10 Resort Towns In Mexico - Updated 2024

1. Cancún (from USD 653)

Cancún is one of the top resort cities in Mexico. It is located in southeast Mexico, on the Yucatán Peninsula. It offers a stunning coastline of white-sand beaches and turquoise Caribbean waters. There are some small ruins of Mayan civilization nearby including El Rey and El Meco. Some of the best-reviewed accommodations include Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach, The Royal Caribbean, Hyatt Ziva, and Emporio.

2. Cabo San Lucas (from USD 1251)

Cabo San Lucas is another popular Mexico resort area situated on the southern end of the Baja California Peninsula. It is a popular vacation spot on the Pacific Ocean. Popular activities include snorkeling, whale watching during the winter, and checking out local nightlife.

Popular resorts in Cabo San Lucas include The Resort at Pedregal, Las Ventanas al Paraiso and Esperanza. One of the most visited beaches is Medano Beach, which offers warm and peaceful waters suitable for the whole family to enjoy.

3. Cozumel (from USD 175)

Cozumel is a small island in the Caribbean Sea, off the coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. It’s one of the most popular resort towns in Mexico with the town’s principal economic driver being tourism. There are a number of historic sites including Maya ruins at San Gervasio and the Chan Santa Cruz Monument. Scuba diving is particularly popular due to the extensive coral reef on the western coast of the island.

Popular accommodations include Balwin’s Guest House Cozumel, Casa Mexicana Cozumel and El Cid La Ceiba Beach Hotel.

4. Porto Escondido (from USD 400)

Porto Escondido is a lesser known tourist destination on the Oaxacan Coast in southern Mexico. Surfing is very popular here as the location offers stunning beaches and great waves. It offers some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, including Playa Carrizalillo, Playa Puerto Angelito and Playa Manzanillo. Don’t forget to try fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants. Because this destination has a few high rises and fancy resorts, your best bet is to look into accommodations such as Villas Carrizalillo, Hotel Escondido and Hotel Arcoiris.

5. Puerto Vallarta (from USD 104)

Puerto Vallarta lies on the Pacific Ocean, in the state of Jalisco. It is perhaps one of the most visited resort towns in Mexico, and each year there are more direct flights from major American cities. Puerto Vallarta has gained a distinct reputation as a welcoming destination for the LGBT community and hosts annual celebrations and nightlife. Apart from the beaches, the city itself has a beautiful historic district worth visiting. We recommend taking a look at Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa, Flamingo Vallarta Hotel & Marina, and Playa Los Arcos Hotel Beach Resort & Spa.

6. Acapulco (from USD 100)

Acapulco is a major seaport on the Pacific coast and is about 380 kilometers (240 miles) from the capital, Mexico City. While a popular destination in the late 21st century, it has unfortunately seen an uptick in violence and tourism has fallen as a result. However, there are still beautiful beaches and cuisine to enjoy. For accommodations, take a look at Fiesta Americana Villas and Emporio Acapulco Hotel.

7. Mazatlán (from USD 223)

Mazatlán is situated on the Pacific coast in the state of Sinaloa. In the 1970s, the area began to cater to Western tourists and received visits from many American celebrities. There are plenty of chances to enjoy the natural beauty of the area, either on a tour or just walking along the beach. Enjoy the local cuisine and be sure to try some fresh seafood while you are there. Recommended accommodations include Ramada Resort Mazatlán, Hotel Playa Mazatlán, and Luna Palace Hotel & Suites, which are some of the top hotels to stay in Mexico.

8. San José del Cabo (from USD 1178)

San José del Cabo is also located on the southern tip of the Baja California Sur peninsula. Here you will find a mix of indigenous culture and 18th-century Spanish architecture and influence. It is a more laidback resort town compared to its neighbor, Cabo San Lucas. Some of the best things to do in Mexico, such as kayaking and scuba diving, are available in the Cabo Pulmo Marine Park. Take a look at Grand Velas Los Cabos, Las Ventanas al Paraiso, and La Jolla, for a place to stay.

9. Playa del Carmen (from USD 292)

Playa del Carmen is located near Cozumel, on the mainland, and offers breathtaking views of the ocean. It has grown into more of a tourist destination recently since it is the starting point from where most people take the ferry to Cozumel. As a result, it has grown to accommodate more visitors. Recently many large-scale resorts, restaurants, and golf course have popped up. Popular activities include snorkeling and diving around the coral reefs off the coast. If you are looking for a place to stay, check out Occidental at Xcaret Destination, The Fives Azul Beach Resort, and Mehekal Beach Resort.

10. Tulum (from USD 117)

Tulum is home to significant Mayan history and ruins, making it one of the best places to visit in Mexico. It was one of the last cities to be built and inhabited by the Maya before they were eradicated by colonizers. The ruins run along the tall cliffs and are some of the most well preserved historical Mayan sites in Mexico. Needless to say, it is a very popular tourist destination for this reason. There are also beautiful white sand beaches along the coast and plenty of opportunities for unwinding in the tropical sun. Accommodations worth checking out include Nueva Vida de Ramiro, Papaya Playa Project and Coco Tulum.

Sunshine in the tropics

Mexico is a well-known destination for beachfront resort towns. If you haven’t been to Mexico yet, jump on the bandwagon and see what all the fuss is about. While you’re here, make sure you take time to learn about the history and culture of the region, as well as take a dip in the Azul waters. Keep this list in mind when you are planning your next vacation.