Starting July 2021, Mexico’s Pacific treasure newest destination will be open for day trips
RIVIERA NAYARIT, NAYARIT, MÉXICO (March 31, 2021) – Marias Islands, located about 60 miles off the coast of San Blas in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico, will be open for tourists starting summer of 2021. The pristine archipelago, made of four islands, was mostly uninhabited except for the Maria Madre island, which until 2019 housed a prison. Since its closure, the facility has undergone extensive renovations to become an education center that promotes biodiversity conservation. The Mexican government is currently working to update regulations that will allow for sustainable touristic activities on the islands, which will both respect the native ecosystem and empower the local community.
“We are excited about this new development that will enhance Riviera Nayarit’s eclectic offering and continue to solidify our commitment to providing responsible and sustainable travel experiences. Marias Islands will offer visitors added opportunities to enjoy our unparalleled natural beauty, and an exceptional chance to be a part of history in the making, as we transform a penitentiary into an educational center” said Marc Murphy, managing director of the Riviera Nayarit Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB).
Marias Islands was declared a Natural Protected Area in 2000, World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2005, and Reserve of the Biosphere by UNESCO in 2010. The islands boast great biological wealth that visitors will be able to responsibly enjoy come soon, which is due to the area’s isolation and a lack of sustained human interference.
A paradise for birdwatchers, Marias Islands is home to the Tres Marias Amazon, an endemic parrot unique to the islands that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Other endemic birds include blue-footed boobies, blue mockingbirds, broad-billed hummingbirds, and migratory birds such as the hook-billed kite, Caspian tern and blue-winged teal.
Divers and snorkelers will appreciate the diversity of marine life, with coral reefs, an abundance of colorful mollusks, over 21 shark species and 10 different kinds of rays. The islands will also be the ideal starting point or stopover for whale watching expeditions.
The Marias Islands is also perfect for surfing and other water sports. For example, Hammerhead beach on Maria Cleofas Island, has consistent break ideal for surfing, and San Juanito Island has one of the longest waves in Latin America.
For more information visit www.Rivieranayarit.com.
# # #
About Riviera Nayarit
Renowned for its eclectic charm, luxurious hospitality and authentic appeal, Riviera Nayarit has earned global recognition as the Pacific Coast’s treasure destination. Situated within Mexican state Nayarit, the region offers 192 miles of pristine Pacific coastline, the wondrous Sierra Madre Mountains, the spectacular Banderas Bay and endless protected natural marvels. Riviera Nayarit is home to resort town Nuevo Vallarta, historic village San Blas, exclusive celebrity haven Punta de Mita, “boho-chic” surf mecca Sayulita and a variety of picturesque fishing villages. Activities abound from world-class golf courses, zip lining, diving, and surfing to bird watching, whale watching and turtle release programs. Accommodations range from luxury branded resort destinations and family friendly all-Inclusives to intimate boutique properties and everything in between. Testament to the destination’s safety and sanitation standards, Riviera Nayarit received the Safe Travel Stamp developed by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) for adhering to all hygiene protocols in establishments to protect the health of visitors. A further testament to the destination’s hospitality offerings, Riviera Nayarit boasts four AAA Five Diamond hotels, 12 AAA Four Diamond hotels and 10 AAA Three Diamond hotels. Rounding out the destination’s allure, superior quality international gastronomy awaits including a AAA Five Diamond restaurant, seven AAA Four Diamond restaurants and 21 AAA Three Diamond restaurants. Riviera Nayarit is conveniently 10 minutes north of Gustavo Diaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR). To discover the Pacific Coast’s treasure destination, visit www.RivieraNayarit.com or follow Riviera Nayarit on Facebook, Twitter @RivieraNayarit and Instagram @riviera_nayarit.