Mexico - Beaches of the Michoacan Coast

The Michoacan Coast is one of the best destinations (and best kept secret) to enjoy the ocean and the white sandy beaches while on a very limited budget . Dozens of small villages scattered along the Ruta 200, mostly untouched by foreign tourists, offer frugal accommodation directly on the ocean front. Ask the owner of one of the many beach restaurants or one of the locals and, for a few dollars (3 to 5 $ per person or per tent, depending of your bargaining skills) you’ll get a great spot under a palapa to set your tent up, a table, a couple of chairs, a hammock as well as the use of the toilets and showers. Last but not the least, you’ll get an incredible view of the Pacific and its impressive –and sometimes treacherous- waves. Expect the washrooms to be rustic (better wear sandals while using the showers). For a few bucks, your hosts will cook you a nice dinner –you can even ask them to grill that fish you bought on the beach, directly from the fisherman. You’ll find your little spot of heaven in Playa Azul, Maruata, Faro de Bucerias,or Playa La llorona –just to name a few. You’ll encounter many other beaches, some deserted, along the coast road.

Downsides:
-rustic facilities (showers, toilets)
-wave strength perfect for surfing, not so perfect if you travel with young kids
Warnings: Even though the medias make frequent reports of incident involving drug dealers in the states of Michoacán and Guerrero, we never saw or experienced anything that made us feel uncomfortable or threatened –day or night. Still, be prudent and use your good judgement.
Price range: $
Global evaluation: Thumbs up!
Coordinates: Road 200, between Manzanillo and Lazaro Cardenas
Website: no