Things To Do Around the Area
Whether you are new to the area or you have been here several times, there are plenty of things to do around the area. Listed below, are just a few of them.
*** Go Surfing***
For those of you who love to surf, or for those that might just be learning, Barra De Navidad can be a great place to play around in the waves.
Just starting…. you can either get lessons or rent a board at North Swell. Talk to Gerra, for more information and prices. He is located heading towards the malecon, after Barra Mia take the first left on the following street, midway on the left.
—Barra is typically better during the winter months, when we are receiving a north swell. The wave is a point break, and breaks just in front of the malecon. Usually wrapping in as a right-breaking wave, but sometimes when it is huge, it can create a nice left.
If you are looking for an adventure along with your surf, there is La Vuelta . Just as the name, it is around the corner from the most northern tip of Melaque. To get there, you will want to drive as far north as you can, park your car, and then walk to the malecon. Once you reach the malecon and walk it as far as you can, you then climb over the wall and hike the rocks about 15 minutes. Now, just be sure to time your trip so that the tide isn’t too high –or else it could get a little dangerous! Once you reach the break, you will see that there is both a right and a left, and depending on the swell direction will determine the wave that is working.
Another spot to check out, especially if you are learning is Boca De Iguanas. Just north of Barra, about a 25 minute drive. As you get to where you can’t drive anymore, park, and follow the path to the beach (Just watch out for the gators). The break is straight in front –it is a beach break. Usually small and a lot of close-outs, but can also be a lot of fun!
One other spot, just 45 min. north of Barra is Arroyo Seco. It is for the pro’s that are out there, or at-least those who don’t mind getting a little pummeled –it can be quite a fast and gnarly wave! As you are driving into the small town of Arroyo Seco and get to the end of the square you can either go right to the small beach of La Bruja, where you will find a right-breaking wave. Or… you can drive left, just by the square, and follow the road till you hit the beach –Las Brisas. As you reach the beach, there is a right-breaking wave just out in front. And… if you drive the road all the way down, you will eventually hit the left-breaking wave that is there. Again, the waves at this beach are a tad-bit peligroso! –they are steep, fast, and as Justin would say a bit punchy.
Now, going south(roughly 2-3 hour drive)–there is the infamous La Ticla. An absolutely amazing spot for surfers. If you have the time on your trip, you must go. A bit tricky for beginners, but none-the-less doable. Being a beach break, it offers both amazing rights and lefts. If you haven’t been there before, this place will step up your game in surfing. Available is camping, rooms, and complete bungalows. Just be aware that at night things shut down quick, so grab your last beers and anything you might want to eat. But… definitely check this place out.
*** Check Out Ecojoy Adventures ***
They have A LOT to offer, including: Artificial Rock Climbing, Repelling Courses, Kayak Tours and Trips to Local Areas, Stand-Up Paddle Board Lessons and Tours, Hikes, Waterfall Day Trips, Horse Back Riding on the Beach, Zip-Lining, Bike Tours and Bike Rentals, and they also offer Transportation To and From Surrounding Airports.
Ask for Jorge, he speaks both Spanish and English 😉.
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*For more information, you can check them out on Facebook at Ecojoy Adventures, or call Jorge at 044.315.100.9240.
*** Do Some Yoga ***
Not only is it very relaxing, it makes you feel GOOD!
A couple of seasons ago my friend, Kalina Saunders began the Buena Onda Centro de Yoga here in Barra. —It is an AMAZING place to find fantastic classes, events, and healing practices!
The yoga center is located off the road with the BIG Perota Tree near the Fish Market. Just head like you are going to Hotel Sand’s and it will be on your right shortly after.
To find out more about her practices and class schedule, you can come by the shop to view her weekly flier in the window. …Or go to her Facebook Page at Buena Onda Centro de Yoga.
I myself will be teaching there this season 😃. It will be my first time legitimately teaching, so…. If you are willing to give it a try, Please…. come. I, Alison (Aloha Spirit Yoga), will be teaching on Fridays at 5:00pm in the early evening. I will be offering a variety of classes, all of which you can view either on the TAB Class Schedule —located on this site, in the window at the coffee shop LA BRUJA, or on the pin-up board at Buena Onda Centro de Yoga.
Aynsley, my friend and fellow surfer, does an incredibly amazing job teaching yoga both for beginners and advanced yogis. She teaches an eclectic mix of Hatha and Vinyasa Yoga. –Explaining breathing techniques, the different chakras, a huge array of postures, and a variety of yoga routines with gentle transitions.
This upcoming season she will be teaching in Melaque, at Latika’s house (Calle Esmeralda #4 Via Obregon) Mondays and Fridays at 9:30 am (one hour class). Beginning November 28th thru February 17th. —Her classes are 100 pesos.
LaRaé, another friend and new momma☺️ Teaches her amazing Hatha and Strength classes in La Manzanilla at Casa Luz on Calle Boca Del Río #75, on the first left past Martin’s restaurant near the river mouth. Her classes are Monday’s at 11am and Friday’s at 9am. —Both one hour classes. Also, 100 pesos a class.
I recommend getting to class with a few minutes to spare, because ALL of these classes tend to fill up quick. And… if you have your own yoga mat, bring it. But, if you don’t, don’t let that discourage you, she has a few extra that she loans out. *You may also purchase them at Walmart in Manzanillo, if you are interested.
*** Boat Over to Colimilla ***
A FUN and WONDERFUL experience that if you haven’t done, you should.
EASY, QUICK, AND CHEAP TO DO….. Just catch one of the water taxis in Barra, and ask to be dropped off in Colimilla, or at one of the many restaurants.
One of my favorite restaurants over there is Restaurant Mary’s. They serve the BEST MARGARITAS in Barra! And… also, the loveliest seafood dishes. One of my husband’s favorite dishes is the Rollo Del Mar (shrimp wrapped in bacon and smothered in cheese). I personally, love the guacamole 😉
And… if you aren’t all that hungry, take a boat over to Colimilla, and simply walk around the small area. It’s a fun thing to do 😉
*** Go For a Hike ***
There is an amazing little hike located in La Manzanilla. It’s about a 20-25 minute light walk (flip-flop do-able) to the waterfall and another 20-25 minutes back. In total a 40 minute walk.
But, I definitely recommend wearing your swimsuit, because it is sooooo nice to dip in the waterfall once you reach it.
To get there, take the main road into the square, keep driving as if you were to go to Martin’s Restaurant. Once you approach a dry river, you’ve hit the hike.
Walk up the river, headed inland.
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A short while into it you should see a pathway on the right, take it, this will lead you to a wonderful little waterfall. As you are walking this path, you should notice that the river is on your left.
Also…
There is another little hike located on your way to Autlan. Not far from here, about a 15 minute drive. It’s known as Choncho. –Not totally easy to describe, but if you find a friend that has been there –they can show you the way. During the summer months it’s great! -due to all the rain. It creates these beautiful, clear, little pools to refresh in. I’m not sure if it is as amazing in the winter 🙁 But…. quien sabes.
Another little hike… SUPER CLOSE
Is the… Mirador, the farthest right point of Melaque. If you drive to Cuastacomate, there is a little parking spot on the left -at the entrance to the hike up the little mountain.
There are about 3 jaunts you can take. #1 is up the hill (right before you reach the main lookout that you can actually drive up) and… veers to the left. It goes out and in the direction to the ocean, and there is a spectacular view of All of Barra and Melanie. #2 walk of sorts, is the main drag and lookout. –Not bad, and worth while doing. #3 …hike you can do… is just keep walking along that same path and head upwards and towards the right. It actually goes quite a ways, and I’ve heard… you can actually go thru a gate and get into Cuastacomate (I’m not for sure that you can, but…) *I’ve done all three walks, and I like them 😉 It’s something to do, and you get a little exercise in.
*** Check Out What Ruth Has To Offer at Experience Mex-ECO Tours***
Interested in a great outing and adventure 😊?
Well… my friend, Ruth Hazelwood owns and operates Mex-ECO Tours, a GREAT company that not only does Multi-Day Tours within ALL of Mexico and areas of Latin America, but… has AMAZING tours right here in this area. Some of the tours include: The Botanical Gardens and Sea Turtles, Cuzalapa Coffee Tour, and Sea Turtle Experience.
The office located in this area is in Melaque. Their hours during high season (from October to April) is 10am – 2pm and 5pm – 7pm Monday thru Friday, and 10am -2pm on Saturdays, CLOSED Sundays.
To get there, you drive into Melaque on the main road in (where the dolphin statue is), at the end of that street you hang a left at the corner where Intercam is, it will be on your right in that first block after Oxxo.
*For more information, you can go to info@mex-ecotours.com
Ruth also has a GREAT artisan store located in Manzanillo located at Boulevard Miguel de la Madrid #14, Santiago. Where you can find decorative stuff for your house or gifts for a friend. As of November it will be 10-5pm Monday thru Friday and 10-2pm on Saturday. Be sure to check it out😉
*** Visit the Tianguis ***
If you don’t already know, every Thursday the Tianguis are in town.
And… for those of you who don’t know what the Tianguis are, it is similar to a swamp meet or a flea market. It’s the place to go to buy jewelry, used clothing, household items, berries, and even the newest releases in movies.
This year, they are located along the main road coming into town, and in the square.
And… if for some reason you can’t attend the Thursday Tianguis here in Barra, you can catch them in Melaque on Wednesday. The Melaque Tianguis are located in via Obregon. To get there, you take the street that leads you to the Pipil School, drive several blocks, and it is located a block or so down on the left. *Note: the Wednesday-Melaque-Tianguis are bigger and offer more items.
*** Get Scuba Certified with PADI***
From personal experience, I would recommend getting Scuba Certified if you love to Snorkel. —Scuba Diving has so much to offer, and is INCREDIBLY FUN!
Unfortunately the guy I learned from retired, but…. I’m pretty sure he sold all his stuff to someone now located in La Manzanilla. When I find out more information that is current, I will let you all know😉
*** Check Out Chametla ***
It’s a bit of a day trip, but well worth it!
It takes about an hour and a half to get there. So… if you are doing any water adventures like Surfing or SUPping, definitely leave early in the morning to beat any wind.
*By the way, there is ONLY surf when it is coming from the south and is at-least listed as 5′ and 17 seconds. And… when there is surf -it is longboard style and to the left..
To get there, take road 200 north, headed towards P.V., after you spot Careyes ?! it will be on your left side once you pass the town Chamela.
Once you are there, it is so nice and relaxing! The sights are INCREDIBLE!
There are about 3 or 4 little islands off the coast, that are accessible by board or boat. One of these days, I plan to SUP over. Also, there is a small private little beach to the left. You can get to it by walking the beach south, or also by paddling over by board or boat. It is quite and tranquil over there. There is a guy who guards it, but don’t let that scare you -He’ll let you hang.
And… there is a river that runs towards the ocean as well -that you can go check out. *If you have the time, it is well worth camping over a night or two.
*** Get Acupuncture ***
Not that I am trying to promote my husband’s business, but I will… Because it ROCKS! –If you don’t see results right away, you eventually will. But…. Doug will tell you if he can’t help, and will suggest going to see a doctor if that is what is needed.
Acupuncture is actually very healing and in a weird way …kinda relaxing. It is good for all sorts of problems such as: headaches, nausea, muscle problems, sciatica, shingles, tennis elbow, –you name it. And… depending on the case and severity of the issue, it will take a few treatments. Which can include: some Tuina Massage, Needling, Cupping, and/or some Moxa-ing.
All… very interesting to try, if you haven’t already. *It is quite a sensation to have a needle placed into your left knee, and at the same time, feel a pain go away in your right elbow 🙂
If you are up for trying some alternative medicine, give Doug a call at 315.355.0070 or email him at DougGrootveld@yahoo.com His private sessions are an hour long and are $600 pesos —by appointment ONLY.
His office prior to high season in December is located on Calle 21 de Noviembre #43 (orange house in front of Crazy Cactus), in Barra –between Kiosko and the first Oxxo, the street with the swordfish statue on it. Otherwise…. During high season, December thru April, he is located in an office space at the bottom of Casa De Marco. —Which is situated on the right a block after you pass the swordfish statue as you enter into the town of Barra.
Photo by The Center: Natural Health Specialists
*** Hang Out Poolside ***
Nothing is quite like a vacation, like hanging out poolside 😉
A few pools open to the public are…
Cabo Blanco The biggest and cleanest pool in Barra. An absolute amazing pool to swim laps in, play water volleyball, and/or have hold your breath contests with your friends. Also, they have great cocktails, food, and restrooms!
Hotel Sands Located also in Barra, it is also a sweet spot to hang out one afternoon. Along with the nice breezes, palm trees swaying, you have cocktails available right there at the Sand Bar. Overall, cozy and SUPER tropical.
Chantil Mar Is a hotel and restaurant, located in boca De Iguanas. –The turn-off is just before you get to the end of the road. -There is a sign for it. This place is a sexy little spot to hang one afternoon and grab lunch. The burgers are to die for.
*** Take a Fishing Tour ***
The Costalegre is a great area for fishing, and one of my dear friends offers AMAZING tours in this particular area of the Costalegre.
His name is Luis Vargas, and his website is FishingCostalegre.com
If you are anxious to get on this, you can reach him via email or by phone. I personally …highly recommend his tours 🙂 He is a phenomenal fisherman and great instructor!
Email Address: info@fishingcostalegre.com
House Line: 315.355.6657 and Cell Phone: 044.315.106.8499
This year he offers both Surf Casting Tours and Charters. –YEAH!!!
In the Surf Casting Tour, you will go to remote beaches with pristine coastlines, and experience hooking a fish on the shore using high-quality spinning equipment. –With the utmost BEST instruction you’ve ever had, you’ll learn NEW techniques in surf fishing. *Note: if you tend to get seasick, this is a great way to go!
On his Charters, Luis will take you out to sea, where you will cast from his very comfortable and clean boat. It can usually take up to 4-6 hours, so plan accordingly 😉 –Bring plenty of sunscreen, cover-up, and water.
Just some of the fish that he has caught, and you can plan on catching as well, are: Dorado, Snapper, Jack Crevalle, Skip Jack, Sierra Mackerel, Green Jack, Big Eye Trivially, Rainbow Runner, Amberjack, and more…
For more information on times and prices, just give Luis a shout out 🙂
*Also, if you are interested, Luis is NOW selling efficient lures for casting from a boat to surf fishing.
*** Try Stand-Up Paddle Boarding ***
If you are skeptical of the whole thing, I was too, to start. But… once I did it, I was hoooooked. It is sooooo much fun!
Once you get the hang of it, which doesn’t take long, you want to do it every other day. It is SUPrisingly relaxing. And… without feeling it, you get a great workout.
–Which in my mind, is the best way to workout. Who… wants to feel the burn :/
Not to mention, you get to see all the cool little fishies in the water, also… a few sting rays once in awhile. –But don’t let that scare ya.
Located here in Barra, there is North Swell, who also rents paddle boards, too. Some of which are great for surfing, as well. For more information and pricing, talk to my friend, Gerra —who runs the shop. Their phone number is 315.108.5382. The shop is located headed towards the Malecon, after Barra Mia, next street take a left —it’s on the left.
Another place to rent boards or get lessons, is with my friend, Jorge at Ecojoy Adventures. He also offers some neat tours on Paddle Boards, as well 😉. *You can contact him by phone at 044.315.100.9240.
There is also Pacific Adventures, whom rents out paddle boards in Cuastacomate. Once you enter the beach, the shop is located on the far left side of the bay. I don’t know their prices, but I’m sure it is reasonable. You can also contact them via email at pacificadventures@outlook.com. Also, their phone number is 315.100.4999
And… there is Ocean Paddle Melaque, run by another friend, Moi. He offers classes, tours, and rentals. For pricing and more information, you can check his page on Facebook — It is all listed out there. Or you can contact him at oceanpaddle89@gmail.com or call him personally at 315.109.0578.
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*** Go Snorkeling ***
Just a few spots known for it’s decent snorkeling are…
1) Cuastacomate -when facing the ocean, swim out to the left side, hugging the rocks, and head out of the bay. There are plenty of bright colored fish, sting rays, and a nice reef to look at.
2) Calechosa -across the bay of Cuasacomate is the beach, Calechosa. To get there though, you have to drive in off of road 200. Head like you are going to La Manz., after the turn off towards the one gas station, take a left turn where the Bardahl Sign is, after the Kiosko, then head straight for four blocks, then turn left, then take the next right —the road will lead you to the beach. I recommend accessing the water on the left side of the bay, then swim over either to the rock out in front or go to the left. —Some really great things to see 😁.
3) La Manzanilla -again, when facing the ocean, hang to the left side and snorkel out near the rocks. A friend of mine, says there are great fish to check out. *Also, if you have access, a GREAT SPOT to go is to Little La Manzanillita😉 —To get there, you either need a paddle board, kayak, or dingy, …you head south/left in La Manz. Bay and go about 4 bays, there is fantastic snorkeling over there.
4) Tenacatita –I’m not sure if it is open to walk to when ashore, but for sure, you can either swim around to it, or boat up to it. The place to do the snorkeling is known as the Aquarium -located on the farthest right point, when on land. It holds an array of fish.
Photo by Susan Sharpless Smith
*** Take a Trip and See Some New Sights ***
Some of my FAVORITE SPOTS include: Colima, Patzcuaro, Guanajato, and San Miguel de Allende.
You can either take one of the luxurious buses, like Primero Plus, drive -if you have a car of your own, or… rent a car🙂.
I’ve done it all… the bus system is GREAT! There are offices located both here and in Melaque. Just go in and ask for the bus schedule and prices. —Super comfortable and often a nice price!
Driving can be fine, too😌. The sights are nice, toll roads are great, and it is always an adventure.
And… If you are in need of a rental car, well…. My friend, Trayce Ross rents cars within her business, Crazy Cactus.
—To talk with her more about it, she is located on the street 21 de Noviembre (the street which the marlin statue is on), halfway down the block on the right. Her office phone number is 315.355.6091.
*** Get a Relaxing Massage ***
Most likely, if you are in this area, you are probably already relaxed, but…. you can’t tell me that an hour massage wouldn’t be the best!
If interested, which …really -how can you not be. You gotta contact my friend, and amazing Massage Therapist, Kalina Saunders.
She offers two types of massage; one being a Relaxation Massage, and the other being a Shiatsu/Thai Massage. Both are priced at 350 pesos for one hour, and 500 pesos for an hour and a half.
Located inside the “Buena Onda Centro de Yoga” on Calle Morelos #26 in Barra de Navidad (turn left at the BIG Perota Tree, and it is on the right at the end of the street, after Hotel Sands)
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To book an appointment or just get a little more info. call: 315 112 4602 or email: buenaondabarra@outlook.com
Also…
Another GREAT masseuse to go to …is Patti. She gives an INCREDIBLE deep and relaxing massage. By far…. one of the BEST masseuses I’ve ever had before! You will absolutely love her 😉
Usually, her massage is around an our and half –YEP, I wrote that -and hour and a half SWEET!!! …And runs around 500 pesos a session. –Well worth it, too!
To book an appointment or gather more information, call Patricia Baxter at 355.8181 or 044.108.5716
*** Play PickleBall ***
Join the many here that play Pickle Ball.
There are quite a lot of folks here that play, ranging from all ages. —For exercise, for fun, for fun competition, and sometimes even at tournaments.
They get together and play at Cabo Blanco on the tennis courts. Often in the morning from 8am until 11:30 ALL days of the week.
May need to ask one of the folks if they have extra paddles or have any to purchase. I’m sure they will be able to assist.
*** Take a Beach Day at Cuastacomate ***
It took me six years of coming down to this area to finally drive into Cuastacomate. If this is your first time to the area, I highly recommend taking a beach day at this amazingly beautiful beach! Especially, because it is only a 10-15 car ride north of Barra.
This tiny bay offers an amazing view, serene waters to swim in, great fishing, and tasty food.
*It’s the complete package when coming to a relaxing day at the beach. You gotta go if you haven’t.
*** Go on an Adventure with CXC Ocean Expeditions ***
Located just in Melaque, on the street across the gas station.
Joshua, my friend runs a tight ship with a variety of fun experiences to be had😃.
Everything from Spearfishing, Fishing, Surfing, Stand-Up Paddle Boarding, Free-Diving, Scuba Diving, Sky-Divng, and a slew more.
They also have all inclusive packages at hotels or if you want something more private and want a house for yourself and family with a personal chef.
To find out more, below is the contact info.😀
cxcoceanexpeditions@gmail.com
1-306-491-9459
+52 314 103 4893