Islas Marías: A Journey to the Heart of the Pacific and Memory

The expedition begins with a transfer from Tepic to the historic port of San Blas, the gateway to the Gulf of California. You’ll enjoy the sea breeze aboard the ferry as we head toward Puerto Balleto on Isla María Madre.

Our exploration of this destination—which for over a century served as a penal colony—starts at Laguna del Toro and the ancient Salt Mines (Salinera). In the afternoon, we head to Punta Halcones, a natural lookout point that offers a stunning perspective of the archipelago and the vastness of the Pacific.

After returning to the Puerto Balleto area, the evening features a tasting of Nayarit wines. Under the island’s star-filled sky, we’ll toast with regional labels, discovering the unique wine-growing history that Nayarit has to tell in this peaceful sanctuary.

Day two reveals the contrasts of island life. The morning begins in the serenity of Playa Chapingo, whose crystal-clear waters are perfect for connecting with the marine environment.

The historical narrative deepens with a visit to the Cemetery, a site filled with local legends, followed by a tour of the vibrant Murals and the famous “Muros de Agua” (Walls of Water). Here, contemporary art pays tribute to Mexican literature and the transformation of the penitentiary into a cultural center.

After a lunch featuring fresh regional ingredients, the adventure continues with a bicycle tour through Puerto Balleto, allowing you to explore this self-sustaining community at your own pace. A visit to the Site Museum is essential to understanding the complex history of the Marías before enjoying a relaxing afternoon at the Beach Club.

To end on a high note, we will hike up to Cristo Rey, the island’s highest point, to watch the sunset with a 360-degree panoramic view before beginning our return trip to the mainland.