Cuyutlán

Cuyutlán is a little town most famous for the extensive salt works. Set in the coastal municipality of Armería in Colima, the town is on a small strip of land between an inner lagoon and the sea. It is likely the most popular beach anywhere in the state although the nearly black sand is all derived from volcanic ash. The space hosts a respectable surfing community, but visitors remember the lazy seaside atmosphere and the spectacular lagoon. 

The Cuyutlán museum of salt lays out the production process although visitors are likely to have passed many of the evaporation pools on their way in. The museum is housed in a 19th century warehouse.But the town is arguably most famous for the particular bio-luminescence in the water during the months of April and May. The so-called Ola Verde or Green Wave then gets put to use describing the highest and most sought after waves for surfers, and even to local environmental efforts (of which there are many).  

Some four kms to the southwest of the main town of Cuyutlán is main turtle site, dedicated to the study and conservation of the three species of sea turtles who nest here. Between August and January of each year, visitors can witness the hatching and release of olive ridley and black sea turtles. There is also a center for the study and protection of crocodiles, iguanas and birds. 

Visitors also take to the Palo Verde estuary for tours of the mangroves. White herons and other marine birds usually make a spectacle of the visit that is worth witnessing. The beach town itself is wonderfully laid back, with thatched huts serving seafood, and other treats, and plenty to see and experience. 

Cuyutlán is a wonderful one hour drive south of the capital city. Most bus lines will try to force you off in Tecomán, but there are combi vans regularly plying the route between Tecomán and the beach. The trip takes just about 15 minutes.