Mazatlán

Known as the “Pearl of the Pacific,” Mazatlán is one of the top tourist destinations in Sinaloa. Its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and historic downtown attract visitors from around the world.

The Malecon, a scenic boardwalk, offers breathtaking views of the ocean, while the Historic Center showcases beautiful colonial architecture and the iconic Angela Peralta Theater.

Mazatlán is also famous for its fresh seafood and exciting water sports.

Isla de la Piedra (Stone Island)

Accessible by a short ferry ride from Mazatlán, Isla de la Piedra is a tranquil island retreat with pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.

Relax under the shade of a palm tree, swim in the warm ocean, or indulge in water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding. The island is also home to a small fishing village, offering a glimpse into the local way of life.

Culiacán

As the capital city of Sinaloa, Culiacán is a bustling metropolis that offers a blend of modernity and tradition. Explore the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Rosary, visit the Regional History Museum, or stroll through the scenic Las Riberas Park along the banks of the Culiacán River.

Culiacán also hosts the International Film Festival and is a great place to experience the vibrant Sinaloan cuisine.

For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the Culiacán Botanical Garden is a must.

Spanning over 40 hectares, this lush green oasis is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Explore the various themed gardens, walk along the tranquil trails, and marvel at the vibrant colors of the blooming flowers.

The garden also hosts educational programs and exhibitions, making it an ideal destination for families.

El Fuerte

Step back in time and visit El Fuerte, a charming colonial town that preserves its rich history. The Plaza de Armas, with its picturesque gardens and colonial architecture, is the heart of the town.

Explore the El Fuerte Museum, take a boat ride along the El Fuerte River, or hop on the famous Chepe train to experience the Copper Canyon, one of the world’s most impressive natural wonders.

Los Mochis

Situated in the northern part of Sinaloa, Los Mochis is the gateway to the Copper Canyon and an excellent base for exploring the region. Visit Topolobampo Bay, a picturesque port town known for its stunning beaches and seafood.

Take a day trip from Los Mochis to the charming village of El Fuerte or embark on a memorable adventure aboard the Chepe train, which winds its way through breathtaking canyons and mountainous landscapes.

Topolobampo

Located on the Gulf of California, Topolobampo is a paradise for nature lovers. Explore the rugged beauty of the surrounding Sierra Madre Occidental mountains or embark on a boat tour to experience the stunning marine life and pristine beaches.

Don’t miss the chance to savor the fresh seafood delicacies that the region is renowned for.

Mocorito

Known as the “City of Flowers,” Mocorito is a charming colonial town renowned for its beautiful architecture and traditional charm.

Take a leisurely stroll through the cobblestone streets, visit the historic Hidalgo Plaza, and admire the picturesque colonial houses. Mocorito is also famous for its gastronomy, particularly its delicious pork dishes and artisanal sweets.

Navolato

Located just north of Culiacán, Navolato is a coastal town with stunning beaches and a laid-back atmosphere. Relax on the golden sands of Altata Beach, take a boat ride through the picturesque estuaries, or sample the fresh seafood at one of the beachside restaurants.

Navolato is also known for its vibrant carnival celebrations, featuring colorful parades, music, and dancing.

 

Cancun is one of the most popular vacation destinations in Mexico, and for good reason.

This stunning city located on the Yucatan Peninsula is known for its gorgeous beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both, Cancun has something for everyone.

Cancun is famous for its breathtaking sandy beaches, and for good reason. With miles of soft, white sand and turquoise waters, these beaches are the perfect place to soak up the sun and relax.

Cancun is also known for its thriving nightlife scene, with clubs, bars, and restaurants that stay open late into the night. From salsa dancing to karaoke, there’s something for every type of party-goer in Cancun.

Cancun is also rich in history and culture, with ancient Mayan ruins and traditional Mexican markets to explore. Take a tour of the El Rey ruins or visit the Mercado 28 to immerse yourself in the local culture.

There’s no shortage of activities to enjoy in Cancun. From water sports like snorkeling and jet-skiing to land-based activities like zip-lining and ATV tours, there’s something for every type of adventurer.

Cancun is also known for its delicious cuisine, with a wide range of dining options to choose from. From street tacos to gourmet seafood, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your taste buds in Cancun.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an action-packed adventure, Cancun has something for everyone.

Book your trip today and experience the magic of this premier vacation destination for yourself!

Playa del Carmen is a charming coastal city located on the Yucatan, and it’s quickly becoming one of the most popular vacation destinations in the country. With its sandy beaches and endless activities, it’s easy to see why.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, Playa del Carmen has something for everyone.

Playa del Carmen boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, with crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. Spend your days soaking up the sun, swimming in the sea, or trying out water sports like snorkeling and kiteboarding.

Playa del Carmen is also rich in culture, with a thriving arts scene and traditional Mexican markets to explore. Visit the Playacar Artisan Market to pick up handmade souvenirs or check out one of the local galleries to see the work of local artists.

Playa del Carmen is known for its lively nightlife scene, with clubs, bars, and restaurants that stay open late into the night. From live music to DJ sets, there’s something for every type of party-goer in Playa del Carmen.

If you’re looking for an adventure, Playa del Carmen has plenty to offer. Take a jungle tour to see the ancient ruins of Tulum or go scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea.

Playa del Carmen is also a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of dining options to choose from. From street tacos to gourmet seafood, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your taste buds in Playa del Carmen.

If you’re looking for a vacation that’s equal parts relaxation and adventure, Playa del Carmen is the perfect destination.

Book your trip today and discover the hidden charm of this amazing city!

Tulum is a unique cozy town located on the Yucatan Peninsula, one of the most popular vacation destinations in the country.

Known for its stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and eco-friendly vibe, Tulum is the perfect destination for travelers who are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature.

Tulum boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, with crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. Spend your days soaking up the sun or trying out water sports like snorkeling and kiteboarding.

Tulum is also rich in history, with ancient Mayan ruins to explore. Take a tour and visit the Tulum ancient ruins to see the well-preserved remnants of this once-great civilization.

Tulum is known for its eco-friendly vibe, with many local businesses dedicated to sustainable tourism and preserving the natural beauty of the area. Stay in an eco-friendly hotel, take a bike tour of the town, or explore the local wildlife on a nature hike.

Tulum is also a hub for wellness, with yoga studios, meditation centers, and health-conscious restaurants to choose from. Take a yoga class on the beach or treat yourself to a spa day at one of the local wellness centers.

Tulum is also a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of dining options to choose from. From street tacos to gourmet seafood, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your taste buds in Tulum.

If you’re looking for a vacation that’s equal parts relaxation, adventure, and wellness, Tulum is the perfect destination.

Book your trip today and discover the natural beauty of this amazing city!

Puerto Vallarta is a vibrant and stunning coastal city located on the Pacific coast, and it’s quickly becoming one of the most popular vacation destinations in the country. With its stunning beaches, bustling culture, and endless activities, it’s easy to see why.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, Puerto Vallarta has something for everyone.

Puerto Vallarta boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, with crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. Spend your days soaking up the sun, swimming in the sea, or trying out water sports like snorkeling and paddleboarding.

Puerto Vallarta is also rich in culture, with a thriving arts scene and traditional Mexican markets to explore. Visit the Puerto Vallarta Art Walk to see the work of local artists or check out one of the local museums to learn about the city’s history.

Puerto Vallarta is known for its lively nightlife scene, with clubs, bars, and restaurants that stay open late into the night. From live music to DJ sets, there’s something for every type of party-goer in Puerto Vallarta.

If you’re looking for an adventure, Puerto Vallarta has plenty of amazing and unique activities to offer. Take a boat tour of the Bay of Banderas or go horseback riding through the jungle.

Puerto Vallarta is also a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of dining options to choose from. From street tacos to gourmet seafood, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your taste buds in Puerto Vallarta.

If you’re looking for a vacation that’s equal parts relaxation and adventure, Puerto Vallarta is the perfect destination.

Book your trip today and experience the magic of this amazing city!

Cozumel is a tropical island located off the eastern coast of the Yucatan, one of the most popular vacation destinations in Mexico.

With its stunning beaches, world-class diving, and laid-back atmosphere, Cozumel is the perfect destination for travelers who are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature.

Cozumel boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, with crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. Spend your days soaking up the sun or trying out water sports like snorkeling and windsurfing.

Cozumel is a world-renowned diving destination, with some of the best dive sites in the world. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a beginner, you’re sure to find an underwater adventure that’s perfect for you in Cozumel.

Cozumel is also rich in culture, with traditional Mexican markets and historic ruins to explore. Visit the island’s main town, San Miguel, to experience the local culture and cuisine.

If you’re looking for an adventure, Cozumel has plenty to offer. Take a boat tour of the island, go horseback riding through the jungle, or explore the local wildlife on a snorkeling excursion.

Cozumel is also the perfect destination for relaxation, with plenty of spas and yoga studios to choose from. Take a yoga class on the beach or treat yourself to a spa day at one of the local wellness centers.

If you’re looking for a vacation that’s equal parts adventure and relaxation, Cozumel is the perfect destination.

Book your trip today and uncover the beauty of this amazing island!

Los Cabos is a stunning coastal destination located at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, and it’s quickly becoming one of the most popular vacation destinations in the country.

With its breathtaking landscapes, luxurious resorts, and endless activities, Los Cabos has something for everyone.

Los Cabos boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, with crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. Spend your days soaking up the sun, swimming in the sea, or trying out water sports like kayaking and surfing.

Los Cabos is also known for its luxurious resorts, with a wide range of options to choose from. From overwater villas to 5-star hotels, you’re sure to find the perfect accommodation for your needs in Los Cabos.

Los Cabos is also rich in culture, with a thriving arts scene and traditional Mexican markets to explore. Visit the city’s cultural center, the Cabo San Lucas Cultural Plaza, to learn about the local history and traditions.

If you’re looking for unforgettable and unique adventures, Los Cabos has plenty of amazing activities to offer. Take a boat tour of the Sea of Cortez or go horseback riding through the desert.

Los Cabos is also a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of dining options to choose from. From street tacos to gourmet seafood, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your taste buds in Los Cabos.

If you’re looking for a vacation that’s equal parts luxury and adventure, Los Cabos is the perfect destination.

Book your trip today and discover the charm of this stunning coastal city!

Huatulco is a hidden gem located on the Mexican Pacific coast, one of the most popular vacation destinations in the country.

With its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and laid-back atmosphere, Huatulco is the perfect destination for travelers who are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature.

Huatulco boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, with crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. Spend your days soaking up the sun or trying out water sports like snorkeling and kayaking.

Huatulco is also home to a wide range of wildlife, including monkeys, sea turtles, and a variety of bird species. Take a guided nature tour to see the local flora and fauna, or go on a jungle hike to explore the lush landscape.

If you’re looking for an adventure, Huatulco has plenty to offer. Take a boat tour of the bays, go horseback riding through the jungle, or explore the local caves and waterfalls.

Huatulco is also the perfect destination for relaxation, with plenty of spas and yoga studios to choose from. Take a yoga class on the beach or treat yourself to a spa day at one of the local wellness centers.

Huatulco is also rich in culture, with traditional Mexican markets and local festivals to explore. Visit the city’s main town, Santa Cruz Huatulco, to experience the local culture and cuisine.

If you’re looking for a vacation that’s equal parts adventure and relaxation, Huatulco is the perfect destination.

Book your trip today and explore the natural beauty of this hidden gem!

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo is a dual-faceted vacation destination located on the Mexican Pacific coast, offering visitors the best of both worlds with its modern resort town of Ixtapa and its traditional fishing village of Zihuatanejo.

Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo has something to offer.

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, with crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. Spend your days soaking up the sun, swimming in the sea, or trying out water sports like snorkeling and surfing.

Ixtapa is known for its luxurious resorts, with a wide range of options to choose from. From 5-star hotels to overwater villas, you’re sure to find the perfect accommodation for your needs in Ixtapa.

Zihuatanejo is rich in culture, with a thriving arts scene and traditional Mexican markets to explore. Visit the city’s cultural center, the Zihuatanejo Cultural Plaza, to learn about the local history and traditions.

If you’re looking for an adventure, Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo has plenty to offer. Take a boat tour of the bays, go horseback riding through the jungle, or explore the local caves and waterfalls.

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo is also a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of dining options to choose from. From street tacos to gourmet seafood, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your taste buds in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo.

If you’re looking for a vacation that offers the best of both worlds, Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo is the perfect destination.

Book your trip today and experience the dual-faceted beauty of this unique coastal city!

Acapulco is a timeless vacation destination located on Mexico’s Pacific coast, offering visitors a vibrant and thrilling experience like no other. From its stunning beaches to its exciting nightlife, Acapulco has something to offer every traveler.

Acapulco boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, with crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. Spend your days soaking up the sun, swimming in the sea, or trying out water sports like snorkeling and surfing.

Acapulco is also known for its exciting nightlife, with a wide range of clubs, bars, and restaurants to choose from. Take in a live performance at the city’s famous Acapulco Theater, or dance the night away at one of the city’s many nightclubs.

If you’re looking for an adventure, Acapulco has plenty to offer. Take a boat tour of the bays, go horseback riding through the jungle, or explore the local caves and waterfalls.

Acapulco is also rich in history, with a long legacy as one of Mexico’s most important port cities. Visit the city’s museum, the Acapulco History Museum, to learn about the local history and culture.

Acapulco is also a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of dining options to choose from. From street tacos to gourmet seafood, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your taste buds in Acapulco.

If you’re looking for a vacation that’s equal parts excitement and relaxation, Acapulco is the perfect destination.

Book your trip today and discover the thrill of this timeless coastal city!

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.

Puerto Vallarta has been an expat haven for over 60 years. What was once a small village on Mexico’s Pacific Coast is now a major international resort, with an urban area that runs for nearly 30 miles along the shore of Banderas Bay.

The entire area—from southern Jalisco up to the bay’s northern point at Punta de Mita, in the state of Nayarit—is referred to as Costa Vallarta.

Costa Vallarta offers a seemingly endless number of activities, thanks to the natural attractions and the tourist infrastructure that has built up over time. You can saunter down the malecón (boardwalk) that stretches along the downtown area and look inside the boutiques, cafés, and restaurants.

Or you can spend the day on any of the more than half-dozen golf courses in the Puerto Vallarta area.

If you want to escape the heat, the nearby Sierra Madre mountains offer exhilarating activities such as hiking, biking, and canopy tours that take you swinging from branch to branch.

Near the Bay of Banderas are more options—whale watching, boat tours, fishing, sailing, dolphin excursions, kitesurfing, windsurfing, and parasailing.

Flights from Puerto Vallarta’s international airport can get you back to the U.S. in just a few hours. Puerto Vallarta is also a popular medical tourism destination, with several top hospitals offering state-of-the-art medical care.

Considered one of the prettiest small towns in Mexico, San Miguel is a Spanish colonial jewel glowing in pastel colors.

With a rich arts-and-crafts tradition, San Miguel has small shops a-plenty where you can spend hours admiring (and buying) pottery, painting, sculptures, hammered-tin mirrors, and lamps…the list is endless.

You can also enjoy its many art galleries, restaurants, and scenic plazas.

Like Puerto Vallarta, San Miguel is home to thousands of expats from all over the world. Here you can get by in English if you want, or speak Spanish if you prefer. If you greet folks in Spanish when you enter a shop, they continue in that language unless you decide otherwise.

Most North Americans love its high-desert climate, with warm days and cool nights most of the year, so it’s not surprising that of 140,000 people living in the metropolitan area, it is estimated that around 10,000 are expats.

There’s no international airport right in San Miguel, so choose from two in the region: León, which is about two hours away, and Querétaro, about an hour. Or if you prefer, just fly into Mexico City, three hours away, and take the bus to San Miguel.

Like San Miguel, Mérida is a Spanish-colonial city. But Mérida is a very different animal…

Unlike small-town San Miguel, Mérida is a metropolis of almost a million people, with universities, major corporations, museums, and its own international airport with direct flights back to the U.S.

In addition, Mérida is in the semi-tropical Yucatán Peninsula, at the opposite end of the country from San Miguel. It’s just half an hour from the Yucatán Gulf Coast, where the white-sand beaches are punctuated by little beach towns and you can still find beach homes for around $100,000.

Mérida is one of the safest cities in Mexico. Depending on how many suburbs are included, the population of metropolitan Mérida is approaching 1 million. But when you walk down the city’s tree-lined streets, some paved with hand-laid tiles, you feel as though you are in a city that is much smaller.

Mérida’s expat community numbers about 4,000, but that’s a drop in the bucket for a city this size. As a result, you’ll have more need—as well as opportunity—to learn Spanish here than in Puerto Vallarta or San Miguel. Or learn to sing it—this is a very musical city.

You’ll find bands performing in some plaza or other almost every day of the week. And if you think you know Mexican cooking, think again—Yucatán cuisine is distinctly different, and on display here in Mérida.

Lake Chapala is Mexico’s largest lake, and the surrounding area is also home to the largest concentration of US expats in the world.

Both US and Canadian expats have been attracted to the Lake Chapala area by homes with gentle arches, hand-painted tiles, and adjoining gardens that bloom all year round. It’s a part of the world where it’s easy to afford a cook, a maid, and a gardener.

Lake Chapala, Mexico’s largest lake, is about 50 miles long from east to west but not much more than 12 miles wide at its broadest point.

Chapala is about a mile high—roughly the same altitude as Denver—and the climate is delightful. January is the coolest month around Lake Chapala, with temperatures reaching about 71 F, May is the warmest month, with highs around 84 F.

Guadalajara a city of more than 5 million residents, is only 45 minutes away by car.

Real estate shoppers are often impressed with the Chapala area’s cultural and sporting opportunities, including English-language theater, frequent concerts, garden clubs, golf, tennis, hiking, yoga, and horseback riding.

On the north side of Lake Chapala, villages combine charm with an increasing amount of sophistication.

The town of Chapala itself is the largest, and along its cobblestone streets are taverns, shops, cafés, street vendors, and high-quality restaurants. Close by is the community of Vista del Lago, which has a popular country club and golf course.

Ajijic and Chapala are havens for artists and writers.

Expats and locals often get together on Wednesdays, when Ajijic’s huge outdoor market is open. It’s a great place to shop for hand-made carvings and jewelry, not to mention clothes, flowers, fruits, vegetables, cooked food, and household items.

Not far from Ajijic is San Antonio, a village that keeps a much lower profile. Here, a large percentage of expats live in beautiful houses that are secluded behind high walls.

Tulúm is a charming and growing resort town on the southern end of Mexico’s famed Riviera Maya.

With a palpable Bohemian vibe and a plentiful scattering of yoga practitioners and therapeutic massage businesses, this growing community retains its backpacker roots.

Some say they can feel the presence of the ancient Maya culture which dominated this region over 1,000 years ago.

The adjacent and spectacular archeological site of the same name is a prominent and impressive testament to this once-dominant civilization. At its peak between the 13th and 15th centuries, this ruin was a bustling trade and cultural center and is now a frequent stop for tourists.

The town of Tulúm, bisected by the coastal highway, is a stone’s throw from the sparkling sand and warm waters of the Caribbean Sea.

About 80 miles and two hours south of Cancún, the town is no longer the hidden gem it once was but is now well into the development phase with the construction of homes and condos on the rise to keep up with those wishing to claim their slice of paradise.

Living in the central town area will not require you to own a car, and walking and bicycling are both quite popular.

In fact, it seems there are often as many bikes on the road as there are motorized vehicles. Motor scooters are also quite popular for those who would rather not pedal around town.

Tulúm’s reputation as a spectacular vacation destination and a growing expat community is well-deserved. With a tropical climate, Tulúm offers a Caribbean lifestyle without the need to travel to and from an island.

Residents enjoy warm, turquoise Caribbean waters, a sparkling, perfect beach, and an offshore reef that provides plentiful opportunities for fishing, scuba diving, and snorkeling.

With the introduction of new, modern homes and condos, the population is thought to be well over 20 thousand and continues to rise as more people seek an affordable Caribbean lifestyle a bit off the beaten path.

Huatulco is a development planned by FONATUR, the Mexican government’s national trust fund for tourism development. It was one of five destinations picked by FONATUR more than 30 years ago as having world-class potential.

In many ways, Huatulco is a small town still emerging as a major destination. There are only about 56,000 residents, according to official figures, with about 1,000 being expats or pre-retirement, part-time visitors who own property.

Even during rush hour, you can drive from one side of town to the other in about six minutes.

You’ll see great—and puzzling—contrasts in Huatulco. This was originally a fishing village, and the larger town that has grown up, thanks to investments in the 1980s and 1990s, has a slight Disney-like quality.

In some areas, for instance, you’ll find large public walkways and promenades that have been built with no surrounding businesses to draw tourists and locals to them.

The four-lane highway that hugs the coast here is oversized for Huatulco’s current traffic needs.

The water treatment facilities are some of the best in Mexico.

Fishing, snorkeling, and diving are all very popular here. Every year Huatulco hosts several fishing tournaments. The biggest tournament, the Torneo de Pez Vela Huatulco (Huatulco Sailfish Tournament), attracts professional sports fishermen.

If you don’t feel like cooking, Huatulco has plenty of restaurant options and a variety of cuisines.

And despite its small population, Huatulco has an international airport with direct jet service to the U.K., U.S., and Canada, as well as to other parts of Mexico.

Ensenada is an attractive city that has long been one of the area’s major ports. Today Ensenada is also a top cruise ship destination and the site of numerous luxury housing developments.

Fishing, surfing, swimming, scuba diving, and sunbathing are popular in Ensenada, as they are in most other ocean-side cities in Baja. In Ensenada, there’s also golf, tennis, many excellent restaurants, nightclubs, cafés, theater, and ballet.

The city is host to several important sporting events during the year, such as regattas and the Baja 1000, an off-track race for motorcycles, and a variety of car classifications.

In the winter, the city’s bay (Bahía de Todos Santos) is a great spot for watching gray whales.

What the casual tourist may not know, however, is that Ensenada has several excellent research institutions and Mexico’s highest concentration of scientists, leading many to call Ensenada the “City of Science.”

Although real estate and daily expenses are much less in Baja than in most parts of the U.S., residents here almost always have a car.

Most air travelers either fly to San Diego and cross the border into Mexico or fly to the international airport in Tijuana.

A recently opened “air bridge” now connects San Diego with the Tijuana Airport. Travelers have reported taking a mere five minutes to cross the bridge on foot, avoiding the delays that cars crossing the border can experience.

Many expats in Baja take advantage of healthcare in nearby San Diego, but others use local facilities. Both Rosarito and Ensenada have some fine hospitals.

Facilities in Rosarito include the Clínica y Hospital Bonanova and the Sanoviv Institute, as well as several small hospitals and public hospitals.

In Ensenada, you’ll find the Clínica de Especialidades Médicas San Fernando, the Hospital Santa Rosa de Lima, and the Hospital Velmar, among others.

Cozumel is a year-round scuba diving destination on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, known for its easy drift dives with stellar visibility, vibrantly colored sponges, and marine life like turtles, nurse sharks, and rays.

The Cozumel diving scene is also known for its assortment of well-run dive resorts, from budget to luxury. Boasting great nightlife and an endless list of things to do, Cozumel is a popular travel destination for scuba divers and non-divers alike.

That said, Cozumel might not be the best diving spot for divers who prefer quiet off-the-beaten-path locations. Cozumel could get really crowded during the high season which typically runs from November to April.

Scuba diving in Akumal provides an exceptional opportunity to explore the waters of Mexico’s Caribbean coast. Akumal is a popular destination for diving enthusiasts, drawing them in with its clear azure waters and rich marine biodiversity.

The main attraction of Akumal is its coral reefs with a diverse range of marine species.

From graceful sea turtles gracefully navigating through the waters to schools of tropical fish darting around the coral formations, each dive offers a chance to witness the intricate interactions of aquatic life.

Akumal’s appeal lies in its suitability for divers of various skill levels.

The warm waters and excellent visibility make it an ideal destination for divers. Whether you’re seeking to obtain your diving certification or are a seasoned pro, Akumal’s underwater realm guarantees an educational and captivating experience.

Scuba diving in Akumal offers an educational gateway to the underwater treasures of the Caribbean. Its diverse marine life, thriving coral reefs, and distinctive cenotes combine to create an informative and unforgettable diving adventure.

Diving in cenotes is an extraordinary and unique underwater adventure in Yucatán. Cenote Dos Ojos derives its name from the two connected sinkholes that reveal an intricate network of submerged passages and chambers.

This cenote system offers divers an unparalleled chance to explore the mesmerizing world of underwater caves.

The crystal-clear freshwater of Dos Ojos provides exceptional visibility, allowing divers to witness the stunning geological formations and ethereal light effects created by the interplay of water and sunlight.

Diving into Cenote Dos Ojos requires specialized training due to the cave environment. Certified cave divers can venture into the deeper sections of the system, navigating through tight passages and expansive chambers adorned with breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites.

For those without cave diving experience, Cenote Dos Ojos also offers cavern diving opportunities.

Cavern dives allow qualified divers to explore the illuminated portions of the caves, where sunlight filters in from above, revealing an otherworldly landscape of submerged formations and intriguing shadows.

As you venture through the subterranean passages, you’ll encounter the quietude of an environment untouched by time.

The cenote’s mystique, coupled with the challenge of cave diving, creates a one-of-a-kind experience that beckons to adventurous souls seeking to unravel the secrets of the underground.

Museo Subacuático de Arte (MUSA) is located in the waters surrounding Cancún and Isla Mujeres. MUSA is an innovative underwater museum that features a captivating collection of submerged sculptures created by various artists.

MUSA provides a unique platform for artistic expression and promotes the growth of coral reefs. The sculptures act as artificial reefs, attracting marine life and encouraging the formation of coral habitats, thereby contributing to the ecological health of the area.

Divers exploring MUSA are treated to an immersive experience where they can interact with the sculptures while witnessing the gradual transformation of these installations into living ecosystems.

The crystal-clear Caribbean waters offer excellent visibility, allowing divers to appreciate the intricate details of each sculpture and observe the marine inhabitants that have made them their home.

Diving in the Sea of Cortez unveils a marine wonderland off Mexico’s Baja California coast. Renowned as “The Aquarium of the World,” this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts unparalleled biodiversity.

Vibrant coral reefs, playful sea lions, and whale sharks are just a glimpse of the marine life found here. With excellent visibility and varied dive sites suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced divers, the Sea of Cortez offers an immersive adventure.

Exploring its turquoise waters means encountering a captivating array of species and experiencing the awe-inspiring beauty of one of the planet’s most diverse and extraordinary underwater ecosystems.

Diving in Huatulco, situated on Mexico’s Pacific coast, unveils a hidden aquatic paradise. With warm waters and diverse marine life, this destination caters to both beginners and experienced divers.

Huatulco’s underwater realm features vibrant coral formations, intriguing rock formations, and an array of marine species, including tropical fish and sea turtles.

The calm currents and clear visibility enhance the diving experience, allowing for unhurried exploration of the underwater landscapes. From shallow reefs to deeper sites, each dive offers a chance to encounter the rich biodiversity of the Pacific.

Whether you’re seeking to earn a certification or simply enjoy a unique underwater adventure, Huatulco’s captivating waters promise a memorable and educational diving experience.

Diving in Puerto Morelos, nestled along Mexico’s Riviera Maya, offers a captivating underwater encounter. This marine haven boasts the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system globally, making it a diver’s paradise.

The National Marine Park of Puerto Morelos showcases vibrant coral formations teeming with marine life. Divers can swim among graceful rays, curious nurse sharks, and colorful schools of fish.

The protected reef ensures pristine conditions and diverse dive sites suitable for all levels. Exploring Puerto Morelos unveils an enchanting world beneath the waves, where nature’s beauty and marine biodiversity converge.

Bahias de Huatulco is divided into four main districts. Tangolunda is the area where the large upscale resorts are located; Santa Cruz is a small town with the main marina and Santa Cruz beach; La Crucecita, is another small town just inland from the beach area which provides support services to the area, and Chahué is an area between Santa Cruz and Tangolunda.

The Bahias de Huatulco are a series of nine bays and numerous small coves stretching along 26 kilometers of jagged coastline, including 36 white sandy beaches. The most centrally located bay is Bahía de Santa Cruz, which is just south of the town of La Crucecita. It is also the center of commercial and tourist activities, with a large pier where cruise ships dock. Many resort offerings can be found here such as hotels, craft shops, discothèques, bars, restaurants, excursion agencies, sailboat excursions as well as scuba diving, snorkeling and jet skis for rent. The Capilla de Santa Cruz is where many weddings and baptisms are celebrated next to the sea. Playa Santa Cruz is the best known of the beaches here. It is 250 meters long, with soft white sand and turquoise blue water.

Heading east from Santa Cruz are the bays of Bahía Chahué, Bahía Tangolunda and Bahía Conejos. These are the more developed areas of Huatulco. Bahía Chahué is 2 km east of Santa Cruz and its name means “fertile or moist land” in Zapotec. It has a marina for large and small yachts along with three principal beaches; Chahué, Esperanza and Tejón. Even though these are wide beaches, their moderate surf makes them less-visited than those in Santa Cruz. Three km east of Chahué is Bahía Tangolunda, which has five beaches; Ventura, Manzanillo, Tornillo, Tangolunda and Rincón Sabroso. Here the water varies between cobalt blue and emerald green. Most of the larger hotels are located on this bay. Residencial Conejos is 4 km east of Tangolunda and has some of the larger residential homes in the area, some of which are vacation rentals. The mouth of the Río (River) Copalita is slightly east of Bahía Conejos and it has a long zone of beaches. To the east of Río Copalita are beaches stretching all the way to the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. Two of these beaches are Barra de la Cruz and Playa Mojon. Some great surf waves can be found from these beaches. Barra de la Cruz is one of the best and easiest to access. Playa El Mojon can, at certain times of the year, have some decent waves for surfing and is also a great location to explore.

To the west of Santa Cruz, the beaches are less developed; in fact most of this area belongs to the Parque Nacional (National Park) Huatulco. This is a protected area (Área Natural Protegida) created in 1998. It contains 6,375 hectares of lowland jungle and 5,516 hectares of marine areas, encompassing the bays of Bahía Maguey, Bahía Órgano, Bahía Cacaluta, Bahía Chachacual and Bahía San Agustín. In these bays live the most important coral communities of the Mexican Pacific. 723 species of animals live in the park as well as a number of species of colorful fish, and it is open to scuba diving, bird-watching and hiking.

In 2005, Huatulco was awarded the Green Globe International Certification as a sustainable tourist area. Huatulco was the first sustainable tourist community in the Americas and the third worldwide, after Bali in Indonesia and Kaikoura in New Zealand, to receive this prestigious award because of its development programs for a culture environmentally friendly to conserve its natural resources. Bahía Órgano is named for the cacti that grow there. It is 240 meters long and only accessible by boat. Bahía Maguey is about 1/2 km long and is accessible by car.

Both these bays have fine, white sand and waters of various colors of blue and green. Bahía Cacaluta and Bahía Chachacual are only accessible by boat, and there are absolutely no human constructions of any kind. Bahía San Agustín is the furthest west and the largest of all the bays. It has 1 km of beaches between 20 and 80 meters wide. There are also small islets inside the bay itself. Large portions of the Bahias de Huatulco resort area are located within an “ecological zone”; much of the area is protected from future development, and the area is serviced by modern water and sewage treatment plants so that no waste goes into its pristine bays. Huatulco has been awarded the Green Globe certification, and it is the only resort in Mexico to receive this prestigious award (Green Globe is the worldwide benchmarking and certification system for the travel and tourism industry across the triple bottom line of economic, social and environmental management).

Climate

Sunshine can be expected about 330 days a year with the average temperature of 28 °C (82.4 °F). The dry season extends from December to May and the rainy season is from June to November. The amount of precipitation has a definite effect on the local vegetation, being brownish in the dry season and very green in the rainy season.

Legends say the Toltecs and Quetzalcoatl came from this area. Quetzalcoátl, according to a later legend, set an enormous and indestructible cross. Various people have passed through this area, including the Chatmos, the Zapotecs and the Mexicas.

After the Spanish Conquest, Huatulco thrived as a port under Hernán Cortés’s control serving as a vantage point for Spanish galleons and a distribution centre for supplies on the Pacific coast. The latter half of the 16th Century saw Huatulco attacked by Francis Drake and Thomas Cavendish—both of whom left their prints on the region’s history and legends that continue to this day.

Until resort development began in the 1980s, Huatulco was little known except as a coffee-growing area. In 1984, FONATUR (Fondo Nacional de Turismo), a government agency dedicated to the development of tourism in Mexico, acquired 21,000 hectares of land to develop a tourism center, similar to that in Cancún. The existing population was relocated to Santa María Huatulco. The plan resulted in the improvement of roadways and other infrastructure. It also has populated areas mixed with “green zones” to make the area ecologically friendlier.

The entire area has a “small town” feel about it and is rarely crowded with tourists with the exception of the Christmas and Semana Santa holiday periods.

In addition to the beaches, there are small communities of Bahias de Huatulco, such as Santa Cruz, La Crucecita, or old Santa María Huatulco (the municipal seat).

There are a number of coffee plantations which are still in operation and give tours, including Finca (farm) Las Nieves, Finca Monte Carlos, Finca Margaritas, Finca El Pacífico and Finca La Gloria. Finca El Pacífico is known for the organic coffee it produces called “Pluma Hidalgo,” and it is surrounded by waterfalls and ravines. Finca La Gloria is known for the butterfly sanctuary “Mariposorio Dain Biguid”, where dozens of species of butterflies can be seen and the “Llano Grande Falls”. The Río Copalitilla has its source here as well.

Bocana del Río Copalita

The Bocana del Río Copalita is a 2,500-year-old archaeological site located about ten kilometers from the bays, which is open to the public. The name means “place of copal” and covers an areas of about thirty five hectares. It is believed to have been on the border between Zapotec and Mixtec dominions. Landmarks of the site include a main temple, a temple dedicated to a serpent god, a Mesoamerican ball court and a site museum.

The Festival Música por la Tierra (Music Festival for the Earth) features music and culture in an event designed to raise awareness about the environment. The event features a number of rock and popular music groups.

Although the improvements in infrastructure, Bahias de Huatulco is not as easy to get to as other resorts like Cancun.

The drive south from Acapulco on Federal Highway 200 has over 300 speed bumps.

Driving from Oaxaca city, the state capital is not any easier because Federal Highway 175 is also full of speed bumps. Federal Highway 190 has fewer but it’s a much longer road with many curves due to the mountainous terrain.

Bahias de Huatulco has an airport, the Bahías de Huatulco International Airport, which is served nationally by Interjet, and Magnicharters, from other Mexican airports. Several airlines fly here from the U.S. and Canada.

Huatulco’s new International Airport (HUX), has increased tourism not only in Huatulco, but in other nearby beaches like Mazunte and Zipolite.

Every day flights arrive from Mexico City, bringing tourists to the beach. This airport, and new road construction in Oaxaca have made Oaxaca’s Pacific coast an increasingly popular destination for Mexican and International tourists as well.

Transportation between the communities is available by bus or taxi.