Nayarit, Mexico

Playa Chacala

Playa Chacala, a pristine beach in the municipality of Compostela, Nayarit, Mexico, is recognized for its turquoise waters and large waves, offering an ideal destination for surfing. The beach is about an hour's drive from Compostela city. It consists of three distinct beaches, namely Las Cuevas, Chacalilla, and Caleta. Las Cuevas and Caleta are particularly famous for their strong waves, making them perfect for surfing. In contrast, Chacalilla offers calm waters, providing a peaceful environment for relaxation.

Playa Chacala is set in a tranquil and nature-filled environment, with the small town of Chacala, home to approximately one thousand people, nearby. The beach is also noted for its diverse bird species, which led to its recognition as a "Pueblo Galería" in 2002. Visitors to Chacala can enjoy the serene ambiance, admire the palm-thatched roofs, witness stunning sunsets, and experience the hospitality of the locals.

Situated just one kilometer from the new residential development, Complejo Xahala, the beach offers natural surroundings, including lush vegetation, animal sounds, whispers of the jungle, and the sea breeze, contributing to a relaxing atmosphere.

Explore accommodation options near Playa Chacala and enjoy the tranquil ambiance and stunning sunsets.

The unique natural characteristics of Playa Chacala include the presence of jellyfish in its waters, its high surf, particularly in April, and its beautiful sunsets. The beach is divided into two areas: the quieter south side and the busier north side. A lifeguard is typically on duty to ensure the safety of visitors. The beach's sand is described as being like powder, and the shore is free from rocks. The water is clear and clean, making it an ideal spot for swimming. Nearby restaurants offer a variety of food options for visitors.

What to do at Playa Chacala?

Restaurants

Best restaurants near Playa Chacala include Restaurante Acela, Koko Bongos, Chac Mool Hotel Y Restaurante, Corazon Canela and Restaurant Los Chaparritos.

Visitor Reviews

Visitor reviews highlight the beauty of the beach, particularly its sandy shores, clear water, and stunning sunsets. Many visitors also appreciate the lifeguard presence and the beach's popularity as a starting point for exploring other southern beaches. However, some visitors have raised concerns about the presence of jellyfish in the water.

Where to Stay near Playa Chacala?

Visitors to Playa Chacala often stay in the charming town of Chacala, which is conveniently located near the beach and offers a range of accommodations from cozy inns to beachfront rentals. Many people also explore the nearby areas of Las Varas and Compostela, enjoying the tranquil environment and making easy day trips to the beach.

The following map shows available accommodations and their prices. See the full list of accommodation options here.

Where is Playa Chacala?

Latitude: 21.1649866 / Longitude: -105.2247318

Playa Chacala is located in Nayarit. The following map of Playa Chacala shows the exact location.

Playa Chacala: Weather Today

📅 Sunday, September 6, 2026
Today is unfortunately a poor day to visit the beach due to the arrival of storms. While the air temperature is quite warm at 31.3 °C and the water remains very inviting at 31.8 °C, the weather is unstable and significant rain is expected throughout the day. Please be advised that there is a risk of thunderstorms, so it is safer to stay away from the shore until conditions improve. The sky will stay mostly clouded, and waves are somewhat choppy, making for an unpleasant and potentially hazardous environment for swimmers. If you do head out later, keep in mind the UV Index is 8.55, which means you can still burn even through the clouds. Please prioritize your safety and plan your beach trip for another day when the skies are clear.
🌬️

Air

Low / High24.7°C/31.3°C
Feels Like (High)38.8°C
🌊

Sea

Sea Temperature31.8 °C
Wave Height1.1 m
🌧️

Rain

Rain Chance88%
Rainfall4.3 mm
Rain Duration8 h
🌞

Sun

Sunrise / Sunset05:45/18:12
Sunshine Hours9.8 hrs
UV Index8.55
Cloud Cover85%
💨

Wind

Speed9.2 km/h
Gusts20.2 km/h
DirectionS

These beaches might also interest you

Beaches near Playa Chacala