Meaning “place of divers,” Bucerias on Mexico’s Pacific Coast is a charming antidote to the hustle and bustle of nearby Puerto Vallarta. You’ll meet the friendly locals and enjoy beautiful beaches, fantastic dining, outdoor activities and art galleries. Guarantee yourself access to the amenities of a resort town, but enjoy the local flavor and abundant choice of vacation rentals, without the crowds. Locals congregate in the small plaza in the center of town or head for the beach for some sun and unfettered mountain and bay views. Join them, then return to the privacy of your beach house to revel in the peacefulness of your off-the-beaten-path vacation.

Beyond the beaches of Bucerias, you’ll find superb dining, flea markets laden with special treasures, art galleries, pubs and a large collection of vacation rentals, from beachfront homes to condos. Once you’ve tired of the sun, meander through the flea market off the main plaza and tour the residential side of Bucerias, complete with boutique shopping and quality restaurants like La Quinta di Francesco and Adriatico. Some of the best art galleries in town include Splurge Art Gallery, showcasing emerging local artists and designer pewter. On Thursday evenings, participate in the local art walk, and on Sundays, visit the authentic Mexican market.

Offering the most money-saving getaway, vacation rentals are the way to go in a beach community. You’ll have ample room to spread out; a fully equipped kitchen in which to cook your own meals, on your own schedule; beach access (most rentals offer this); and complete privacy. Vacation rentals in Bucerias run the gamut from beachfront estates to oceanfront condos to apartment rentals in town. Whatever your group size and interests are, you’re sure to find a vacation rental that will save you money, is family-friendly and offers the private vacation experience you seek.