordable snack.
A traditional Mexican soup made with hominy, pork, and a richly seasoned broth, often served during festivals and special occasions. Look for homemade Pozole at La Cocina de Doña Lupita for an authentic taste.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Cihuatlán better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, local spices, and seafood. It's the perfect place to sample authentic street food such as tacos, elotes, and aguas frescas.
Nestled along the coastline, this seafood market is a paradise for seafood lovers. Indulge in a variety of ceviches, mariscadas, and grilled fish while enjoying the ocean view.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Cihuatlán, it is customary to show respect to elders by using titles like 'Señor' and 'Señora' when addressing them, and by offering them the courtesy of being served first at social gatherings.
Greetings are very important in Mexican culture, so it's polite to greet people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek, especially when meeting for the first time or when entering a room.
During mealtime, it is respectful to wait until the host invites you to start eating, and to keep your hands above the table. Additionally, it's customary to compliment the cook on the meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Cihuatlán with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Cihuatlán
Ensure a smooth experience
In Cihuatlán, Mexico, tipping is commonly practiced in restaurants, with a standard tip of 10-15% of the total bill considered appropriate. In more upscale establishments, a 15-20% tip may be expected. It's also customary to tip hotel staff, tour guides, and taxi drivers, although the amounts may vary.
Cash is widely used for payments in Cihuatlán, especially in smaller businesses and local markets. However, credit and debit cards are accepted in larger establishments and hotels. It's advisable for travelers to carry small bills and change when making purchases or paying for services, as many vendors may not be able to provide change for larger denominations.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Cihuatlán.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for hot weather, beach activities, and outdoor adventures.
Ideal for turtle watching and witnessing the olive ridley turtle hatching season.
Great for whale watching and enjoying the mild temperatures.
Perfect for bird watching, exploring the local flora, and enjoying pleasant weather.
Cihuatlán at Night
Hiking in Cihuatlán
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful mountain range offering various hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding landscape and opportunities to see local wildlife.
A protected area known for its biodiversity, featuring trails that lead through lush forests, unique flora, and fauna, and panoramic viewpoints.
A popular hike that provides a challenging trail and rewards hikers with breathtaking vistas overlooking the coastline and mountains.
A prominent hill near Cihuatlán offering a moderate hiking path that culminates in a scenic overlook, ideal for photography and sunrise hikes.
This area features several trails suitable for all skill levels, leading through diverse ecosystems and along riverbanks.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Cihuatlán through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Cihuatlán by plane.
Located in Puerto Vallarta, approximately 80 km from Cihuatlán, this international airport serves as a key gateway to the Pacific coast of Mexico.
Situated in Guadalajara, about 190 km from Cihuatlán, this airport is one of the busiest in Mexico and serves various domestic and international flights.
This airport is located approximately 50 km from Cihuatlán and offers limited international flights, primarily serving the coastal region of Colima.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group, representing the local population with strong cultural and historical ties to the region.
Communities that may include groups such as the Nahua and other indigenous peoples, contributing to the local cultural diversity.
Laborers who may have moved to Cihuatlán from other areas in Mexico or neighboring countries, often involved in agriculture and tourism.
Visitors from various parts of Mexico and abroad, contributing to the economy, particularly during peak seasons.
The Soul of Cihuatlán
Discover the essence of Cihuatlán through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Cihuatlán, with many local teams and tournaments that engage the community.
Cihuatlán's coastal location makes surfing a popular activity, attracting both locals and tourists to its waves.
Beach volleyball is commonly played along the coast, enjoyed by both recreational players and competitive teams.
Fishing is not only a sport but also a vital part of the local economy, with many residents participating in fishing competitions.
Basketball has a strong following in Cihuatlán, with local leagues and school teams actively competing.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cihuatlán.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood is prominent in local cuisine, several restaurants in Cihuatlán offer vegetarian and vegan dishes such as Ensalada de Nopales (cactus salad) and Tacos de Papa (potato tacos). Be sure to inquire about meat-free options.
Many traditional dishes in Cihuatlán are naturally gluten-free, including ceviches, aguachiles, and grilled seafood. However, it's advisable for individuals with gluten restrictions to communicate their dietary needs to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Cihuatlán with these cultural adventures.