Tomatlán combines a historic town center with festival traditions and other cultural and activity destinations throughout the municipality. It is important to distinguish between them when planning your trip: some attractions and celebrations are in the town, while others are within the municipality but outside the center. So first decide whether you want to focus on architectural heritage and local festivals or also include destinations elsewhere in the municipality.

Historic Center and Architecture

Most of the town’s architectural heritage is located in the historic center. In the center of the municipal seat of Tomatlán stands the Franciscan temple of Santo Santiago Apóstol, one of Mexico’s oldest buildings. The Templo de Santo Santiago dates from the second third of the 18th century and was altered later. Its central location and historical context offer visitors interested in architecture a tangible connection to the town’s history. Visitors can also find local crafts in the center; individual vendors and availability may change.

Festivals Throughout the Year

The Fiestas Charro Taurinas take place between the last week of April and the second week of May. The program includes charreadas, bullfights, and serenades. Since the annual program may vary, check the specific event dates before your trip.

In July, celebrations in Tomatlán in honor of its patron saint, Santo Santiago, include processions and concerts. A horseback ride through Tomatlán’s main streets is also part of the celebrations on July 25. These dates therefore differ from those of the Fiestas Charro Taurinas, which take place between April and May.

The celebrations of the Virgen de Guadalupe include processions of worshippers from Campo Acosta, Nahuapa, José María Morelos, and other places. In the afternoon and evening, visitors can see burning candles, music, fireworks, and a float carrying a girl representing the Virgin of Guadalupe. These times of day offer a specific guide if you are interested in this part of the festival traditions.

Cultural and Activity Destinations in the Municipality

Other parts of the municipality offer additional points of interest. Peñitas Beach is surrounded by rocks bearing petroglyphs carved by the Nahua culture. The waves at Costa Majahuas are suitable for surfing. Visitors can windsurf and water-ski at the Presa de Cajón de Peñas. Archaeological remains of the cultures that inhabited this region have been preserved along the banks of the Río Tomatlán. These include unique petroglyphs, such as a Patolli game board, an ancient Mesoamerican game of which only two examples are known in western Mexico. The petroglyphs and archaeological traces offer a cultural focus; Majahuas and the presa are associated with different water sports.

Getting There and Trip Planning

From Puerto Vallarta, you can reach Tomatlán by heading south on Federal Highway 200. Check current road conditions before you travel. If you choose Tomatlán as your overnight destination, it is best to first decide what you want to focus on: the town’s architectural heritage and festival traditions, or also the cultural and activity destinations elsewhere in the municipality. This will help you plan your trip around the different locations.

Discover more destinations: Concepción De Buenos Aires, Paso De Cuarenta, La Manzanilla, Aguacate, Ajijic, Tequila, Careyes, Chacala

For the broader travel guide: Jalisco.