About
While Riviera Nayarit has plenty of turquoise water and powdery sand, nothing compares to those at Isla del Coral.
Located just off the coast of Rincón de Guayabitos, it has long been a go-to for both locals and visitors. It's a very remote island, but it's only a short boat ride from the mainland, so it's a very accessible island. The island has been inhabited by fishermen for generations, the sea being the defining feature of the island with all the fish and the sheltered coves.
Today Isla del Coral is a haven for water sports with very calm waters indeed, ideal for swimming, paddleboarding and above all snorkeling. The reefs are absolutely teeming with tropical fish, coral and on occasion you'll even see a sea turtle.It's part of a protected ecological reserve, and the focus of recent work has been on conserving the island's natural beauty whilst still allowing people to come and enjoy it. That has in turn helped to keep the shoreline clean, the reefs in good health and the laid-back atmosphere of the island.
On arrival you'll find a few palapas (thatched huts) where you can just relax in the shade, have a picnic or sit and watch the waves. There are no big resorts or hotels at all, just the coast, the sand and a real sense of peace. It's a place that you just want to slow down and take in, whether you're looking for adventure or just some downtime. Isla del Coral is that kind of place.
Isla del Coral: Fun Facts & Cool Features
Snorkeling is the main attraction on Isla del Coral. The reefs are full of color (parrotfish, angelfish, sergeant majors, etc.), all moving about amongst the corals and rock. Guided tours provide you with the gear and the know-how, but even a novice snorkeller can easily pick up the marine life right up close to the shore. Kayaking and paddle boarding are also popular, offering a great way to get around the island and take in views of the coast and the distant Sierra Madre mountains.
Wildlife watching is another good thing to do (look out for pelicans, frigatebirds, and iguanas basking on the rocks). You might just see a sea turtle passing by or some dolphins playing in the wake of the boat. The waters are very clean and veryshallow, so they are ideal for families with little ones, and the whole thing is so relaxed you can easily spend the whole day just swimming, lying about, and exploring the tide pools.
There are no restaurants on the island, though you'll occasionally come across local vendors with a snack bar (fresh ceviche, fruit and cold drinks). Many people will have a picnic or have lunch arranged as part of their tour. The island has very little infrastructure, so it's a true off-the-grid experience, and it's easy to unplug, recharge, and get back to nature.
Isla del Coral is where adventure and peace coexist in equal measure, ideal for creating memories you'll carry long after your Riviera Nayarit vacation ends.
Local Tips
- Bring your own snorkel gear if you can.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to help protect the marine environment.
- Bring cash for snacks and tips.
- Respect the reserve; don't leave trash and don't stand on the coral.
