I’m asked this all the time, “How do we get to Destiladeras beach by bus?” I invited Bruce Howell’s to be my guest blogger sharing his experience of getting to what many of us call the best beach on the bay, by bus.
Destination: La Cruz to Destiladeras Beach
Attractions: – Considered one of the top beaches in the bay
- Stunning scenery, Safe clean beach, incredibly fine sand
- Amenities; Public washrooms (5p), public parking, restaurants
- Nahui resort. Check for day passes
Walking Distance: From highway to beach: Five minute walk, slight hill
Travel Time: La Cruz to Playa Destiladeras: fifteen to twenty minutes
Buses Required: One “ATM” Punta de Mita bus. Anywhere on the lateral
Taxis Available: With the proximity to La Cruz I imagine cab fare could be easily arranged
Travel Expenses: Bus: 30 pesos for 1 return
Cab: XX pesos return
The Experience:
My grandson was down so I planned a journey to my favorite beach; Destiladeras Beach, one of the Ten Best beaches in Banderas Bay.
It was not our first visit to “The Walking Beach” as it is nicknamed, but it was my first since the new highway thru La Cruz and it almost became the trip that never happened!
I comment about the frequency of the buses and colectivos, but today, while there were several colectivos, they were full, we had beach toys and stuff, so no problem, the bus will arrive shortly. After twenty minutes, we thought maybe they weren’t running today? Just as we were discussing a “pool” day, the bus arrived!
Boarding the bus I asked “Alto a playa Destiladeras”, he nodded yes and we boarded a crowded, standing room only bus! We secured seats but it remained standing room only for many.
The bus took the old road leaving La Cruz, so no problem getting off at Destiladeras ….. I thought. Windows were covered, aisles blocked, and we couldn’t see out the front window. Rejoining the “new” road, I knew we were headed to Punta de Mita.
First time a bus driver has ever not remembered to stop.
Only positive thoughts allowed in Mexico.
What a great opportunity to show Xavier Punta de Mita!
He was encouraged when he saw an OXXO as it had been an hour and a half since he had last eaten. We wandered thru town to the water front, and checked out the beach and boats. After a brief stop at the OXXO we boarded a bus for Vallarta asking “Alto a playa Destiladeras”. Thirteen pesos each, but we were first on and sat in the front seats, eye wide open. Spotting the sign for the Nahui resort we knew we were close. Suddenly, the bus was pulling over and the driver signaling us to get off.
Yeah for Mexican bus drivers, they rock!
Entering a secure public parking lot, we followed the road to the beach and encountered joyful people enjoying a day at an amazing beach. At times there can be an undertow but on a calm day not so much and there is no sudden drop off, very gradual walk to the deeper water. Waves can be big and the southern end of the beach is noted for surfing with 5 foot waves at times.
There were families, locals and tourists, all enjoying a memorable day at a magical isolated Mexican jewel.
Whether it’s the comforts of a day pass at Nahui or “roughing it” on the beach with a cooler, renting a table and umbrella or chowing down at one of the beach side restaurants, you must visit this beach; no explanation required as to its nickname “The Walking Beach”.
Time to head home!
There were two people at the highway and several more joined us. We waited ten minutes for a Vallarta bus. We secured seats but again, it was standing room only. I enjoyed the ride along the narrow winding jungle road with glimpses of ocean views, into the town of La Cruz and its one traffic light.
Another fun day and no driving required!
Now we know. Thanks, Bruce!
Bruce Howells is a retired Canadian, who along with his wife Velma, took a “mulligan” in life and escaped from Canada’s cold and settled in Vallarta. Fulfilling a dream of no more driving, Bruce uses public transportatio to tour the bay and tell their stories here. Tips and Itineraries welcome. Email: Busbanderasbay
Follow Bruce’s column where he shares how to bus the Bay from Bucerias here.
By car:
