Let’s go to Platanitos Beach! Top 10 things to do in Platanitos
Playa Platanitos (often just called Platanitos) is a small, low-key beach town and cove in the municipality of Compostela, Riviera Nayarit, Mexico, about 20 miles south of San Blas and near Playa Las Tortugas. It’s known for its sheltered bay with calm, warm waters, soft sand, beachside restaurants, mangrove estuaries, and proximity to turtle nesting areas. It draws visitors seeking relaxation, nature, and mild adventure rather than big resort crowds.
Here are the top 10 things to do in and around Platanitos, based on local descriptions, traveler guides, and nearby attractions.
Relax, swim, and beachcomb at Playa Platanitos
The main draw is the protected cove with soft sand, gentle waves suitable for families and swimming, and shade from palapas. It’s ideal for sunbathing, shell collecting, and a low-key day by the water. Arrive earlier for better parking near the restaurants.
Enjoy fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants
Sample local specialties like pescado sarandeado (grilled whole fish, often over mangrove wood), ceviche, shrimp dishes, fish tacos, and aguachile at simple oceanfront spots (many with sand floors). Pair with cold drinks for a classic laid-back Mexican beach meal.
Watch sea turtles or join hatchling releases (seasonal)
Nearby Playa Las Tortugas (a short walk or quick trip south) and the Playa Platanitos Sanctuary are important nesting sites for olive ridley (and other) sea turtles. Nesting typically runs May–November, with hatchling releases peaking around July–November. Guided evening releases or visits to conservation camps are memorable and support protection efforts.
Kayak, paddleboard, or take a panga boat tour of the estuary and mangroves
The calm waters and lush mangrove estuaries behind the beach are excellent for beginner-friendly paddling, birdwatching, fishing, or a serene sunset ride. Local boats (pangas) can be hired for guided exploration.
Explore Playa Las Tortugas / “Turtle Island” (Isla Tortuga)
Cross or paddle the river/estuary to this longer, more remote stretch of palm-lined beach (several miles of largely undeveloped sand). It offers solitude, walking, swimming, and varied surfing opportunities with a more island-like feel.
Surf (beginner to intermediate)
Platanitos has a sand-bottom river-mouth break suited to intermediate or learning surfers with northwesterly swell. Nearby Playa Las Tortugas and Punta Custodio offer more consistent or advanced options (some accessible by short walk or boat). The area is generally uncrowded.
Snorkel near the rocky shoreline
Clear, warm waters around the rocks at the ends of the cove allow spotting colorful fish and marine life right from the beach or short paddles. It’s a simple way to explore the underwater side of the bay.
Go horseback riding along the beach or through coastal landscapes
Local guides/ranchers offer rides with ocean views, sunset options, and scenic routes through the tropical surroundings—great for couples, families, or photos.
Day trip to La Tovara (near San Blas)
About 45–60+ minutes north, take a guided boat tour through extensive mangrove channels (the “Mexican Amazon”) to spot birds, crocodiles, turtles, and other wildlife. Tours often end at a clear freshwater spring for swimming, with options for shorter or longer routes and a visit to a crocodile facility.
Hike to nearby waterfalls or explore jungle trails (e.g., Cascada El Cora or Tecuitata area)
Guided or independent hikes through tropical vegetation lead to waterfalls where you can swim. Combine with bird watching, wildlife spotting, or short jungle walks for a nature-focused outing beyond the beach. Other easy nearby options include visiting San Blas town, Matanchén Bay, or Las Islitas for more coastal scenery.
If you like the area as much as we do and want to stay for a few nights or longer, take a look at the Punta el Custodio Collection, located at the top of the hill in Platanitos
Punta el Custodio – A bejeweled vac...
For more details or to make a reservation, contact us via email Director@GalvanRealEstateandServices.com or by phone at +1 52 327 275 0233.
