It may be a hard name to pronounce, but it’s a joy to visit! La Cruz de Huanacaxtle (or simply “La Cruz”), a mere half hour north of the bustle of Puerto Vallarta, offers a restful alternative to the glitz of Vallarta and a glimpse of a typical fishing village, with its fair share of good restaurants, fun shopping, and a vibrant music scene.
In La Cruz, cobblestone streets shaded by large trees lead to the charming town square alongside a tranquil waterfront, where local fishermen mend their nets and tend their pangas, rubbing elbows with a recently-constructed world-class marina with slips for 400 boats, a seaside promenade, repair shop, outdoor theater, restaurants and more.
Life in this rustic fishing village still meanders at a leisurely mañana pace. Still, small-town Mexico to be sure, but with the marina and related amenities, along with luxurious residential communities that are springing up around La Cruz, the town increasingly caters to North Americans who have already discovered it. La Cruz also has some excellent restaurants to select from.
Getting There
La Cruz is an easy drive from Puerto Vallarta along Carr. 200 Norte. After passing Bucerías, take the clearly-marked Punta de Mita exit. You will reach La Cruz less than five minutes later. Public transportation departing from Puerto Vallarta (at Walmart in front of the Maritime Terminal) is also available.
Neighborhoods & Neighboring Regions
Most restaurants and points of interest are located on the main access road into town and by the marina, with a handful of exceptions located on the highway. Away from the marina, on the opposite side of the highway, several homes, hotels and condominium developments take advantage of the elevated view provided by their hillside location, offering their guests a remarkable view of Banderas Bay.
Just before La Cruz, the small town of Bucerías is another popular small town, and very much worth the visit while you are there.
La Cruz Area Photos
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