Mexico
San Blas
A historic Pacific port opens onto mangrove channels and long sandy breaks.
The fort on the hill remembers when San Blas armed the Pacific trade. The town below has settled into softer work: mangrove boats, long beaches, and smoke rising off the fish grills.
San Blas pairs a historic Pacific port and hilltop fort with boat routes through the La Tovara wetlands, all in the corner of Nayarit that gave Mexico pescado zarandeado. Matanchén Bay peels long waves under the right swell, with ride length always a gift of conditions. Seafood, birding and the harbour fill the days between.
Friends
Surf Matanchén when the swell lines up and eat zarandeado where it was born.
Solo
Take the La Tovara boat at first light for the wetland's best hour.
- San Blas combines a historic Pacific port, the hilltop fort and boat routes through La Tovara wetlands.
- Matanchén Bay has long peeling waves under suitable swell, with ride length set by conditions.
- Seafood, birding and the harbour provide a full visit beyond any surfing record claim.
Pescado zarandeado was born on this Nayarit coast: butterflied fish grilled between metal grates over coals.
Pan de plátano is the town's other signature: dark dense loaves sold from street baskets and the Juan Bananas bakery.
Orange River (Vioolsdrif)
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