Laguna Miramar

The lakes region comprises over 50 lakes, and ponds. It is known as Lagunas de Montebello.   Each lake or pond is unique in color, shape and size.  They are located in the hills of a pine tree forest.  About 10 or so lakes are on the local tour route from San Cristobal and can easily be accessed by the roads.  Deep within this area is Laguna Miramar, which is a located deep within the Lacandon rainforest.  Laguna Miramar can be reached either by bus on the road from Ocosingo or by a 2-hour boat ride through Zapatista – controlled territory.  Take your pick; I would prefer the bus ride.

The lakes region comprises over 50 lakes,...

The Nightlife in Comitan

Centro Cultural – Rosario Castellanos

The Rosario Castellanos Cultural Center was dedicated to a Comitan feminist writer who was an advocate for the local people.  It is located in the central plaza and the hours are Mon-Fri 9am – 8pm and Sat – Sun 10am – 5pm Admission is free.  This is a very hectic place with year round items displayed and with performances by the local artisans.  You will probably want to spend some time here and sign up for one of their classes.

Teatro de la Ciudad Junchavin

The Teatro de la Ciudad Junchavin is found inside the 19^th century reconstructed mansion on the central plaza.  You can find a variety of programs including music, drama, dance and films.  Tickets vary depending on the type of performance so check it out in advance for availability, type of performance and ticket price.

Nightlife

There are only a few hot spots in Comitan so don’t be disappointed, but you will enjoy what there is.  You definitely want to stop in Shangri La, which is host to live salsa and merengue bands.  Also Pinas and Charlie’s is a happening local scene.  Both clubs are somewhat upscale and offer great drinks and live bands on the weekends

Festivals and Events

Festival Internacional de las Culturas y las Artes Rosario Castellanos

This festival lasts for one entire week.  It is a time to exhibit local music talent, art and various lectures by locals.  Check on the dates in advance as it is usually held sometime during the middle of July.

Dia de San Caralmpio

This is one of the largest and most celebrated events in Comitan.  There are numerous celebrations in honor of different saints however this is the largest celebration.  This celebration is held on the steps of the San Caralampio church on February 10.

Tours

The Tranvia Turistico El Cositia

The Tranvia Turistico El Cositia is a tour of Comitan’s main sites.  The tour usually takes about one hour and is a great opportunity to see some of the beautiful Comitan ruins without having to walk and climb the steep stairs.  This is a guided tour with succinct information about each ruin.

Servicios Aereos San Cristobal

For an overhead view of the sights of Cristobal this is the perfect way to go.  These flights are in single propeller Cessna planes accommodating four passengers at a time.  You will see the local region including Lagunas de Montebello, Las Nubes and Laguna Miramar.  You can take the short tour or the round trip tour which picks up at Laguna Miramar has a 5 and a half hour layover so you can take a walking tour of the areas between Yaxchilan and Bonampak (both ruins) and then hop back on the plane for your return back to San Cristobal.

Centro Cultural – Rosario...

Comitan Museum

Comitan – Museums Places to see

Comitan is east of San Cristobal and is about 2 hours away by bus.  The city is full of art and bright colors.  There are lots of steep hills and plenty of sights to see.  Within an hours drive from Comitan you can also visit Lagunas de Montebello, Cascada El Chiflon, Chinkultik and Tenam Puente archaeological sites.

Local Sights

The zocalo is full of benches, fountains, modern sculptures, and planters.  The locals and tourists are abounding in the zocala, either as a place to read, rest or even to conduct local business.  During the day the shade trees provide relief from the sun and at night you can sit, enjoy the beautiful sky above and listen to live marimba bands.

Templo Santo Domingo de Guzman

The most amazing site on the central plaza is the Templo Santo Domingo de Guzman built in 1556.  This mustard yellow with an octagon window on the façade is the last Dominican church built in Chiapas.  Recently a great discovery was found under the stucco surface, the Mudejar style bell tower.  Be sure to take a close look at this unique colonial architecture find.  In place of the demolished convent stands the Centro Cultural Rosario Castellanos.

Palacio Municipal

This neoclassic Palacio Municipal built in the 19^th century is home of the local government offices.  Once inside you can see amazing murals that run along side the stairway.  This mural was painted by Manuel Suasnavar and it is a colorful history of Comitan.

Museo Arqueologico de Comitan

This archaeological museum shows the history of the Maya in Chiapas.  There is a wonderful display of artifacts from local areas, some of which were discovered in tombs.  The Sala Genam Puente room is kept locked, however, if you ask the guard he will open it for you.  This room represents artifacts from the Sala Genam Puente.

Museo de Arte Hermila Cominguez de Castellanos

This museum, named after Dr. Belisario Doninguez daughter,  houses modern art, what a switch from all the history.  There are two floors displaying contemporary works of art.  The artists are locals from Oaxacan and Chiapanecan and displays both paintings and sculptures.  Near the entrance to the museum are three paintings by local artist Rufino Tamayo.

Casa-Museo Dr. Belisario Dominguez

Dr. Belisarioi Dominguez was a public servant who promoted improvement in public services to the Chiapa people.  He was an active senator in the 1900’s.  In 1913 during a speech demanding the resignation of President Victoriona Huerta, he was assassinated.

Comitan – Museums Places to see Comitan...

The Sonoran Sky Resort

Of the Sonoran Resorts the Sonoran Sky is the newest resort condo in Rocky Point.  The building is designed around old world Mexican style architecture, which includes large sculptures, numerous arched entranceways and vivid southwest colors.  The lobby door looks straight through to the back door, which exits onto the patio and stairways down to the beach.  Located in the lobby are a state of the art fitness center and a convenience store.  On the second floor is a day spa, which looks out onto the beach and Sea of Cortez.  Every inch of space is designed to take advantage of the incredible views of the Sea of Cortez and especially those magnificent Rocky Point sunsets.  Outside the back of the lobby are three swimming pools, 2 Jacuzzi’s, a water slide and a pool side, swim up bar serving some of the best margarita’s south of the border.  Enjoy yours at the bar, under a palapa, in the Jacuzzi or sitting on the beach mesmerized by the beautiful blue ocean.   The Sonora Sky Resort is a single magnificently designed building with 136 units.  The units are from 1 to 4 bedrooms; they are very large with Jacuzzi’s on the patio, completely equipped kitchens, and laundry rooms and are beautifully furnished by their private owners.  You will find amenities such as flat screen TV’s with DVD players, cable, wireless internet, and ceiling fans throughout.  The patio doors are amazing…they are sliding glass doors that go the entire length of the patio area.  You can enjoy the views of the Sea of Cortez and the magnificent sunsets from just about anywhere in one of these amazing condos.  The master suite has its own bath, patio and Jacuzzi.  On the terrace in addition to the Jacuzzi, is a wet bar, electrical outlets, ceiling fans, and a built in barbeque, so enjoy those jumbo shrimps or fresh catch of the day that you bought in town.  The views from the terrace of the Sonoran Sky are incredible.  The calm waters of the Sea of Cortez washing up on the sand and the magnificent Rocky Point sunsets will mesmerize you.  These units are very well built, well designed and well managed.  All the amenities you can imagine are here as well as the beautiful surrounding Rocky Point area, which abounds in fun activities.  Enjoy your stay and make it memorable.

Of the Sonoran Resorts the Sonoran Sky is...

The Sonoran Sun Resort

The Sonoran Sun Resort is located on beautiful Sandy Beach.  The Sonoran Sun was designed to take advantage of every possible view of the Sea of Cortez from the Master Suite, the living room, dining room and even the kitchen.  Most of the other bedrooms also have small patios or window views of the ocean.  While staying at the Sonoran Sun you can enjoy the beauty and peace of this beautiful getaway while enjoying a state of the art fitness center, tennis courts and of course walking or jogging along the beautiful beach.  You can also play tag with the tide as you run the length of Sandy Beach.  Each unit is equipped with private laundry room, fully equipped kitchenette, bottled water, A/C, TV’s/VCR’s and daily maid service.  The units are privately owned and beautifully furnished and maintained.  You can enjoy a margarita at the Aqua Bar while munching on some tacos or experience the cuisine of Mexico at the on-site restaurant El Catoroe.  You can also enjoy Sunday brunch hosted by Emiliano’s on the plaza.  The Cielo Spa and Boutique is a great place to spend the day and get pampered.   The Sonoran Sun Resort is a beautiful place to relax, renew your spirit and just enjoy.  This is a gated and guarded community.  You can conduct business while on vacation at the business center, which offers computers, fax, copiers and meeting rooms.  So whatever you need whether business or pleasure you can find it all at the Sonoran Sun Resort.

The Sonoran Sun Resort is located on...

The Princessa Resort on Sandy Beach in Puerto Penasco

Located on Sandy Beach in rocky Point, Mexico is the beautiful Princessa Resort.  The Princessa is engulfed by peaceful beaches and the Sea of Cortez.  Only in Rocky Point can you walk along the sand and let the gentle warm Sea of Cortez circle around your feet in sheer bliss.  From the balcony of your beautiful suite you can view the magnificent Sea of Cortez, the Penasco Lighthouse and the incredible sunsets.  Your stay at the Princessa includes first class amenities.  You will have at your disposable three beautiful pools, a fitness center, tennis court, volleyball court and a practice golf tee.  A two bedroom condo can accommodate 4 or more guests easily.  The suites have queen size beds, Jacuzzis, private baths, pull out sofas, flat screen TV, private laundry, and a fully equipped kitchen.  You can also enjoy daily maid service.  So with all this, how can you resist.  You have all the amenities at your fingertips, the beautiful Sea and don’t forget that ever so romantic Rocky Point sunset.  The Princessa is only a short drive to the wonderful pier, maze of shops and wonderful restaurants in Rocky Point.

Located on Sandy Beach in rocky Point,...

The Pinacate Resort at low tide

Pinacate

Pinacate is the place to spend your vacation in total luxury viewing magnificent sunsets. The Pinacate is the perfect destination for family adventures.  Within walking to Plaza Las Glorias where you can walk around and browse or buy crafts made by the local artisans.  You can also enjoy the local restaurants and the fun nightlife all in one place.  A sure stop is the fish market in the Old Port area.  You can pick up the fresh catch of the day or enjoy the wonderful jumbo shrimps, which Rocky Point is famous for.  Take them home and grill them while watching the incredible sunset and listening to the waves rock the shore.   If you prefer to spend the night out… try Mannys    You can enjoy a wonderful dinner and if you choose to you can also dance the night away to live local music.  Each condo at  the Pinacate is beautifully decorated by its private owner and kept in pristine condition. Each unit is spacious with your choice of one, two or three bedrooms.  You can enjoy such amenities as full kitchens with all the necessities without having to go out and purchase anything.   Pinacate provides fresh lines and daily maid service…what more can you ask for.  Not all of the units have ocean views…so be sure to ask for a unit that has one if that is one of your requirements.  Don’t assume anything.  Take a short walk down the stairs and you are on the beach. Everything is within walking distance from Pinacate.   Some of the local activities that are not within walking distance include snorkeling, diving, deep-sea fishing, you can even rent a wave runner.   The sunsets over the Sea of Cortez are by far the most beautiful in the world.  Enjoy your stay and make it a memorable one.

Pinacate Pinacate is the place to spend...

Las Gaviotas in Puerto Penasco

Las Gaviotas Located on Sandy Beach If you want to be close to the restaurants, shops and local nightspots, then Los Gaviotas is the place for you.   At Las Gaviotas you are in a perfect location and just steps away from the magnificent Sea of Cortez and the beautiful Sandy Beach.  Though the complex is small and intimate it is still a great location and place for a family stay, small groups traveling together and it has a great spot for mingling and meeting others.  Even though the complex is small the units are large with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, and its owner furnishes each in a unique way.  In addition to the amazing ocean views through the patio doors, you will also find amenities such washer and dryers, A/C, central heat, TV/VCR-DVD, bottled water, fresh linens, swimming pool, children’s wadding pool, BBQ grills, full kitchen and more.  There is no reason why you cannot enjoy the shops, restaurants and night life since you are located next to Plaza Las Glorias, In addition to all of the amenities you can also open up your patio door and enjoy the spectacular sunsets and walks along the beach.  You are so close to the shore, you can walk, jog, play tag with the tide or pick up shells.   Las Gaviotas is the perfect peaceful ocean side retreat to enjoy your vacation.

Las Gaviotas Located on Sandy Beach If you...

The Esmeralda Resort in Puerto Penasco

Esmeralda Resort
Located on Sandy Beach in Rocky Point
One of the newest and most lavish upscale resorts along the magnificent beaches in Rocky Point (Porto Penasco) is the Esmeralda. Esmeraldas is a white building with blue windows, which stands out like a beacon along Sandy Beach. The striking modern architectural design mirrors the crystal blue waters of the Sea of Cortez through its blue windows. Esmeralda is located on 11.96 acres and 693 feet of ocean front property. The Esmeralda complex is comprised of 7 buildings including wrap around penthouses, a 10,000 square foot lobby reception area, which is two stories high, can be used for entertaining and special events. There is plenty of surface and below ground parking for owners and their guests. The floor plans are unique, spacious and each has amazing views of the beach. This is paradise from the moment you drive up to the entrance with its unique design, blue windows, and gorgeous green lush landscaping. Each of the seven buildings is different but has the ultimate in breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortez and Sandy Beach. The lobby starts your journey to paradise with the attention paid to each and every exquisite detail. Enjoy sunning yourself on the beach or just relax under a palapa and sip and Margaritas while the little ones romp in the sand. Take a relaxed walk along the beach and allow the tide to swirl up around your feet. The units each vary in size and design. So pick the one that meets your needs. The penthouse units wrap around the ends giving you 1,193 sq feet of breathtaking views of Sandy Beach and the Sea of Cortez. The penthouse suite you will enjoy your own private elevator, which will whisk you up to, an amazing experience. The condos are available in 2 to 4 Master Bedroom Suites, with oversize flat screen TV’s, kitchen and dining areas, laundry room, pantry, water purification systems. On the terrace you can enjoy amenities such as… …tempered glass terrace walls, Jacuzzi, wet bar, BBQ, phone jacks and the most amazing feature…the breathtaking views of Sandy Beach, The Sea of Cortez and finally the beautiful Rocky Point sun sets which make it all worth it. Enjoy paradise!!

Esmeralda Resort Located on Sandy Beach in...