La Lancha sits near Punta Mita at the north end of Banderas Bay — a wide crescent of golden sand backed by thick jungle and palms, with calmer water than the open coast beyond the point. It is a favourite stop for groups who want a beach day with a bit of polish at the end of the run north.
The North Shore\'s Best Beach Day
Heading north out of Marina Nuevo Vallarta, the coast opens up and the water gets bluer as you approach Punta Mita. La Lancha sits just inside that, sheltered from the worst of the open-ocean swell, with a long crescent of sand and dense green jungle running right down behind it. It is a genuinely beautiful anchorage and one of the more comfortable beach stops on this side of the bay.
What You Do There
Anchor off the sand and swim. The water inside the point is calm most days, which makes it easy for kids and less confident swimmers. Snorkeling around the rocky edges is reasonable, and the beach itself is long enough for a proper walk. Bring what you want to eat and drink — the boat carries bottled water, ice and shade.
The Full North-Shore Day
Groups with the hours often string the north shore together: run up past Playa Verde, anchor at La Lancha for a swim, cruise around Punta Mita where the bay opens into the Pacific, and — with enough hours — continue up to Sayulita before turning for home. That is a full-day charter, not a 4-hour one.
Fishing on the Way
The water off Punta Mita is productive and the run up is worth trolling. Rods, tackle and bait are already aboard every boat — see fishing charters for what your hours buy you in range.
Which Boat
Guanatuna for a mid-sized group who want shade and an open bow. Steel n Time for up to 22 guests with an air-conditioned salon and two bathrooms on a long day. Peaceful Easy Feeling for a fast run with a small group.
