Playa Anclote: Half the fun of visiting this beach in Punta Mita is getting there. Once you’ve arrived, spend the day lounging on the beach, enjoy a surfing lesson, or take an excursion to the Islas Marietas for bird-, dolphin, and whale-watching.

San Sebastián: This hidden mountain hamlet can be visited in a day by car or bus. Spend a few hours strolling the little plaza and the cobbled streets, as well as visiting the Hacienda Jalisco, a coffee farm, and perhaps an old gold mine.

Mascota Museum and Casa de Cultura: Admire the Mascota Museum’s lovingly displayed memorabilia collection, and the Casa de Cultura’s fascinating 3,000-year-old ceramics. Afterwards, stroll the pla- za, then enjoy a picnic at nearby Corinches Reservoir.

Laguna Juanacatlán: Make a gem of an excursion out of Mascota to this clear mountain lake by sturdy car. Ideally, enjoy an overnight at the Sierra Lago Resort and Spa on the luscious spruce-tufted lakeshore. It’s best to do this trip in the late spring, summer, or fall.

Virgin of Talpa Basilica: Visit the Virgin of Talpa in her basilica and the nearby museum. If possible, attend one of Talpa’s four tumultuous annual festivals that honor the Virgin, but be sure to make hotel reservations far in advance.