Neighborhood and Community Guide · North Riviera Nayarit
Lo de Marcos and Chacala are small coastal communities in north Riviera Nayarit, further from Puerto Vallarta than Sayulita or Punta de Mita. Buyers choose them for a quieter pace, more space and a small-town setting. They suit people comfortable with fewer nearby services and a longer drive to the airport and larger hospitals, and they reward careful checks on title, utilities and road access.
Is Lo de Marcos a good place to buy?
Lo de Marcos is a relaxed beach town on the north Nayarit coast. It appeals to buyers looking for a low key setting, room to spread out and a daily rhythm that differs from the busier Banderas Bay hubs. Consider how often you need larger shopping, medical care and the airport, since those are further away than they are from Puerto Vallarta.
Visit in more than one season, talk with residents and test the drive before you decide.
How far is Chacala from Puerto Vallarta?
Chacala sits further north in Nayarit, on a small sheltered bay. It is a longer drive from Puerto Vallarta than the Riviera Nayarit towns closer to the airport, and drive time depends on route, traffic and road conditions, so check current travel times before you plan around them.
| Question | Lo de Marcos | Chacala |
|---|---|---|
| Setting | Beach town on the north Nayarit coast | Small village on a sheltered bay |
| Pace | Relaxed and low key | Quiet and small scale |
| Everyday services | Basic services in town; larger shopping and hospitals are further away | Limited services in the village; plan for trips to larger towns |
| Best suited to | Buyers who want space and a slower rhythm | Buyers who value a small-village setting and the bay |
| Check before buying | Title, utilities, road access and flood or storm exposure | Title, utilities, road access and building permits |
Is north Nayarit more affordable than Puerto Vallarta?
Buyers often find a different range of entry points in smaller north Nayarit communities than in the main Banderas Bay hubs, but prices vary widely by property, location and condition. Compare current listings rather than relying on a general rule, and read our overview of Puerto Vallarta property prices by neighborhood for context.
What should you check before buying in north Nayarit?
Confirm clear private title with a notario público and an independent attorney, ask how water, electricity and internet are supplied, verify access in the rainy season, and check which permits apply to any building. Our due diligence checklist walks through each step.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lo de Marcos a good place to buy?
It suits buyers who want a relaxed beach town with more space. Check distance to the airport, larger shopping and medical care, and verify title and utilities before you buy.
How far is Chacala from Puerto Vallarta?
Chacala is further north in Nayarit and a longer drive than the towns nearer the airport. Drive time varies with route and conditions, so confirm current travel times before you plan.
Is north Nayarit more affordable than Puerto Vallarta?
Smaller north Nayarit communities often offer a different range of entry points, but prices vary by property and location. Compare current listings for the area you want.
What should I check before buying in north Nayarit?
Confirm clear title with a notario público and an independent attorney, ask how utilities are supplied, verify year-round road access and check which building permits apply.
Questions about buying or selling in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit?
Talk to a local agentBrowse Riviera Nayarit homes for saleThis article is general information only, not legal, tax or financial advice. Confirm details with a Mexican notario público and a qualified attorney or tax advisor. Coldwell Banker La Costa does not provide legal or tax advice. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each office is independently owned and operated.