NAYARIT, 30 July 2024 – The Mexican state of Nayarit is marking a year of remarkable success, highlighted by a surge in tourism and a strong commitment to sustainability. In the first five months of 2024, Mexico welcomed 34.3 million tourists, with Nuevo Nayarit emerging as a top destination, boasting an impressive 81.8% hotel occupancy rate.
Nuevo Nayarit, renowned for its picturesque beaches and popular spots such as Bucerías, Punta Mita, Sayulita, Litubú, Rincón de Guayabitos, and Chacala, continues to attract global visitors. Despite the increase in tourism, Nayarit remains dedicated to promoting sustainable practices.
The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort is leading by example, working with the National Commission of Protected Natural Areas to enforce responsible tourism practices, manage visitor numbers, and protect the biodiversity of Islas Marietas. Additionally, W Punta de Mita supports the local economy by sourcing artisanal goods and organic ingredients from regional suppliers. The resort is also involved in regular beach clean-ups and has eliminated plastic use through its “no straw needed” campaign, advocating for products made from organic waste.
Nayarit’s beaches have received accolades for cleanliness from the Federal Commission for Protection against Sanitary Risks, with Nuevo Nayarit’s beach earning the Blue Flag certification and ranking fourth among Mexico’s top 10 cleanest beaches. Other Blue Flag beaches in Nayarit include the Riviera Nayarit Marina and Marina Fonatur in San Blas.
Infrastructure investment in Nayarit is also on the rise, with the upcoming Tepic-Riviera Nayarit International Airport set to enhance international connectivity. The airport’s expansion includes upgrading facilities, implementing new technology, and adding amenities such as jet bridges, 33,000 square feet of retail and dining options, and a new car rental center. The modernization aims to accommodate up to 4 million passengers annually, with the airport expected to be fully operational by the first half of 2025. The immigration process will be digitized to streamline passenger experience.
Tourism remains a significant driver for Nayarit, with 72% of visitors traveling for leisure and 60% coming from international destinations. The expanded global flight operations at the Riviera Nayarit International Airport will further connect Nayarit with major cities in North America, as negotiations are underway with several U.S. and Canadian gateways.
The hotel sector in Nayarit is also booming, with at least 10 new properties slated to open by 2026. Major investors, including AMResorts, Grupo Vidanta, Marriott International, and Melia, are leading this growth. The new developments include family-friendly options such as Iberostar Grand and a Cirque du Soleil theme park, as well as high-end properties from Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, Westin, Autograph Collection, and Ritz-Carlton. Melia Hotels International will introduce the Gran Melia Hotel in Riviera Nayarit with 180 rooms and suites, and Hotel Zel Sayulita in 2025. The Belmont brand will debut the Milaroca hotel in 2025, with Montage and Pendry set to open within the Punta Mita complex in 2026.
The increase in hotel bookings is mirrored by a rise in airport arrivals, with the Bay of Banderas recording over 3.7 million air arrivals in the first half of 2024, representing a 2.6% increase compared to the same period in 2023.
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