Cancun vs Puerto Vallarta: Find out the Best Vacation Destination for Your Next Trip!
The debate of Cancun vs Puerto Vallarta is the hardest choice for travelers planning a Mexican getaway. Both destinations offer sun, sand, and incredible hospitality, but they cater to completely different travel styles.
Are you looking for the electric-blue Caribbean waters and luxury all-inclusive resorts of Cancun? Or do you prefer the authentic Mexican charm, golden sunsets, and lush jungle mountains of Puerto Vallarta?
Choosing the wrong one can lead to a vacation that feels “too touristy” or “not beachy enough” for your taste.
Having lived in Cancun for over a decade and visited PV many times, one thing I can tell you for sure is that they’re both unforgettable beach destinations.
In this guide, we break down the key differences between Cancun and Puerto Vallarta—from beaches and safety to nightlife and food—so you can book the perfect trip for you.
Cancun vs Puerto Vallarta at a glance
Both Cancun and Puerto Vallarta are famous resort cities in Mexico. Thousands of tourists from around the world show up in these cities for a beach vacation every year.
Cancun is known for its white-sand beaches, turquoise Caribbean waters, marine life, water sports, nightlife, and so much more.
The skyscrapers, luxury, and all-inclusive hotels in Cancun give it a very urban ambiance. When it comes to a high-end resort vacation, Cancun is definitely at the top of the list.
Puerto Vallarta is on the Pacific coast of Mexico, so the golden-sand beaches here are different from the Caribbean ones, but they’re just as stunning and come with a variety of water activities as well as beachfront hotels and restaurants.
Puerto Vallarta is more of a coastal town with lots of culture and charm, so your experience here will be more immersive and authentic.
Cancun vs Puerto Vallarta: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Cancun (Caribbean) | Puerto Vallarta (Pacific) |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | White sand beaches, swimming, nightlife, families, ancient ruins. | Culture, couples, foodies, LGBTQ+, sunsets, surfing. |
| Beaches | Powdery white sand, turquoise calm water. (Note: Sargassum risk in summer) | Golden sand, darker Pacific water, bigger waves for surfing. |
| Vibe | “Vegas of Mexico,” high-energy, modern luxury, resort-focused. | “Pueblo Magico,” authentic Mexican charm, laid-back, romantic. |
| Activities | Cenotes, Chichen Itza, Catamaran tours, Snorkeling. | Whale watching (Dec-Mar), Hiking Sierra Madre, Art Galleries. |
| Weather | Hot & humid year-round. Prone to hurricanes (Aug-Nov). | Less humid winters. Protected by bay from direct hurricane hits. |
Puerto Vallarta vs Cancun | Location
Cancun
Cancun is located on the northeast coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, in the state of Quintana Roo.
The city is situated on the tip of the peninsula, right where the Caribbean meets the Gulf of Mexico, which is why the beaches here are some of the most breathtaking throughout the entire country.
Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is located in the state of Jalisco, in the western part of Mexico. This resort city is situated on the Pacific Ocean’s Bahía de Bandera (Bay of Flags), offering breathtaking ocean views and golden-sand beaches.
Puerto Vallarta vs Cancun | Layout & Vibe
Cancun: The “Vegas of Mexico”
Cancun was purpose-built for tourism, so it feels very modern and distinct. The Hotel Zone is a long strip of high-rise hotels, nightclubs, and shopping malls. It’s glitzy, glamorous, and high-energy.
Walkability Reality Check: Cancun is not a walking city. The Hotel Zone allows for walking along the strip, but everything is spread out. You typically take a taxi or bus to go from your resort to a mall (like La Isla) or a nightclub. Downtown Cancun (El Centro) has local vibes but is far from the beach.
Puerto Vallarta: Authentic Mexican Charm
Puerto Vallarta started as a real Mexican village, and it has kept that soul. You’ll find cobblestone streets, white-washed buildings with red tile roofs, and a vibrant local community mixed with tourists.
Walkability Winner: PV is arguably the most walkable beach town in Mexico. You can easily walk from the Malecon (boardwalk) into the Zona Romantica, stopping at art galleries, cafes, and taco stands along the way. The beach is right there, steps from the town center.
LGBTQ+ Friendly: PV is famous for its Zona Romantica, one of the most gay-friendly districts in the world, packed with inclusive bars, clubs, and hotels.
Food Scene: All-Inclusive vs Gastronomy
Cancun: Cancun is the king of All-Inclusive. Most travelers eat 80% of their meals at their resort.
- Fine Dining: The Hotel Zone has spectacular high-end restaurants like Harry’s or RosaNegra with sparklers and DJ shows.
- Local Food: You have to travel to Downtown (El Centro) to Parque de las Palapas to find authentic street snacks like marquesitas (rolled crepes).
Puerto Vallarta: PV is the “Gastronomic Capital” of Mexico’s beaches. All-inclusive plan? Skip it here!
Dinner with a View: Restaurants carved into the cliffs (like La Palapa or El Panorama) offer world-class food with sunset views that Cancun can’t match.
Street Food: You can eat the best tacos al pastor or birria of your life from a street stand for $1 USD.
Puerto Vallarta vs Cancun | Beaches
Cancun Beaches: The Caribbean Dream
The beaches in Cancun are exactly like the postcards—pristine white sand and electric turquoise water. If your priority is swimming in calm, crystal-clear water, Cancun wins hands down.
Best Public Beaches to Visit:
- Playa Delfines (El Mirador): Famous for the “CANCUN” sign and sweeping views. It has no hotels backing it, just endless white sand. Great for photos, but waves can be strong.
- Playa Langosta & Playa Tortugas: These are perfect for swimming because the water is incredibly calm and shallow, almost like a pool. Ideal for families.
- Playa Chac Mool: Centrally located in the Hotel Zone, offering that classic turquoise water with plenty of rental loungers.
The “Need to Know”: From May to October, the Caribbean coast can be affected by Sargassum (seaweed). While luxurious hotels clean it daily, it’s a natural reality to consider during summer.
Puerto Vallarta Beaches: Dramatic & Golden
Puerto Vallarta beaches are dramatic and beautiful, but different. Located on the Pacific, the sand is golden-brown, and the water is a deeper blue rather than turquoise.
Best Public Beaches to Visit:
- Playa Los Muertos: The most famous and lively beach, located right in the Romantic Zone. It’s walkable from downtown and packed with restaurants, bars, and the iconic pier.
- Conchas Chinas: A short taxi ride south, this beach offers stunning rock pools and a quieter, more romantic vibe with emerald-green water.
- Playa Camarones: A wide, golden beach closer to the center, less crowded than Los Muertos and great for watching sunsets.
The “Good”: The Pacific Ocean brings waves, making it great for surfing and boogie boarding. Plus, you get spectacular sunsets every evening, which you won’t see over the ocean in Cancun (since it faces east).
Cancun vs Puerto Vallarta Best Way to Move Around
Puerto Vallarta: Walkable & Connected
Moving around Puerto Vallarta is simple; there is an option for every budget.
- Uber (Top Choice): Uber is fully legal, safe, and widely accepted here. It is usually 50% cheaper than taxis and works great for getting to dinner or the airport.
- Walking: If you stay in the Romantic Zone or Downtown, you can walk almost everywhere. The Malecon boardwalk connects the main areas beautifully.
- Local Buses: For about 10 pesos ($0.60 USD), you can take the local orange or blue buses to go up and down the coast. They are safe and an adventure!
Cancun: Spread Out & Complex
Cancun is huge, so you cannot walk between zones. You need to mix different types of transport.
- The R-1 & R-2 Bus (Best Value): These red buses run up and down the Hotel Zone strip 24/7. They cost about $1 USD (12 pesos) and are the cheapest way to get from your resort to the malls or nightclubs.
- Private Airport Transfers (Recommended): Do not rely on taxis or Uber at the airport. The “shark tank” of taxi vendors is aggressive. Pre-book a private van with Cancun Airport Transfers for a safe, fast transfer to your hotel.
- Uber (Use with Caution): While legal, the conflict with the Taxi Union is intense. Drivers often won’t pick up at hotel lobbies to avoid confrontation. It is better to stick to official red/green taxis for short trips, but always agree on the price before getting in.
Puerto Vallarta vs Cancun | The best time to visit
Best time to visit Cancun
Being a tropical destination, anytime can be the best time to visit Cancun, depending on your preferences.
If you want to enjoy the best weather, December through February is when you will find it. If you want to party a lot, spring break (March and April) is a great time for it.
Just keep in mind that these months combined make the high season of tourism in Cancun, so the prices are at their highest, and there are lots of people here.
But it’s every bit worth the money because everything is so gorgeous this time of year.
In addition to these, you can also visit during the shoulder season months (April-May and November-Mid-December) to find better deals on flights, hotels, and activities.
This is when the crowds are also smaller.
Best time to visit Puerto Vallarta
Just like Cancun, PV is a tropical destination you can visit year-round. The high season months of December to May feature the best weather of the year, and this is when most tourists visit.
The time between April and June features good weather but a more peaceful and intimate environment if you’re visiting with family and kids or want to avoid crowds.
The best time for a budget vacation is near the low season, typically from July to September.
Weather Differences: Humidity & Hurricanes
While both are tropical, there are key differences:
- Humidity: Cancun is in the Caribbean, meaning it stays humid almost year-round. Puerto Vallarta (Pacific) has a drier heat in the winter months, which many find more comfortable.
- Hurricanes: Cancun is more prone to direct hurricane hits during the Atlantic Hurricane Season (June–Nov). Puerto Vallarta is naturally protected by the Banderas Bay and mountains, making direct hits much rarer, though tropical storms can still pass by.
Cancun vs Puerto Vallarta | Things to do
Top things to do in Cancun
Chichen Itza, Cenote and Valladolid All-Inclusive Tour
4.5⭐ 135 Reviews
Cancun is the perfect place for a beach vacation, and a tour to Chichen Itza and Valladolid is just the thing to make it doubly unforgettable, adding some nature, history, and culture to the mix.
What’s more, you get to visit a cenote as a bonus!
Isla Mujeres All Inclusive Luxury Catamaran & Snorkel from Cancun
4.5⭐ 1844 Reviews
The water sports in Cancun are really popular, so don’t miss out on them. Sailing is one of those activities, and you will find plenty of tours to enjoy the beautiful sights of the Caribbean.
I recommend this snorkel tour because it comes with a trip to the gorgeous Isla Mujeres included.
Reef and Shipwreck Snorkeling Tour in Cancun
4.5⭐ 821 Reviews
Snorkeling with marine life is also a great water activity in Cancun. There are so many exotic marine species, and seeing them up close is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
You will find many good tours to go snorkeling and see the amazing underwater world of Cancun.
Diving
5⭐ 218 Reviews
Going on a diving tour in Cancun is definitely a must, and if you want to take it one step further, Cancun also has an underwater museum called MUSA which you can explore with a diving tour.
It features more than 500 sculptures. Highly recommended.
Swim in Cenotes
This is exclusive to the Yucatan Peninsula! Cenotes are natural freshwater sinkholes found in the jungle. They are cool, refreshing, and look magical. You cannot find these in Puerto Vallarta.
Cenote tour
4.5⭐ 47 Reviews
Cenotes are one of the most unique natural phenomena of the Yucatan Peninsula. Taking a swim in one of them is such a memorable experience.
Be sure to visit at least a few cenotes while staying in Cancun, as their mystical charm provides a refreshing contrast to the city’s urban vibe.
Top things to do in Puerto Vallarta
Whale Watching (Seasonal)
From December to March, magnificent Humpback Whales migrate to the Banderas Bay. You can often see them breaching right from the shore, but a boat tour gets you up close. This is a bucket-list experience you can’t get in Cancun!
Swimming with dolphins (in the wild)
4.5⭐ 18 Reviews
Puerto Vallarta vs Cancun is a huge tie when it comes to amazing things to do. Water activities in Puerto Vallarta are just as memorable, and swimming with marine life is a popular one among them.
If you’re a thrill seeker, swimming with dolphins is definitely a great way to get it.
Check out Puerto Vallarta Botanical Gardens
Puerto Vallarta has thriving nature and wildlife both underwater and on land, so when you’re not diving with exotic marine creatures, you can go meet the flora and fauna on the other side of the town.
Vallarta Botanical Garden is a 79-acre garden with lots of wildlife and greenery, and you will find many tours to visit here.
Take a tour of the Marietas Islands
4.5⭐ 869 Reviews
Marietas Islands are located very close to Banderas Bay and this is where so many amazing creatures live and thrive.
You can take a tour of this group of uninhabited islands for an unforgettable experience. Highly recommended!
Go on a road trip to Sayulita or a tour
4⭐ 29 Reviews
I mentioned the stunning landscape of the PV’s surrounding region earlier. If you want to explore it, a road trip to Sayulita is one of the best ways to do it.
Driving there is a fun experience on its own, and Sayulita is a beautiful coastal village, so exploring it is also a delight!
Zipline
5⭐ 138 Reviews
The Sierra Madre mountains of Puerto Vallarta are excellent for so many adventurous excursions and are worth exploring.
One adrenaline-filled way to do it is by ziplining over the trees of this mountain range. To make things easier, you will find lots of canopy tours in town.
Best Day Trips Comparison
If you get bored of the beach, these are the absolute best excursions from each destination.
Cancun Day Trips (History & Jungle)
- Chichen Itza (The World Wonder): Located about 2.5 hours inland, this UNESCO World Heritage site is non-negotiable for first-timers. Seeing the massive pyramid of Kukulcan in person is awe-inspiring. Pro Tip: Go as early as possible (arrive by 8 AM) to beat the massive tour bus crowds and the midday heat.
- Cenotes (Jungle Swim): You cannot find these in Puerto Vallarta! Cenotes are natural freshwater sinkholes hidden in the Maya jungle. Some are open-air like lakes, while others are underground caves with stalactites. They are freezing cold, incredibly refreshing, and look magical on Instagram.
- Isla Mujeres (Island Escape): Take a 20-minute ferry from the Hotel Zone to this sleepy, beautiful island. The best thing to do is rent a golf cart for the day and drive around the coast. Stop at Playa Norte, widely considered one of the best beaches in the world for its crystal-clear, shallow water.
Puerto Vallarta Day Trips (Surf & Ocean)
- Sayulita & San Pancho (Surf Towns): About 1 hour north of PV, you’ll find these “hippie-chic” towns. Sayulita is famous for its colorful flags, street art, and consistent surf break (great for beginners!). It has a very bohemian, youthful vibe with amazing smoothie bowls and fish tacos.
- Yelapa (Hidden Cove): This charming fishing village is reachable only by boat (take a water taxi from Los Muertos pier). There are no cars here! Hike up to the waterfall through the village, relax on the beach, and try the locally made raicilla (a smokier cousin of tequila).
- San Sebastian del Oeste (Mountain Colonial Town): If you want a break from the heat, head 1.5 hours up into the Sierra Madre mountains. This old silver mining town feels frozen in time with its colonial architecture and fog-covered pine trees. It’s perfect for drinking organic coffee and wandering historic plazas.
Cancun vs Puerto Vallarta — Renting a car
Cancun isn’t a walkable city, so you will most definitely need a car rental to explore the city and its attractions properly, unless you are planning to spend the entire vacation in your hotel, which is also a great option.
Luckily, there are plenty of rentals in Cancun and it’s surprisingly easy to rent a car when you’re traveling here.
Puerto Vallarta is a walkable town, and it also has a good public transit system, so you can get by without a car rental here.
That being said, a car rental is still recommended, especially if you want to visit nearby villages like Sayulita and explore the surrounding region.
If you don’t know much about renting a car in Mexico, here are a few helpful tips to help you along. Trust me, it’s very easy, safe, and worth it!
✅ Make sure your car rental includes insurance as well.
✅ Read through all the clauses before confirming the booking.
✅ Take pictures of the car you rent from all sides, so as to avoid ending up paying for damages you didn’t cause.
✅ Note down any prior damages on paper and get it signed.
✅ If you don’t have a favorite car rental company already, Discover Cars is my go-to place for car rentals.
Cancun vs Puerto Vallarta | Costs
Cancun costs
On average, a weeklong trip to Cancun costs $1,000-$1,200 per person. This includes the flight, lodgings, and activities.
You will be spending $30-$100 on lodgings, $40-$140 on tours and activities, and around $40-$80 on groceries, food, and travel daily.
These are just average estimates, and you can definitely have a budget vacation here as well.
Puerto Vallarta costs
When it comes to Cancun vs Puerto Vallarta, both have similar costs. You can expect to spend anywhere between $1,000 and $1,500 for a weeklong stay in PV.
This would include the airfare, lodgings, and activities.
Accommodations in Puerto Vallarta range from hostels with dorm-style rooms starting at just $10 a night, to luxury beachside villas that go up in price depending on location and amenities.
There are a variety of mid-range hotels throughout town as well; rates typically range from $40 to $100 per night.
Eating out is also quite affordable—many restaurants offer traditional Mexican cuisine for under $10 per person.
You can also save up on excursions and transportation by opting for group tours and using the public buses.
Puerto Vallarta vs Cancun | Food and Nightlife
Cancun restaurants and nightlife
Cancun is one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Mexico, and one of the things it’s known for is its vibrant nightlife.
So, whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner on the beach or an exciting night out, Cancun has plenty of restaurants and clubs to explore.
For the foodie in search of unique flavors and experiences, Cancun offers an array of diverse restaurants from upscale seafood establishments to casual beachside eateries.
With options ranging from traditional Mexican fare like tacos al pastor to more international flavors like Italian pasta, you’ll be sure to find something that suits your taste buds.
Or if you’re in the mood for a more lively atmosphere, many restaurants boast live music and dancing late into the night!
Puerto Vallarta restaurants and nightlife
Puerto Vallarta is the perfect vacation spot for anyone looking to enjoy a mix of Mexican culture and vibrant nightlife.
From beachfront bars and lounges to some of the best restaurants in Mexico, Puerto Vallarta offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience or hoping to explore the city’s famous nightlife, you won’t be disappointed.
The restaurant scene in Puerto Vallarta is second-to-none, offering everything from traditional Mexican cuisine to eclectic fusion dishes.
Local eateries specialize in dishes like arrachera (thinly sliced steak), tacos de carnitas (pork tacos), and some of the freshest seafood around.
For those seeking a more upscale dining experience, numerous high-end restaurants offer delicious gourmet fare crafted with locally sourced ingredients.
Puerto Vallarta vs Cancun | Safety
Cancun Safety
Cancun is generally very safe within the Hotel Zone and main tourist areas. Millions of international tourists visit every year, trouble-free. Standard precautions apply: stay in well-lit areas at night and don’t flash expensive jewelry.
Puerto Vallarta Safety
Puerto Vallarta is consistently rated among the safest cities in Mexico for tourists. The atmosphere is very relaxed. The Malecon (boardwalk) and Zona Romantica are bustling with families and couples walking around safely until late at night. It feels less “guarded” than Cancun and more like a welcoming community.
Puerto Vallarta vs Cancun | Where to stay
Cancun Hotels
1. Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun
Live Aqua Beach Resort is the perfect getaway for travelers looking to relax and have a great time. With its stunning beachfront location and luxurious amenities, this all-inclusive resort offers something for everyone.
The resort offers a variety of accommodations to suit every need, from family-friendly suites to adults-only rooms for those seeking a more intimate vacation experience.
Every room features modern décor, flat-screen TVs, and access to high-speed Wi-Fi.
2. Le Blanc Spa Resort
Le Blanc is an adults-only resort that offers travelers the ultimate luxury and relaxation. Located on a white-sand beach, this all-inclusive resort features some of the finest amenities in town.
From its world-class spa to its modern suites and exceptional dining options, Le Blanc Spa Resort ensures guests have an unforgettable experience.
The resort also features a private beach, 24-hour room service, and countless other amenities.
3. Hyatt Ziva Cancun Resort (family)
The Hyatt Ziva Cancun Resort offers a luxurious, tranquil atmosphere, making it the perfect place for a family stay.
Located on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, this five-star resort offers stunning ocean views and plenty of activities to keep you busy.
There are plenty of amenities to suit a family stay, including outdoor pools, a spa center, and free parking.
The resort also features multiple restaurants serving up Mexican and international cuisine that will tantalize your taste buds.
4. Breathless Resort (single)
Breathless Resort Cancun is an all-inclusive luxury resort nestled among the Caribbean Sea and Nichupte Lagoon.
Popular as one of the best singles resorts in Cancun, this all-inclusive resort offers guests a luxurious escape from their everyday lives.
The ocean views from the rooms are simply stunning. And you can also enjoy the state-of-the-art fitness center, spa services, 24-hour room service, and even free Wi-Fi access throughout the property.
5. Selina Hostel
As I mentioned earlier, there are some budget options in Cancun as well. Selina Downtown is one of those and comes with a variety of amenities and comfortable rooms.
It features an outdoor pool, a spa center, live music, a tour desk, yoga, and much more!
Puerto Vallarta Hotels
6. Melia Puerto Vallarta | All-Inclusive
Located on the sunny shores of Banderas Bay in Marina Vallarta, this stunning resort offers luxurious amenities and services that will make your vacation truly unforgettable.
With an array of spacious suites and rooms offering breathtaking ocean views, this all-inclusive is perfect for families and couples alike.
Whether you want to spend your days lounging by their pool and beach area or exploring nearby attractions such as El Malecon seaside boardwalk or Los Arcos National Marine Park, there is something for you here at Melia Puerto Vallarta All-Inclusive.
7. Luna Liquida
Located just a few steps from the beach, Luna Liquida is a boutique hotel consisting of five villas. This 3-star combines luxury and comfort, making it a great spot for a mid-range stay in PV.
Here at Luna Liquida, you will find luxury amenities combined with personalized service that will ensure your stay is comfortable and memorable.
8. Hacienda San Angel
Staying in a hacienda is a great way to immerse in the historic charm of PV, and if you want to do that, Hacienda San Angel is just the place for it.
The hacienda is located only a short distance from the beach and comes with a variety of amenities like outdoor pools, an onsite restaurant, a bar, and a terrace.
Many popular attractions of the town are also very close to the property.
9. Grand Miramar
Grand Miramar is a spa resort located south of PV downtown, known for its breathtaking views of the bay.
The property consists of suites and rooms featuring modern decor, a bar, and the main terrace with three pools and an adults-only terrace with two hot tubs and a pool.
The 24-hour suite service, onsite restaurants, fitness center, spa, and other amenities of Grand Miramar combined with its laid-back atmosphere make this resort the perfect getaway for a family stay.
10. Hyatt
Hyatt resorts are known for world-class amenities and comfortable stays, and PV has a Hyatt resort as well. It’s located right by the beach and has a private beach area.
The amenities include 5 outdoor pools, various restaurants, a bar, free parking, a fitness center, a tennis court, and a spa.
Round-the-clock room service, live entertainment, and a tour desk are also available here.
Cancún vs Puerto Vallarta: Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper, Cancun or Puerto Vallarta?
Puerto Vallarta is generally cheaper. While flight costs can be similar, day-to-day expenses for food and drinks are lower in PV, especially if you eat street food. Cancun prices in the Hotel Zone are comparable to Miami or Las Vegas.
Which destination is safer?
Both are safe for tourists, but they feel different. Cancun relies on a heavy police presence in tourist zones to maintain safety. Puerto Vallarta feels naturally safer and friendlier, with a lower overall crime rate and a strong sense of community.
Can you swim in the ocean in Puerto Vallarta?
Yes, you can swim. However, the Pacific Ocean has stronger waves and darker water than the Caribbean. If you want calm, pool-like water, Cancun is the better choice.
Does Puerto Vallarta have seaweed (Sargassum)?
No. Sargassum is primarily an Atlantic/Caribbean problem. Puerto Vallarta’s Pacific beaches are free from the massive seaweed piles that plague Cancun during the summer.
Is Uber safe to use?
In Puerto Vallarta, yes—it is completely safe and legal. In Cancun, use caution. Uber is legal but faces violent opposition from local taxis. Avoid using it at the airport; stick to private shuttles instead.
Cancun vs Puerto Vallarta: final thoughts
Cancun and Puerto Vallarta are great beach destinations, so you can’t go wrong with either. But the experiences they offer are significantly different, so the best choice for you boils down to preferences.
If you’re after gorgeous white-sand beaches, elegant and luxurious beachside stays, high-end restaurants, vibrant nightlife, and overall an urban vibe, Cancun is the place for you.
On the other hand, Puerto Vallarta is the perfect spot for you if you want to enjoy the authentic charm of a tropical coastal town with lots of culture and history.
The beaches here are also uniquely different, with Pacific waters and golden sands.
