If you're in Riviera Nayarit this September, it might be the perfect time to change the scenery and discover what lies beyond the coast.
Nayarit is full of places that surprise you when you venture a little farther from the Pacific: nature-filled towns, mountain roads, waterfalls, and landscapes that invite you to slow down. Among them is Santa María del Oro, a destination centered around a lake surrounded by hills, where your days can be as relaxing or adventurous as you want them to be.
Located about 45 minutes from Tepic along the TepicGuadalajara highway, Santa María del Oro is an easy destination for a day trip. But if you have the time, it's worth turning it into a weekend plan so you can explore the lake, visit nearby waterfalls, and enjoy the surrounding landscapes at a slower pace.
Photo: Santa Maria del Oro
A Lake That Changes Throughout the Day
The Santa María del Oro Lake is undoubtedly the heart of the destination.
Surrounded by lush vegetation and hills, the lake changes throughout the day depending on the light, weather, and time. Its waters can take on shades of green, blue, and turquoise, creating a landscape that seems to transform as the hours go by.
You can start your day exploring the lake by kayak, paddleboard, or boat, try fishing or snorkeling, or simply find a spot by the water to sit back and enjoy the scenery.
But perhaps you don't need to do too much.
Part of the charm is arriving early, watching the light change over the hills, enjoying a meal by the water, and staying for sunset. It's one of those places where leaving some room in your itinerary can turn out to be the best decision.
And if you want to explore beyond the lake, the surrounding area offers plenty of other ways to connect with nature. There are trails for hiking, areas for camping, horseback riding, and adventure activities such as rappelling and zip-lining.
The waterfalls in the area are also worth a stop. Cascada Real de Acuitapilco and Cascada de la Silla offer the chance to venture a little deeper into the natural landscapes of this part of Nayarit.
And, as you would expect from any destination in Nayarit, Santa María del Oro also shines with its culinary offerings. The local crispy fried fish (better known as chicharrón de pescado) is one of the flavors you shouldn't miss, while cuachala, a thick pre-Hispanic stew made with corn masa and meat, is another traditional dish that reflects the region's culinary heritage. To finish, nothing beats a slice of capirotada and a leisurely meal by the lake.
Photo: Santa Maria del Oro
In the end, that's part of what makes Santa María del Oro so special: the chance to enjoy nature, local flavors, and a slower pace all in one place.
Because Nayarit is also meant to be discovered beyond the sand and waves. There are mountains, forests, towns, and winding roads that lead to places where the pace changes and the landscape becomes part of the experience.
So, if you're in Riviera Nayarit this September, consider making time to venture inland and see another side of the state.
Santa María del Oro is an invitation to explore, try something different, and discover one of Nayarit's most beautiful corners.