Thinking about spending this year's Thanksgiving season in Banderas Bay? You're in for a treat. The Riviera Nayarit offers a fantastic array of restaurants and hotels where you can enjoy a memorable holiday with a touch of local charm and seaside flair. With its warm autumn weather, gentle breezes, and golden beaches, fall in Riviera Nayarit is the perfect backdrop for celebrating gratitude and good company.
A little about the Riviera Nayarit
This vibrant coastal destination has been gaining popularity and is now among the top places to visit this year in Mexico. Known for its pristine beaches, lush jungles, and charming seaside towns, Riviera Nayarit blends natural beauty with modern comfort.
In autumn, the weather remains warm and inviting, with comfortable temperatures ideal for exploring, relaxing, or simply soaking in the scenic views. Its lively yet laid-back atmosphere makes it an appealing spot for both families and couples looking for a memorable vacation to celebrate the Thanksgiving season.
The best restaurants for Thanksgiving in the Riviera Nayarit
When it comes to celebrating Thanksgiving, the Riviera Nayarit offers a variety of options for you. From sophisticated dining experiences to relaxed seaside spots, you'll find the right setting to give thanks and indulge in flavorful cuisine.
Location: Punta de Mita
Hours: 1:00 pm - 11:00 pm (closed Tuesdays)
ParrotFish is a favorite in the artsy Punta de Mita area. This restaurant specializes in Japanese-Mexican fusion cuisine, especially its renowned sushi. The vibrant and moody interior design creates a lively atmosphere, and its innovative mixology menu adds a splash of fun to every drink. It's a great spot to enjoy a festive Thanksgiving meal with a tropical twist.
Location: Nuevo Vallarta
Hours: 1:00 pm - 11:00 pm (daily)
In Nuevo Vallarta, Nicksan is a go-to for sushi lovers. Situated in Residences Plaza, it offers a modern dining environment with an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs craft your sushi. Guests staying at the Marival Distinct Handwritten Collection resort enjoy a special discount here. This stylish spot is the heart of the neighborhood’s top dining and drinking scene, making it a fantastic choice for a laid-back yet special Thanksgiving dinner.
Location: Nuevo Vallarta
Hours:
Breakfast Monday - Friday from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm, and weekends until 1:00 pm
Lunch and dinner daily from 2:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Also in Nuevo Vallarta, Taormina restaurant serves up authentic Italian and Mediterranean flavors. The menu is based on the owners’ family recipes, making it an inviting setting for family outings. The warm Italian-inspired atmosphere, complemented by indoor and outdoor seating, provides a top venue to gather loved ones and enjoy a relaxed Thanksgiving meal.
Location: Nuevo Vallarta
Hours: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM (daily)
Looking for a special sunset view for Thanksgiving? Visit Insú Sky Bar located at the Marival Distinct Handwritten Collection resort. This rooftop bar offers tapas, snacks, and cocktails with stunning sea vistas overlooking Banderas Bay. Its outdoor setting and rooftop pool make it a beautiful spot for an evening celebration or a scenic toast to gratitude.
Location: Nuevo Vallarta
Hours:
Resort guest hours: 8:00 am - 11:00 pm
Day pass hours: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
For a casual yet elegant experience, Mozzamare is a beachfront club and restaurant at the Marival Distinct Handwritten Collection resort. With options for day passes and full-day access, guests can enjoy an infinity pool, beach bali beds, and full bar service. The open-air palapa restaurant offers an extensive menu featuring Mexican, international, and seafood cuisine for a relaxed Thanksgiving feast with ocean views.
Where to stay for Thanksgiving in the Riviera Nayarit
For those planning to turn the Thanksgiving holiday into a full getaway, Riviera Nayarit's top all-inclusive resorts offer the perfect blend of comfort, luxury, and stunning scenery. The three Marival Resorts are in some of the best locations in Banderas Bay and the entire Riviera Nayarit, making your Thanksgiving escape truly special.
Location: Punta de Mita
Nestled in Punta de Mita, Armony Resort is an all-ages, all-inclusive haven in a serene setting. Surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, it’s known as The Hidden Garden of the Pacific and offers wellness activities like yoga, nature walks, watsu water therapy, and sound healing.
For Thanksgiving 2025, enjoy an evening dinner at La Brise restaurant with live music and a celebratory toast. It’s a wonderful way to appreciate nature and spend quality time with loved ones.
Location: Nuevo Vallarta
This high-end all-inclusive resort in the heart of Nuevo Vallarta is perfect for families. Its suite-style accommodations include options with multiple bedrooms, private pools, villas, and full kitchens… just right for gathering as a family in a home-like setting. The resort also boasts Mozzamare Beach Club for relaxing days under the sun.
For Thanksgiving 2025, a special chef's menu will be served at Omaggio, the main restaurant, allowing guests to indulge in exquisite flavors prepared especially for this celebration of thanks.
Location: Nuevo Vallarta
This lively family-friendly resort is designed for fun and relaxation. With daily activities, poolside entertainment, and live shows in the evenings, there's never a dull moment. Kids can enjoy supervised theme activities at the kids club while teens have their own space with games and social areas. The resort offers a variety of pools, including a main pool, a kids’ pool with water slides, and a quiet pool for relaxing.
For Thanksgiving 2025, guests can look forward to a spectacular buffet at Casa Bella, the main restaurant, along with a fun photo booth to capture the memories.
We’ll see you in paradise this November!
Celebrating Thanksgiving in the Riviera Nayarit is a wonderful way to combine good food, beautiful scenery, and joyful moments with loved ones. Come to this coastal paradise to enjoy a festive dinner at a seaside restaurant or an entire vacation getaway in a luxurious resort with all the comforts of home. Pack your bags, bring your gratitude, and get ready to experience the warmth, beauty, and vibrant spirit of Banderas Bay this Thanksgiving season.