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Mexico Travel Guide
Mexico is woven with rich culture, deep history and natural beauty. Immerse yourself in a land of ancient ruins, underwater worlds, lush jungles and captivating landscapes. This huge country has so much to offer, from beautiful beaches to vibrant festivals. Here’s our ultimate Mexico travel guide.
Beaches in Mexico
Mexico’s Caribbean coastline is truly transcendental, blessed with sparkling sapphire waters, swaying palm trees and powdery white sands. Float through gin-clear waters while gazing up at the ancient ruins of the mighty Mayan civilization. Visit secluded islands with ombre-effect beaches, boasting platinum white sand which seep into an azure ocean. Dance the night away to the perfect symphony of gentle waves, live music and the rattle of a cocktail shaker. Every region of Mexico has something different to offer beach-lovers...
Best beaches in Mexico
Playa Ruinas, Tulum
This beach lies beneath the magnificent cliffs which hold the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum. This location oozes with its own unique charm and authenticity, you’d have to search hard to find a beach quite as majestic as this one. Soaring palm trees line the silky shores of this beach, and the azure ocean has an almost pearlescent shimmer.
Playa Akumal, Maya Riviera
Picture coconut palm trees swaying against the background of soft white sand and gleaming turquoise waters. This is what you’ll experience at Akumal beach, one of the most famous beaches in Mexico. These shores are teeming with Marinelife, it’s likely you’ll spot some sea turtles, especially during their nesting season from May to November.
Playa Forum, Cancun
This beach has a lively atmosphere and is thriving with beach bars, cafes and restaurants. Located in the heart of Cancun’s Hotel Zone, Playa Forum benefits from the social buzz of nearby attractions. Get stuck in with some watersports or kick back and relax with a frozen cocktail, it’s up to you!
Mexico geography
Mexico history
Wildlife in Mexico
Activities in Mexico
Watersports
Diving in Mexico
Mexico has a spectacular range of coral reefs and diving sites for all skill levels. You don’t have to be a confident diver to enjoy Mexico’s aquatic wonders, there are plenty of family-friendly snorkelling spots on the Riviera Maya. You can choose between coral reefs, cenotes, lagoons and open waters. Kids will especially love snorkelling at Isla Mujeres, Akumal beach and Xel-Há natural water park.
For experienced divers and thrill-seekers, the Socorro Islands offer rare encounters with some underwater giants. From manta rays to hammerhead sharks, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has got it all. It’s no surprise that the Sea of Cortez is also a World Heritage Site, this stretch of water has the largest population of marine mammals in all of Mexico!
Surfing in Mexico
Mexico’s stunning azure waters and sandy coastlines make it a popular choice amongst surfers. You’ll find the best surfing conditions from April to October, with warm waters, nice weather and great waves. Baja California is a great state for surfing, this region generates great swells and you won’t find many crowds on these shores. The Oaxaca region is also great for a variety of waves. If you get a chance, check out Puerto Escondido, considered one the best beach break waves in the world!
Windsurfing & kitesurfing in Mexico
Mexico’s coastlines offer kite surfers incredible conditions, you’ll have no problem finding the right spot for you. There are four main areas for watersports; Baja California, Gulf of Mexico, Pacific Coast and Yucatan Peninsula.
Due to its unbelievable range of amenities and accommodations, the Yucatan Peninsula is the most popular location for windsurfing. Isla Blanca has been labelled a kit surfer's paradise, it boasts an enormous saltwater lagoon and white sandy beaches, making it a truly amazing windsurfing destination. Sisal is an enchanting fishing village close to Merida, here you’ll find a flamingo sanctuary, a large lagoon and complete serenity.
Sailing in Mexico
If you’re hoping to go sailing during your trip to Mexico, the best time to do so is in the high season, between November and April, as these tend to be the driest months with warm temperatures. There are plenty of boat charters available to choose from, varying from region to region.
Fishing in Mexico
The Mexican Caribbean has an amazing range of fish species, including bonito, dorado, barracuda, snapper, marlin, tarpon and many more. Whether you’re a professional when it comes to fishing, or just starting out, Mexico’s waters welcome you to swing your rod.
Canoeing & kayaking in Mexico
Glide through gorgeous mangroves, open-air cenotes and sparkling azure waters on a kayak excursion through the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. This UNESCO-listed site is cornucopia of flora and fauna, making it a nature-lover's paradise. Take a guided tour to ensure you soak up all the best bits. For something a little different, try a stand-up paddle board tour of Bacalar Lagoon. Experience the glorious sunrise while gently drifting through the calm waters of the lagoon, what a way to start the day! If you want the ultimate kayaking experience, try the full day Xalak tour and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Mexican Caribbean.
Land activities
Golf in Mexico
Mexico’s magnificent scenery and natural beauty makes playing golf here a truly special experience. Mexican golf courses have diverse landscapes including tropical forests, captivating lagoons, mangrove swamps, and of course the turquoise Caribbean Sea. Playa Mujeres Golf Club is based in Cancun and is widely recognised as a top golf course. This 18-hole course boasts stunning vistas and verdant surroundings.
El Camaleón Mayakoba Golf Course is the most famous in the Riviera Maya. This 18-hole course is a legendary Greg Norman design, it has impeccable conditions and spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea. Iberostar Playa Paraiso Golf Club is a top-rated course situated between Playa del Carmen and Puerto Morelos. This stunning location is intertwined with Mayan jungle terrain – which blends harmoniously with P.B Dye’s challenging design.
Cycling & mountain biking in Mexico
Punta Venado Mountain Bike Park is located in the heart of the Riviera Maya, only a few minutes from Playa del Carmen. This park has so many bike trails to choose from, suitable for all skill levels. Hop on a mountain bike and soar through tropical jungle and finish off your ride on a golden beach, where you’ll be met with a fresh sea breeze.
Walking & hiking in Mexico
Mexico’s terrain is beautifully diverse, its soaring mountains, wildflower meadows, winding forests and leafy jungles make the perfect backdrop for a hike. Near Cancun and Puerto Morelos, you’ll find La Ruta de los Cenotes (the Cenotes Route). This popular trail features eight gorgeous cenotes, be sure to take a dip and cool off from the sun. If you fancy a bit of jungle exploring, head towards the Muyil Archaeological Zone near Tulum. Here lies a route that travels through the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, you’ll catch a glimpse of Mayan pyramids and temples along the way.
