The tourism industry in Mexico focuses mainly on beach resorts located along the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Some of these beach destinations started as small towns that became popular tourist spots over time, while others were specifically designed as resort towns.
Mexico’s well-liked vacation destinations provide visitors with soft sandy beaches, clear water, and a wide range of amenities and attractions for tourists.
10. Playa Maroma
Playa Maroma is known as one of the most amazing beaches in the world. It is situated on the Gulf coast, approximately 50 km (30 miles) away from the Riviera Maya.
Unlike busy Cancun, Playa Maroma offers a peaceful retreat where visitors can enjoy beautiful white sandy beaches and stunning blue ocean while being surrounded by lush rainforests.
Snorkelers are drawn to this beach as they can start exploring underwater attractions right from the shore. However, it’s important to note that only guests staying at the resorts or members of the local beach club have access to this beach.
9. Puerto Escondido
Puerto Escondido is a charming town located on Bahia Bay that is loved by surfers, water sports enthusiasts, and those seeking relaxation on beautiful beaches like Playa Zicatela. The name of the town, which means “hidden port,” reflects its history as a small fishing village.
Additionally, Puerto Escondido is a bustling market town, and on Saturday mornings, locals gather at Mercado Bento Juarez for their shopping needs.
As for the town itself, it is divided into two sections: the upper half is where the locals reside, while the lower town is designed for tourists, particularly along Avenue Perez Gasga, a pedestrian zone.
8. Los Cabos
Los Cabos, located in the Mexican state of Baja California Sur, is considered the global capital for marlin sport fishing. It has become increasingly popular as a vacation destination in Mexico over the past few decades.
The region consists of two towns, San Jose and San Lucas, which are separated by a picturesque highway called “the Corridor” that spans twenty miles.
While Cabo San Jose is a traditional Mexican town with a calm and laid-back atmosphere, Cabo San Lucas focuses on luxurious resorts, upscale restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.
One of the major natural attractions in Cabo San Lucas is Land’s End, which showcases unique rock formations shaped by the relentless forces of the sea and wind.
7. Cancun
Cancun is a popular tourist spot located on the Caribbean coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. It offers a wide range of attractions for vacationers, including beautiful beaches, luxurious hotels, ancient Mayan ruins, modern attractions, and a vibrant nightlife.
The main draw of Cancun is its pristine beaches and pleasant weather, which make it an ideal vacation destination throughout the year. The hotel zone in Cancun is primarily focused on the needs of tourists, with numerous all-inclusive resort hotels available.
For a more authentic Mexican experience, visitors can explore the downtown area, known as El Centro, which is home to various restaurants, markets, bars, and clubs.
6. Cozumel
Cozumel is a beautiful island situated in the Caribbean Sea on the Yucatan Peninsula. It is famous for being one of the best places in the Western Hemisphere for diving. Due to this, there are lots of dive shops scattered all across the island.
Additionally, Cozumel is a popular cruise port, attracting many tourists. When cruise ships dock at Cozumel, the place becomes lively with vendors selling a range of souvenirs like t-shirts, jewelry, tequila, and even Cuban cigars.
5. Tulum
Tulum is well-known for two things: its stunning beaches along the Caribbean Sea and its ancient ruins that include a walled city. Situated on the Yucatan Peninsula, Tulum was one of the Mayans’ last cities to be constructed.
It is considered one of the most well-preserved Mayan sites on the eastern coast of Mexico. Perched on a cliff, the ruins provide breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea.
Visitors can easily take a day trip from Cancun to explore the ruins, yet those who decide to stay in Tulum can also take pleasure in the picturesque beaches, offering opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and sunbathing.
4. Acapulco
Acapulco is a popular place for spring breakers and it is located on the Pacific coast. The main attraction in Acapulco is its beautiful beaches. Some of the famous beaches like Hornos, Icacos, Papagayo, and Tamarindos can be found along a bay area called Las Costera.
One of the must-do activities in Acapulco is to watch the La Quebrada Cliff divers, who have been diving from a height of 147 feet into a shallow inlet since 1934. You can view this spectacle from a platform on the cliff tops or even from nearby restaurants.
3. Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen, often called “Playa,” is a lively resort town in Quintana Roo, Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. It used to be a peaceful fishing village with European influences, but it has grown into a bustling resort town with stunning beaches and entertainment options.
Despite its growth, Playa has managed to keep its laid-back vibe and warm locals. The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is nearby, making it a great spot for scuba diving and snorkeling.
2. Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is a well-known tourist city located along Mexico’s Pacific Coast in the state of Jalisco. It has beautiful beaches and lush jungle mountains that surround the town and make it look picturesque.
There are many historic buildings from the colonial era, luxury resorts, excellent restaurants, and great shops to explore. At night, there are also many clubs for entertainment.
Since Puerto Vallarta is famous for diving, there are various dive shops available along the beaches. Visitors can have the opportunity to see giant manta rays and dolphins, and during the months of December to March, humpback whales can also be spotted in the area.
1. Mazatlan
Mazatlan is like a warm escape for people who want to avoid the cold winter up north, just like how birds migrate south. It is called the “Pearl of the Pacific” and has beautiful 11-mile-long beaches with golden sand.
The largest boardwalk in Latin America is also found here and there are blue lagoons and water sports to enjoy. Tourists are attracted to Mazatlan throughout the year, but especially during the winter.
Mazatlan is in the Sinaloa Province and gives visitors the opportunity to experience a more traditional Mexican way of life. The historic old part of the town has remained unchanged, preserving its charm even with the arrival of many tourists.