Mexico Travel Guide

For relaxation, there’s no doubt that Riviera Maya — on Mexico’s Caribbean coast — is the place to be. You’ll have your pick of some of the best resorts on Earth here, as well as easy access to iconic ruins such as Tulum, Chichen Itza and Uxmal. There’s also the opportunity to swim in some of the Yucatan Peninsula’s 6,000 plus cenotes (natural, underwater pools).

For equally beautiful beaches and the whale-rich waters of Baja California, Mexico’s Pacific coast is just as majestic. And for a hefty dose of history and culture, head to Oaxaca — known for its colonial buildings, crafted using volcanic stone.

As well as being one of the largest cities in the world, Mexico City is one of the world’s most glamorous, arty and foodie capitals, with an astonishing layered history to dig into. Fly in here, rather than Cancun — flights are often cheaper — and take affordable, comfy coaches on to pretty towns with craft markets and tequila distilleries. Spend a perfect afternoon in Frida Kahlo’s house, sighing over the pain in her paintings, coveting the folksy, wicker-and-ceramic interiors and strolling through the jungly courtyard, its cobalt walls every bit as soothing as sea or sky.

The Caribbean coast around Cancun is where you’ll find powdery white sand, pale-turquoise shallows, swaying palms and hedonistic all-inclusive resorts. It’s also the most popular bit, so you’ll need to work harder to find accommodation beyond the high-rises.

Off the coast of the Yucatan are Isla Mujeres and Isla Holbox, both perfect for boat trips, marine life and low-key accommodation. They are where  backpackers and in-the-know Caribbean-lovers flock to in winter for clear shallows, white beaches and a bohemian hotel and bar scene. From June to September it’s also whale-shark central.

Puerto Vallarta, on the Pacific coast is where to go for big, glam resorts and reliable winter sun, while neighbouring Punta Mita lures America’s “snowbirds” for lazy holidays, so it can feel more Californian than Mexican. But there are beautiful bays within an hour or two’s drive, as well as a cobbled, palm-fringed Old Town that does a surprisingly riotous Day of the Dead. Winter to spring, head out whale watching from its marina to spot humpbacks and dolphins offshore.

Further south, close to high-rise Ixtapa, is the former fishing town of Zihuatanejo in the state of Guerrero. As well as surfers, cafés and cool locals you’ll find untouched coastal roads for the exploring, wild beaches, such as Playa Blanca, where you can kayak through mangroves, and a whole different  cuisine. Try caldo de cuatete (blue catfish soup) and guintatan (dried fish cooked in coconut milk) for starters.

Much of the focus in hip, hippie Puerto Escondido is on surfing. Indeed, its waves are thought of as the best on Mexico’s Pacific coast, followed by lively nights out along buzzing beaches such as Zicatela. If you’re happier in flippers than atop a board, go snorkelling with whales, turtles or dolphins (depending on the season) around placid Playa Puerto Angelito.

Mazunte is Oaxaca state’s “Pueblo Magico” (magic town) and is where to find  yoga retreats and cool Airbnbs as well as attracting nature lovers to its wild beaches. It’s also a haven for sea turtles — spot them from July to January. Fly to Puerto Escondido and take the hour-and-a-quarter drive, or brave the lurching eight-hour bus from Oaxaca.

Mexico City Travel Guide 2022 4K