Mexico is house to a number of the most gorgeous magnificence spots on the planet! I went past the high-octane resorts and found secluded coastlines, historical ruins, and extraordinary islands. From residing right here for yr, listed here are my favourite spots I’d like to share with you…
1. Yucatán Peninsula
I’m an enormous fan of this very alluring space stuffed with distinctive limestone geology, unimaginable cenotes (pure sinkholes), gorgeous coastlines, and pristine seashores, which incorporates the favored resort of Playa del Carmen. The area can also be wealthy in Mayan heritage, with extraordinary ruins comparable to Chichén Itzá and the traditional metropolis of Tulum. It lies on the southeastern tip of Mexico, extending between the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea.
Riviera Maya is likely one of the most well-known districts of the peninsula and one of many extra stylish areas, well-known for its jaw-dropping boho resorts, severely Insta-worthy villas, and gleaming yachts. Nonetheless, I personally assume it solely represents a small portion of what the Yucatan can provide.
I additionally actually loved visiting the space’s nationwide parks, swimming within the severely jaw-dropping underground lakes, in any other case referred to as cenotes (Gran Cenote was my favourite!), happening a dolphin-watching boat tour and celebrating the unimaginable two-day competition well-known Day of the Lifeless within the state’s capital, Merida (which was held in November).
My favourite highlights…
- Staying on the gorgeously styled Period Resort & Spa Tulum was a dream – I beloved the boho vibes and the enjoyable onsite spa and wellness space.
- Consuming on the stylish Kuuk Restaurant, which was housed in a colonial mansion and served up fashionable twists on conventional Yucatan delicacies, the chilly raspberry and hibiscus soup was each distinctive and divine!
- Catching the sundown within the dreamy small fishing village of San Crisanto was an Instgram-worthy second! I sat on the semi-virgin white sand seashore with swaying palm timber, and surrounding lush mangroves and noticed the sky remodel into an attractive palette of oranges!
2. Oaxaca Metropolis
I completely beloved this world heritage metropolis which is stuffed with colourful colonial structure, artisan and craft markets, historical ruins, and a wealthy indigenous tradition, surrounded by lush mountains and gorgeous coastlines.
Positioned in a valley within the southern a part of this nation, I additionally discovered it had such an attractive, bohemian and small-town vibe the place custom meets creativity with putting road artwork, mezcal tastings, and soulful music that echo by way of its fantastic cobblestone streets.
Oaxaca can also be a gastronomic haven and I can’t get sufficient of the unimaginable meals right here in addition to all of the superior cooking colleges! On my journey, I explored the colonial structure, the artisan-filled Oaxaca Artisan Market and found the encompassing areas that are stuffed with abandoned white-sand seashores, lush forests, and gorgeous waterfalls!
My private highlights…
- Staying on the Majagua Resort Boutique which had a wow-inducing boho design full with fireplace pits and beautiful textiles!
- Eating on the modern restaurant El Destilado – I beloved the distinctive tasting menu, I opted for the Trio of Doughs which was an unimaginable collection of tamales with lacto-fermented greens and vegan gordita.
- Attempting the well-known Mole, a standard Mexican sauce made with floor chillies, peanuts, sesame seeds, chocolate, anise, and different herbs and spices – it had fairly a kick!
3. Isla Holbox
I assumed this place was so dreamy, and I beloved the flamingos and pelicans right here! It’s a laid-back, traffic-free island with white sand Caribbean seashores, turquoise waters and spectacularly coloured buildings.
Positioned off the northern coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula (round 40 miles northwest of Cancún), it’s stuffed with various marine life (together with whale sharks) and birdlife, colourful road artwork and magical bioluminescence (seen often June to September).
I come right here to sit back, go swimming, snorkeling and paddle-boarding, kayak by way of the gorgeous mangroves and catch breathtaking sunsets over the Caribbean waters.
- Staying on the dreamy Soho Boutique Holbox – I used to be actually charmed by its boho styling, artistic design particulars and romantic rooms that got here with an enormous soaking tub!
- Occurring a boat tour and seeing the flamingos from the water, exploring the unspoilt gorgeous nature reserve Punta Mosquito and swimming within the beautiful pure springs of Yalahau Lagoon.
4. Bernal
I used to be a giant fan of this beautiful village which I assumed had a timeless, small-town vibe! It’s house to picturesque colonial streets lined with colourful, well-preserved buildings, charming plazas, and rustic stone pathways all set towards the dramatic backdrop of Peña de Bernal (one of many tallest monoliths on the planet)!
I really like how the locals right here want to take life simple right here and restrict stress as a lot as potential – it was positively completely different to different cities in Mexico which I’d visited.
On my journey, I hiked the long-lasting Peña de Bernal, visited artisan retailers, tasted the scrumptious native wines, shopped for handicrafts in Centro artesanal La Aurora and loved conventional Mexican delicacies within the cozy, picturesque eating places.
My favourite highlights…
- Eating alfresco on stuffed poblano peppers smothered in spicy mole sauce within the serene courtyard of the rustic-chic El Arrayán, a Mexican restaurant stuffed with allure.
- Mountaineering the easygoing path from Bernal to Chichidho, taking about an hour to finish – and it was completely price it for the views of the Peña de Bernal, the cactus-studded paths and rocky terrain!
5. Isla Mujeres
I assumed this place was simply so dreamy! I discovered white sandy seashores, crystal-clear turquoise waters, fairly coral reefs, and a gradual paced island vibe only a brief boat journey from Cancun.
It’s a small island with not an terrible lot happening, however that’s why I beloved it a lot right here! To me, it felt worlds aside from the craziness of the mainland.
On my journey, I swam, snorkeled, relaxed on Playa Norte’s white sands, explored Punta Sur’s scenic cliffs and Mayan ruins, went on a surprising sundown cruise and indulged within the candy artwork of not doing a lot in any respect! It was bliss!
My highlights…
- Staying on the beautiful Icaco Island Village – I beloved the fashionable design, the pure white coloration scheme and Insta-worthy pool cabanas!
- Savoring the scrumptious Mango Margaritas at Tiny Gecko Bar as I watched the sky remodel into a surprising canvas of fiery oranges and pinks – it was the proper spot to take in the magic of sundown!
6. Puerto Vallarta
I personally assume this cosmopolitan resort is a choosy vacationer’s dream! It’s a surprising mixture of lush inexperienced mountains, golden seashores, colourful buildings lining cobblestone streets, artistic road artwork and breathtaking Pacific sunsets.
Positioned on the Pacific coast within the state of Jalisco (alongside the Bay of Banderas), I really like the vibe right here which is laid-back but vigorous, I come right here once I’m on a restricted schedule and need to get a style of all elements of Mexican life neatly wrapped up in a single vacation spot!
When right here, I calm down on the gorgeous seashores, hang around on the scenic Malecon boardwalk, go snorkeling, take whale watching boat excursions, and discover the beautiful previous city of Puerto Vallarta, which is stuffed with conventional structure, fashionable eating places, artisan crafts retailers, artwork galleries and vibrant nightlife.
My private highlights…
- Occurring a enjoyable all-inclusive Yacht Cruise to the gorgeous Yelapa Falls – I beloved the vigorous social gathering vibe on the boat, recognizing playful dolphins and the complimentary therapeutic massage!
- Staying on the charming Casa Victoria Malecón – I used to be a giant fan of the characterful boutique design, romantic vibe and central location.
This place actually wowed me! It’s a sleepy coastal city which is house to serene coastal lagoons, lovely mangrove forests, and beautiful flocks of flamingos that created a surprising distinction towards the turquoise waters!
Positioned on the northwestern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, when right here, I took a ship tour to see the unimaginable hen and wildlife (pelicans, herons, American crocodiles, jaguars and the endangered Yucatán black howler monkey all name this place house), explored the extraordinary mangrove forests, relaxed on tranquil white sand seashores, swam in freshwater springs, and dined within the native beachside eating places.
My favourite highlights…
- Occurring a boat tour by way of the extraordinary mangroves of the Celestun biosphere and recognizing the majestic flamingos!
- Staying on the Tótem Seashore Membership – I beloved the fashionable vibe, fashionable design and the stylish poolside cabanas.
8. Lago de Patzcuaro
This can be a very lovely and distinctive vacation spot! It’s stuffed with serene, mist-covered waters, historic islands, and the wealthy cultural heritage of Purepecha traditions that create a fascinating and timeless environment. This place has a magical, zen-like vibe which I completely beloved, and it’s so exceptional that it even impressed Pixar’s Coco!
Positioned in state of Michoacán, within the nation’s central-western highlands, its nestled in an historical volcanic basin and is house to all kinds of attention-grabbing creatures! The rough-footed mud turtle and the Mexican garter snake reside right here, together with different uncommon fish and amphibians which have tailored to the lake’s uncommon setting.
When right here, I went on a ship tour to Janitzio Island, explored the attention-grabbing artisan villages, hiked the encompassing scenic trails, sampled the native delicacies, and visited the historic Basilica de Nuestra Señora de la Salud.
My private highlights…
- Visiting the close by city of Santa Clara del Cobre which is domestically well-known for its copper artisans – I beloved seeing the reside handicraft demonstrations and purchasing for lovely handcrafted copper gadgets.
9. Cabo San Lucas Arch
This can be a dramatic, pure rock formation that rises majestically the place the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean! I really like the way it creates a surprising distinction towards the turquoise waters in addition to serving as a wide ranging image of Cabo’s rugged coastal magnificence.
It’s situated within the resort metropolis of Cabo San Lucas ,which lies on the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, its house to white sand seashores, world-class scuba diving places, and a enjoyable vacation environment!
After photographing the rock, I relaxed on the seashores, went snokeling and whale watching, launched into zip-lining and ATV excursions, and sampled the colourful eating and nightlife!
My highlights…
- Staying on the beautiful Bahia Resort & Seashore Home – I beloved its stylish aesthetic, superior swim-up bar and nice location subsequent to the best seashores.
- Having fun with the gorgeous views, reside music and dancing on the Mango Deck Bar and Grill – their Tacos de canasta have been divine!
10. Mahahual
This was one in every of my favourite hidden gems! Dwelling to pristine, palm-lined seashores, gorgeous Caribbean waters, and a relaxed small village allure. I beloved the distinctive, rustic vibe that made time appear to decelerate – it felt a lot extra off-the-beaten-path than the busier resorts I visited.
Positioned alongside the coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, my journey was stuffed with enjoyable on unspoiled, tranquil seashores, snorkeling and diving across the vibrant Mesoamerican Reef, strolling the Malecón boardwalk, eating at rustic beachside eating places, and exploring the close by Chacchoben Mayan ruins.
My private highlights…
- Taking a diving journey with Mahahual dive college and seeing colourful coral formations, colleges of tropical fish, eagle rays, and super-cute sea turtles!
11. Morelia
This can be a visually putting colonial metropolis with a UNESCO World Heritage Web site standing! I’m additionally charmed by the well-preserved pink stone structure right here which is a mixture of Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical types. Relationship again to the Sixteenth century, it’s house to charming cobblestone streets, spectacular church buildings and stylish plazas all set towards the scenic backdrop of the Sierra Madre mountains.
Positioned in central state of Michoacán (about 186 miles west of Mexico Metropolis), on my journey I found the magnificent Cathedral, strolled by way of the colonial Aqueduct and historic plazas, visited the spectacular Palacio Clavijero and museums, and visited the native artisan markets and tamale retailers and sampled genuine Michoacán delicacies.
My favourite highlights…
- Eating on the stylish Cuish Cocina Boutique Restaurant – I beloved cozy hearth, the rustic-chic decor, the various craft cocktail menu and my scrumptious dish of Michoacano Chili which got here with Pumpkin Blossom!
12. Isla Espiritu Santo
This can be a secluded hidden gem far-off from the vacationer crowds! The island is a part of a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve and I used to be completely in awe of this breathtaking place which had clear turquoise waters, putting purple cliffs, white sandy seashores, and various marine life.
Positioned within the Gulf of California, off the coast of Baja California Sur, I took a day journey tour right here which concerned a ship journey from La Paz metropolis and I used to be instantly struck by its peaceable and untouched vibe.
On my journey, I swam with playful sea lions, kayaked alongside gorgeous coves, hiked scenic trails, relaxed on the secluded seashores, and noticed unimaginable marine life when diving.
My highlights…
- Occurring a snorkeling tour and seeing colourful tropical fish, playful sea lions and dolphins, manta rays, sea turtles, and even a whale shark (which utterly made my journey)!
- Leaping off the picket platform and plunging into the distinctive blue waters of Matevulu Blue Gap was actually exhilarating – the colourful shades of blue have been like one thing out of a dream!
13. Chichen Itza, Yucatan
I’ve to say this sprawling historical Mayan archaeological website! This well-known UNESCO World Heritage Web site is likely one of the world’s New Seven Wonders, and I really like its mystical, awe-inspiring vibe. With towering pyramids, intricate carvings, and sacred cenotes, it stands as a strong testomony to the grandeur of the traditional Mayan civilization!
Positioned within the japanese a part of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula (round a two hour drive from Mérida), I paid $35 USD to entry the protected website and spent a day wandering round and gazing on the magnificent buildings.
These included the long-lasting El Castillo pyramid, the Temple of the Warriors which was used for ceremonies and rituals, the traditional Nice Ball Court docket used for Mesoamerican ball video games, the sacred Cenote Sagrado (which was a sinkhole used for sacrificial rites) and the round Observatory which was constructed to look at the celebs and planets.
My private highlights…
- Swimming within the Cenote Ik kil which was situated within the space – I beloved its giant pure round opening, atmospheric hanging vines, the helpful carved stone staircase that result in swimming platforms and the colourful emerald-green waters!
14. Campeche
That is one other gorgeous colonial metropolis which dates again to the Sixteenth century! Its historic middle holds UNESCO World Heritage Web site standing and options fantastically preserved, pastel-colored colonial buildings showcasing a mixture of Spanish, Baroque, and Neoclassical types.
I used to be captivated by its timeless allure and located myself spending hours simply wandering round, admiring the colourful facades, intricate detailing, historic fortress partitions, and picturesque cobblestone streets, all fantastically framed by the glowing waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Positioned on the western coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, I explored the historic middle, visited the spectacular Forts of San Miguel and San José, loved gorgeous waterfront sunsets alongside the Malecón, and savored the scrumptious flavors of Yucatecan delicacies.
My private highlights…
- Eating on the terrace on the genuine Mexican restaurant Casa Vieja del Río – I beloved the colonial constructing it was housed in and sipping on a potent Mezcal drink whereas watching the gorgeous sundown!
- Exploring the wow-inducing Edzna Mayan Ruins which was round an hour’s drive southeast of town – I beloved seeing its spectacular predominant temple and the way it as soon as used superior hydraulic programs!
15. The Copper Canyon, Chihuahua
This can be a actually breathtaking spot! It’s an unlimited community of dramatic canyons, even deeper and bigger than the Grand Canyon within the USA! I used to be actually in awe of its uncooked, untamed magnificence, with rugged cliffs, unimaginable rock formations, lush valleys, and breathtaking panoramic views.
Nestled within the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain vary in Chihuahua, northern Mexico, I stayed within the charming mountain village of Creel which was stuffed with native artwork, crafts, scrumptious delicacies, and comfy eating places.
Throughout my go to, I swam within the refreshing waters of Cusarare Falls, hiked the rugged canyon trails, explored Rarámuri (Tarahumara) villages to find out about indigenous tradition, and loved the joys of zip-lining at Copper Canyon Journey Park
My highlights…
- Driving the scenic Chepe practice on a 5 day tour – I used to be in awe of the breathtaking views of the rugged landscapes, towering cliffs, lush forests, attention-grabbing bridges, tunnels and the fascinating Rarámuri communities that lived within the space!
16. Valladolid
This one other charming colonial gem of a city! I completely fell for its laid-back really feel, pastel-colored streets, very good historic structure and attention-grabbing Mayan tradition.
Positioned on the well-known Yucatán Peninsula, about midway between Cancún and Mérida, it’s conveniently near Chichén Itzá and Ek’ Balam. There are additionally gorgeous cenotes situated right here and delightful examples of Mexican people artwork and furnishings!
Throughout my journey, I explored the picturesque city sq. and the historic San Gervasio Cathedral, visited Cenote Zací proper within the coronary heart of city, and shopped for native handicrafts at Mercado Municipal.
I swam within the breathtaking cenotes, Cenote X’kekén and Cenote Samulá, wandered by way of the Sixteenth-century Convent of San Bernardino of Siena and took a stroll alongside the colourful Calzada de los Frailes the place I discovered distinctive retailers, charming cafes, and conventional Yucatecan eating places.
My private highlights…
17. Lacandon Jungle
I’d advocate this vacation spot for journey lovers! It’s a dense, vibrant rainforest stuffed with cascading waterfalls, hidden lagoons, and unimaginable biodiversity, I used to be in awe of its wild, mystical vibe which immersed me in an historical, untouched world!
The Lacandon Jungle stretches from Chiapas to the southern portion of the Yucatan Peninsula and its stuffed with attention-grabbing wildlife together with howler and spider monkeys, jaguars, toucans, scarlet macaws, tapirs, and an array of colourful butterflies and tropical birds.
I stayed in an eco-lodge within the village Lacanjá Chansayab and hiked by way of lush trails on an orgnaized tour, explored Bonampak and Yaxchilán historical Mayan ruins, went river rafting on the Usumacinta and learnt all concerning the fascinating native Lacandon Maya tradition.
My highlights…
- Occurring a two day organized jungle tour and safely exploring the distinctive space in addition to Lacanja Ruins “The misplaced Metropolis” and Bonampak from Palenque. – I beloved recognizing the super-cute spider monkeys!
18. Chiapas
This place is an entire state and a very extraordinary one! I used to be in awe of the way it was stuffed with miles and miles of uncooked and untouched pure magnificence with gorgeous rainforests, winding rivers, cascading waterfalls, deep canyons, historical Mayan ruins, picturesque colonial cities and vital archaeological websites.
Positioned within the southern a part of the nation (close to the border with Guatemala) on my journey I took a ship journey by way of Sumidero Canyon, explored the colourful colonial city of San Cristóbal de las Casas, gazed on the Mayan ruins of Palenque, swam within the turquoise waters of Agua Azul, learnt about indigenous tradition in conventional villages and hiked the Lagos de Montebello, a surprising space stuffed with greater than fifty scenic lakes!
My favourite highlights…
- Discovering the fascinating Bonampak Murals on the Bonampak archaeological website was a spotlight of my journey. I beloved how remarkably they’ve retained their vivid hues of purple, blue, inexperienced, and yellow, even after over 1,200 years!
19. The Bufadora, Baja California
This can be a dramatic and highly effective pure marine geyser! It’s an thrilling place the place I watched towering jets of seawater burst from the cliffs towards the backdrop of the glowing Pacific Ocean, making a mesmerizing spectacle!
Positioned on the Punta Banda Peninsula alongside the Pacific coast, I stayed within the metropolis of Ensenada and took the 45-minute drive to this superior pure attraction which was stuffed with rugged pure surroundings and native distributors promoting souvenirs and snacks.
After I watched the unimaginable sight from a secure goal constructed platform, I browsed native artisan retailers for distinctive souvenirs, sampled genuine Mexican road meals, took scenic coastal images, and hiked the close by trails – the ocean views have been very good!
My favourite highlights…
- Mountaineering the out-and-back 2.6 mile lengthy Punta Banda Peak path which took me two hours to finish and was reasonably difficult – the panoramic views of the encompassing shoreline and Ensenada made it worthwhile although!
Do you continue to need extra? Then I recommend heading to the famously enjoyable resort city of Acapulco, the non-party place of Cancun, the historic colonial metropolis of Guanajuato, the romantic highland city of San Miguel de Allende, the protected Marieta Islands, the birthplace of tequila Guadalajara, or Riviera Nayarit, the brand new seashore hotspot!
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