
La Cruz de Huanacaxtle Marina
A picturesque fishing village and vibrant marina in Riviera Nayarit, known for its Sunday market, fresh seafood, and beautiful bay views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant market atmosphere

La Cruz de Huanacaxtle Marina
Best Time
Vibrant market atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque fishing village and vibrant marina in Riviera Nayarit, known for its Sunday market, fresh seafood, and beautiful bay views.
"The market was awesome, with many vendors and great food tents!"

🎯 Arrive early for market
Beat the crowds and get the best selection at the Sunday market. :shopping_bags:
👟 Watch your step on docks
Docks can be uneven; wear sturdy shoes and be cautious. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

La Cruz Market
Marina
A bustling Sunday market with crafts, food, and a lively atmosphere. Perfect for souvenirs and local flavors.

The Marina Docks
Marina
Home to numerous yachts, offering a picturesque view and a hub for boat rentals and tours.

Fish Market Delights
Marina
Incredible selection of fresh seafood, from tuna and mahi-mahi to shrimp and lobster.

Playa La Manzanilla
Adjacent to Marina
A beautiful beach offering warm waters and stunning views of the bay.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Market Days are a Must-Do
Marina Maintenance Concerns
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive early for market
Beat the crowds and get the best selection at the Sunday market. :shopping_bags:
👟 Watch your step on docks
Docks can be uneven; wear sturdy shoes and be cautious. :athletic_shoe:
🎣 Fresh catch for dinner
Buy fresh fish at the market and have it prepared at a local restaurant. :fish:
🛥️ Explore by boat
Rent a boat or join a tour for stunning bay views. :sailboat:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive early for market
Beat the crowds and get the best selection at the Sunday market. :shopping_bags:
👟 Watch your step on docks
Docks can be uneven; wear sturdy shoes and be cautious. :athletic_shoe:
🎣 Fresh catch for dinner
Buy fresh fish at the market and have it prepared at a local restaurant. :fish:
🛥️ Explore by boat
Rent a boat or join a tour for stunning bay views. :sailboat:
☀️ Enjoy the beach breeze
Playa La Manzanilla offers a refreshing escape with beautiful scenery. :beachwithumbrella:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the vibrant La Cruz Market for its unique crafts and delicious food, and the marina offers beautiful views of yachts and the bay. The fresh fish market is a standout. However, some guests note that the marina docks could use maintenance, and occasional issues with wake from boats can be disruptive.
"I've never been to the La Cruz market days. It was awesome. Many more vendors than at the Marina in Vallarta. It's beautiful and the breeze was great. I bought lots of stuff and ate at three different food tents. Pulled pork sandwich was great."
Michelle Dornak
"Typical Mexican Marina, full of huge yachts.
Restaurants and bars.
Incredible and delicious fish market, where you can buy many kind of fishes (tuna, mahi mahi, dorado, toritos), shrimps, lobsters, claws, chocolate claws, oysters, calamari, octopus.
Ships for rent and for sale.
Tourist boat, whale watching"
Radio K
"So much possibility, but ultimately a little short.
The docks need maintenance. Bird poo everywhere and dog poo on the dock several times. The docks themselves are uneven and I tripped multiple times, electric voltage varies considerably and the water is non-potable. With the prices they are charging this is really unacceptable.
Worst is the rudeness of the pangas, charter boats and even some cruisers who waked us repeatedly as we were near the channel entrance. Coupled with too few cleats, keeping our boat safe was difficult. Then there was the one guy who repeatedly messed with my dock lines as I tried to make the best of what was there and the other who disconnected my power cord without asking from "his" electric despite the office telling me it was mine.
The staff were great."
Karl Leibensperger
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
La Cruz de Huanacaxtle Marina is located about 20 km north of Puerto Vallarta's international airport. You can take a taxi, Uber, or a local bus. The drive is approximately 30-40 minutes depending on traffic.
Parking can be challenging, especially on market days. It's advisable to arrive early or consider using ride-sharing services if possible.
Local buses and taxis are readily available for travel between La Cruz de Huanacaxtle and nearby towns such as Bucerías, Sayulita, and Punta Mita.
Yes, the nearest major airport is Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) in Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco. From there, you can arrange transportation to La Cruz de Huanacaxtle.
While specific shuttle services might vary, many hotels and tour operators in the Puerto Vallarta area offer transportation options to La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. It's best to inquire with your accommodation or tour provider.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no general entrance fee to access the marina area itself. However, specific activities like boat tours or market purchases will have their own costs.
The La Cruz Market typically operates during the season from November to April, usually on Sunday mornings. It's best to check local listings for exact times as they can vary.
It's highly recommended to book boat tours and rentals in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time and vessel.
Yes, the marina hosts various events throughout the year, including seasonal markets and festivals like the Raicilla festival. Keep an eye on local event calendars for updates.
Most vendors at the market accept cash, but some may also accept digital payments. It's a good idea to have some pesos on hand for smaller purchases.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the marina, browse the market, enjoy fresh seafood, rent boats, go whale watching (seasonally), or relax on the nearby Playa La Manzanilla.
Yes, the marina is lined with restaurants and bars offering a variety of cuisines, with many boasting beautiful views of the bay.
Some visitors have noted that the docks require maintenance, with uneven surfaces and potential issues with cleanliness. Exercise caution when walking on them.
Generally, the waters at Playa La Manzanilla are warm and suitable for swimming. Always check local conditions and advisories if available.
You'll see a wide range of vessels, from large yachts and catamarans to smaller fishing boats and charter vessels. Rentals and tours are available.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The market offers a diverse range of food stalls, including delicious options like pulled pork sandwiches, mixiotes, and other local Mexican specialties.
Absolutely! The fish market is a highlight, offering a wide variety of fresh catches like tuna, mahi-mahi, shrimp, and lobster.
Yes, many restaurants located along the marina offer spectacular views of the Bahía de Banderas, making for a memorable dining experience.
You'll find a focus on fresh seafood, traditional Mexican dishes, and international options, often with a focus on local ingredients.
While seafood is prominent, many restaurants offer vegetarian options. It's always best to inquire with the staff about specific dietary needs.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the yachts, the colorful market stalls, the fresh seafood displays, and the panoramic views of the Bahía de Banderas.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with marina management or local authorities before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the marina and its surroundings. Midday can be bright but offers clear views.
The marina itself, with its array of boats, the market stalls during operating hours, and the beach at Playa La Manzanilla are all excellent photo subjects.
Yes, photographing the boats and yachts is a popular activity. Be respectful of private property and individuals if you are taking close-up shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a boat tour or rental for a memorable family adventure on the water. Many operators cater to families and offer opportunities to spot marine life. While the marina itself is visually engaging with all the boats, keep an eye on younger children near the docks due to potential uneven surfaces.
💰 Budget Travelers
Enjoying the Playa La Manzanilla is a free activity. For dining, purchasing fresh fish from the market and having it prepared at a local eatery can be more budget-friendly than full-service restaurants. Look for local eateries away from the immediate marina front for potentially better prices.
💍 Couples
Dining at one of the restaurants with bay views is perfect for a romantic evening. Consider a sunset boat tour for a truly memorable experience. The relaxed atmosphere of the town makes it ideal for a peaceful getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vibrant La Cruz Market
Expect to find everything from handmade jewelry and clothing to local art and specialty food items. The market is also a fantastic place to sample authentic Mexican cuisine, with numerous food stalls offering tempting treats. It's a perfect Sunday activity, combining shopping, dining, and enjoying the beautiful marina setting.
Pro-tip: Arrive early on market days to avoid the biggest crowds and have the best selection. The atmosphere is energetic and friendly, with a mix of locals and international visitors enjoying the experience.
Exploring the Marina and Boating Life
For visitors, the marina provides opportunities for various water-based activities. You can rent boats, join fishing charters, or embark on scenic tours of the Bahía de Banderas. Whale watching tours are also popular during the migration season.
While the marina is visually stunning, some reviews mention that the docks could benefit from maintenance, with uneven surfaces and occasional cleanliness issues. Despite this, the overall experience of being surrounded by the boating community and the beautiful coastal scenery is a major draw.
Culinary Delights: From Fish Market to Market Eats
Beyond the fish market, the La Cruz Market offers a delightful array of food stalls. Visitors have praised options like pulled pork sandwiches and mixiotes, showcasing the diversity of Mexican street food. It's a great place to grab a casual and delicious meal while exploring.
Many restaurants situated along the marina provide stunning views of the bay, enhancing the dining experience. Expect a focus on fresh seafood dishes, traditional Mexican flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit