Vacationing in Mexico is always vibrant, lively, and very noisy. The colorful culture of the Mayan and Aztec civilizations with their bloody legends and pyramids, colonial architecture in its elegance and grace, excellent beaches with the cleanest sand and developed infrastructure, diversity of coral reefs – the best resorts in Mexico know how to captivate guests. Interesting excursions are offered to tourists.
You can swim in the purest waters of the Mayan holy springs and admire the unique natural “wells,” swim with turtles, dive to underwater sculptures. There is really a lot to do and see here.
Cancun
Cancun is the most famous sandy “seven” on the Caribbean Sea. This is a classic tourist booklet with white sandy beaches, emerald greenery, and turquoise waters in 3D. However, this resort is suitable not only for lazy beach holidays but also for more active pastimes. Want to go surfing?
Different sections of the coast are suitable for both professionals and beginners. Planning to catch the largest marlin or barracuda and inscribe your name in the book of legendary fishermen? Cancun is for you. The water entertainment frenzy is intercepted by diving – the coral reefs of Cozumel are rightly considered some of the most beautiful in the Caribbean.
The remains of the Mayan civilization in Xcaret blend perfectly with the uninterrupted neon animation at the giant hotels. And next to the secluded reserve of Xel-Ha, where you can swim with turtles, there are noisy nightclubs and the best restaurants in Mexico.
Playa del Carmen
Once an unknown fishing village, Playa del Carmen quickly became one of the most popular and fashionable resorts in the Caribbean. European chic harmoniously combines with a laid-back party atmosphere. White sandy beaches and warm sun ensure the resort has thousands of guests year-round, while eco-tourism enthusiasts are happy to visit local national parks to immerse themselves, even if briefly, in the lushness of true tropical nature.
For fans of more intense recreation, seven-hour tours of local lagoons and bays, as well as underground rivers, are organized. At night, you can stay on the island and immerse yourself in the rhythm of a folklore show with a torch performance, or you can go on a night cruise on one of the brightly lit ships. Tequila on such ships never runs out, and colorful Caribbean rhythms continue to break the night silence until dawn.
Tulum
This resort town is known for two things – the best-preserved ruins of the Mayan civilization and the best hotels in Mexico. At the junction of two eras and world cultures lies a tiny Indian village where traditional crafts are still preserved.
Here, exoticism, archaism, and rustic color have combined to create an indescribable cocktail. Tulum is also often chosen by divers: the purest water and colorful underwater world are sufficient grounds to head to this resort. From the local guides’ excursions, you can learn that the modern resort’s name once meant “wall” or “fence.”
Such a name is well deserved, as the ancient Mayan city is still surrounded on all sides by fortress walls, some sections of which are up to eight meters thick, as well as sheer cliffs. All this made the city nearly impregnable. In addition to urban structures, the so-called Temple of Frescoes, where unique ancient art objects are preserved, has also been preserved within the territory.
Akumal
This relatively small town is squeezed tightly between Playa del Carmen and Tulum. It would seem to be the perfect place for a full-fledged secluded holiday. But no, people come here not only for the white sandy beaches.
It is enough to know what the name of this resort means, and everything becomes clear instantly. “Turtle place” fully justifies its fame – of the six sea turtle species known to science today, two inhabit here. The waves on this stretch of coast are practically absent, and the sand is very clean. It is precisely for this reason that these ancient reptiles have come to love Akumal.
The beach areas are divided into three parts. The central beach is an ideal installation on the theme of modern beach holidays with large hotels and developed infrastructure. The Jade Beach is more deserted and often frequented by couples enjoying the sunset panoramas. The northern beach, meanwhile, belongs to snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, as a coral reef lies parallel to it.
Nayarit
The resort is always popular among tourists due to the high standards of service in local hotels, developed infrastructure, clean beaches, and the exotic local cuisine. The name of the state already sets a positive tone – “sunny” or in some translations “son of God.” This land indeed seems blessed by the sun.
Its main city – Tepic (“Place of Huge Stones”) is a vivid example of cultural traditions layering. Despite the fact that the city does not give the impression of a place overloaded with architectural monuments or old buildings, a trip here will allow you to feel the Mexican color more fully by getting acquainted with the local cuisine, communicating with locals, trying traditional crafts, or even participating in one of the festivals, which are usually held on a grand scale.
Puerto Vallarta
This resort exudes a different energy compared to all other resort towns in Mexico. The charm of the Old World is its hallmark. It is comfortably located in the Bay of Banderas, the largest on the entire Pacific coast.
The city has a dozen beaches. The most popular and largest of them is Los Muertos. Puerto Vallarta was considered a colonial city. It was founded in the mid-nineteenth century. But today, old cobblestone streets and tile roofs are forced to coexist with luxurious glass and concrete hotels.
In the very center of the city is the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, which is hard to confuse with anything else: the red stone bell tower is topped with the crown of Empress Carlota, the people’s favorite. Even if you are not a fan of yachting, be sure to visit the local port – daily dozens of luxury yachts, cruise liners, and simple fishing boats moor at the pier.
Guerrero
Guerrero is located in the southern part of Mexico and is washed by the waters of the Pacific Ocean. The first settlements on its territory appeared in the sixteenth century, and by the nineteenth century, all the local population had been partially displaced beyond the state’s borders.
The true heyday of Guerrero came in the fifties of the twentieth century when Hollywood stars became interested in this place. Its central resort is Acapulco with its Cathedral of Our Lady of Solitude, an outstanding monument in the modernist style with numerous statues and colorful stained glass. Be sure to visit the bird park, which was founded back in the nineteenth century.
The territory is decorated with artificial lakes. For guests, an astronomical platform with various telescopes is also open. It is best to go in early March when the carnival week begins, filled with fireworks, national cuisine, and noisy festivities.
Ixtapa
If you find yourself in the central part of Ixtapa, this city is unlikely to enchant you – a typical fishing village, of which there are many on the Pacific coast, with dozens of small shops and family restaurants. Low-rise buildings do not contribute to the romanticization of this place. But dig a little deeper and it becomes clear why Ixtapa is one of the local tourist veins.
Once the territory where the city stands today belonged to the Aztec Empire – serene lagoons and sleepy villages. Gradually, from a tiny settlement grew the largest port of New Spain, which maintained its position until the opening of Acapulco.
Ixtapa was founded precisely on these foundations. By government initiative, the city was turned into a beach resort zone, at the center of which is a giant water park in the style of Disney cartoons. Golf enthusiasts will also be more than pleasantly surprised – the best courses are laid against the backdrop of the Sierra Madre chains.
Isla Mujeres
There are many islands in the Caribbean that definitely deserve attention, but Isla Mujeres literally captures that attention. So, the Island of Women. The name is more than intriguing, however, it was difficult to name the island otherwise, where a huge number of ceramic figures of women from the Mayan times have been preserved.
The island is relatively small – only sixteen square kilometers, but if you are determined to feel a concentrated Mexican color, this island will be an ideal option: here, truly heavenly beaches, impassable tropical jungles, a dozen or so ancient buildings, including the Ixchel Castle, and five-star hotels – giants of modernity, have managed to find a place.
The island’s nightlife is no less measured than the daytime, especially during the summer months when seasonal celebrations related to the migration of giant whale sharks, which swim very close to the island, begin.
Holbox Island
If you know even a little Spanish, the name of this island is unlikely to please you – Black Hole. It is located near the northern part of the Yucatan. On the entire island, there is only one tiny town, which is too small to need cars or public transport. But the silence of this place and the beauty of the landscapes are captivating – the island consistently ranks in the top tourist destinations.
Small hotels are open to visitors right on the coast. It is best to go to the island in May when sharks and whales can be seen migrating to the north of the island, surfacing. Also, a bird sanctuary with many relic species of birds was created on the island. There are no conditions for diving or snorkeling on the island – the local waters are crystal clear, but the bottom of Holbox is sandy – there are no colorful reefs like in other parts of the coast.
Los Cabos
Mostly Americans come to rest in Los Cabos. Thanks to the climatic conditions, this resort is much more pleasant for a holiday, as the climate here is less humid, which is easier for visitors to bear. On average, there are no more than eight rainy days a year. But prices here are noticeably higher – if you choose Los Cabos, be ready to spend 20-30% more than in Cancun. The city has almost eighty kilometers of beach line given to sun worshippers.
Divers should head straight for El Arco and Palmilla with their transparent aquamarine waters, surfers usually choose Acapulquito, and lovers of walks and colorful photos go to Playa del Amor. In addition to water activities, guests are offered jeep safaris in the desert, as well as the opportunity to see whales with their own eyes – from a plane, boat, or sometimes right from the shore. Eight high-quality golf courses are also open here.
Manzanillo
Thanks to its more than favorable location, Manzanillo began to play the role of a key port back in the twelfth century. It is believed that trade between the Chinese and local Indian population began here at that time. This city became one of Cortes’ strong points. Today, its port fame is still remembered.
Almost any Mexican fisherman will tell you that you should definitely go here if you love dishes made from shellfish. Manzanillo is known as a recognized center for shellfish harvesting. After the construction of the unusual “Fairies” complex in the Moorish style, the city’s tourist popularity increased sharply.
It was built at the initiative of a Bolivian magnate, whose idea to create a small town in the style of “One Thousand and One Nights” with white houses surrounded by tropical flowers was more than fully realized. Currently, active construction is underway in the surrounding areas – who knows what other architectural curiosities Manzanillo will offer.
Veracruz
It is hard to call Veracruz a classic beach holiday in Mexico – the atmosphere of this city is rather port-like and more authentic, as mostly Mexicans come here for a holiday. There is no lush colonial baroque, bright facades – the city is restrained and not as sunny as other coastal cities.
The sun still shines, but winds often blow and it rains. If you plan to travel to Veracruz, aim for the summer months or December-March. The beaches in the city itself are not very welcoming – there is well-developed infrastructure, but the sand shade is slightly grayish, which harmonizes perfectly with the overall mood of the city.
The suburban beaches are much nicer. Many tourists gladly go to Sacrificios, a small island with the cleanest beaches and all conditions for diving. Veracruz is also known for its coffee. Be sure to visit Gran Cafe del Portal, which is located on the territory of an ancient monastery. The traditional local cuisine is also very good.
Michoacán
If you plan to visit Michoacán, choose Morelia – this ancient Mexican city has maintained its status as the state center for over five centuries. It is known for the fact that the descendants of those very Spanish conquistadors who founded the city in the sixteenth century still live here.
The mild climate combined with majestic architectural monuments makes this place undoubtedly attractive for tourists from all over the world. The central part of the city is under the protection of international organizations as a unique historical heritage.
The main dominant of this part of the city is the Cathedral – the only religious building not oriented to the west. There is also another extremely popular tourist attraction – the candy market, which has more than two hundred trading points where very rare sweets are gathered – marmalade jam, coconut candies, milk syrup, and many others.
Puerto Morelos
This resort town belongs to dozens of similar once fishing towns, of which there are so many on the Pacific coast. In due time, they all became popular tourist destinations. At the beginning of the twentieth century, Puerto Morelos played the role of an important port.
However, the charm of the port city is fully preserved today. To maintain such a cozy authentic atmosphere, the construction of buildings taller than three floors is prohibited in the city. The main local value is the coral reefs, which are no more than two meters from the water surface. To keep them in this condition, fishing was banned here.
This approach pays off – the reefs of Puerto Morelos are the largest untouched reefs on the coast. It is no surprise that diving is one of the main reasons to come to this city. In addition, there is a botanical garden, an eco-park where you can ride horses, and a zoo with a crocodile farm.
Chiapas
Once the Mayan Indians chose Chiapas to build majestic temples and powerful cities amidst the lushness of nature. Many buildings from that period have been more than fully preserved. The same can be proudly said about the colonial architecture in this region. Pay attention to Chiapa de Corzo, one of the gems of Chiapas.
The appearance of this resort town combines Moorish traditions and the sophistication of Old World architecture. The monastery building overlooks the main square of the city, above which rises the Sacred Tree. Among the local tropical forests, another treasure is hidden – Palenque, in the center of which is a strange Temple of the Sun, a square of the same name, as well as the Temple of Inscriptions, whose history still raises many questions among researchers.
Local cuisine is another reason to visit Chiapas – it organically combines traditions brought by Spanish conquistadors, Dominican priests, ancient Mayans, and Olmecs.
Choosing the Best Resort for a Family Holiday
Vacationing in Mexico can be a truly bright episode in a child’s life, so going on vacation with the whole family is a great idea! The best resort for a family holiday is Riviera Maya, surrounded by tropical vegetation.
Here, numerous hotels meet your requirements and offer help in organizing various events that will captivate the attention of young guests. Most hotels also offer a children’s menu option. Playa del Carmen is another very good option for a family holiday.
Its main advantage is the relatively large selection of Russian-speaking guides, so you can introduce your child a little closer to the culture of those civilizations that, one way or another, lived in this territory. And the introduction is expected to be more than bright! In general, pay attention to the Cancun-Riviera beach area. The hotels in this area are perfect for a holiday with young travelers.
Best Beaches
Mexican beaches are a living dream! Fine sand, high palm trees, warm waters of the Pacific Ocean, and the Caribbean Sea. Almost every resort can offer its own exclusive beach. The top beaches usually include those in Cancun, for example, Pearl Beach, which is almost traditionally famous for its cleanliness.
If you are planning a trip to the Yucatan Peninsula, choose Tulum Beach – you are guaranteed sunny landscapes, colorful reefs, and a gentle slope to the sea. The narrow spit of Cozumel Island with its Paradise Beach has an excellent reputation among tourists. Among unusual beaches, it is also worth mentioning the wild Revolcadero, where the bravest and most experienced surfers usually go, as well as Playa del Amor with its rocky, secluded landscape, perfect for a romantic getaway.
There is another unique place – a hidden beach near Puerto Vallarta. It resembles a giant pool with warm water – as practice shows, you can’t freeze in its waters.
When to Go on Vacation
It is believed that it is best to go on vacation from December to April, which usually coincides with the dry season. However, if we talk about the inner regions of the country, the picture may change somewhat. Usually, those wishing to visit the inner regions try to get to Mexico from May to October, as this part of the territory is generally colder than the coast, warmed by the warm oceanic breath.
It is definitely not worth going from June to October. During this time, two natural phenomena are guaranteed to spoil your vacation – the rainy season and the hurricane period. Coupled with high humidity and extremely hot weather, the trip can turn out to be rather disappointing. If you plan to visit highland areas, keep in mind that winter months can be truly cold.