San Blas
Location: Nayarit State, Pacific
coast, western Mexico
Distance from Mexico City: 500 miles northwest
Population: 25,000
Closest major airport: Tepic Airport (TPQ)
Time Zone: Mountain Standard Time
San Blas is best known for its calm ambiance, pleasant
climate, ideal surfing, exciting sport fishing and delicious cuisine.
The city is nestled in lush natural surroundings, perfect for ecotourism
activities and beach lounging.
Founded in the 18th century, San Blas served as
the starting point for several important expeditions during the
colonial period. The city was also a major trading spot where the
first customs house of New Spain was built – Maritime Customs
House – a structure that now stands as a tourist attraction
of great significance. Other places of historical interest include
the Port Captain, the Cerro de la Contaduria, the remains of the
Church of San Basilio and the Antigua Contaduria, the former accountant’s
house.
San Blas has beautiful beaches with fine sand, subtle
slopes and gentle waves, perfect for lounging, sailing, kayaking,
swimming, diving and water-skiing. Travelers can sail or kayak along
the canals adorned with lush vegetation and head to the estuaries
near La Tobara, El Conchal, El Pozo and Singaita. Some of the most
popular beaches include Playa del Rey, Playa del Borrego, Playa
las Islitas, Bahia de Matachen, Los Cocos, Aticaza (a former refuge
for pirates), and Playa Miramar. Other natural attractions in the
city include El Rey, Los Cocos and El Borrego.
The waters of San Blas are also perfect for sport
fishing, with sailfish, mahi mahi (dorado) and marlin among the
many species in the area. An international fishing tournament is
also hosted in the city every year in May.
Shopping is another major attraction in San Blas.
Travelers can choose from a wide selection of textiles, embroidery,
earrings, bracelets, woven panels, dresses, masks with glass beads,
basketwork, traditional crosses and decorative shell work from the
local street vendors and shops in the area.
While the city offers a variety of water and outdoor
activities, its greatest charms are its serenity and unique cuisine,
both favorites among Mexican and international travelers alike.
Cuisine in San Blas is very unusual and of particular interest to
those attracted to experimenting new tastes. Local specialties include
sopa marinera, a soup made from seafood, iguana steak, smoked mullet
and fried fish. However, while several restaurants in San Blas offer
local specialties and are a great option for a night cap and a pleasant
dinner, most visitors prefer the beach for a traditional night bonfire.
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