Cerritos

A small, authentically Mexican fishing village and emerging surf destination in Nayarit, beloved by backpackers and surfers for its consistent waves and untouched charm. It remains refreshingly underdeveloped with great tacos, hammock-strung beachfront palapa bars, and a genuine local atmosphere.

Things to do

• Surf the Main Break — Paddle out at Cerritos' iconic beach break, which offers consistent right-hand waves perfect for intermediate surfers and a lively lineup of locals and travelers.
• Watch the Sunset from a Palapa Bar — Settle into a hammock at one of the beachfront palapa bars with a cold cerveza and watch the Pacific sun dip below the horizon while live guitar music plays.
• Visit the Fish Market at Dawn — Arrive early at the small fish market near the beach to watch fishermen unload the morning catch and select ultra-fresh seafood for lunch.
• Hike to Nearby Viewpoints — Trek up the low hills surrounding Cerritos for panoramic views of the coastline, the village, and the Sierra Madre mountains in the distance.
• Kayak or Paddleboard in the Cove — Rent a kayak or paddleboard from local shops and explore the sheltered cove on calm mornings, spotting pelicans, herons, and occasional sea turtles.
• Take a Fishing Trip with Local Pangas — Arrange an early-morning boat excursion with local fishermen to experience traditional panga fishing and learn about the community's working relationship with the sea.

Food to try

• Fish Tacos al Pastor — Crispy battered local catch served in hand-pressed corn tortillas with cabbage slaw, crema, and fresh lime—found at beachfront stands and family-run comedores.
• Ceviche de Camarones — Fresh shrimp cured in lime juice with onion, cilantro, serrano peppers, and tomato, served ice-cold as an appetizer at palapa bars and seafood restaurants.
• Huachinango a la Sal — Whole red snapper baked inside a salt crust, cracked open tableside and served with lime and fresh tortillas at modest local eateries.
• Pozole Rojo — A hearty hominy and pork stew simmered with dried chiles, traditionally served on weekends at family homes and small comedores near the plaza.
• Agua Fresca de Jamaica — A refreshing cold drink made from hibiscus flowers, sugar, and water, sold by vendors on the beach and at market stands throughout the day.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect the Fishing Schedule — The village rhythm centers on the fishing boats; early mornings are busy and loud, and the best fresh fish arrives between 6 and 8 a.m., so plan accordingly.
• Learn Basic Spanish — English is rarely spoken in Cerritos; carrying a phrasebook or translation app and making an effort to speak Spanish earns genuine respect from locals.
• Embrace Slow, Casual Dining — Meals here are unhurried social events; expect service to be relaxed, food to arrive when it's ready, and dinner to start late (after 7 or 8 p.m.).
• Support Local Businesses — Eat at family-owned comedores and palapa bars rather than chain establishments; locals depend on direct tourist spending and appreciate your patronage.