Things To Do
in Tuxpan

Tuxpan is a Pacific coastal town known for its fishing port, long sandy beaches, and laid-back charm. Nestled between green hills and a winding river, the town pulses with a working waterfront and a friendly local vibe. The waterfront promenade hosts markets, casual seafood shacks, and boats returning from dawn fishing trips.

Visitors come for beaches, boat trips, seafood, and easy access to nature along the coast.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Tuxpan
morning
:

Arrive at Tuxpan, Mexico, and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional dishes like chilaquiles or huevos rancheros. Take a stroll along the picturesque riverside promenade to soak in the vibrant local atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Visit the Tuxpan Zoo to see a variety of local wildlife and exotic animals. Explore the nearby Mangrove Ecological Reserve, where you can take a guided kayak tour among the lush vegetation and vibrant birdlife. Enjoy a lunch of fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant overlooking the river.

evening
:

Wander through the charming streets of Tuxpan, stopping to shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs. Dine at a traditional restaurant, experiencing the local flavors of the region with dishes like pozole and fish tacos. Conclude your evening with a relaxing walk along the river as you watch the sunset paint the sky in vibrant colors.

day 2
Cultural Exploration
morning
:

After breakfast, visit the historic Nuestra Señora de la Asunción Church, a beautiful colonial-era structure offering insight into local history. Explore the nearby Plaza de Armas, where you can observe daily life and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Don't forget to stop by the local market to try freshly made pastries.

afternoon
:

Join a guided tour of the Tuxpan Historic Center, where you'll learn about the significance of the town during the Mexican Revolution. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café, sampling local specialties while immersing yourself in the cultural ambiance. Spend your afternoon relaxing at one of Tuxpan’s serene parks, such as Parque Reforma.

evening
:

In the evening, gather at the local plaza where you can enjoy live music and performances from local artists. Savor a delicious dinner at a traditional restaurant, with options for both meat lovers and vegetarians alike. Cap your day off with a nightcap at a local bar, soaking in the coastal vibes.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
Coffee$2-4
🍺Beer$2-4
🚕Taxi ride$2-5
🛏️Mid-range hotel night$40-70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Coastal scenery and fresh seafood
  • Relaxed pace and affordability
  • Proximity to nature escapes
  • Limited big-city amenities
  • Seasonal weather risks and infrastructure in some areas
  • Language barrier in more rural spots
  • "Hola, ¿cómo estás?" - Hello, how are you?
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
  • "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Estoy perdido/a" - I am lost

Places to Visit in Tuxpan

Visit one of these nice places.

Malecón del Puerto

Broad waterfront promenade with boats, fishermen, and sunset backdrops.

Ría y Manglares

Estuary and mangrove channels offering reflections, birds, and tranquil water views.

Iglesia de San Miguel y Plaza Central

Colonial church framed by a lively plaza with locals and vendors.

Faro del Puerto

Harbor lighthouse and vantage point for sea and harbor silhouettes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tuxpan

Tuxpan’s cuisine centers on the freshest seafood, prepared simply to highlight the catch of the day, with citrus, chilies, and herbs brightening every plate.

Tuxpan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ceviche de pescado

Fresh fish marinated in lime juice with onions, cilantro, and chilies, common at waterfront stalls.

Must-Try!

Pescado a la talla

Whole fish marinated in a spicy adobo and grilled, typically served with rice and beans.

Langosta al ajillo

Lobster sautéed with garlic, butter, and chili, a coastal specialty at beachside restaurants.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Tuxpan

Bustling market with fresh seafood, produce, salsas, and quick street meals.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tuxpan has a tropical coastal climate with year-round warmth and humidity. The dry season runs roughly November to April, while the wet season brings rain and higher humidity from May to October; occasional tropical storms can occur during hurricane season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Etiquette Rule

Greet people with a friendly hola or buenos días. Be polite, avoid loud behavior in public places, and dress modestly when visiting churches or sacred sites; tipping is customary in service industries.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay aware of petty theft in crowded markets and on the waterfront. Swim only at designated beaches with lifeguards where available, keep valuables secure, and use reputable transportation. Drink bottled water and heed local advisories during storms.

Tipping in Tuxpan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Restaurant service is typically not included; leaving 10–15% is common if service is good. Small tips for taxi drivers and hotel porters are appreciated.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and seek shade during peak heat.

Winter

Dry season with warm days and comfortable evenings; ideal for outdoor exploring and photography.

Rainy Season

May–October brings heavy rains and high humidity; plan indoor activities for afternoons and carry rain gear.

Hurricane Season

June–November can bring tropical storms; monitor weather advisories and keep flexible plans.

Nightlife Guide

Tuxpan at Night

Nightlife tends to be laid-back along the waterfront, with casual bars, live local music, and beachside lounges. Weekends draw more people to the promenade, but the scene remains relaxed compared with larger cities.

Hiking in Tuxpan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Coastal Cliff Trail

Scenic coastal hike with ocean views along cliff edges.

Mangrove Reserve Walk

Easy trails through mangroves with birdwatching opportunities.

Airports

How to reach Tuxpan by plane.

Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR)

Major gateway with domestic and international connections; approximately a 2–3 hour drive to Tuxpan depending on route.

Tepic International Airport (TPQ)

Regional airport serving western Nayarit; access to the coast via road and nearby towns.

Guadalajara International Airport (GDL)

Large hub with extensive connections; may require a longer drive to the coast.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable, with a pleasant waterfront promenade. Most sights are reachable on foot, though some beaches and outlying areas require short drives or local transport.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Demographic Group

Predominantly mestizo population with a traditional fishing community background; growing tourism presence and regional residents.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer (fútbol)

The most popular sport; local games and informal play in plazas and parks.

Fishing and boating

Longstanding coastal activity with local charters and friendly crews.

Surfing and beach sports

Some beaches offer surfing and other day-beach activities depending on conditions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is usually light in the town center; use taxis or local buses for longer trips. Weekend and holiday traffic to beach areas can increase, and parking near the waterfront can be limited during peak season.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tuxpan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are common as salads, beans, rice, fruits, and vegetable-based dishes; ask for preparations without meat stock or seafood stock, and you’ll find suitable choices in most places.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic clinics and small hospitals are available locally; for more advanced care, regional cities offer larger facilities. Travel insurance is recommended for any specialized treatment.

Discover Mexico

Read more in our Mexico 2025 Travel Guide.

Mexico Travel Guide