Tepic, Nayarit — The state of Nayarit is thrilled to announce a new direct flight with Volaris Airlines connecting Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Riviera Nayarit International Airport (TPQ), ushering in an exciting new era of travel for visitors eager to discover the cultural, culinary, and natural treasures of inland and coastal Nayarit. This brand-new route is more than just a convenient travel option. It’s a gateway to an entirely different side of Mexico.
Volaris Airlines will operate direct flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to the Riviera Nayarit International Airport (TPQ) three times weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
Flights depart LAX at 11:37 a.m., arriving in Tepic at 2:27 p.m. Return flights leave TPQ at 6:50 p.m., landing back in Los Angeles at 9:48 p.m.
Often overshadowed by the more visited Riviera Nayarit beach destinations, like Nuevo Nayarit, Punta Mita, and Sayulita, the interior of the state offers a completely different experience. Tepic, Nayarit’s capital city, is a launchpad for adventures that blend the historic, the mystical, and the delicious. Now, with this direct connection from Los Angeles, travelers can skip the crowds and dive straight into a region teeming with Magical Towns, volcanic lakes, ancient traditions, and pristine coastline.
A New Kind of Mexican Getaway
From Tepic, travelers are within striking distance of some of Nayarit’s most fascinating destinations. In just 30 minutes, you can find yourself watching the waves roll in at Matanchen Bay or sipping coffee in the sleepy seaside village of Aticama. A scenic 40-minute drive takes you to the crater lake of Santa María del Oro, a sparkling turquoise gem perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply unwinding by the water.
History buffs and culture lovers can explore the cobblestone streets of Compostela and Jala, both designated Pueblos Mágicos for their cultural richness and well-preserved heritage. For a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, visit Mexcaltitán, the mystical island town thought to be the legendary Aztlán, birthplace of the Aztecs. Just 90 minutes from Tepic, this “Venice of Mexico” offers a surreal, waterbound village experience that’s unlike anything else in the country.
Nature enthusiasts can head to Presa Aguamilpa, just 50 minutes from the capital, to fish, birdwatch, or enjoy boat rides among the verdant Sierra Madre landscapes. And for those craving sun and surf, Platanitos, Chacala, and Guayabitos, beachfront paradises often overlooked by international tourists, are all reachable in under two hours by car.
My Beautiful Nayarit: Curated Adventures Await
To help visitors make the most of this newly accessible region, Nayarit Adventures has launched an immersive four-day, three-night package called My Beautiful Nayarit. Designed to showcase
the state’s cultural depth and ecological wonders, the package includes hotel accommodations and guided tours for travelers flying into Tepic. For guests originating in other cities or states, the package also includes private transfers to Tepic.
The thoughtfully curated itinerary explores:
San Blas: A historic port town with colonial architecture, mangrove estuaries, and spectacular sunsets.
Coral Islands at Rincón de Guayabitos: A protected marine sanctuary offering excellent snorkeling and birdwatching.
El Nayar: A journey into the traditions of the Cora and Huichol Indigenous communities, rich with ritual and handicrafts.
Santa María del Oro: A day of leisure and adventure at the region’s iconic volcanic crater lake. Culinary and Cultural Riches
Nayarit’s gastronomy is another draw for travelers in the know. In Tepic, indulge in local
specialties like zarandeado fish, slathered in local spices and grilled over an open flame, and pacholas, a spiced meat dish served with handmade tortillas. Coastal towns offer fresh seafood pulled straight from the Pacific, while mountain villages produce cheeses, coffees, and sweets that reflect generations of artisanal expertise.
Meanwhile, festivals and religious celebrations bring towns to life with color, music, and centuries-old traditions. Whether it’s the Danza de los Mexicas or sacred Huichol ceremonies, there’s always something beautiful to witness.
With competitive pricing, convenient travel times, and increasing international interest in
lesser-known destinations, the LAX-TPQ connection is set to become a major draw for travelers seeking richer cultural and nature-focused experiences off the traditional tourist track.
Bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains, Nayarit is a state of remarkable diversity. From surfing in Sayulita to birdwatching in San Blas, from the folkloric traditions of the Sierra to the boutique resorts of the coast, Nayarit delivers a wealth of experiences for every kind of traveler. With new infrastructure, growing international connectivity, and renewed focus on sustainable tourism, the state is ready to welcome the world, starting with this new flight.
For more information about the State of Nayarit, visit visitnayarit.travel. To learn more about the My Beautiful Nayarit package, visit nayaritadventures.com.
