Holbox Island is often ranked among the best holiday destinations. This island boasts beautiful white powdery sands framed by the sparkling turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, creating the perfect setting for any traveler.

What sets Holbox apart is its amazing laid-back atmosphere. Unlike many bustling resorts on the mainland, Holbox offers a serene retreat from the crowds, making it an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and tranquility.

The island’s charm lies in its simplicity and natural beauty, in stark contrast to the more commercialized tourist destinations. Situated within the stunning Yum Balam Biosphere Reserve, Holbox is a wildlife lover’s paradise.

The Holbox Island is home to a variety of wildlife including flamingos, pelicans, endangered sea turtles, and even crocodiles. Bird watchers and nature lovers will have endless fun exploring the island’s diverse habitats.

One of the most exhilarating experiences on Holbox is swimming with whale sharks.

This popular attraction attracts visitors from all over the world who come to see these gentle giants up close. Plus, the opportunity to swim alongside wild dolphins will add even more excitement and wonder to your adventure.

Holbox’s unique combination of natural beauty, rich wildlife, and tranquil atmosphere makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Holbox promises an unforgettable experience.

Cozumel offers everything you need for the perfect tropical island getaway. Known for its white sand beaches and crystal clear warm waters, Cozumel is a paradise for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts alike.

Cozumel is famous also for its world-class diving. Cozumel is surrounded by the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world, making it a dream destination for divers from all over the world.

The underwater scenery is breathtaking, with vibrant coral formations and an abundance of marine life waiting to be explored.

Those looking for adventure and water sports should visit Chankanaab Park, to enjoy diving, snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing, and kitesurfing, offering a wide range of activities to suit all tastes, budgets, and skill levels.

Cozumel also offers a variety of experiences for history buffs.

Cozumel is home to ancient Mayan ruins. The remarkable site of San Gervasio is Cozumel’s largest and most important archaeological site on the island and serves as a sanctuary to Ixchel, the Mayan goddess of fertility and love.

Cozumel offers a diverse range of activities and experiences. This island seamlessly combines natural beauty, adventure, and history, making it an unforgettable destination for travelers seeking relaxation and excitement.

Isla Mujeres provides a tranquil escape from the noisy Cancun. The island is ideal for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. Isla Mujeres is home to some of the most spectacular beaches on the planet.

Playa Norte stands out as a must-visit.

This stunning beach is surrounded by coral reefs, making it an excellent spot for diving and snorkeling. The clear waters and vibrant marine life create an underwater paradise that captivates both novice and experienced divers.

The island’s underwater treasures extend beyond natural reefs.

There is a lighthouse reef teeming with vibrantly-colored fish, offering a mesmerizing snorkeling experience. Visit an underwater museum of art, where submerged sculptures provide a unique and thought-provoking diving excursion.

Beyond its aquatic allure, Isla Mujeres holds historical significance.

The southern tip of the island is home to the ruins of an ancient Mayan temple. Although much of it was destroyed by a hurricane in 1988, parts of the temple can still be viewed, particularly magical at sunrise.

These ruins offer a serene and reflective spot, adding a touch of mystique to the island’s charm.

Isla Mujeres combines natural beauty and a peaceful tranquil ambiance, making it a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in a unique and enchanting environment.

The island of Espiritu Santo is located in the Sea of ​​Cortez. Considered the most beautiful island in the region, it boasts dozens of coves with stunning white sandy beaches that lure travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Espiritu Santo Island offers a pristine environment teeming with wildlife. The island can be reached by joining a boat tour from La Paz, where several outfitters organize excursions to this natural wonder.

Upon arrival you will be greeted by some of the clearest waters you have ever seen, ideal for snorkeling and diving.

The underwater world here is truly impressive. You might even have the delightful experience of tickling the belly of a baby sea lion while admiring the colorful array of tropical fish that inhabit the reefs.

The surrounding waters are a haven for marine life. Killer whales, dolphins, stingrays, sea turtles, and even blue or humpback whales can often be seen, adding to the island’s charm.

For those who prefer a land-based activity, Espiritu Santo also has nature trails ideal for walking and exploring. On these trails, you may encounter native black-tailed rabbits and other unique wildlife that call the island home.

Espiritu Santo Island is an experience that immerses you in the natural splendor and biodiversity of the Sea of ​​Cortez. This island offers unforgettable adventures that showcase the breathtaking beauty and ecological richness of one of the world’s most remarkable regions.

Located in Banderas Bay near Puerto Vallarta, the Marietas Islands are a volcanic archipelago set in a protected marine park, serving as both an important bird sanctuary and a vibrant marine ecosystem.

This unique destination offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and biodiversity.

The Marietas Islands are home to around 90 different species of birds. The islands’ protected status ensures that their natural habitats are preserved, allowing visitors to observe these avian residents in their unspoiled environment.

From November to March, the waters around the Marietas Islands become a haven for migrating humpback whales that journey from Alaska to enjoy the warmer climate.

Watching these magnificent creatures breach and play in the bay is an unforgettable experience. The islands’ waters are also perfect for diving and snorkeling, where you can explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter a variety of marine life.

Book a day trip from Puerto Vallarta. These tours offer an exciting opportunity to explore the islands’ natural wonders, from hidden beaches to underwater caves, ensuring a memorable adventure for all who visit.

Whether you are observing the diverse bird species, or diving into the crystal-clear waters, the Marietas Islands provide an extraordinary experience that highlights the ecological richness and stunning landscapes of this protected marine paradise.

If you want to see something truly unique, visit Isla Agaltepec, an island located on Lake Catemaco in eastern Mexico.

Unlike most tourist destinations, this island is home to about 100 residents – all of them the famously loud and endangered Mexican howler monkeys. Humans are not allowed to inhabit the island, providing a haven for these wonderful creatures.

Mexican howler monkeys were relocated to Agaltepec Island due to the threat of poaching, making the island an important refuge for their conservation. Visitors can still observe these fascinating animals by taking a boat tour from the nearby town of Catemaco.

These tours offer a rare and intimate look into the lives of howler monkeys in their natural habitat, providing an educational and unforgettable experience.

Exploring Agaltepec Island is a wonderful adventure that combines conservation efforts with the opportunity to connect with nature. For animal lovers and those looking for a new travel experience, Agaltepec Island is a must-visit destination.

Janitzio, located on Lake Patzcuaro, is famous for its Day of the Dead celebrations but is worth a visit at any time of year.

As one of the five islands of this vast lake, Janitzio serves as the spiritual and cultural center of the indigenous Purépecha people. The island can be reached by a short boat ride from the town of Patzcuaro, making it a convenient and interesting destination.

During the Day of the Dead celebrations in late October and early November, Janitzio turns into a mesmerizing spectacle. The island cemetery is lit with candles and locals hold vigils near the graves of deceased loved ones, creating a deeply moving and visually stunning spectacle. This celebration is a profound expression of Purepecha traditions and beliefs, offering visitors a unique insight into their cultural heritage.

Even beyond Day of the Dead celebrations, Janitzio offers a rich cultural experience. The island is dotted with historical sites and vibrant markets where you can immerse yourself in local traditions and crafts.

Climbing to the top of the island, you will see a towering statue of José María Morelos, hero of Mexican independence, with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding area.

Whether you’re drawn to the charm of Day of the Dead or simply want to explore the island’s cultural richness, Janitzio promises an unforgettable visit. The island’s combination of spiritual significance, cultural heritage, and stunning natural beauty makes it a must-see destination in the heart of Mexico.

Located near Holbox Island, Contoy is an undiscovered gem known to few outside of Mexico. This small, narrow island, stretching just five miles in length, limits the number of visitors each day due to its size, allowing only 200 people to experience its tranquil beauty.

Contoy is considered the most important seabird nesting site in the entire Mexican Caribbean, providing refuge to more than 150 species of tropical birds and four species of turtles. The island’s serene nature and rich biodiversity make it a paradise for nature lovers and bird watchers.

Only a select few tour companies have government permission to bring guests to Contoy, usually departing from Isla Mujeres or Cancun. This exclusivity ensures that the island remains a tranquil destination, free from the crowds that frequent many other tourist destinations.

A visit to Contoy offers a rare opportunity to connect with nature in a pristine setting. Whether you’re watching the many species of birds, or simply relaxing on the beach, Contoy promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

Colonial Zacatecas, Mexico’s second-highest city at 2469 meters above sea level, offers a chance to take a trek back through history with stunning architecture that includes many civil and religious buildings from the colonial area.

The Cathedral dominates the center of Zacatecas City and is considered one of the most beautiful examples of Churrigueresque architecture in Mexico.

Best known as one of the clusters of old silver mining cities, Zacatecas has long been valued for its rich deposits of silver and other minerals. The city also hosts the famous Holy Week Cultural Festival which features more than 50 dancers and other performers.

This UNESCO-listed nature reserve is an outdoor lovers’ dream come true.

Located off the coast of Baja, California, it’s a must-see, with pristine turquoise bays, windswept sand dunes, fiery red cliffs, and rich marine life as part of one of the most unspoiled ecosystems in Baja.

In the surrounding waters, view gray whales, swim with manta rays and sea lions, and on land, you’ll find five species of mammals and reptiles that are unique to the island, including a ring-tailed cat and black jackrabbit.

Chiapas is unlike anything you probably envisioned Mexico to be.

Here you’ll find a land filled with lakes and waterfalls as well as magnificent ruins in the ancient Mayan city of Palenque, nestled within a rainforest along the northern border of the state.

The stunning structures here were built with remarkable artistry, while the onsite museum features stucco hieroglyphs, intricately carved panels and fantastical clay earns.

The incredible detail of the carvings and frescoes have revealed to archaeologists much of what they know about Mayan life today.

At nearby Agua Azul, you can take a dip in waters that appear so amazingly blue it’s hard to believe they’re real, but they’re actually the result of crystal clear water that runs over a smooth limestone riverbed, illuminated by the sun.

Puebla’s city center is also a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its magnificent monuments of Spanish colonial architecture and a colorful blend of cultures.

Stroll its central streets, passing buildings, facades, and gardens that reflect its history, and shop for intricately designed Talavera pottery. Nearby, you can view the world’s largest pyramid at Cholula, topped by a church.

After dark, head to the Plazuela de Los Sapos to enjoy the sounds of traditional mariachi.

This quiet fishing village hidden away on the Pacific coast in the state of Oaxaca has become an increasingly popular tourist destination, though it still remains a favorite budget-friendly destination in Mexico.

It’s also under the radar, with the exception of those who come here to surf. A beach break known as the Mexican Pipeline, putting Mexican surfing on the map, brings surfers from across the globe.

From May to July, waves can reach 30 feet or higher. Even if you don’t surf, the experience here is all about the beach, though you’ll also find an authentic Mexican culture and a bustling outdoor food market.

Huatulco is in one of the most bio-diverse regions of the country along the Pacific Coast, about 70 miles east of Puerto Escondido, and also in Oaxaca State.

It boasts a Green Globe Certification for sustainable tourism and features an abundance of eco-attractions and wildlife, along with nine pristine bays and 36 picturesque beaches connected by rocky cliffs that lead to lush rainforest-covered mountains.

Visit coffee plantations and explore pre-Hispanic ruins or enjoy endless snorkeling and diving among brilliant reefs – you’ll be stunned at how crystal clear the waters in Huatulco are.

This seaside village 40 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta in the state of Nayarit was a secluded surfing town and sleepy fishing village just a decade ago, but that’s changed in recent years, with travelers from across the globe discovering Sayulita’s charms.

Don’t wait too long to visit, while you can still enjoy a low-key, bohemian vibe, unspoiled beaches, and rustic seafood eateries on the sand. If you’re new to surfing, this is also a good place to learn.

While the experience will find plenty of challenges, the bay has a nice break that’s ideal for beginners, and you’ll also find lessons as well as board rentals of all types available.

Just an hour’s drive from Cabo San Lucas, Todos Santos is one of the most charming towns in Baja with its quirky mix of New Age spiritualists, surfers, artists, and fishermen.

It offers a world-class foodie scene too, though it’s managed to escape the rampant tourism of other towns in the region.

This unique, artsy desert oasis is tucked among ancient orchards of mango and palm while offering breathtaking views that overlook powdery white sands and the expanse of the dazzling Pacific.

Its rich history with centuries-old tradition and friendly hospitality combined with modern conveniences make it an ideal less-traveled destination.

Morelia is another one of Mexico’s most spectacular colonial cities, located in the state of Michoacan, home to the only indigenous people who were never conquered by the Aztecs.

The state capital of Morelia proudly displays its Indian roots among the majestic, pink quarry stone colonial buildings.

The cozy and picturesque town of Morelia It’s surrounded by villages devoted to the single crafts industry, including musical instruments, textiles, furniture, copper, and pottery.

Several of the most important monarch butterfly wintering sites on the planet are located in eastern Michoacan’s mountains.

The annual monarch migration is one of the greatest spectacles found in the nation when as many as 60 million to one billion of the orange-colored butterflies journey from eastern Canada to the forests of western central Mexico.

Cooper Canyon, located in the heart of the Tarahumara Mountains, is so enormous it could swallow the entire Grand Canyon.

Copper Canyon, formed by the confluence of six rivers, is lush and green with oak, fir, pine, and fig trees. Indigenous people have made the canyons their home for centuries, and living in this remote region, their way of life has largely been preserved.

You’ll need to venture deep into the canyon floor to meet the Tarahumara people. The best way to get there is via the Chihuahua al Pacifico Train which can be boarded at El Fuerte, a small colonial town on the El Fuerte River.

Ixtapan de la Sal is best known for its healing thermal springs. It’s a popular destination for Mexico City residents, located just a little over two hours southwest.

It’s also been an important source of salt since pre-Hispanic times, while its two rivers and the carbonated water of La Laguna Verde, a spring that erupts from the volcanic landscape, served as a public bath for indigenous people.

During the Aztec empire, it was said to be a sacred place for chiefs who took advantage of the warm waters for their healing and soothing properties.

The town is typical of others in Mexico, with high tile roofs and cobblestone streets framed in the traditional surroundings of 16th-century buildings.

This UNESCO World Heritage site and one of central Mexico’s most picturesque and best-preserved colonial towns manages to be cosmopolitan and quaint at the same time.

With narrow cobblestone streets, stunning architecture, and idyllic weather, many feel it’s the prettiest town in the country.

Foreign retirees, artists, and writers, mainly from Canada and the U.S. are flocking here for its vibrant art scene featuring numerous studios and galleries with working artists and artisans along with a moderate cost of living.

There’s something interesting to be found around nearly every corner, with its parish church, Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, Jardin Park, and Mercado Ignacia Ramirez a few of the highlights.

The small state of Tlaxcala, located just two hours west of Mexico City offers something for almost everyone, including fascinating sites for history buffs and beautiful scenery for nature lovers.

At Cacaxtla, one of the most important ancient cities in central Mexico, perfectly preserved pre-Hispanic murals vividly depict battles and pyramids from the different stages of the Olmeca-Xicalanca culture.

Its compact capital is filled with colonial buildings painted in warm, colorful hues, all set in a verdant valley with soaring twin volcanoes as a backdrop.

It rivals the Yucatan for restored and ruined haciendas and is also home to over 1,000 archaeological sites. During the summer, visit the Firefly Sanctuary where you can witness countless fireflies lighting up the forest at night.

An ideal destination for wine enthusiasts, the oldest continuously operating winery in the Americas, Casa Madero, can be found in the town of Parras de la Fuente, located in Coahuila state in northern Baja California.

It was actually this very winery that exported the grapes that started the wine industry in Napa Valley, back when the Golden State was still a province of Spanish Mexico.

Its wines are still found alongside the finest in the region and among the winners of international competitions.

While the main attraction here is the vineyards, you can also visit a sacred volcano and the charming chapel, El Santo Madero, which sits atop it, keeping watch over the town.

By visiting the “cave of the bats,” located in the Hotel Antigua Hacienda de Perote, just before the sun goes down, you can see and hear thousands of bats pouring out into the sky as they get ready for a night of hunting.

La Paz was once set to become the next Acapulco – Baja’s unassuming capital remained a laid-back city with just a few tourists joining vacationing Mexicans.

But that’s starting to change, much to the dismay of some, with resorts popping up just outside of town aimed at travelers looking for luxuries that can be found in places like Cancun and Cabo.

For now, the essential nature of the city hasn’t changed.

You can still enjoy a provincial Mexico town atmosphere along with picture-postcard beaches, lively squares, and city streets nestled between coconut palms, old laurel trees, and date palms along with the ultimate seafood smorgasbord.