Baptized by the Spaniards as San Francisco de Azapán, San Pancho, Nayarit is considered the ``cultural capital`` of the Riviera due to the social impact of its inhabitants.
Located in the Riviera Nayarit, in the municipality of Bahía de Banderas and just 5 kilometers from the Pueblo Mágico of Sayulita, San Francisco, better known as San Pancho, is a destination that blends the tranquility of nature with cultural richness.
Here you will find exceptional images painted with acrylics that depict colorful personalities scattered across well-known landscapes of this area. San Pancho is considered the “cultural capital” of the Riviera Nayarit, thanks to the numerous initiatives carried out here to promote Mexican culture and education.
A bit of everything
On its golden sandy beaches, you can enjoy surfing, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and diving. But the adventure doesn’t end at the sea; explore the charm of the town and its surroundings. Visit the Circo de los Niños, where circus art comes to life with unique productions. You can also enjoy shows and events at La Bodega Teatro, a multidisciplinary arts center that celebrates local creativity.
The wide range of gastronomic and lodging options, along with the town’s exciting nightlife with bars and clubs, offers you a unique experience.
History of San Pancho, Nayarit
The first inhabitants of the San Pancho area, where the Sierra Madre Sur begins, were indigenous tribes belonging to the Wixárika and Nayeri groups.
In 1524, Don Francisco Cortés de Buenaventura named the area Azapán. The Spaniards eventually renamed the city San Francisco de Azapán and made it part of the Hacienda Jaltemba, which produced coconut oil.
In 1936, the ejido of Sayulita was formed, which includes San Pancho. This establishment, in a way, created the community spirit that characterizes this destination. It is precisely the social engagement of its inhabitants, along with their collaborative work on educational projects, environmental issues, and the promotion of the arts, that has driven the positive growth and development of San Francisco.
Vacations in San Pancho
Vacations in San Pancho
Con una intensa luminosidad, la zona de playa de San Pancho da la bienvenida a cualquiera que busque descanso y relajación, un brillante sol tropical y un buen libro. Sin embargo, si tienes un espíritu más aventurero y deseas desafiar las olas del Océano Pacífico con tu tabla de surf, entonces ven de vacaciones a San Pancho. Descubrirás que este es uno de los destinos de Nayarit más destacados.
A lo largo de las calles de San Francisco México encontrarás centros culturales, galerías, pequeños restaurantes, panaderías tradicionales, cafeterías e incluso canchas de fútbol y campos de golf. Muchos tienen nombres que recuerdan lugares lejanos como Kenia, Pakistán, India y Egipto.
Also worthy of praise is the Tierra Tropical Polo Club (https://www.tierratropical.com.mx), a symbol of San Pancho.
Here, polo enthusiasts can become club members, receive private lessons, and participate in national and international polo tournaments. And for those who do not play polo, Tierra Tropical also includes other facilities such as a restaurant, art gallery, concert hall, and services for organizing private events and weddings.