Mexico is not just beaches and parties. There’s plenty of cultural activities, archaeological ruins, art museums, delicious food, water sports, and more. I highly recommend against booking the cheapest deal you find in the amazing country of Mexico. Instead, think carefully about what you’re looking to get out of your vacation and choose the location first. Then, look for the deals. Not sure how to narrow it down? Here’s my quick guide on where to travel in Mexico.
Cabo San Lucas
If you’re looking for a sunny, coastal getaway with lots of luxury, hit up Cabo San Lucas in Baja California Sur. Cabo San Lucas also has great beaches and nightlife, making it a great destination if you’re celebrating something big, such as a milestone birthday or bachelorette party.
Cancún
Cancún is known as a big Spring Break destination. Despite its reputation as a party destination, there are lots of day trips to satisfy those looking for culture or history, such as the UNESCO World Heritage site, Chichén Itzá. Given the variety of things to do, Cancún is great for group trips.
Cozumel
Calling all adventurers! Cozumel is an island off the coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. It is a great spot for water sports, such as scuba diving, fishing and boating.
There are also several Mayan ruins you can explore, as Cozumel was once known as the island of the Maya Moon Goddess. According to legend, women would visit Cozumel in hopes of boosting their fertility.
Isla Holbox
If you’re looking for a quiet getaway in Mexico with lots of nature, Isla Holbox is a great pick as it is not overrun by tourists. Yet. Isla Holbox is also a great spot for birdwatching.
Mérida
Mérida is the capital of the Yucatán state in Mexico. It’s inland, but not too far from the coast, so a day trip to the beach is doable.
Mérida is a gem for those interested in culture, history and architecture. It’s full of gorgeous buildings, churches, Mayan ruins + several great museums. Mérida is also a great base for those interested in taking a day trip to visit UNESCO World Heritage site, Chichen Itza.
Mexico City
Mexico City has tons of museums. In fact, it claims to have the most museums of any city in the world! If you’re into studying the history and culture of your vacation destination, Mexico City is a great pick for your vacation.
Oaxaca
Oaxaca is an amazing destination for a foodcation. It is full of food markets and interesting cuisine. For example, roasted grasshoppers are a staple in Oaxaca, as a source of protein. Oaxaca is also known for mezcal, a liquor that is like tequila in that both are made from agave.
Chocolate is a common treat in Oaxaca, especially hot chocolate. Given this, the state of Oaxaca also claims to be home of the chocolate-based mole sauce.
Lastly, Oaxaca is well known for its Día de los Muertos celebration in November.
Playa del Carmen
If you’re looking to book a honeymoon in Mexico that has a mix of beach bum + culture activities, put Playa del Carmen at the top of your list. It’s not as party crazy as Cancún, but still has some nightlife available. It’s also a great spot for day trips to Sian Kaan Biosphere Preserve, diving with whale sharks, visiting Chichen Itza, exploring cenotes + more.
San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende is a colonial city that is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is small, quiet city full of colorful, charming buildings. In the 40s it was a hotspot for artists looking for somewhere inexpensive and inspiring to live. A bit of this artist vibe can still be found in the city.
Tulum
If you’re looking for super chill, eco-friendly, and affordable cabanas, Tulum is it. Aside from the chill bohemian vibes, Tulum is also home to several ruins, including the tallest Mayan ruin, El Castillo. Day trips to dreamy cenotes are plenty, as well.
It’s worth noting, however, that there have been issues over the past decade or so about land and property ownership. There have been instances of hotels being seized by locals, sometimes violently. The last seizures were in 2016, but there is no guarantee they will be the last.
Did you decide where to travel in Mexico?
[…] of missing out on good deals. Mexico is the place to be this year and there are plenty of places to visit! If Mexico doesn’t appeal this year, there are plenty of unique spring break options for […]