San Blas, Nayarit – Then and Now
THEN
In the late 18th century, San Blas was one of the most important ports on the Pacific coast of New Spain. Officially established as a naval department in 1768 by Visitador José de Gálvez under King Carlos III, it became Spain’s key shipyard, supply base, and launching point for expeditions to Alta California. From here, Gaspar de Portolá and Fray Junípero Serra set out to found the missions that would become San Diego and Monterey. The Fort of La Contaduría (built around 1760) stood guard on the hill against pirates, while the Church of Nuestra Señora del Rosario (“La Marinera,” 1769) and the busy customs house handled trade that stretched across the Pacific.
During the Mexican Independence War, when Acapulco was contested, San Blas flourished as a major commercial hub where foreign ships from England, the United States, France, and South America regularly called, and Britain even opened a consulate in 1823.
By the late 19th century the glory had faded. The once proud bells of the ruined church inspired Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s final poem, “The Bells of San Blas” (1882), a melancholic farewell to a vanished era.
NOW
Today San Blas is a quiet, authentic coastal town that has kept its soul.
Designated a Pueblo Mágico, it remains free of mega-resorts and high-rise sprawl.
Visitors come for long stretches of undeveloped beach (Playa El Borrego and the legendary surf break at Las Islitas), boat trips through the mangrove canals of La Tovara where crocodiles glide and more than 300 bird species thrive, and the same hilltop Contaduría ruins that still offer sweeping views of the Pacific.
The old pier is now famous thanks to Maná’s song “En el Muelle de San Blas,” and the town serves up some of the best pescado zarandeado on the coast. Fishing boats still work the harbor, families fill the plazas on weekends, and the pace stays slow and genuine.
From imperial naval stronghold to peaceful nature escape, San Blas has traded empire for authenticity—and never looked better for it.
San Blas is a nice, calm town for anyone seeking retirement or even a retreat. We are pleased to share these properties for sale with you today –
** Casa Carmen is a hidden gem!
This 2 bedroom/2 bathroom single story home is in excellent condition, located in a quiet neighborhood, has fully secured parking, garage and AC throughout.
For details and photos, click here
**Casa Sabine y Ana — Discover this beautiful 235 square meter rustic-style home, featuring high ceilings and a stunning central garden reminiscent of Moroccan architecture. Fully furnished and designed for comfort, it offers 3 spacious bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, a large kitchen, an open-concept living and dining area, and a front patio that doubles as a garage. The foundation is already prepared for a second-story expansion, adding incredible potential to this already remarkable home.
For details and photos, click here
**Casa del Puerto – This spectacular, fully furnished home boasts a truly privileged and downtown location, just 30 meters from the pier and steps away from one of the area’s main avenues. Designed for ultimate comfort and entertainment, the ground floor welcomes you with a fantastic pool, a terrace with a bar area, a full bathroom, and a garage.
For details and photos, click here
For more details or other properties in the area please contact us via email at Director@GalvanRealEstateandServices.com or by phone at +1 52 327 275 0233.
