Explore La Peñita de Jaltemba, Nayarit, México
La Peñita de Jaltemba is the largest of the three towns and provides the commercial and public services for the Jaltemba Bay and surrounding area. There are two banks, ATMs, a money exchange, internet cafes, grocery and liquor stores, hardware and appliance stores, doctors and clinics, public and private hospitals, library, post office, bus stations, as well as business and legal services like a ministero publico (district attorney), notario (notary) and accountants. There are also a handful of small hotels, bungalows, trailer parks, Bed & Breakfasts, rental homes, condos and apartments.
Locals congregate along La Avenida (main street) and in the plaza, which sits at the center of town. Its paved walkways and concrete benches are shaded by large ficus and palm trees. The church is just across the street, and has recently been renovated. The bullring, located a few blocks away, is used mainly for rodeos, roping and riding practice, and musical events. On the north end of town is a new park with a soccer field, basketball court, volleyball courts, a children’s playground and walking trail.
La Peñita, as it is commonly called, means “little rock.” The people who live here are kind, hard working, generous and proud. The majority are fisherman, farmers, waiters, maids, bakers and construction workers. Their lives are filled with long-standing traditions and strong family values. This charming fishing village is quiet, friendly and the epitome of “real” Mexico.
La Colonia Paraiso Escondido, known as La Colonia, is a northern suburb of La Peñita. The two are separated by a small hill and are only accessible via the highway. La Colonia is mostly residential with rows of colorful cement block houses in various states of completion. There are also several small businesses including tacos stands, minisupers, papelerias, tortillerias and a few
Annual Town Events
- March: Taste of Lo de Marcos
- April: Las Fiestas Patronales
- View our Calendar for details about these and other events
Time Zones
It is worth noting that when you arrive in Puerto Vallarta, you will be on Central Time. Once you head north, you will leave the state of Jalisco and enter the state of Nayarit. The time zone no longer changes at the state lines as it once did. The new time zone includes the towns of Mezcales, Bucerias, Sayulita, San Pancho and Lo de Marcos. So, once you pass Lo de Marcos (and head towards Los Ayala, Guayabitos and La Peñita), be sure to turn your watches back one hour as you will now be on Mountain Time.
Upon your return to the airport in Puerto Vallarta, remember that you will lose an hour as the time zone changes back to Central Time. Be sure to set your watches accordingly so you don’t miss your flight.
Location & Map
The Bahia de Jaltemba (Bay of Jaltemba) is located 40 miles north of Puerto Vallarta in the state of Nayarit on the Pacific coast of Mexico. The large bay stretches all the way from Punta Raza on the south to Playa Boca de Naranjo on the north. It includes three small towns – Rincón de Guayabitos, La Peñita de Jaltemba and Los Ayala – and nine spectacular beaches. It is the perfect place for those who want to experience the “real” Mexico.
Jaltemba Bay is situated in the center/heart of the beautiful Riviera Nayarit region, which spans nearly 200 miles of Pacific coastline from Nuevo Vallarta to the historic port of San Blas. The nearest major cities are Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara, both of which are located in the state of Jalisco.
Driving Distances from La Peñita:
- Rincón de Guayabitos – 3 km / 2 miles (5 minutes)
- Los Ayala – 6 km / 4 miles (10 minutes)
- Puerto Vallarta Airport – 67 km / 42 miles (1-1½ hours)
- Guadalajara – 258 km / 160 miles (4-4½)
If you live in La Peñita and have additional information about the town, beaches or attractions, please contact us.