Explore La Penita de Jaltemba, Nayarit

A Practical Guide to the Town, Neighborhoods, Transportation, Restaurants, and Where to Stay

Just across the pedestrian Bridge of Life from Rincón de Guayabitos sits La Peñita de Jaltemba, a vibrant working town along Jaltemba Bay.

La Peñita is home to many Mexican nationals who live here year round. Family homes sit beside seasonal rentals occupied by Mexican vacationers and snowbirds. The main road is lined with shops and restaurants, with even more tucked into the side streets.

With the recent filming of a popular telenovela on La Peñita beach, it will be interesting to see how this small town grows as more visitors discover it.

Where La Peñita Sits in Jaltemba Bay

La Peñita is one of three closely connected towns:

• Rincón de Guayabitos

• La Peñita de Jaltemba

• Los Ayala

You can walk, bike, taxi, or take the collectivo between them.

Understanding the Neighborhoods

La Peñita is divided by the highway into two general areas.

Mountain Side of the Highway

• Jardin de Eden

• Sierra Linda

• Lazaro Cardenas

• Cerro de la Cruz

• Isla del Verano

• Las Rosas

• Las Palmas

• Mira Sol

• Miramar Norte

• Miramar Sur

These colonias are more residential and in some cases slightly elevated, offering bay or hillside views.

Ocean Side of the Highway

• RV Park area

• Pescadores

• Cedros

• Centro

• Paraiso

Centro is the heart of town life. Here you will find the plaza, the taxi stand, shops, restaurants, and beach access.

Things to Do in La Peñita

Beaches & Outdoor Spots

• Playa La Peñita – Local beach along the bay; great for walking, chilling, ocean views and casual snacks. Popular for sunrise/sunset strolls.

• Coral Island – Boat tours to Isla del Coral for snorkeling, swimming and scenic trips.

• Explore quiet sandy beaches nearby like Playa El Playón and calm waters ideal for swimming or relaxed beach days.

• AllTrails area trails around La Peñita offer hiking, horseback riding or nature walks for outdoor adventure.

Local Culture & Experiences

• La Penita Tianguis (Thursday Market) – Large weekly market with fruits, crafts, street foods and local goods. Happens each Thursday and is a vibrant cultural activity.

• Jaltemba Equine Education Project (J.E.E.P.) – Animal rescue and interaction experience; supports horses and other animals.

• Stroll Plaza Principal La Peñita for local ambiance, cafés and people watching.

Tours & Excursions

• Boat tours (sunset, fishing, Isla del Coral) around Jaltemba Bay.

• Horseback riding, cycling and local exploration excursions.

• Day trips from La Peñita to Islas Marietas or Bahía de Banderas (booked locally or via tour operators).

Restaurants in La Peñita

La Peñita offers casual, locally owned dining with a mix of traditional Mexican and international options.

Traditional Mexican and Local Favorites

• Yesi & Grill

• La Casita de Irma

• Restaurant Las Koritas

• La Parrilla

• El Pollito

• Restaurant La Avenida

Other Options

• Dera's Pizza

• Avanti Trattoria Restaurant

• Kazuo Sushi

• Aloha Restaurant & Pizza

• La Vitola

Coffee and Street Food

• Aruma Coffee & Brunch

• Evening taco stands near the plaza and main drag

The best way to discover your favorite is to explore Centro on foot, especially at dinner time.

Getting Around

The Collectivo

Route:
Los Ayala → Guayabitos → La Peñita → La Colonia and back

Details:

• 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

• Approximately every 20 minutes

• 15 pesos per person

• Exact change appreciated

You can flag one down at blue bus stop signs. It is affordable and widely used by locals.

Taxis in La Peñita

Updated March 2025

Taxis are regulated white cars or minivans. You can find them along the main road or at the plaza taxi stand.

Standard rates:

• Guayabitos to top of main drag in La Peñita: 55 pesos

• Further into town or across the highway: 60 to 70 pesos

• Town to Hinde y Jaime’s: 100 pesos

• Town to JEEP Hilltop Refugio: 100 pesos

Rates are set by local taxi unions and may adjust annually.

If unsure, ask before getting in:
“¿Cuánto cuesta ir a…?”

Tipping is not mandatory but adding a few pesos is appreciated.

Where to Stay

Staying in La Peñita is ideal if you want to be in the middle of town life, close to restaurants, the plaza, and the beach.

If you are looking for something quieter and more peaceful, consider staying at Cerrito Encantado. Located about 20 minutes away, it offers a more secluded setting while still giving you easy access to La Peñita, Guayabitos, and Los Ayala.

Many visitors choose to enjoy the energy of La Peñita during the day and return to a calmer retreat in the evening.

Final Thoughts

La Peñita de Jaltemba blends local life with accessible tourism. It offers:

• A working Mexican town atmosphere

• Affordable transportation

• Walkable streets

• Easy access to neighboring beach towns

• Growing visibility after recent television exposure

Whether you stay in the center of town or retreat to a quieter property nearby, La Peñita makes it easy to experience Jaltemba Bay on your terms.