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Nayarit, Mexico, proudly announces remarkable accomplishments in 2024, marked by a surge in tourism and a steadfast commitment to sustainability. As Mexico welcomes record numbers of tourists, with 34.3 million visitors in the first five months of 2024, Nayarit pledges to uphold its dedication to the environment and high-quality tourism. Nuevo Nayarit has become a top destination, ranking among Mexico’s top three for hotel occupancy with an impressive 81.8 percent.
Renowned for its stunning beaches and popular tourist spots like Bucerías, Punta Mita, Sayulita, Litubú, Rincón de Guayabitos, and Chacala, Nuevo Nayarit continues to draw visitors worldwide. Despite the influx, Nayarit remains focused on preserving its natural beauty and promoting sustainable tourism.
The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort exemplifies this dedication by partnering with the National Commission of Protected Natural Areas to encourage responsible guest practices, regulate visitor numbers, and ensure the conservation of Islas Marietas and its biodiversity for future generations. Similarly, W Punta de Mita supports the local micro-economy by sourcing artisanal goods and organic ingredients from local suppliers. The resort also engages in marine flora and fauna protection through regular beach clean-ups and has eliminated plastic use with the “no straw needed” campaign, promoting products made from organic waste to reduce disposable materials.
Nayarit’s beaches are among the cleanest in the country, with Nuevo Nayarit’s beach holding the prestigious Blue Flag certification and ranking fourth among Mexico’s top ten cleanest beaches. Other Blue Flag beaches in Nayarit include the Riviera Nayarit Marina and the Marina Fonatur in San Blas.
Investment in Nayarit’s infrastructure is on the rise, with the upcoming Tepic-Riviera Nayarit International Airport set to accommodate international flights. The airport’s modernization includes expanding facilities, enhancing infrastructure, and implementing state-of-the-art technology to ensure passenger comfort and security. Upon completion, the airport will be able to receive up to four million passengers annually.
The airport is expected to be fully operational in early 2025, featuring new jet bridges, over 33,000 square feet of shops and restaurants, and a new car rental center with international brands like Avis, Budget, and Hertz. The entire immigration process will also be digital.
The airport completed its first international test flight in April, a significant milestone in its transformation. The rebranding aims to position the airport as the gateway to Riviera Nayarit. With 72 percent of visitors to Nayarit arriving for tourism and 60 percent of those being international tourists, the expansion of global flight operations at Riviera Nayarit International Airport will enhance connectivity with major cities across North America. The airport is currently negotiating with several gateways in the US and Canada.
Nayarit’s hotel sector is also experiencing unprecedented growth, with at least ten new openings planned by 2026. Major hotel investors, including AMResorts, Grupo Vidanta, Marriott International, and Melia, are driving this expansion. Family-friendly hotels such as Iberostar Grand and the Cirque du Soleil theme park will enhance Nayarit’s appeal as a premier destination for all ages. The development plan includes opening Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, Westin, Autograph Collection, and Ritz-Carlton properties. Melia Hotels International Group will introduce the Gran Melia Hotel in Riviera Nayarit with 180 rooms and suites and the Hotel Zel Sayulita in 2025. The Belmont brand will debut its Milaroca hotel in 2025, while Montage and Pendry are slated to open within the Punta Mita complex in 2026.
The increase in hotel bookings in Riviera Nayarit is reflected in a rise in arrivals at the three airports serving the state, including the Bay of Banderas, which has seen over 3.7 million air arrivals in the first half of 2024, marking a 2.6 percent increase compared to the same period in 2023.
Nayarit’s achievements in 2024 underscore its status as a leading destination that harmonizes tourism growth with sustainable practices, ensuring its natural treasures and vibrant culture continue to thrive for future generations.
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