La Penita Mexico | Nayarit Jaltemba Bay Things to Do

La Penita de Jaltemba

As the sun rises in La Penita Mexico (aka La Penita de Jaltemba) it is common to see fishermen’s nets spread out on the beach next to their small boats. You will also witness dozens of pelicans hovering overhead and gently floating on the waves nearby.

La Penita is a warm Riviera Nayarit vacation destination with all the charms of a small fishing village. This inviting Mexican retreat offers its visitors tranquility and exceptional natural beauty. It is no wonder that numerous foreigners have made this Nayarit treasure their second home.

Where is La Penita Mexico?

La Penita de Jaltemba in Riviera Nayarit is the largest of the three towns in Jaltemba Bay, approximately 40 miles north of Puerto Vallarta. The Jaltemba Bay stretches from Punta Raza to Boca de Naranjo.

Thanks to its close proximity to Rincon de Guayabitos and Los Ayala, this tranquil town also offers its guests the exciting nightlife of these two neighboring destinations.

The population of La Penita Nayarit is approximately 9,100 permanent residents.

Weather in La Peita de Jaltemba

The weather in La Penita Mexico is generally warm with temperatures averaging 82°F (28°C). This area also has over 320 days of sunshine each year! The dry season for La Penita Nayarit occurs between November and May with daytime temperatures averaging 78-85°F (25-29°C). The rainy season runs from June to October with temperatures in the 90°F (32°C) range, very high humidity, and anywhere from 13-35 centimeters of rain per day. The hottest months in La Penita Mexico are typically August and September.

Town History

La Penita was founded by the Mexicas who settled in this area on their journey from the island of Mexcaltitán to Tenochtitlán. Since then, tradition has marked this small Riviera Nayarit town. It is still lined with cobblestone streets softly illuminated at night under the glow of street lamps.

La Penita Attractions & Things to Do

Every year in February, the Carnaval festival takes place, filling the streets of La Penita Mexico with music, parades, and great celebration. Another time-honored tradition of La Penita de Jaltemba is the tianguis outdoor market set up every Thursday along the streets of La Penita, offering visitors incredible handicrafts, silver jewelry, and Mexican cuisine.

Additional popular things to do in La Penita Mexico include:

• Fishermen’s Statue
• The Church and Plaza
• Bull Ring
• Fishermen’s Market
• La Cruz La Virgen Religious statue
• The Estero
• “Bridge of Life” Cable Suspension Bridge

La Penita Beaches

Measuring just less than 1 mile long (1.5 km), Playa La Penita is the main beach. The calm waters are perfect for swimming and water sports. Just a short 5 minute drive from La Penita Mexico, El Playón Beach is 5 miles long, largely inhabited, and ideal for long walks on the beach day or night.

Hotels & Accommodations

Despite being a small town, La Penita Mexico offers numerous lodging options from small hotels to bungalows, allowing visitors easy beach access to better enjoy the calm waters and soft Pacific Coast sands. Perhaps you, like so many visitors to La Penita, will be moved to establish your new residence here!

La Penita Frequently Asked Questions

What time is it in La Penita Mexico?

The time zone in La Penita Mexico is Central Daylight Time.

Where is La Penita Mexico?

La Penita Nayarit Mexico is located just northeast of Rincon de Guayabitos about 45 miles (72km) from Puerto Vallarta airport.

What is the population of La Penita Mexico?

La Penita in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico, has a population of just over 9,000 residents.

What to do in La Penita Mexico?

La Penita is a small beach town on the Pacific Coast in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico, famous for its beaches, local markets, and access to Isla del Coral (Coral Island).

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