San Pedro Lagunillas: Temples, Festivals and Lagoon

San Pedro Lagunillas brings together historic buildings in the town center, local festival traditions and outdoor activities around the nearby lagoon. These attractions span different areas: the town itself, the festival calendar and the area around the body of water.

Historic buildings in the town center

The Templo de San Pedro is the oldest building in the town center of San Pedro Lagunillas and dates back to the 17th century. The Templo Parroquial de San Pedro Apóstol is a single-story structure made of plastered stone, with metal beams and precast concrete slabs. At the bottom of its northwestern bell is a relief dedicated to Señor San Pedro, dated 1888. Alongside the construction date of the oldest building, the structure and a dated dedication on a bell are also worth noting.

In San Pedro Lagunillas, the Ruta Caminos del Suroeste leads to centuries-old architectural sites such as the Templo de San Pedro Apóstol, Plaza Los Mártires, Hacienda La Condesa and the ruins of the former tequila hacienda. Hacienda La Condesa is a well-preserved colonial-era building in the town center. Terebinth trees grow in Plaza de los Terebintos behind the municipal president’s office.

Festivals and local traditions

On June 29, San Pedro Lagunillas celebrates the festival honoring its patron saint, San Pedro. Processions from nearby towns travel from the entrance arches to the temple, and food is served to the faithful. The Topaderas are celebrated from September 17 to 19. During the festivities, the entire town throws water, eggs and flour; dances and celebrations are also part of the event. If you plan your stay around one of the festivals, check the dates and current program in advance.

The Topaderas feature the traditional drink Cola de Rata, made from fruit and alcohol. It ferments for about four months in a sealed container buried in the ground.

The lagoon and activities in the surrounding area

Laguna de San Pedro Lagunillas is near the destination, not in the town center. It is approximately 1.9 kilometers long, 1.6 kilometers wide and an average of 9 meters deep. These measurements give an idea of the body of water’s size, while its location distinguishes the town center from the area around the lagoon.

In spring, the calm water is suitable for canoeing and boat trips. Check locally to see whether operators are available. The area around the lagoon also has walking paths, as well as opportunities to observe flora and fauna and go birdwatching. Check local conditions and available activities before making plans.

Food and accommodation

Restaurants near Laguna de San Pedro Lagunillas serve dorado, tilapia fillets and typical dishes such as tamales, pozole and beef birria. It is best to check with each restaurant directly to find out which dishes are currently available. Hotel Verde Encanto is in the town center, near the main square as well as restaurants, shops and attractions.

Discover more destinations: Bucerias, Lo De Marcos, Monteón, Agua Escondida, Valle Dorado, Las Varas, San Francisco, Santa María Del Oro

View the broader travel overview: Nayarit.