Nayarit Thrives as Tourism Surges and Sustainability Shines in 2024

06.08.2024 - 19:48 / travelpulse.com / Eric Bowman

WHY IT RATES: Nayarit experienced significant tourism growth and sustainability achievements in 2024, with robust infrastructure improvements, new hotel developments, and a strong commitment to environmental conservation. —Janeen Christoff, TravelPulse Managing Editor

Mexico’s state of Nayarit proudly announces significant achievements in 2024, highlighted by a surge in tourism and steadfast dedication to sustainability. Looking towards the future, Nayarit promises to remain committed to the environment and to top-quality tourism even as Mexico experiences tourism in record numbers. Mexico welcomed an impressive 34.3 million tourists within the first five months of 2024. Nuevo Nayarit has emerged as a top destination, ranking among the top three in Mexico for hotel occupancy with an outstanding 81.8 percent.

Nuevo Nayarit, with its renowned beaches and popular tourist spots such as Bucerías, Punta Mita, Sayulita, Litubú, Rincón de Guayabitos, and Chacala, continues to attract visitors from around the world. Despite the increase in arrivals, Nayarit remains committed to preserving its natural beauty and promoting sustainable tourism.

The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort exemplifies this commitment by collaborating with the National Commission of Protected Natural Areas to promote responsible practices among guests, regulate visitor numbers, and ensure the conservation of Islas Marietas and its rich biodiversity for future generations. Similarly, W Punta de Mita fosters the region’s micro-economy by sourcing artisanal goods and organic ingredients from local suppliers. The resort also participates in marine flora and fauna protection through regular beach clean-ups. It has eliminated plastic use through the “no straw needed” campaign, promoting products based on organic waste to reduce disposable material consumption.

The Federal Commission for Protection against Sanitary Risks has recognized Nayarit’s beaches as some of the cleanest in the country. Nuevo Nayarit’s beach holds the prestigious Blue Flag certification and ranks fourth among Mexico’s top ten cleanest beaches. Other Blue Flag beaches in Nayarit include the Riviera Nayarit Marina and the Marina Fonatur in San Blas.

Investment in Nayarit’s infrastructure continues to soar, with the upcoming Tepic-Riviera Nayarit International Airport poised to accommodate international flights. The airport’s ongoing modernization includes expanding facilities, improving infrastructure, and implementing state-of-the-art technology to ensure passenger comfort and security. Upon completion, the airport will be able to receive up to four million passengers annually.

The airport is expected to be fully operational in the first trimester of 2025. The opening will include