Mexico's west coast beaches can  also boast of an additional benefit, even today many of these seashore retreats remain serene and uncrowded. Lounging  on  a secluded beach under the thatched roof of a 'Palapa' (or a giant palm) in front of your campsite--or basking in tropical breezes sedated by the gentle rolling rhythm of the ocean creates such an overwhelming feeling of peace. As the sun begins to fall off the horizon, a few scattered clouds streak across the deep blue sky.  The effect is most impressive but, this canvas is only beginning.  When the fluorescent ball drops into the water, an 'afterglow' paints the sky a  breathtaking collage of fiery colours. This unforgettable sight is routine evening entertainment for RVers who camp at one of the many parks on Mexico's quiet peaceful coastline.  

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       Discovering a secluded pristine Mexican beachfront park rates high as our most memorable RV getaway. Nothing compares with an endless ribbon of white sand alongside clear blue ocean waters. Beaches which nestle among quiet coves surrounded by rocky knolls are equally impressive. Since John and I grew up away from expansive bodies of water, spending the winter camped overlooking the ocean was a dream come true. As we woke to the sound of waves crashing against the shore, it was an incomparable experience. Isolated natural untouched surroundings are a real treat to us beachcombers. Unlike the popular utopias that attract sun worshipers, these non hurried extraordinary beaches in Mexico are forsaken by local residents over the winter,...except of course, during Christmas and Easter holiday periods. 

         Fortunately for us RVers, many of Mexico's secluded charming beach utopias also include 'on site' full service campgrounds. Not all sites are spacious but most are quite adequate. The beach scene makes up for lack of services Since routine daily necessities are available from the local 'Tiendas' (stores) - it's easy to settle in from a few days to several months of peaceful tranquility. RVers traveling Mexico, have the opportunity to 'roam free', avoid crowds and share the endless warm sunny weather with friendly people of a nearby village. The further south you trek the warmer the climate becomes.

          In 1990, John and I surveyed more than 65 parks on the west coast from Manzanillo to Nogales. They came in all sizes - many nestled at waters edge. Yes some presented a higher quality than others, but each exuded a special charm. Most parks were in places that are a haven for snorkelers, fishermen, swimmers, beachcombers and sun worshipers alike. Our last visit to Mexico was a few years ago and although nothing stays the same in Mexico, if some of the parks we investigated close, others will open their doors. Ask RVers you meet about their idyllic destinations. Rest assured,  Mexico's beaches situated away from popular resort towns will be more secluded hideaways and very popular RV stopping spots. Reservations may be necessary to stay in a specific park, but they are not usually required to camp in a general area.  

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         Within 50 km north of Puerto Vallarta (nicknamed PV) we found 16 beachfront parks and from Manzanilla towards PV, we discovered six more. In each of these exciting cities there was also two spacious non beachfront parks. Many offered full hook-ups, all were easy to find by traveling on Highway 15 to 200 - plus each was reachable within 6-7 hours of Guadalajara.

          Traveling north from Manzanilla we found a couple of picturesque stopping spots near Barra De Navidad. In these campgrounds, sites caress the sandy beach.  Although one had water and electric connections the other was totally dry camping during our survey. Numerous palm trees provided appreciated shade. This area is a haven for beach lovers of all ages. Unfortunately to reach this park RVers had to traverse four km of a very rough entrance road. 

            A short stretch further near Melaque/San Patricio is another favourite winter vacation destination with a few more campgrounds. The park in town not only  bordered the beach, it's surrounded by boutiques and Tiendas. Another nestles on a quiet stretch of beach across from, and part of a rental bungalow complex.

         Perula, our next stop, is half way towards Puerto Vallarta.  There are now five small unique campgrounds in this lush tropical setting. The idyllic uncluttered sandy shoreline stretches for miles. Our friend Henry and Bea manage Punta Perula Tent and Trailer Park on the beach.  They have added new hydro and fine tuned the amenities - the much needed facelift has added another dimension to this idyllic stopover.

         Our next stop was a charming Polynesian resort city of PV. No matter how big this place grows it never looses it's special charisma. Unfortunately, PV's two lush attractive city campgrounds are not oceanfront complexes. Just north of the city a few new parks have recently surfaced.

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         In Bucerias, just 22 km north of PV we found three more oceanfront trailer parks.  The shallow protected beach area in front of the hotel/pool campground complex in town has a gentle, tranquil and calm surf. Another manicured complex overlooks the highway and one more nestles just south of  the village. 

          Drive north a mere 10 minutes more to Sayulita and you'll find another well manicured winter paradise. This peaceful immaculate park (complete with apartments too) borders an impressive cove. Although isolated, it too is within easy reach to the action and shopping of  PV.

            Rincon de Guayabitos was another ocean-side resort area and fishing utopia that we found within easy reach to PV. During our visit, nine parks encircled the bay. Facilities ranged from very basic to elaborate. Most campgrounds in Rincon have boat ramps and many winter residents pride themselves on catching a giant Sailfish, Marlin and Dorado from 30 miles out. Although the nearby small village of La Penita (it too has a campground perched high on a cliff.) sells most necessities, the 50 km drive to Puerto Vallarta for restocking the RV with periodic supplies or some entertainment makes for a fun outing.  

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            John and I found our beachfront haven in Lo De Marcos just south of Rincon. This well cared for very friendly village also has two trailer parks. A hotel complex in town owns a campground on the beach. Next door was our long narrow campsite was at El Caracol  RV Park with it's numerous tropical shade palms and new expansive interlocking brick patio complete with small pool  Tranquility was only a word in the dictionary until we settled into this truly unforgettable luxuriant hideaway. An overwhelming peaceful calm and serenity permeated each niche of our being.  

         When we found this 17 site campground, John and I felt the world stopped for a spell and we jumped off to enjoy the surroundings.  It was like we were in a 'time warp'.  

          Although our 'paradise' included no schedule of planned events, we made our own fun. Mesmerized by the ocean, each day began with coffee on the park's aesthetic patio. Sunbathing, swimming, a walk along the isolated beach or an occasional game of 'Bocce' occupied several sunny hours.  On energetic days, sewing (I have my machine), writing, T-Shirt painting,  reading and a smidgeon of socializing filled the balance of each day.  An ever-present soothing roar of the ocean echoed throughout the park. Relaxing here is easy! Beachside scenarios for us are not new, but such intense feeling of  peacefulness is.  

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          Occasionally we drove 20 km to the nearest 'big' town of La Penita or to Puerto Vallarta 45 km south for a few supplies. Although frequent trips are unnecessary; Lo De Marcos 'Tiendas' (stores) carried the basics...bread, milk, fruits, vegetables, pop, beer and spirits.  Rolls, warm from the oven, were available daily from the local bakery.

            As 'Fulltimers', our travels throughout the year take us to a variety of destinations.  Each spot portrays it's own distinct personality.  None however opened the door, nor allowed such opportunity to relax in the true sense of the word as this park did. Recently we talked to Canadian RVers who spend their winter in Lo De Marcos and the magnetism of this park is still strong. The 'Magic' of Mexico includes so much more than the tranquil atmosphere we found in Lo De Marcos. Discovering Mexico's cities, markets (mercados), fiestas and traditions looking at it from their culture is fun as well as educational. Mexico's enchantment everywhere beckons you to return again and again.

            There are many beachfront communities up and down the coast. Since PV became so special to us I used the surrounding area as an example of what is available. RV reservations are not usually necessary in Mexico -- unless you wish to stay at a particular park. If beachin' it is in your plans, head for one of the large RV parks near the city, then explore available hideaways with your smaller getaway vehicle (towed car, tow vehicle or rental car). Each park is captivating to some, however not every park will intrigue every RVer.  

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            Travel costs in Mexico have increased, but living expenses remain slightly less than that of southern USA. Non-beachfront campground rates average $10.00 to $15.00 a night with discounts for longer stays. Those that nestle beside the ocean will be higher.  I've only discussed private campgrounds with  hookups. Although Mexico also has a number of 'free' campgrounds. It's unfortunate some campers using these non-serviced areas have such little respect for others.   Lack of sanitation facilities discourages RVers who take pride in their surroundings, from using and enjoying  many of these 'free' areas.

            Within this stretch of Pacific coastline we found our special haven.  Isn't it time for you to visit and explore Mexico's remote, relaxing and hypnotic stopping spots to find yours?          

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