LA CRUZ DE HUANACAXTLE:

The town centre of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle is just a short walk along the cobblestone streets from Casa Tabachines. 

La Cruz de Huanacaxtle is a quaint fishing village located approximately 12 miles from Puerto Vallarta.  This colourful Mexican town has cobblestone streets, a number of small, interesting shops, and several very good restaurants--some with evening entertainment. 

La Cruz is a sleepy little fishing village and has long been treasured in the international sailing community as a cozy cove to drop anchor.  It offers complete services in a hospitable Mexican setting, unspoiled by the influence of huge tourist complexes.

La Cruz's protected harbor is also the seasonal anchorage for yachts from all over the world.  Known for its natural beauty and tranquility, the bay is home to many forms of marine life.  These conditions make it ideal for the Gray Whales who use the bay as their birthing grounds in January, February and March.  Pelicans, gulls and other sea birds plunge into the waves getting their catch as the dolphins play in the warm ocean waters.  Presently there is a 368 slip marina being built in La Cruz harbour, "Marina La Cruz".

Local fishermen set their nets each morning and evening retrieve their catch for sale at area markets.  A morning stroll to the harbour will enable you to purchase fresh fish as the fishermen unload their boats, or you can simply watch as the purveyors for the local restaurants buy the evening's "catch of the day".

The village of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle has a number of small shops (tiendas), and a Wednesday morning market.  There is a local carniceria (beef store), panaderia (bakery), cerveceria (beer depot), and a good variety of eating establishments, including The Octopus's Garden Cafe and Shop, where the owners host Huichol Indian workshops, run a t-shirt factory and serve light meals.  This is a great place to stop for a rest in the bougainvillea shaded patio for refreshments--coffees, milkshakes, cold beers and a selection of sandwiches and cakes--don't forget to try a glass of their freshly squeezed orange juice!   You can view the Huicholes at their crafts making colorful artwork, woodwork, sandals and weavings. These items are available at bargain prices and this is the best place to buy Hikuri T-shirts, Huichol bead and yarn art and Sandals.

A few of the recreational activities available in La Cruz include snorkelling, surfing, fishing, sailing, bird watching, horseback riding and whale watching. 

As you stroll the village streets, music seems to be everywhere.  Throughout the high season (November through April) talented local and international artists perform several nights a week in the area restaurants.  The music adds a special ambiance as you dine on delicious, freshly caught fish and seafood.
 

You won't want to miss street taco night in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle

La Cruz de Huanacaxtle is a natural sanctuary for a number of exotic birds and marine turtles, and is widely known for its calm waters,magnificent views and close proximity to many beaches and golf courses. 

La Cruz is surrounded by beautiful beaches, such as Destiladeras, Punta de Mita, Careyeros, and La Cruz's own beach--La Manzanilla, widely known by the residents for its calm waters and the delicious food offered at various beachfront palapa restaurants.

Street map of "downtown" La Cruz de Huanacaxtle Casa Tabachines is near the intersection of Tiburon and Atun, on the far right, bottom corner of the map, just out of view Casa Tabachines is an easy 5 to 8 minute walk to the restaurants and services in La Cruz Map courtesy of Sr Fox

What really makes Mexico a wonderful place to visit and La Cruz so special is the Mexican people.  The warmth and hospitality of the villagers is genuine--a smile and a greeting are returned and much appreciated.  The streets are safe and there is very little crime in this part of the world.

In La Cruz de Huanacaxtle you will find a friendly Huichol Indian art gallery and cafe that supports indigenous weaving, a gourmet German restaurant that serves European cuisine and features live flamenco guitar music, an American bar/restaurant with live music, open mike nights and the host of local charity events, plus a variety of restaurants and street stands where you will find an excellent selection of seafood, salads, tacos and quesadillas, pizza and pasta--all within easy walking distance of Casa Tabachines.

Other favorite area destinations may necessitate catching a bus or renting a car. The nearby community of Bucerias offers many additional services and restaurants and has a beautiful long beach. 

Be adventurous and walk from La Cruz to Bucerias along the water.  It's a great way to explore the area. The walk will take just over an hour, and best to be done at low tide.  It's an easy bus or taxi ride back to La Cruz and Casa Tabachines from Bucerias. 

If you are feeling adventurous, you can discover an array of beach paradises--nearby Destiladeras; Sayulita, San Francisco (15 minutes by car); Rincon de Guayabitos and La Peñita, (about 45 minutes by car).  It won't take you long to find out why the state of Nayarit is known for its pristine and unparalleled beaches.

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