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, June 28, 2026
Today is a poor choice for a beach trip to Playa Chacala, as the weather conditions are unsettled and potentially hazardous. While the air temperature will climb to 32.8 °C and the water temperature is a very warm 30.3 °C, the risk of thunderstorms—possibly including hail—makes staying on the sand unsafe. The sun will be intense with a UV Index of 8.9, so please take the threat of storms seriously and prioritize your safety by staying indoors. Even though the breeze is light and the surf remains gentle, the looming storm activity creates an unpredictable environment. It is best to reschedule your visit for a clearer day when you can fully enjoy the tropical waters and sunshine without the danger of sudden electrical activity.
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Air

Low / High25.2°C/32.8°C
Feels Like (High)40.7°C
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Sea

Sea Temperature30.3 °C
Wave Height0.6 m
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Rain

Rain Chance51%
Rainfall0.4 mm
Rain Duration2 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset05:21/18:46
Sunshine Hours12.5 hrs
UV Index8.9
Cloud Cover21%
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Wind

Speed10.5 km/h
Gusts26.6 km/h
DirectionW

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