Alexandra & Justin
Things To Do
Visit La Manzanilla
La Manzanilla (as mentioned elsewhere on this site) is the crown jewel of the Costalegre. Combining the purity and simplicity that make Mexico so special with stunning sunsets out over the Pacific make for a destination not to be missed. Stay here or visit but make sure not to miss this experience. Some of our favorite restaurants in La Manz include Pedro's Fish Tacos (fresh catch brought in daily), Figaro's, Restaurante Azteca, Martin's, The Sunset Bar (for a marg and a sunset), Palapa Joe's (if you feel like dancing), Jesus, Maria, y Jose, Valentina's, Panaderia Leia, Xacalli (for surprisingly great pizza), and a host of others (just ask us, we have many thoughts). If you're ever in need of provisions make sure to visit Lydia's market in town. The cheapest tequila you're ever likely to find and all the snacks and refrescos you'll need. Brush up on your Spanish skills and enjoy the cutest town on the Pacific.
Fisherman's Paradise
For those itching to catch the big one you've always dreamed of, you're coming to the right place. The largely unspoiled oasis of ocean around Coconuts by the Sea is a veritable sea of opportunity to target some of the most sought after fish species on the planet. Dorado (aka dolphinfish, aka mahi mahi) run rampant in the Bay of Tamarindo and only require a short run from shore in one of the many panga boats hirable for a day trip from La Manzanilla (ask us to set you up with Ever). Roosterfish and snook (robalo in this part of the world) hunt the shallow, rocky waters and can be accessed from kayak, panga, or from the shore. For those of you with your sights set on the trophy fish, yellow-fin tuna, blue and striped marlin, and sailfish aren't far out of reach. The best course of action to target the aforementioned big game is to take a full-day trip out of Barra de Navidad. Just ask us and we'll put you in touch with someone that can get you out there and hooked up.
Surf Arroyo Seco
One of the best kept surfing secrets, Arroyo Seco is a world class surf break set in a natural stone ampitheater. You'll need 4-wheel drive to get here (and the gumption to drive through a river) but those of you who make the trip will be rewarded with a once in a lifetime surfing experience. Inexperienced surfers should steer clear... or just tag along for a beach day and a rodeo in the nearby town of Arroyo Seco.
Snorkel in Tenacatita
A Jones family tradition! Make a day of snorkeling and seaside cervesas in the sheltered Bay of Tenacatita. Snorkeling doesn't get any better than this, with calm surf and hundreds of yards of submerged rock and coral easily accessed from the shore. Restaurants along the shore will keep the beverages coming as you make a day of the crystal clear Pacific. It's a gem.
Chantli Mare
Chantli Mare is a dreamy hotel just steps down the white sand beach from Coconuts by the Sea. The perfect mid beach day stop for refreshments and a bite. Chantli Mare serves the most wonderful meals created by chef Greg Couillard, where you can dive into some delicious ceviche, homemade guacamole, and strong margaritas (beers are cold too). You can find us here more often than not.
Isla Navidad Country Club
The 27-hole course is one of the two golf courses in Mexico that have received the "Gold Medal Award" distinction from Golf Magazine and was named Mexico's Leading Golf Resort 2012" by World Travel Awards. The courses offer spectacular views . This championship course was designed by Robert von Hagge, who utilized the amazing natural landscape, the fresh water lagoons, and the long beach to design one of his masterpieces. The three nines at Grand Isla Navidad Resort: the Ocean 9, the Mountain 9, and the Lagoon 9, are all of equal quality and can be enjoyed by golfers of all levels and aptitudes.
Visit the Crocodiles
Step into Jurassic Park. La Manzanilla's famous crocodile sanctuary is a must-see stop to get a look at the prehistoric (often over 15' long) crocodiles (or "cocodrilos"). Pancho, a local legend, is one of the largest American crocodiles in the world and makes his home in the crocodile sanctuary in La Manzanilla.
Spa Day at Punta Serena
Punta Serena is a must visit all-inclusive resort that offers day passes for those in need of some high class R&R. Sharing an entrance road with Coconuts by the Sea, Punta Serena is perched on a cliff overlooking the finest views the Pacific Ocean has to offer. For a relatively small fee you can imbibe in food, massages (world class), and beachside margaritas on demand. Please note that Punta Serena is an adults only environment (and for good reason, it's a skinny dipper's paradise).
Four Seasons Tamarindo
The Four Seasons Tamarindo is scheduled to open just before we all arrive. Say a prayer it does, because it's setting up to be spectacular. The golf course linked to the resort was one of the most dramatic and verdant courses one could ever play before the renovation, and we can only imagine what it'll become. We'll have more information on this as Four Seasons makes it available.