Things To Do
in Compostela
Compostela is a quiet town in Nayarit that blends ranching heritage with lush valleys and proximity to the Pacific coast. Its historic center features a plaza shaded by palm trees, adobe buildings, and a centuries-old church. The town serves as a gateway to the Sierra de Compostela and nearby beaches, inviting day-trips and slow, friendly exploration.
The pace is relaxed, with markets, family-run eateries, and warm hospitality that make visitors feel at home.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Compostela and settle into your chosen accommodations, taking a moment to soak in the local atmosphere. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at a nearby café, savoring traditional dishes like chilaquiles or tamales. Take a leisurely stroll around the town square to admire the colonial architecture and vibrant local life.
Visit the Church of Santiago Apostol to marvel at its historical significance and stunning façade. Afterward, explore the local artisan markets, where you can find handmade crafts and delicious local snacks. End your afternoon with a refreshing drink at a local bar or café, mingling with the friendly locals.
Dine at a popular local restaurant that serves authentic Mexican cuisine, enjoying dishes such as mole or fresh seafood. As the sun sets, partake in the vibrant nightlife, perhaps enjoying a live music performance or a salsa dancing session. Wind down your day with a peaceful walk through the illuminated streets of Compostela.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café before heading to the local museum to learn about the rich history of Compostela. The museum provides an overview of the area's indigenous cultures and Spanish colonial past. Take time to appreciate the local art and artifacts that tell the stories of the region.
After your museum visit, join a guided walking tour through the historical district of Compostela, where you can see significant landmarks and hear fascinating tales from the past. Stop for lunch at a local eatery that specializes in traditional recipes handed down through generations. Spend your afternoon visiting the local artisan workshops, where you can see craftspeople at work and purchase unique souvenirs.
Enjoy dinner at a terrace restaurant with a view of the majestic sierra, sampling more regional specialties. Join a cultural event or festival if there's one happening, where you can experience traditional music and dance. Afterward, take a moment to sit at a plaza and enjoy the lively atmosphere as locals gather for the evening.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚌Local transit ticket | $0.25-0.50 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range) | $25-40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed small-town vibe with warm, welcoming locals
- Excellent seafood and fresh produce, good value
- Compact center is walkable and easy to navigate
- Gateway to nearby hills, beaches, and nature trails
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Some services and English-speaking staff may be limited outside town
- Remote location can mean longer travel times to major airports
- Seasonal heat and humidity can be intense for some travelers
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Compostela
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful adobe facades, palm-shaded plaza, and the old church create a classic townscape at golden hour.
River views with boats and soft light reflecting off the water at sunset.
Dramatic sea views, rugged shoreline, and waves that make for dynamic landscape photos.
Vibrant colors, textiles, and market life provide candid photography opportunities.
Food in Compostela
Compostela Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spice-slicked grilled fish commonly found at seaside restaurants along the coast.
Must-Try!
Shrimp sautéed in garlic, olive oil, and lime—bright and savory.
Fresh fish cured in citrus with onions, cilantro, and chilies.
Crispy tortillas topped with a variety of seafood, avocado, and salsa.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market where you can buy fresh seafood, tortillas, chiles, and tropical fruits.
Tacos de pescado, grilled corn, and shrimp tostadas around the central squares.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' and a handshake or kiss on the cheek in familiar context.
Be respectful at churches; dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
People are friendly; small talk about family and local life is common.
Safety
Tipping in Compostela
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is customary for good service; small tips for bar staff and hotel porters.
Pesos are preferred; many places accept cards in town, but cash is essential for markets and smaller eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with pleasant evenings; relatively low humidity; ideal for outdoor hikes and market visits.
Hot and humid with regular afternoon showers; stay hydrated and seek shade; sea breezes provide relief near the coast.
Heavier rains possible early in the season; humidity starts to drop; great for photography around golden-hour light.
Dry season; mild temperatures; comfortable for walking and sightseeing, but cooler evenings.
Compostela at Night
Hiking in Compostela
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Hiking routes with scenic overlooks toward the coast and valley.
Rugged trails through canyon landscapes with opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Compostela by plane.
Nearest regional airport with connections to major Mexican hubs; typically reachable by road from Compostela.
Larger international airport offering more flight options; about several hours drive to Compostela.
Another regional hub in Sinaloa with more connections; longer drive.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents identify as Mestizo, reflecting mixed indigenous and European ancestry.
Nearby mountains host Huichol (Wixárika) and other indigenous groups with rich crafts and traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local leagues and casual games in plazas and fields.
Coastal and river fishing is common and a popular leisure pursuit.
Beach-going and water activities are a staple of the coastal lifestyle.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Compostela.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy fresh fruit, bean-based dishes, quesadillas with cheese and peppers, and vegetable accompanies at most cafes; ask for no fish stock and favor salads and rice-based plates.