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Bucerias

by Brenda Retzlaff | published: 9/22/2005

So Close, Yet a World Away

Just a few miles north of Puerto Vallarta rests a small town much like Vallarta used to be.
The calm clear beaches and soft sandy beaches are a child’s paradise.

Bucerías has soft sandy beaches, calm water, little "Mom and Pop" shops, tiny restaurants, and children playing on the town plaza as their proud parents look on. Sunday flea markets along the river bed, cobblestone streets made for strolling, sunset dinners at palapa restaurants on the beach.

Bucerias is best for anyone looking for a kicked-back small town atmosphere in a tropical beach side destination. Many clients like to book a longer vacation and spend part of their vacation in Puerto Vallarta, and spend the rest of their time in tranquil Bucerias.

While Bucerias (see map) has everything to make your relaxing vacation complete, such as a bank and money exchanges, little grocery stores, bars and restaurants, you won't find big discos, or chain-style restaurants and shopping malls.

Most of the town rolls up its streets about 10:00 PM and just a handful of bars and restaurants stay open later into the night.

During the day you have tons of fun options; you can stroll down to one of the little coffee shops, hit the beach for a day of fun, and then check your e-mail at one of the internet cafes.

Where to Stay

The all suites Star Bay resort.Star Bay Suites offers guests one, two, and three bedroom suites, all with balconies or terraces with ocean views. They also feature fully equipped kitchenettes so you can prepare anything from a late night snack to a full dinner.

Hotel Palmeras is about a block from the beach within walking distance of plenty of places to eat and explore. This Mexican style hotel is incredibly inexpensive for the amenities available with cozy accommodations. Hotel Palmares has a great pool area, lush courtyard and a variety of room types, including a Jacuzzi suite and units with well appointed kitchens. This is a great choice for a family!

Vista Vallarta is a great place just on the beach ideal for the fun of your family. Offers you comfortable and completely equipped suites with two bedrooms, kitchen, dining room, living room, three bathrooms, a/c and more. The hotel has a pool and lush gardens sorrounded by palms. Vista Vallarta provide a realaxing atmosphere for enjoying your stay!

A Round of Golf

The new Flamingos Golf Course underwent a reconstruction of greens and bunkers, remodeling of the clubhouse, and installation of a new irrigation system. Known as the friendliest course in Vallarta with excellent caddies, you’ll notice that a round of golf at the Flamingos is truly something different. This is a visually exciting course with many holes designed to challenge players to use every club in their bag.

Getting around

Another stack of treasures found at the nearby markets. Be sure to get one for every member of the family. Perfect for Holiday photos with a Mexican Fiesta flair!

One of the best little coffee shops is Expressions Cafe, right across the street from the Hotel Palmeras. Expressions Cafe has a huge variety of coffees, desserts, and fantastic sandwiches; and a cute little seating area with plenty of books, magazine and games for you to enjoy.

One place that you should check out is the eclectic and funky Cafe Magana. Known for their excellent ribs and variety of sauces and salsas.

Bucerias is easy to get around by foot. Everything is very close, within walking distance, and most every block has a small shop, store, restaurant, or something to pique your attention.

If you want to get into Puerto Vallarta, the ATM bus runs right on the main road. Just stand on the corner at one of the bus stops, and for under $1.50 US you will be in Puerto Vallarta in about a half an hour.

Taxis are plentiful in Bucerias as well as anywhere along the bay. Be sure to ask the price before heading out from Bucerias to downtown Puerto Vallarta so that you have enough cash to pay for your ride. Fares are about 160-200 pesos each way from Bucerias.

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