The Ultimate Mexico Travel Guide

When I need a quick escape to relax and recharge, Mexico is always my go-to! With so many incredible destinations, it can be tough to decide where to start, but that just means there’s something for everyone.

There are so many different areas you can visit in Mexico, all which have a unique charm. If you’re planning your own trip and you’re trying to choose the perfect destination, I’m here to help. Whether you’re dreaming of white sandy beaches, a fun-filled family getaway, or a romantic escape for two, Mexico has it all.

This Mexico travel guide will take you through some of the most highly coveted cities in the country. I’m also highlighting the best places to stay and I’m suggesting a wide range of activities that are curated to a variety of interests.

I’ve visited many of these spots myself and can confidently say there’s a destination for every occasion. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, toasting to a milestone, planning a girls’ trip, or bringing your kids along for some sun-soaked fun, you’ll find the perfect place to visit on this list.

Below, I’m sharing trip ideas and answering all of your questions so you can craft the perfect Mexico itinerary!

Editor’s Note: All photos in this post were taken in Riviera Maya.

Mexico Travel Guide

Riviera Maya

We recently visited Riviera Maya instead of going to Florida for our usual Valentine’s Day getaway and we couldn’t help but fall in love with this dreamy destination.

If you’re lusting after a romantic escape that blends luxury, adventure, and breathtaking natural beauty, look no further than Riviera Maya. This stretch of Mexico’s Caribbean coastline is pure magic. The ocean here is clear, blue, and so calm. I love this in contrast to some other regions in Mexico where the beaches are rocky and the water is rough.

Riviera Maya also boasts lush tropical surroundings that make for a stunning view, or if you and your partner are interested in exploring the outdoors, there are so many excursions available to explore the jungle on foot, while hiking, or while riding on an ATV.

Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, a honeymoon, or simply indulging in some much-needed R&R, Riviera Maya delivers charm at every turn.

Where to Stay

After a 3 am wake up call and a quick flight, we checked into The Riviera Maya EDITION at Kanai. This resort is absolute perfection. We were actually able to get most of this vacation covered through our Marriott Bonvoy membership! I am a huge proponent for choosing a travel rewards program and sticking to it so you can rack up the points. Marriott Bonvoy has been great for us, and we loved being able to plan this trip with it being almost entirely covered by points.

When we first arrived I couldn’t help but notice how much I loved the decor. It was minimalistic with light, creamy colors and natural walnut wood. I’m taking inspiration from these rooms for my next project in our own home!

This resort is certainly one of the most gorgeous places I have ever been to. From the property to the beaches and attentive staff, we were truly in paradise.

One question I kept getting in my DMs was whether The EDITION was an adults-only resort. The answer is no, but I did notice there weren’t many toddlers or kids around. It was mostly couples and a few babies.

Some highlights we loved: We had a private plunge pool off of our suite, equipped with lounge chairs, towels, and an incredible view of the lush jungle and the ocean in the distance. This was perfect for a refreshing dip in the mornings, or to sit by while enjoying coffee and room service.

The St. Regis is another property located near The EDITION, and guests can easily take a golf cart to visit the other hotel. We did this for dinner one night to visit a pop-up restaurant at the St. Regis. It was so much fun to cruise around the property on a golf cart during the warm nights. You can also dine at either hotel and charge the meal to your room, making it convenient to enjoy the amenities at both properties.

What to Explore

One of the biggest draws to the Riviera Maya is the incredible selection of activities.

We arrived at our resort around noon and were so excited to have the whole day to relax and explore! We quickly changed out of our airport attire and put on our swimsuits to soak up some much needed sun.

I love how at The EDITION, they are truly set up for the ultimate day of relaxation. They have lounge chairs and umbrellas just steps away from the ocean, as well as comfortable crochet hammocks underneath the shade of the palm trees.

If you and your partner are looking to add some adventure into your vacation, there are plenty of options off-resort to explore as well. In Riviera Maya you can book tours to swim in hidden Cenotes (historic, freshwater sinkholes that are scattered throughout the region.)

Plus, since Riviera Maya is nestled in the heart of the jungle, there are several charming little towns scattered throughout the vibrant vegetation. The area offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and local culture. I also have to add that I felt super safe walking around downtown at night and loved exploring all of the hidden gems along the way.

There are also endless options for sunset catamaran cruises. There are several companies that can pick you up from your resort before taking you sailing across the Caribbean (with champagne in hand of course!) If you prefer a daytime sail, they also have options for dive tours where you can explore the coral reefs — and even swim with sea turtles if you’re lucky.

Cabo

If you’re looking for the ultimate girls’ getaway, Cabo San Lucas is where luxury meets a vibrant social scene. Whether you’re celebrating or you’re simply in need of a fabulous escape with your friends, Cabo offers the perfect mix of relaxation, nightlife, and adventure (complete with the most stunning ocean views!)

The last time I was in Cabo was when I was pregnant with my son Antonio, and now he’s all grown up! This beautiful destination brings up such special memories for me, and if you visit, I hope you love it as much as I do.

Where to Stay

On the hunt for a chic and luxurious stay in Cabo? 1 Homes Cabo is an unbeatable choice. 1 Homes is located within the exclusive Palmilla community — it’s a stunning residential-style resort with incredible amenities and five-star service. The 1 Homes residences have multiple bedrooms, a full kitchen, and a shared living space, perfect for spending time with a big group while still having your own room to retire to.

Another major draw to 1 Homes Cabo is their personalized concierge service. These amazing concierges will arrange anything from having your kitchen stocked with whatever your group requests upon arrival to a personal boat day-charter. They can even schedule in-villa chefs for a fun dinner at your residence.

The beaches in Cabo do tend to be a bit more rocky, with strong currents and rough waves. This makes them unsafe for swimming, but Palmilla Beach has calmer waters if taking a dip is on your “must-do” list.

What to Explore

Cabo is known for its vibrant nightlife, championship golf courses, and fine dining. If you’re on a girls trip and are looking for a great nightlife option, El Squid Roe, Mango Deck, and The Office are lively beach-front bars that boast a fun atmosphere.

Boat excursions are also extremely popular in Cabo, and they provide a relaxing ride complete with drinks, snacks, and views of the iconic Arch, Lover’s Beach, and Land’s End. These outings are so much fun during the day if you want to snorkel and swim, as well as at sunset for a more relaxing vibe.

Tamarindo

For a nature-immersed yet upscale experience, consider adding Tamarindo to your bucket list. My dear friend Kathleen went to the Four Seasons Tamarindo right after it opened in 2023 and I’ve been dreaming of a trip there ever since. This destination is more so the type of place you go and stay at the resort for — which is appealing in its own way.

If you’re looking to kick your feet up and relax poolside, this is the spot for you.

Where to Stay

The Fours Seasons Tamarindo is at the top of my list in terms of where I’d personally like to stay. Guests appreciate that it isn’t an all-inclusive spot (you can be more specific with what you want to spend your money on this way.) They also have an adults-only pool, which is essential at any resort.

The property is known for its remote and peaceful setting, and like I mentioned above, this is the ideal place to go if you want to do “nothing” on your vacation. Utilize the private beach access, unwind in an infinity pool, or indulge in a spa service.

What to Explore

The appeal to Tamarindo is the concept of arriving, hunkering down, and truly gaining some R&R. Most travelers like to stay at the resort they choose, but you can also partake in boating, hiking, and on-property experiences.

Tulum

Located on the Caribbean coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, Tulum is a dreamy, laid-back destination that has become a top choice for couples and honeymooners. It’s also a hotspot for those seeking health, wellness, and relaxation. With its natural jungle setting, beautiful beaches, and focus on eco-friendly luxury, Tulum is a place where romance and relaxation come together.

Where to Stay

La Valise Tulum is a boutique hotel that comes highly suggested by Condé Nast Traveler. There are 22 suites you can choose from, all which offer a secluded and private feel. I love that you can choose a room that faces beach or jungle side — most suites also offer a terrace and outdoor soaking tub. The spa, gourmet restaurant, and wellness offerings make it an incredible option for a luxurious stay.

I love how small and intimate this hotel is while still feeling luxurious. It has everything you need for the perfect romantic getaway, including a secluded private beach.

What to Explore

Tulum has become a go-to wellness destination, boasting yoga retreats, world-class luxury spas, and healthy, organic cuisine. During your visit, take a local yoga class at Ahau Tulum or kick your feet up at many luxurious spas in the region. Yaan Healing Sanctuary has incredible reviews, as well as a variety of offerings from massages and facials to hydrotherapy and even personalized energy healing.

I also wanted to mention the viral Jungle Gym is located in Tulum! Heading here would be such a fun way to spend a morning and get a workout in with your partner (yes, even while on vacation.) If you haven’t heard of the Jungle Gym, it’s an outdoor gym that offers a more natural workout environment. Situated near the beach, The Jungle Gym is designed with eco-friendly materials — and it’s certainly on my bucket list!

Cancun

Cancun is one of the top family-friendly destinations in Mexico, and it’s easy to see why. With its affordable accommodations (especially when it comes to all-inclusive resorts) and family-focused activities, it’s the ideal spot for those seeking a hassle-free vacation.

Where to Stay

Resorts like The Grand at Moon Palace, Hyatt Ziva Cancun, and Iberostar Selection Cancun offer great amenities for families like kids’ clubs, spacious suites, and on-site waterparks. These are great options that allow parents to relax while keeping the little ones entertained.

What to Explore

Cancun is known for its turquoise waters, where you can grab some goggles and explore the vibrant reefs by snorkeling or taking a boat tour. The beaches in Cancun are very safe and easy to access, with most resorts having a wide beachfront with calm and shallow tides.

Cancun also has a wide variety of dining options, but my recommendation would be to take advantage of all the amazing restaurants your all-inclusive resort has to offer.

Playa Del Carmen

Playa Del Carmen is roughly a 20 minute drive from where we last visited in Mexico (Riviera Maya.) This fun coastal city is known for its breathtaking waters, lively atmosphere, and endless entertainment options. It’s an especially great choice for families and larger groups, as it tends to be more budget-friendly compared to some of Mexico’s more secluded destinations.

Playa Del Carmen offers a little something for everyone, making it ideal when you’re traveling with a family or a group with a mix of ages and interests.

Where to Stay

While we just visited Playa Del Carmen on a day trip, one of the most popular places to stay is the all-inclusive resort giant, Hotel Xcaret México. Unlike a typical resort, staying at Xcaret gives you unlimited access to some of the most famous adventure parks in Mexico, along with world-class dining, beautiful accommodations, and stunning natural surroundings.

Another highly-rated resort in Playa Del Carmen is Grand Velas Riviera Maya. This luxury, all-inclusive spot flaunts an amazing kids’ and teen club, plus a baby concierge service!

What to Explore

Especially good for kids, the Xcaret parks boast an incredible array of fun and adventurous activities — you can go cliff-jumping, tubing through underground rivers, ATV riding, and so much more.

Even if you decide not to stay at Hotel Xcaret, they also sell day passes to each of their adventure parks. This would definitely be a fun way to spend a day during your stay in or near Playa Del Carmen.

I hope this Mexico travel guide was helpful to you as you plan your getaway! Where are your favorite places to travel in Mexico? Let me know in the comment section below.