Nayarit consolidates its global standing: Forbes recognizes it among the best destinations to travel to in 2026

The Forbes Travel Guide, considered the highest international authority on luxury tourism, included Nayarit in its list of the best destinations to travel to in 2026, a recognition that reaffirms the state's position as one of the most relevant tourist destinations in the Mexican Pacific and the world.

With over six decades of history—since its inception as the Mobil Travel Guide in 1958—Forbes Travel Guide is the only independent, global ranking system for destinations, hotels, restaurants, spas, and, more recently, luxury cruises. Its awards are based on anonymous evaluations that consider up to 900 objective criteria, making its distinction one of the most prestigious achievements in the international travel industry.

In this edition, which brings together only 20 destinations globally —from Antarctica to Zanzibar—, Nayarit is among the 20 best places to travel next year, in addition to being one of the five selected beach destinations, thanks to the dynamism, diversity and sophistication of Riviera Nayarit, one of the most attractive tourist corridors in Mexico.

Stretching over 320 kilometers along the Pacific coast, Riviera Nayarit offers a unique fusion of bohemian surf towns like Sayulita and world-class luxury enclaves like Punta de Mita; combining golden beaches, mangroves, rainforests, and two great mountain ranges—the Sierra Madre and the Sierra de Vallejo—where ecotourism and adventure find a privileged setting.

In its 2026 forecast, the publication highlights the arrival and consolidation of high-level projects, such as Naviva, Four Seasons' exclusive adults-only lodging concept, made up of 15 tents immersed in nature, as well as the upcoming opening of Siari Riviera Nayarit, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve that promises to become one of Mexico's most exclusive natural retreats.

But that's not all, as the region's tourism development has been further strengthened by Vidanta Nuevo Nayarit—also recognized by Travel + Leisure as one of the Best Hotels in Mexico and the world. This resort offers a comprehensive luxury experience with golf courses, spas, shopping centers, and innovative entertainment options, such as the recently inaugurated LUDÕ water and gastronomic show by Cirque du Soleil, as well as the ambitious first luxury theme park in the world, designed exclusively for resort guests.

Riviera Nayarit comprises 25 micro-destinations, ranging from remote islands and pristine beaches to areas with intense waves ideal for surfing, such as Sayulita, one of the most iconic coastal towns. This former fishing village has established itself as a cosmopolitan meeting point, where travelers from all over the world converge, drawn by its creative energy, surf culture, and relaxed atmosphere.

The Forbes recognition adds to a string of international accolades for Riviera Nayarit, as Condé Nast Traveler recently included it on its list of The Best Places to Visit in North America and the Caribbean in 2026. Furthermore, Travel + Leisure, one of the world's most influential travel magazines, selected Riviera Nayarit for its list of The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2026, where it stands out as the only Mexican beach destination included.

With over 200 miles of coastline, a strong cultural identity, and a growing offering of nature and luxury resorts, Riviera Nayarit continues to establish itself as one of the most attractive and expanding tourist destinations on the continent, projecting Nayarit as a global benchmark for travelers seeking authentic, exclusive experiences deeply connected with nature.

Source: Eme Media.