Bucerías
Six-mile beach, thriving arts scene, and excellent seafood—without Sayulita crowds
Overview
Bucerías (meaning "place of the divers") offers a **6-mile stretch of beach**, a growing arts community, and some of the best seafood on Banderas Bay—all just **30-40 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta** and crucially, without the overwhelming crowds of Sayulita. This former fishing village has evolved into a sophisticated day-trip destination with art galleries lining its cobblestone streets, a Thursday market bringing artisans and fresh produce, and beachfront restaurants serving the catch of the day at reasonable prices. The beach here is notably wider and calmer than Puerto Vallarta's, making it better for swimming and long walks. Local buses run **20-25 pesos** from Puerto Vallarta. For art lovers, the **Arts District** features galleries, sculpture gardens, and working artist studios—particularly active on the first Friday of each month during "Art Walk" season (November-April).
Highlights
Practical Information
Half day or full day
Free
Free to visit. Bus from PV 20-25 pesos.
Year-round. Thursday for the artisan market. First Friday (Nov-April) for Art Walk. Weekdays for quieter beaches.
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