Bucerias, Mexico

This quaint beach town on Mexico's Pacific coast is a popular escape for foreigners, but the reality is a mixed bag. The 2020 census counted a population of 16,161 residents, which can double during seasonal influxes. However, beneath the surface, bureaucracy is a persistent headache - the town was only incorporated in the 1930s, and the main road bisecting the town remains an unimproved dirt track. While the wide, white sand beach stretches for over 18 miles, the town itself sits at an elevation of just 89 feet. Bucerías may offer a charming small-town vibe, with an annual festival celebrating the local patron saint, but it's best suited for retirees and digital nomads who can tolerate a bit of red tape.