Nayarit

Nayarit, officially the Free and Sovereign State of Nayarit, is a state in western Mexico. It is situated on the Pacific coast and borders the states of Sinaloa and Jalisco, with a coastline facing the Pacific Ocean. The capital is Tepic, located inland, and the state covers a varied terrain that includes coastal plains, volcanic hills, and the foothills of the Sierra Madre Occidental. The climate ranges from tropical along the coast to temperate in the highlands.

As of the latest estimates, Nayarit has a population of about 1.3 million. The majority of residents identify as mestizo, with Indigenous communities such as the Huichol (Wixá) and Cora maintaining cultural traditions in the mountain areas. Spanish is the predominant language, with Indigenous languages spoken by some communities.

Economy in Nayarit is diversified. Agriculture is important and includes sugarcane, corn, rice, beans, and tropical fruits. Livestock farming and fishing contribute to rural livelihoods, while tourism plays a central role in the economy, particularly along the Riviera Nayarit coast, which encompasses resort towns such as Sayulita, Punta Mita, and San Pancho, as well as the historic port of San Blas. The hospitality industry, construction, and services support regional growth.

History in the region traces back to pre-Columbian civilizations, with Huichol and Cora communities shaping local culture. Spanish exploration began in the 16th century, and the area was part of Nueva Galicia and later Nueva Vizcaya during colonial times. The state was established as a separate entity in 1917.