Chacala to Las Cuevas Coastal Path

The Chacala to Las Cuevas Coastal Path begins at the north end of Playa Chacala, Nayarit, reachable on foot directly from the beach with no vehicle or parking needed and no permit required. The round-trip route covers 5 km with about 120 m of elevation gain and takes around 2 hours, following a coastal path that alternates between beach sand, packed dirt, and short rocky headland sections with limited shade. Landmarks along the way include several small coves and the sea caves at Las Cuevas that give the destination its name, along with rocky outcrops offering views back over Chacala's bay. The caves at Las Cuevas mark the trail's natural turn-around point, though the accessible area shrinks or disappears at high tide, so timing the hike around the tide schedule matters for reaching the caves comfortably. There are no water sources, refuge huts, or shelters along the path, so hikers should carry water and are encouraged to bring a swimsuit, since the coves along the way are good spots for a swim. The trail is best hiked at low tide and during the drier months of November through April, when the coastal path is easiest to follow and least affected by storm surge.