July 10, 2024
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9:46am
These days we all think that an incredible vacation means going on a Caribbean cruise, to Europe and beyond, but before taking off to those destinations, why not see this country?
Mexico offers an endless list of destinations for all kinds of preferences, from heavenly beaches to colonial cities that take you straight back in time to another era. So, before taking your adventurous spirit to other countries, why not discover here in our own backyard places in Mexico that will provide an incredible vacation.
La Quebrada is among the most stunning spots to be found in Acapulco. It is a nearly 100-foot-high cliff on Mexico’s Pacific coast. Ever since 1934, thousands of divers have jumped off the top of the cliff into the 13-foot depth of water below, making it into a very popular tourist attraction.
The courageous divers make their descent at specific times of the day, to ride the air currents and tides, and each dive is, of course, a unique and amazingly impressive experience.
Besides being a popular tourist attraction, La Quebrada has been the setting for movies like Fun in Acapulco, with Elvis Presley, and numerous sporting events as well. The cliffs are truly an iconic symbol of Acapulco and a must-see for anyone traveling to this striking coastal city.
If you are planning to visit Acapulco, you can’t miss the chance to see the cliff divers in action at La Quebrada. You can watch the show from a nearby viewing platform or from a restaurant with a cliff view, but no matter where you are, there’s no question it will be unforgettable!
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Furthermore, nature lovers will enjoy exploring the beaches near La Quebrada, such as Caleta and Caletilla, which are also ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Location: La Quebrada 25, Centro, 39300, Acapulco de Juárez, Guerrero
Hours: Mon to Sun, 1:00 – 10:00 pm, the bonfire dive is done at 9:00 pm and at 10:00 pm the dive with torches.
Prices: children 4 feet tall and under, $20 MXN pesos; taller children, over 4 feet, pay the general entrance fee of $100 MXN pesos for preferential spaces.
Another must-explore destination is Barra Vieja Beach. Although it is not one of the most famous places in Acapulco, the 1.5-mi beach promises a relaxing, fun experience doing any of various activities.
The lovely beach lets visitors admire the Pacific Ocean, ride horses, explore by bicycle or 4-wheeler, soak in the tranquility of either Tres Palos Lagoon in a canoe or nearby El Veladero National Park.
Similarly, you can go kayaking, sports fishing, which is done here in May, plunge into the warm Pacific water, watch the diverse local birds and savor delicious food, such as spiced and grilled zarandeado fish that is famous at the beach.
Location: Km 7 on the Barra Vieja Road, Barra Vieja, 39931, Acapulco de Juárez, Guerrero
When R&R is on the docket, people often imagine a beach with crystal-clear water and smooth sand, surrounded by restaurants, hotels and shops for greater comfort. If this is your kind of fantasy, you don’t have to imagine it any longer! Puerto Marqués Beach, in Acapulco, has it all.
This idyllic destination, called Puerto Marqués, boasts a hot climate and is the perfect setting for relaxing, suntanning, zooming over the waves on a jet ski, swimming and doing water sports such as paddle boarding and snorkeling.
What’s more, at Puerto Marqués Beach, you can go hiking or do zip lining for the best panoramic views. But simply stopping to gaze at nature at the scenic overlooks on the road that leads to this paradise affords spectacular views and fabulous photos.
Finally, gastronomy is another point in its favor. Most dishes are made with fresh fish and seafood, and among the most delicious dishes are the local a la talla-style fish (marinated in a dried chili mixture and grilled), fish strips, grilled octopus and seafood soup, while beverages feature blended fresh fruit drinks, beer and cocktails, to go with your meal.
Location: Miguel Alemán, no number, Puerto Marqués, Acapulco de Juárez, Guerrero
If you’re not sure what to do when you’re in Cancun, one of the best activities is to visit Tulum, a small city on Mexico’s Caribbean coast known for its white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, as well as for its impressive Mayan archeological zone.
In Tulum, you will learn about the history and culture of the ancient Maya civilization by exploring the ruins, which encompass:
Natural destinations:
The Gran Cenote is among the most popular cenotes in the zone and is known for its crystal-clear water and the huge amount of stalactites and stalagmites inside it.
The Cenote Dos Ojos is another popular cenote and is found in the rainforest near Tulum. It is also known for its crystal-clear water, as well as its impressive caves.
And lastly, the Cenote Calavera is a small cenote near Tulum, known for its crater shape and crystal-clear water.
Besides these major attractions, other places tucked away around Cancun have paths to explore, lush areas and other buildings and structures that will take you back in history and into the Maya culture. You can also practice water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving, and sample delicious local cuisine.
Location of the Mayan archeological zone: Federal Road 307, Tulum Ruins, Tulum, Quintana Roo
Hours: Mon to Sun, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm. Last entry time of the day is 3:30 pm.
Prices: $80 MXN pesos p/p.
Xcaret is a nearly 200-acre theme park in the Riviera Maya, where you will get to experience all kinds of activities and attractions related to the culture, nature and history of Mexico.
Among the attractions are boat rides, snorkeling, dance and music performances, animal exhibitions and demonstrations, restaurants, shops and leisure areas to enjoy throughout the day.
There are also guided tours to beaches such as Norte Beach, on Isla Mujeres, which we will tell you more about below.
Norte Beach is considered one of the top beaches in the world, appearing on the Traveler’s Choice Awards list and 17th place on TripAdvisor. The reasons for such recognition are its beauty, climate, accessibility, diversity of establishments and activities.
At Norte Beach, you get to swim in calm, crystal-clear waters that look more like a huge blue swimming pool. It is so shallow that you can walk up to 650 feet out without the water even reaching your chest.
A further fascinating thing about this beach is that it has hotels and restaurants, so if you want to spend more time on this wonderful island and taste more of the food, you can do so without rushing and in total comfort.
Additionally, the bars here have a cool beach vibe, great cocktails, and of course there are nightspots: a range of options for taking it easy and having fun. Whether you’re with family or friends or alone, you can’t help but have a fabulous time.
Location: Rueda Medina 130, SM 001, Centro, 77506, Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo
If you’re looking for something to do in Mexico City or trying to figure out the best places to visit on a CDMX weekend, be sure and put the Teotihuacan Archeological Zone on your list.
As its name says, it is an archeological zone near CDMX. Building on it first started in 200 BC, and the name “Teotihuacan” means city of the gods or place where the gods were made.
You will be amazed to learn about its astronomically aligned pre-Hispanic structures and will most likely check out the following highpoints:
Location: Km 22 on the Mexico-Tulancingo Federal Highway, 55800, San Juan Teotihuacan, State of Mexico
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Hours: Mon to Sun, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Prices: $85 MXN pesos p/p; on Sun entrance is free for Mexican citizens and permanent residents in Mexico. Remember to take your official identification.
When in Mexico City, you should definitely put Chapultepec Castle on your list.
Perched atop the hill by the same name, this emblematic castle is one of the city’s major tourist sites. Dating back to the 18th century, the building has witnessed some major historic events in Mexico.
When visiting Chapultepec Castle, you will get a spectacular view of the city and will learn more about the history of Mexico. Among the most interesting points to visit are:
Location: Bosque de Chapultepec, I Secc., Miguel Hidalgo, 11100, Mexico City
Hours: Tues to Sun, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Prices: $80 MXN pesos; on Sun entrance is free for Mexican citizens and permanent residents in Mexico. Remember to take your official identification.
For an equally surprising experience as the previous one, full of learning and fun, you should add the Inbursa Aquarium to your checklist of places in Mexico to discover and explore.
An interactive and educational space, it is perfect for the whole family. It displays aquatic life in 7 rooms; some of them are habitats of species in danger of extinction.
As you make your way through the aquarium, you can see over 230 species of fish, go through the submarine tunnel where you walk under the water and see sharks, rays and other marine animals swimming around you.
You can also view jellyfish up close, in an exhibition of these fascinating creatures that has over 20 different species.
Location: Blvd. Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra 386, Amp. Granada, Miguel Hidalgo, 11500, Mexico City
Hours: Mon to Sun, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Prices:
Natural attractions abound in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo, and El Palmar Beach is surely one of those spots that are perfect for vacationing and will take your breath away.
You could say that El Palmar Beach is the most visited place in Ixtapa Zihuatanejo, since it is one of the cleanest and loveliest beaches in the city. In fact, it was certified by the organization Blue Flag, based on the cleanliness of its waters and biodiversity.
The area is surrounded by many, many palm trees (from whence the name of the beach), and it features crystal-clear waters, golden sand, deluxe resorts and surf that is ideal for jet skiing.
Another aspect of what the place has to offer is its gastronomy. To try something different and very tasty, order iguana soup, a local specialty.
Location: Escénica Road, no number, Playa El Palmar, 40880, Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, Guerrero
Also called Isla Grande, this is a popular tourist destination, since it is a mere 10 minutes from the hotel zone and boasts 4 attractive beaches: Coral Beach, Laúd Beach, Cuachalalate and Varadero. It also has striking rock formations and, if luck is with you, you might get to see some of the 100 deer that live there.
Furthermore, Ixtapa Island offers activities such as scuba diving, kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling and jet skiing. As for services, you can savor luscious cuisine at some of its restaurants, have a massage in its spas and shop for handicrafts, jewelry, souvenirs and other such things in its shops.
This beach has everything, from good waves for surfers, to an estuary that is a crocodile habitat where you can watch these animals in their natural environment from an observation deck. The attractions don’t stop there, however!
Linda Beach lies to the north of Ixtapa, past Quieta Beach. This idyllic spot that stretches over a half mile long, is where the boats leave for Isla Ixtapa, described above.
Here, if you happen to be an expert on a board, you can compete in one of the international surfing tournaments held annually. But if you’ve never surfed, you’re in the perfect place to learn the sport from top experts.
If that isn’t your thing and you’re looking for a calmer setting, at the dock on this beach, a tour boat can take you over to Isla Ixtapa. Also, on the beach outskirts are several attractions aimed at connecting with nature. So, if you’re an ecotourism fan, you’re going to love it here!
To wrap up, if you’d like to experience this environment without rushing and stretch your trip out a little, toward the southern end of Linda Beach is a campground and a cycle path, as well as clothing, handicraft and souvenir shops.
Location: Boulevard Ixtapa, no number, Ixtapa, 40884, Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, Guerrero
For a calmer weekend plan that is fun and educational to boot, the Gran Acuario Mazatlán offers 26 habitats with diverse marine species, swimming with sharks, ray or shark feeding activities and interaction with various species.
This place appeals to both big folks and small. As an added attraction, if you’re looking to surprise your special someone during your vacation, certain spaces at the aquarium may be reserved for certain events, like a birthday party, for instance.
Now you know it: if you love the sea and want to interact with or feed rays, sea turtles, tropical fish or sea lions, this is the ideal location for an unforgettable experience.
Location: Av. de los Deportes 111, Tellería, 82017, Mazatlán, Sinaloa
Hours: Mon to Sun, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Prices:
Isla Venados (deer island) is an ecological reserve that is home to whitetail deer, bats, squirrels, badgers, seagulls, iguanas, snakes, dolphins and whales, which, with any luck, you will sight from December to March.
Mazatlán has incredibly beautiful beaches, and specifically on Isla Venados there is one with crystal-clear water and calm surf, making it perfect for several kinds of water sports like snorkeling, kayaking, scuba diving or to rent a sailboat, swim or just relax.
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When heading to this destination, keep in mind that there is one single restaurant in the area, and it doesn’t always open. So, be sure and take drinks, snacks and food as a preventive measure.
Another activity to enjoy when visiting Isla Venados or Isla del Medio (island in the middle), as it is also known, is hiking. You can climb up the hill to take in the spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean, posing below for photographs.
As a final recommendation, among the things you take on your outing, don’t forget to include a bag for your garbage and trash, since it is strictly forbidden to litter or pollute the island.
Location: in front of the hotel district, on San Félix Bay, Mazatlán, Sinaloa
Among the places to visit in Mazatlán for free is the waterfront, where you will be in contact with nature, be struck by the vistas and be able to relax from the daily hustle and bustle, on its beaches.
On this extensive, 13-mile-long waterfront you can choose among multiple options; beginning with a range of restaurants and culinary proposals with delicious dishes like herbed and grilled zarandeado fish, traditional aguachile or exquisite shrimp in coconut, which will leave you wanting more, no question.
Another option for your vacation on the Mazatlán waterfront is visiting the lighthouse. Although this involves some minor physical effort, it is definitely worthwhile! Depending on the time you go, when you get to the top of Crestón Hill you might see a sunrise or sunset, with pink, purple, blue and orange tones that’ll make you sigh.
Finally, to get around and go at your own pace, you have 3 options: on foot, bike or pulmonía, which is a sort of very comfortable golf cart for rent. A monument to the very first pulmonía, introduced in 1965, stands on the waterfront.
Location: Avenida del Mar, no number, Mazatlán, Sinaloa
Is tourism in Veracruz limited to beaches? The answer is no; it goes beyond that and includes other places to visit near Veracruz, such as San Juan de Ulúa.
This 16th-century fort standing in the port of Veracruz has been used as a fort, prison and customs. Nowadays, it is a tourist site containing the navy museum where visitors learn about the history of both the fort and the port of Veracruz.
You will also enjoy the ocean views around it, take pictures, admire its architecture and design and learn respect for the objects kept there, which are related to Mexico’s maritime history.
Location: Av. General Prim, no number, Centro, 91700, Veracruz, Veracruz
Hours: Tues to Sun, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Prices:
The area around Tecolutla Beach is full of beautiful spots and history, since it was inhabited by the ancient indigenous Totonaca civilization and was also a major commercial port for products such as vanilla, cacao and cotton.
These days, numerous activities can be done at this clear-water, fine-sand beach, especially water sports such as kayaking, paddle boarding and snorkeling to explore marine life and nearby coral reefs.
Boat rides are also available along the Tecolutla River, to admire the lush vegetation and tropical bird watch, as well as visit El Lago de Tecolutla Ecological Reserve, a wetland with gran diversity of bird species and extensive mangroves.
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Finally, we cannot end without mentioning the delicious local gastronomy, known for its fresh seafood and traditional dishes, like dogfish tamales, Veracruzana-style fish, shrimp huatape stew and Malayan coconut. Mmm, hits the spot!
Location: Km 86 on the Federal Highway 180, Tecolutla, Veracruz
When you get to the port city of Veracruz, one of the first vistas is of Villa del Mar Beach, situated centrally and very close to the Veracruz Aquarium, hotels and various businesses, to have everything within reach.
While staying in this zone you can dive into warm waters that are so clear you can see the fish swimming around your feet. You can also relax on the edge of the beach, practice surfing, kayaking, scuba diving or snorkeling. But no worries if you have never done these water activities! You can rent equipment on the beach and hire professional instructors to teach you any of these sports.
On top of that, another option that you may like is to check out what the bars and restaurants have to offer: delicious fresh local dishes and live music.
One last thing, Villa del Mar Beach has green areas to rest in, have a picnic with friends and family or just enjoy the panoramic view and the magnificent sunsets, which is why it is a destination you just can’t miss!
Location: Km 142 on the Federal Highway 180, Boca del Río, Veracruz
If you’re wondering what to do in downtown Zacatecas, we have 3 proposals that you can’t ignore, starting with the Zacatecas cable car, which you will definitely want to check out on your next vacation.
What makes it so special is mainly the impressive and highly Instagrammable panoramic views. From up there you will get to see the colonial architecture, the hills, the region’s natural beauty, La Bufa Hill Scenic Overlook, the Rafael Coronel Museum and other emblematic places in the area.
If you want to add some extra adrenalin to the trip, we recommend getting in the car with the glass bottom! It holds up to 8 people and takes nearly 10 minutes to get to its destination.
Location: El Grillo Hill, Centro, 98140, Zacatecas, Zacatecas
Prices: $25 MXN – $50 MXN pesos
Hours: Mon to Sun, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
El Edén Mine is a silver mine with a history that goes back to the 16th century, when it was discovered by the Spanish. For centuries, the mine was a major source of silver and other minerals, a major contributor to regional economic development.
Today, the place has become a tourist attraction, now that visitors can explore its underground tunnels and learn about the history of mining in the region.
On your visit through Zacatecas you cannot skip this, because it offers a unique experience that provides visitors a peek into the world of mining and more of a grasp of its historic importance. Plus, the underground landscape is impressive, with rock formations and stalactites that create a mysterious atmosphere.
To wrap up, El Edén Mine is in a charming colonial city with impressive architecture and rich culture. Consequently, during your time here, you can easily add other points of interest, such as the lovely cobblestone streets and museums.
Location: Calle del Edén, no number, Centro, Zacatecas, Zacatecas
Hours: Mon to Fri, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm; Sat and Sun, 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
Prices:
Nuestra Señora de la Asunción Cathedral Basilica is a religious building in the heart of downtown Zacatecas, which was built in the 18th century and is a marvelous example of Solomonic Baroque colonial architecture.
Architecturally, it is well worth visiting, since the main façade is a sculptural and decorative masterpiece, with incredible details that include figures of saints and angels. The interior is equally striking, with one central and two lateral naves, three cupolas and a choir that will amaze you with the amount of detail and how well it has been conserved.
Furthermore, in addition to its architectural beauty, it is also very important historically and culturally and is located in the very center of the city, making it easy to see other places of interest nearby, such as Calderón Theater, the Government Palace and La Bufa Hill.
Location: Av. Hidalgo 617, Centro, 98000, Zacatecas, Zacatecas
Hours: Mon to Sun, 6:30 am – 8:00 pm
If you’re looking to go somewhere near Nuevo Vallarta for your next vacation and would like some exciting, fun activities, where you’ll end up in fits of laughter, Aquaventuras Park may just be your top choice.
This water park in Nuevo Vallarta has 10 slides of different sizes and shapes, playgrounds, swimming with dolphins, a scaling wall, zip line and the “challenge,” a bridge to test your motor coordination every step of the way.
If you like the idea of letting your inner child come out, having fun in a great family atmosphere and spending your vacation in a place with all the amenities, then head to Aquaventuras Park on your vacation!
Location: Km 155 on the Tepic Road, entrance to Nuevo Vallarta, Bahía de Banderas, Nayarit
Hours: Tues to Sun, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Prices:
For some time close to nature and an outdoor experience, another option in Nueva Vallarta is El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary. Here, you can get close to reptiles within a meticulously cared for and controlled environment, with amazing detailed explanations by house biologists and veterinarians.
The sanctuary is a shelter for species that are ill or can no longer live in the wild. Among them are crocodiles, turtles, geese, coatis, parrots, macaws, squirrels, raccoons, frigate birds, pelicans, and others, and the money from entrance fees goes to the care and conservation of the place.
Now that you know what species you can see and everything that you can learn here, take your family this vacation and learn about the importance of reptiles for the ecosystem, as well as their interaction and biology. It promises to be an eye-opening experience.
Location: Bucerías Road, Puerto Vallarta-Tepic Bucerías, 63735, Nuevo Vallarta, Nayarit
Hours: Tues to Sun, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Prices: $250 MXN pesos adults and $150 MXN pesos children
And now, we’ve kept the best for last! One of the loveliest beaches in Nueva Vallarta is called San Pancho, and it has a variety of services, including restaurants, shops, hotels and hostels.
Among the possible activities at this idyllic destination are surfing, humpback whale watching from December to March, turtle releasing, bird watching and learning to surf at one of the cleanest beaches around.
And the beach is just a small, fun and varied aspect for your vacation; only minutes away are other places to enjoy and find entertainment. Sayulita, for example, has a variety of handicraft shops, Flamingos Golf for lovers of the sport, handicraft markets and colorful murals that form a great backdrop for photos.
Location: Federal Highway 200, San Francisco, Nayarit
As you have read, Mexico has great vacationing options, from beaches to archeological sites, cathedrals, mines, forts, aquariums, amusement parks, zoos and more; places where you can learn, have fun and take it easy.
We encourage you to discover the beauty of the places discussed here, and in each one of the cities, remember that you can stay in one of our Emporio Hotels, to give your trip the plus of comfort, fun and the possibility of seeing other interesting sights thanks to the central location of our properties.
WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU!
