Life in Mexico is Changing
Like many Foreigners living in Baja, Tulum, Puerto Vallarta, Ajijic, Lake Chapala, San Miguel Allende etc., you know who and where you are. 
20 or more years ago you were Pioneers in moving across the Border and life was different then. The pace was calmer, items including housing were much less expensive and quality of life was better than good.
Don’t get me wrong, the quality of life in Mexico is currently by far more approachable and enticing that our Canadian and United States neighbors, whoever its different than it used to be.
For those of you that want a return to a calmer and more peaceful life, let me introduce you to two charming Fishing Villages on the coast of Riviera Nayarit.
Spotlight on Cruz de Miramar
Santa Cruz de Miramar, which is often just called Santa Cruz, is a charming, low key fishing village on the Pacific coast in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico. It belongs to the municipality of San Blas and sits about 30 minutes south of San Blas port, in the quieter northern part of the Riviera away from the busier tourist hubs like Punta Mita or Sayulita.
It occupies a scenic point jutting into the ocean, with a mix of sandy beaches, rocky shores, lush tropical vegetation, freshwater streams, and wetlands. Nearby features include Playa Miramar, La Campana (a distinctive offshore rock formation, or “The Bell”), and bird-filled ponds. The area feels authentic and relaxed, with pangas, the small fishing boats, heading out at dawn and returning with fresh catches.
In the mid-19th century, German settlers arrived who were initially drawn by opportunities in Mazatlán and influenced the area through mining, which was gold and silver, spice/cocoa/coffee cultivation, and even a soap factory. Mining has since ended, but echoes remain in local traditions and some family ties. Today, the economy centers on fishing and small-scale tourism, with a welcoming, laid back vibe. Locals produce capomo, which is a healthy coffee alternative and serve ultra-fresh seafood in beach ramadas.
Playa Miramar offers good swimming and relaxation. The area is known for some of the best waves in the San Blas region (great for surfing, though the rocky point can be challenging). Nearby spots include Playa de los Cocos and parts of Bahía de Matanchén.
Check out this curated selection of our amazing properties in town here –
**Casa Monica – This house in the peaceful town of Santa Cruz, is just 5 minutes from the beach.
This single-story property offers 2 bedrooms, a living room, dining room, kitchen, and 2 bathrooms, along with a garage for two cars.
With a 158 square lot, it’s perfect for those looking to build a second floor and maximize the space.
Listed for Sale at just $130,000.00 USD you can’t go wrong!
For more details and property photos, click here
Casa Jimenez — This enormous 10 bedroom/10 bathroom property is situated in a prime location.
Located just 5 minutes walking from the beautiful beach of Santa Cruz and steps away from the town plaza, stores and restaurants. This property offers ample spaces, an expansive upstairs terrace, large, private pool and onsite parking. Currently being run as a small hotel, this property could easily be converted into a single family home to accommodate a large family.
This large property is currently listed for Sale at $750,000.00 USD.
For more photos and details, click here
Spotlight on Aticama
Aticama is a small, authentic fishing and farming village in the municipality of San Blas, on the northern stretch of Riviera Nayarit, Mexico. With a population of around 2500, it sits about 90 miles north of Puerto Vallarta and near San Blas, offering a low-key, traditional Mexican coastal experience away from the more developed tourist areas.
Aticama lies along Bahía de Matanchén (Matanchen Bay), known for one of Mexico’s widest and sandiest beaches — Playa Matanchén (also called Playa Aticama). The area features long stretches of golden sand, gentle waves in parts, rocky sections, palm-fringed shores, and lush tropical vegetation with nearby hills and mangroves. It’s part of the scenic Costa Norte, blending ocean, jungle, and farmland.
The village thrives on fishing (notable for rock oysters, shrimp, rock lobster, mahi-mahi, and agriculture (especially mangos and bananas). Fresh seafood is a highlight — locals and visitors enjoy ultra-fresh oysters, ceviche, grilled fish, and shrimp dishes at beach palapas (thatched shelters). In colonial times, the bay served as a haven for pirate ships and buccaneers. Today, it retains a genuine, welcoming vibe with multicultural residents and a focus on sustainable, small-scale living.
The local beaches include Playa Aticama and Playa Matanchén. They are both wide, swimmable beaches ideal for relaxation, sunbathing, and gentle swimming. Some areas suit surfing or bodyboarding.
The area is excellent for sport fishing (charters available for bigger catches like marlin or tuna), kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. Local fishermen often share tips.
You can enjoy Birdwatching in nearby mangroves/estuaries, eco-tours, hiking, or visits to nearby spots like Las Islitas (good surf), Playa de Los Cocos, or San Blas attractions. Turtle conservation efforts sometimes feature in local events.
The vibe of the town is relaxed and family-friendly, with stunning sunsets. It’s quieter and more authentic than southern Riviera hubs.
Check out this curated selection of our amazing properties in town here –
Casa Silvia – This property is a Seaside oasis in Aticama, Nayarit.
This charming 150 m² home on a spacious 550 m² lot offers 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a strong foundation ready for a second floor.
Enjoy ocean views from the comfort of your home, surrounded by a garden with fruit trees perfect for relaxation
Priced at just $294,000.00 USD this is a lot or house and property on the beach.
Click here for more details and photos
**Casa Tabachin – Casa Tabachin is a unique, magical hilltop gem!
This is a tasteful, immaculately maintained, ocean view, 1,500 m2 titled property located in the golden zone of the small fishing village of Aticama, just 2 ½ hours north, (and a world away from all the hussle and bussel lol) of Puerto Vallarta, and is only 45 minutes from the capital city of Tepic.
This 2 bed/1.5 bath home has a spectacular view of Matanchen Bay, is an 8 minute walk away from Playa Matanchen and the main plaza of Aticama, restaurants and stores.
This wonderful property with an amazing view is offered for sale at $499,000.00 USD.
For more details and photos, click here
Why the Foreign influx started 20+ years ago and why it continues today –
U.S. and Canadian retirement incomes stretched much further in Mexico. Retirees could afford a higher quality of life, with bigger homes, domestic help, dining out, and travel. Housing and everyday expenses were significantly cheaper, and property taxes were low. Many noted they could no longer afford comfortable retirement in the U.S. and Canada due to rising costs.
The medical and dental care in Mexico continues to be high-quality yet far less expensive, with easy access to private doctors and facilities. This appealed especially to those without adequate U.S. insurance or facing high costs at home.
Not to mention the warm weather, beaches, lakes, mountains, and a relaxed pace attracted “snowbirds” escaping cold northern winters. Areas like Lake Chapala were praised for their mild climate, which is often called one of the world’s best.
Many of the incoming Foreigners sought a slower, friendlier pace with strong expat communities for support and social life. Proximity to the U.S. (short flights or drives) made it easy to maintain ties with family. The vibrant Mexican culture, food, and sense of community/friendship were big draws.
The baby boomer generation was aging, amplifying these trends. U.S. and Canadian born seniors in Mexico grew notably from the 1990s into the 2000s, especially in established expat hubs with this trend continue today in 2026. .
In places like Santa Cruz de Miramar or Aticama, the appeal was similar, offering affordable beach/fishing village living, fresh seafood, nature, and a genuine local vibe, all at a fraction of U.S. and Canadian coastal prices. These quieter northern spots attracted those wanting authenticity over crowded tourist areas.
I hope that you have enjoyed reading this article and much as I have enjoyed writing it for you today.
If you’re into Real Estate, these areas have growing interest with lots, acreage and homes for sale, blending jungle views with beach access.
For more information on the area or to look at more of our local properties for Sale or For Rent, send an email to Director@GalvanRealEstateandServices.com of give us a call +1 52 327 275 0233.
