Things to Do in San Pancho

The wide, sandy beach in San Pancho is more than a mile long, stretching from the Tierra Tropical beach club at the north end, to President’s Point at the south. President’s Point was the vacation home of Mexico’s President Echeverria during the 1970’s. You can explore the coast by kayak or experience the jungle by horseback or bike.

Farther to the south, about three miles, is the town of Sayulita, famous for its surfing and fishing. Past Sayulita, you’ll reach the Four Seasons Resort, Punta de Mita, a new resort featuring fine dining and championship golf courses. The town of Punta de Mita also offers great snorkeling. And then there’s Puerto Vallarta – world famous for its nightlife, food and shopping.

To the north, the mountains give way to coastal plains and the historic town of San Blas. There you can take a jungle river boat ride past yawning crocodiles and magnificent birds. Historical San Blas was a key port for Spanish galleons bringing riches from the Pacific. It’s bell tower inspired the famous poem by Longfellow, “The Bells of San Blas”.

Inland from San Blas, surrounded by lakes and volcanoes, is the city of Tepic. The Huichiol Indians set up stalls around the plaza where they make and sell their world famous beaded artwork – amazingly colorful and intricate jaguars, birds, scorpions and religious symbols.

To the north, the mountains give way to coastal plains and the historic town of San Blas. There you can take a jungle river boat ride past yawning crocodiles and magnificent birds. Historical San Blas was a key port for Spanish galleons bringing riches from the Pacific. It’s bell tower inspired the famous poem by Longfellow, “The Bells of San Blas”.

Inland from San Blas, surrounded by lakes and volcanoes, is the city of Tepic. The Huichiol Indians set up stalls around the plaza where they make and sell their world famous beaded artwork – amazingly colorful and intricate jaguars, birds, scorpions and religious symbols.

  • Snorkeling
  • Kayaking
  • Surfing
  • Horseback riding
  • Mountain biking
  • Deep sea fishing
  • Hiking
  • Polo Matches on weekends
  • Standup Paddling
  • And of course lots and lots of sightseeing and shopping!

Dining

Dining out can be what you want it to be. Drive to the luxury resorts of Puerto Vallarta or to Punta  Mita, or eat at one of several great restaurants, like Ola Rica, Barracuda, or Maria’s, in San Pancho, five minutes away.

If you like to have the flexibility of snacking at home, we can shop for you so you can stock up on your favorite foods. Many familiar American brands are readily available in Puerto Vallarta.

Tennis Court in San Pancho

Maybe you’ve never played tennis before. Maybe you’re nearly a pro. In either case you will enjoy playing on the lighted court we have provided on site.

Tennis on a cool evening under the lights, a few steps from your bedroom will probably spoil you for the Park and Rec court back home, but then you can always come back to Casa Melissa for more indulgent living far from the cares and worries of life in these United States. Get the kids involved. Who knows, maybe the next Venus Williams is closer than you know!

The court is an Australian product that is used in the tropics, a synthetic grass surface topped with sand. It plays like clay but is ready for play 15 minutes after a rain shower (very important in the summer). The other great thing about the court is that it slows the game down – great if you are playing mixed doubles. What makes this tennis court unique is that it has an ocean view! Try not to get distracted by the pelicans flying by as you play the game.

Whale watching from boat in front of Casa Melissa
Whale watching from boat in front of Casa Melissa

Other activities

Whales migrate along the coast between December and March. See them from the terrace or get close-up on a boat in the Bay of Banderas.
Nature lovers can enjoy tropical birds flying by at eye level or go on a bird watching tour with Luis. See iguanas, geckos, tejones or tour the turtle nursery and help release baby turtles into the ocean. Ocean kayaking, snorkeling and hiking in the palm jungle or walking on the mile long sandy beach are a few of the best ways to enjoy this tropical paradise.

The small town of San Pancho is unique. It has an active polo community and a polo field, a yoga center, a pilates studio, craft beer cervecerias and fabulous restaurants. There are many shops and a variety of restaurants within easy walking distance of Casa Melissa.

Events during the year include a national surfing contest, annual music festival, and an art show at the Polo field a couple times a year.  Or rent a car and explore the whole area.