Do you want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life? Take a break and visit one of Mexico’s stunning vacation spots.
Mexico is a beautiful country full of amazing landscapes, delicious local dishes, and vibrant culture. Not only that, but it’s also an affordable destination. The best part is that there is something for everyone – from charming towns to bustling and exciting cities, as well as beautiful beaches and lush rainforests.
There are many unique travel destinations in Mexico, each offering different experiences to fit every budget and taste. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an action-packed adventure, here are some of the best vacation spots in Mexico where you can explore its beauty and take in its culture.
Key Understandings Of Mexico Vacations:
- Mexico is a country with something for everyone, from vibrant cities to peaceful beachside towns.
- Beautiful and affordable destinations in the country include Tulum, Valle de Bravo, Cuernavaca, and Huatulco.
- Each destination offers unique experiences such as ecotourism, vineyard visits, rendezvousing in nature, and beachside resorts.
Ultimate Guide To Mexico’s Best Vacation Spots
Mexico is a beautiful country with many amazing places to explore. From its stunning beaches to its lush landscapes, Mexico has something for everyone. Locals love to visit the many places that make up this vibrant country, and they often have their own favorite spots. Whether it’s a beach, mountain, or city, locals know where to go for the best experience.
1. Tulum, Quintana Roo
Tulum is an archaeological zone located in Quintana Roo, Mexico that offers a unique combination of culture and nature. Situated on top of a cliff overlooking the turquoise sea of Paradise Beach, Tulum is the perfect destination for ecotourism. Hotels offer sustainable experiences, from materials used to build the hotel to fair trade practices and spa treatments based on local customs and ingredients. Nature lovers can explore the white beaches, coral reefs, jungle, mangroves, and cenotes or take bike tours through the jungle or yoga classes on the beach.
Playa del Carmen is another popular destination in Quintana Roo known for its exclusive resorts and small boutique hotels. The main pedestrian street, Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue), is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops perfect for day or night shopping.
2. Valle de Bravo, Estado de México
Valle de Bravo is a charming town located in the Estado de México, just a few hours away from Mexico City. It’s a popular weekend destination for locals looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The town offers a slow pace of life and amenities for an indulgent vacation, including cottages in the forest and lake Lago Avándaro. In winter, millions of monarch butterflies arrive in the tallest section of the forest, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers.
For those looking for a romantic getaway, Valle de Guadalupe in Baja California is another great option. This area is known as Mexico’s wine country and boasts over 200 wineries offering tastings and pairing dinners. During the summer months, pop-up farm-to-table restaurants open with outdoor seating overlooking the vineyards, and in August the Harvest Festival (Fiestas de la Vendimia) arrives with celebrations filled with music, food, and wine.
3. Cuernavaca, Morelos
Cuernavaca is a beautiful city located in the state of Morelos, Mexico. It is known as the “City of Eternal Spring” due to its pleasant climate year-round, making it a popular destination for those looking for luxury resorts and plenty to do on a day trip from CDMX. Scenes from the Denzel Washington movie “Man On Fire” were filmed on the streets of Cuernavaca.
The nearby Puerto Morelos is a coastal fishing village with a tilted lighthouse and open-air market. The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef offers excellent snorkeling for novices, while Croco Cun Zoo allows visitors to touch, hold, and feed reptiles and mammals with the help of an English-speaking guide. With so much to see and do in Cuernavaca, it’s no wonder why it’s such a popular destination for tourists.
4. Huatulco, Oaxaca
Huatulco, Oaxaca is a stunning destination for travelers looking to experience the real Mexico. With nine beautiful bays and 36 beaches, Huatulco offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as kayaking, sailing, and scuba diving. The lush vegetation provides a perfect backdrop for exploring the area’s many attractions.
The city of Oaxaca is also worth visiting while in Huatulco. Here you can find the Museum of Oaxacan Handicrafts which showcases traditional crafts like rugs, pottery, clothes, and wooden alebrijes. The city center has been preserved in its original state with old architecture and cobblestone streets that are sure to take your breath away. Additionally, there are numerous events and festivals throughout the year including the spectacular Guelaguetza celebration. From Oaxaca, you can also explore some of the state’s best beaches as well as ancient ruins in nearby towns.
5. Valle de Guadalupe, Baja California
Valle de Guadalupe, Baja California is a paradise for wine lovers. With over 200 wineries in the area, visitors can explore the vineyards and sample some of Mexico’s finest wines. During summer, pop-up farm-to-table restaurants open with outdoor seating overlooking the vineyards, and August brings the Harvest Festival with celebrations filled with music, games, and food. It’s a great destination for couples or friends looking to indulge in Mexican wine and culture.
Valle de Bravo is another popular weekend destination for Mexicans located close to Mexico City. This town offers a slower pace of life and amenities for an indulgent vacation, such as cottages in the forest and activities around lake Lago Avándaro. During winter months millions of monarch butterflies arrive from Canada at the tallest section of the forest making it a truly magical experience.
6. Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
Puerto Vallarta is a beautiful beach destination located close to Guadalajara city in Jalisco, Mexico. It is the perfect place for travelers looking for a relaxing getaway with plenty of activities and attractions. During the winter months, visitors can observe humpback whales as part of their courting rituals. From June to December, sea turtles visit the beach to lay their eggs and there is a successful protection program in place to ensure their safety.
The town itself offers something for every type of traveler. It features lively nightclubs, beautiful beaches, colonial buildings, and lush jungles. Puerto Vallarta is less of a tourist trap than Cancun and may be a better alternative to the resort capital of Mexico.
7. Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit
Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit is a popular destination for Mexican travelers due to its long strip of golden beaches and luxury hotels with infinity pools. The town also offers exclusive spas, restaurants, golf courses, and two marinas which are home to almost 500 boats. Nature protection programs such as the El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary offer guided tours and the opportunity to feed crocodiles.
Puerto Vallarta is Mexico’s prettiest resort town and offers something for every type of traveler. It features lively nightclubs, beautiful beaches, colonial buildings, and lush jungles. Puerto Vallarta is less of a tourist trap than Cancun and may be a better alternative to the resort capital of Mexico. Whether you’re looking for exciting nightlife or just want to relax on the beach, Puerto Vallarta has it all. With its stunning scenery and vibrant culture, it’s no wonder why Nuevo Vallarta is one of Mexico’s most popular destinations.
8. Ixtapa Zihuatanejo, Guerrero
Ixtapa Zihuatanejo and Acapulco are two towns in Guerrero that offer warm waves and year-long great weather. Las Gatas Beach is a favorite spot for snorkeling, while Ixtapa Island offers four beautiful beaches with rustic restaurants on the beach. Carey Beach is the only one of the four beaches without restaurants, making it a peaceful spot to enjoy nature. Zihuatanejo is a charming small town with secluded beaches and colorful sunsets. It is popular with divers and snorkelers, offering more than 30 sites to explore diverse marine life.
Foodies will love the abundance of fresh fish tacos and ceviche, as well as vibrant fish markets and top-rated restaurants. The area also has plenty of activities for those looking for adventure, such as kayaking, sailing, fishing, surfing, or even taking a boat tour around the bay.
9. Oaxaca, Oaxaca
Oaxaca is a vibrant city full of culture, art, and tradition. Visitors can explore the city on foot, visiting the church of Santo Domingo, the Jardín Etnobotánico, craft stores, art galleries, and Mezcalerías. The Guelaguetza festival in July and Día de Los Muertos Day of the Dead in October/November are two popular celebrations that draw visitors from around the world. Oaxaca is a popular destination for travelers interested in sampling the real Mexico, with a mix of native Indian and Spanish elements.
The city hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, including the spectacular Guelaguetza festival which takes place each July. Oaxaca also makes a great jumping-off point to explore nearby scenery such as ancient ruins like Monte Alban or beaches on the coast.
10. Playa Del Carmen
Playa Del Carmen is a stunning beach area located on the Yucatan Peninsula in the state of Quintana Roo. It has a unique European influence, with soft sand beaches and buzzing entertainment venues. Popular activities include scuba diving, snorkeling, and partying at bars and nightclubs in La Quinta Avenida. Playa del Carmen is quickly becoming one of the hippest places in the Yucatán Peninsula, with lively bars, chic cafés, timeshares, and all-inclusive resorts.
Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue) is a popular spot lined with trendy clubs, international restaurants, and cheap souvenir stands. It’s ideal for travelers who want to relax under the sun and swim in the ocean by day and drink and dance at nightclubs until the sun comes up. Playa del Carmen offers something for everyone – from families looking for a relaxing beach vacation to young adults looking for an exciting nightlife experience.
11. Cabo San Lucas
Cabo San Lucas is a popular holiday destination for those looking to experience the best of Mexico. Located on the Los Cabos Corridor, it is renowned for its marlin sports fishing, and vibrant nightlife. Luxury resorts, upscale restaurants, and a bustling party scene make it an ideal destination for those seeking a luxurious getaway. Visitors can explore El Arco de Cabo San Lucas and enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean. It is also home to the Lord of the Wind showdown, an annual competition for professional windsurfers, kiteboarders, and standup paddleboarders.
The city has something to offer everyone; from Hollywood stars to families looking for a fun-filled vacation. There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained such as whale-watching tours, ATV rides through the desert, or simply relaxing on one of its many beaches. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Cabo San Lucas.
12. San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende is a small colonial town located 150 miles from Mexico City. It was founded by a monk and still does not have any traffic lights, making it a charming destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The town is known for its role in the war for Mexican independence, and today it is home to many American and European retirees who enjoy the slow pace of life.
Exploring San Miguel de Allende is an experience like no other. Its colorful architecture and winding alleyways are full of history, culture, and beauty. Visitors can wander through the cobblestone streets, admire the vibrant buildings, or take part in one of the many festivals that occur throughout the year. Unfortunately, San Miguel de Allende is growing rapidly as new investors buy up land and build resorts, so it’s best to visit soon before it gets overcrowded.
What Activities Can I Do When Visiting Mexico’s Best Vacation Spots?
When visiting Mexico’s best vacation spots, there is no shortage of activities to keep you entertained. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Mexico has something for everyone. Here are some of the top activities to do when visiting Mexico’s best vacation spots:
- Beach Activities: Enjoy a day at the beach and take part in a variety of water sports such as swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and surfing.
- Sightseeing: Explore the colonial architecture of San Miguel de Allende or take a stroll down Quinta Avenida in Playa del Carmen.
- Shopping: Shop for souvenirs at local markets or find unique items at upscale boutiques in Cabo San Lucas.
- Nightlife: Enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Cabo San Lucas or take part in the lively festivals that occur throughout the year in San Miguel de Allende.
- Outdoor Adventures: Go on an ATV ride through the desert, go whale watching, or explore one of Mexico’s many national parks.
- Food: Sample the local cuisine and enjoy a variety of flavors from tacos to tamales.
- Cultural Experiences: Learn about Mexico’s rich history and culture by visiting ancient ruins or taking part in traditional ceremonies.
- Relaxation: Unwind with a massage at one of the many spas or take a yoga class on the beach.
How Much Does It Typically Cost To Visit Mexico’s Best Vacation Spots?
The cost of visiting Mexico’s best vacation spots can vary greatly depending on the type of accommodation, activities, and length of stay.
- Generally speaking, budget travelers can expect to spend around $50-$100 USD per day for basic accommodations and meals.
- Mid-range travelers should plan to spend around $150-$300 USD per day for mid-range hotels and activities.
- Luxury travelers can expect to spend upwards of $500 USD per day for upscale accommodations and activities.
Final Thoughts About Mexico’s Best Vacation Spots
Mexico is full of amazing vacation spots that offer something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. From whale-watching tours to shopping in upscale boutiques, Mexico has something for everyone. Be sure to plan ahead and budget accordingly so you can make the most out of your trip.