Our favorite cafés in town, all an easy walk from Casa Bella Cruz.
Nestled along the Riviera Nayarit coastline, La Cruz de Huanacaxtle (just La Cruz to locals) is a hidden gem with a scenic marina and authentic small-town charm. It’s a haven for beach lovers and sailors, and a growing hotspot for foodies and coffee lovers too.
The coffee scene here keeps growing, with new cafés popping up around town every year. These are our must-visit spots, each one a little taste of what makes this town special. We first published this list in January 2024 and checked every café again in October 2026.
Right next door to Casa Bella Cruz, Café Shule’l is a cozy, family-run café known for superb coffee, served caliente o frío, and delicious breakfasts like eggs with chorizo. Grab a seat outside with a view of the bustling town square: it’s the ideal spot for your morning cup while La Cruz wakes up around you. Our friends at Villa Amor del Mar wrote a lovely story about the family behind it.
Octava is a gem, known for excellent coffee and the warm hospitality of its owner, Zyanya, whose sunny personality makes every visit memorable. It’s one of the few places in the area for cold brew and other specialty coffees, and don’t skip the food: the waffles, smoothies and pastries are wonderful. Now a café and patisserie, it’s a hub for regulars and newcomers alike.
A haven for anyone with a sweet tooth. Caxtle specializes in cakes by the slice, cheesecake, carrot cake and other baked goods, with coffee and frappés to go with them. Cozy and easygoing, it’s perfect for a quick snack or an after-dinner treat.
Hungry too? See all our favorite restaurants on our Eat page.