With its radiant sunshine and inviting shores, San Pancho, Mexico, beckons travelers seeking tranquility and relaxation. Nestled in the heart of Riviera Nayarit, this charming town, officially known as San Francisco, offers more than just a picturesque beach. For those with a spirit of adventure, the Pacific waves present an exhilarating surfing experience. San Pancho stands out as a truly exceptional destination within Nayarit, blending cultural richness with natural beauty.
Wandering through the streets of San Pancho reveals a vibrant tapestry of cultural experiences. Quaint restaurants offer diverse culinary delights, traditional bakeries tempt with local flavors, and art galleries showcase regional talent. You’ll also find everyday life interwoven into the town’s fabric with soccer fields bustling with activity and golf courses promising leisurely afternoons. The names of some establishments, reminiscent of places like Kenya, Pakistan, India, and Egypt, hint at the global influences that subtly enrich the local atmosphere.
A notable landmark in San Pancho is La Patrona Polo Club (www.polovallarta.com), an emblem of the town’s unique character. Polo enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the sport by becoming club members, taking private lessons, and even participating in national and international tournaments. Beyond polo, La Patrona extends its appeal with amenities including a restaurant, an art gallery, and a concert hall, making it a versatile venue for private events and weddings. As you explore San Pancho, take a moment to admire the impressive residences dotting the surrounding hills, offering glimpses of dream homes and the upscale side of this coastal haven.
Enrich your cultural journey through Riviera Nayarit with a visit to San Pancho. Here, you can appreciate the intricate artistry of Huichol handicrafts, explore captivating art pieces in local galleries, and experience the refined atmosphere of its renowned polo club, all while enjoying the peaceful ambiance of a traditional Mexican fishing village. San Pancho, fueled by a strong community spirit, has successfully modernized while preserving its authentic “old Mexico” charm.
For those seeking luxury accommodations near San Pancho, consider the One and Only Mandarina in nearby Lo de Marcos. Just a short 16km journey up the coast, it provides an exclusive retreat to complement your San Pancho exploration.
San Pancho House of Art: A Cultural Cornerstone
“I’ve known San Pancho for 32 years, since the inauguration of the communal warehouses built for co-ops producing coconut oil and fish, among other things. I’ve been fond of San Pancho ever since,” shares Helmut Kohl, the gallery owner.
Driven by a lifelong passion for art, Kohl relocated his esteemed Haus der Kunst gallery from Guadalajara to a serene street in San Pancho. This gallery has already hosted exhibitions featuring notable artists like Ricardo Pinto Gollas, Carlos Vargas Pons, René Almanza, and Ariel Saiz. Saiz was a co-founder of the San Pancho Collective, a community of independent artists dedicated to fostering artistic endeavors and contributing to the cultural and communal growth of San Pancho.
