Best Places to visit in Mexico
Explore top Mexico spots from Mayan ruins and Caribbean beaches to bustling Mexico City.
Essentials
Sun, Sand, and Sea: Mexico’s Best Beaches
The Yucatán Peninsula: Caribbean Bliss
Tulum
Known for its distinctive bohemian-chic atmosphere, Tulum is a haven for yoga retreats and stylish, eco-conscious hotels. The destination uniquely blends natural beauty with a sophisticated, wellness-focused culture.
- Highlights: Exploring the beachfront Mayan ruins at sunrise, swimming in the cool, clear waters of nearby cenotes, and enjoying meals at world-class restaurants nestled in the jungle.
Best for: Trendy travelers, wellness enthusiasts, and history buffs.
Playa del Carmen
Once a small fishing village, Playa del Carmen has grown into a lively coastal city. Its heart is the pedestrian-only Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue), a bustling thoroughfare lined with an international mix of shops, restaurants, and bars.
- Highlights: Its convenient proximity to Cozumel makes it an excellent base for diving and snorkeling excursions. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife and abundance of sophisticated beach clubs.
Best for: Social travelers, shoppers, and those seeking a central base for exploring the Riviera Maya.
Isla Mujeres
A short and scenic ferry ride from CancĂşn, this small island offers a tranquil and relaxed atmosphere. It is a welcome counterpoint to the high energy of the mainland, inviting visitors to slow down and enjoy a simpler pace.
- Highlights: Renting a golf cart to explore the island’s coastline, snorkeling among the sculptures at Garrafón Natural Reef Park, and relaxing on the calm, shallow shores of Playa Norte.
Best for: A laid-back day trip or a quiet escape from the CancĂşn bustle.
Holbox
This rustic, car-free island is a sanctuary for wildlife and those looking to disconnect. Its famously shallow, emerald waters and unpaved sandy streets create a feeling of being truly away from it all.
- Highlights: Swimming with whale sharks (in season, typically June-September), witnessing the natural phenomenon of bioluminescence on a nighttime tour, and spotting flocks of flamingos in the nature reserve.
Best for: Nature lovers and travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path, tranquil experience.
The Pacific Coast: Golden Sands & Surf
Cabo San Lucas & San José del Cabo (Los Cabos)
Los Cabos presents a fascinating duality. Cabo San Lucas is renowned for its energetic nightlife, luxury resorts, and bustling marina. In contrast, San José del Cabo offers the charm of a quieter, colonial town with a thriving arts district.
- Highlights: Viewing the iconic Arch (El Arco) at Land’s End, seasonal whale watching (December-April), world-class sport fishing, and playing on championship golf courses with desert and ocean views.
Best for: Luxury travelers, party-goers, and sport fishing enthusiasts.
Puerto Vallarta
Nestled in the Bay of Banderas where the Sierra Madre mountains meet the Pacific, Puerto Vallarta is a city of immense charm. Its well-preserved center features cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and a genuinely welcoming atmosphere.
- Highlights: Strolling the public art-lined Malecón (boardwalk), exploring the thriving art scene in the Zona Romántica, and dining at the city’s many excellent restaurants.
Best for: Couples, foodies, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Sayulita
This vibrant surf town on the Riviera Nayarit has a distinctly bohemian and laid-back energy. It attracts a creative community, and its colorful streets are filled with unique galleries and artisan boutiques.
- Highlights: Taking surfing lessons suitable for all levels, browsing the eclectic artisan shops, and participating in one of the many yoga and wellness workshops available.
Best for: Surfers, backpackers, and those looking for a relaxed, artsy vibe.
Culture, Color, and Cuisine: Vibrant Cities
Mexico City (CDMX)
A vast and dynamic capital, Mexico City is a global hub with a world-class cultural scene. It is a place
