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Puerto Vallarta’s Best Hotels

Mexico Puerto Vallarta › Best Hotels
Updated: February 20, 2024

Best place to stay in Puerto Vallarta.

The infinity pool at the Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit in Puerto Vallarta.

Puerto Vallarta Hotels – Tips & Info

  • Best Luxury Hotels in Puerto Vallarta: Hotel Mousai (most luxurious) • Grand Velas (best for families) • Hacienda San Angel (most romantic).
  • The best areas of Puerto Vallarta for travelers are: El Centro (PV’s historic heart, with great restaurant and beaches), Zona Romantica (historic streets with trendy bars, nightlife, and popular Los Muertos Beach), Conchas Chinas (upscale neighborhood near attractions, but quiet at night), Mismaloya (secluded jungle and beaches), Marina Vallarta (resort area with a golf course and lots of marine attractions, beaches are just ok), North Hotel Zone (great beaches, quiet neighborhood, near attractions), and Nuevo Vallarta (exclusive, luxury, golfing and beaches).
  • Puerto Vallarta is home to some of the best restaurants in Mexico, with a mix of outstanding fine dining, cheap eats, local flavors, and international cuisine. Even if staying in an all-inclusive, it is worth making the trip downtown for meals at least a couple of times during your stay. Some of the top restaurants worth a special trip are Café des Artistes (best fine dining), Mariscos Cisneros (best local seafood), and Kaiser Maximilian (best international cuisine).
  • Puerto Vallarta is perfect for walking, with interesting attractions, such as the Malecon, the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Los Muertos Beach, and nightlife all within walking distance of each other. Farther-flung attractions, like the Botanical Gardens or Zoo to the south or Nuevo Vallarta to the north, are all serviced by bus for only a few pesos.
  • Taxis are more efficient for longer distances, but can be expensive. Rather than running a meter, taxis rates are determined by zone. The rate for a particular destination will be based on how many zones the taxi needs to cross through to get there. Zone maps can be integrated with Google Maps on your phone.
  • For day trips to Punta de Mita or Sayulita, it’s best to rent a car. Puerto Vallarta’s rules of the road are similar to those in the U.S. Highways are well-maintained, and streets are all well-mapped (if not well-marked) and easy to follow via GPS. Two things that are different are topes and left turns. Topes (pronounced TOH-pays) are speed bumps, but there are no regulations on their height, steepness, or visibility; some are nearly impossible to see until it’s too late! Drive slowly in downtown and keep an eye out for these. Standard left turns are usually OK in downtown but not on highways. To make a left, drivers will often need to use a retorno, which is a U-turn overpass. To use a retorno, drive past the road you want to make a left onto, get into the far right lane to take the retorno exit, make the left onto the overpass, and finally merge with traffic going the opposite direction. You can then make a right at the desired street or destination.
  • Pay in pesos whenever possible. Many hotels, restaurants, and tour operators accept payment in U.S. dollars. However, travelers will almost always overpay if using dollars, as the exchange rate for tourists favors the peso.

The 22 Best Hotels in Puerto Vallarta

1. Hotel Mousai – South Hotel Zone

Hotel Mousai in South Hotel Zone
Five Diamond, adults-only hotel with a rooftop infinity pool overlooking their 85-acre jungle preserve, Garza Blanca Beach, and the Sea of Cortez. All accommodations include outdoor, tile jacuzzis on private balconies. Ultra Suites add upgraded amenities, the hotel’s most expansive views, and unlimited access to the hydrotherapy circuit in their decadent spa. Expect impeccable service along with phenomenal dining and drinks on site or at their sister property, Garza Blanca. Guests may choose to reserve a suite only, or an all-inclusive package. Located just north of Mismaloya, near Los Arcos Park, the Botanical Gardens, and the Puerto Vallarta Zoo.
Hotel phone: +52 322 176 0738
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2. Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit – Nuevo Vallarta

Best hotel for families in Puerto Vallarta.
Luxurious, all-suite, all-inclusive, family-friendly resort with a multi-tier infinity pool and exceptional family amenities and services. Their enormous two-bedroom, three-bathroom family suites boast a private jacuzzi terrace, a 50 minute massage per person per day, and round-trip airport transfer. Kids’ amenities for all ages include a baby concierge, kids’ pool, kids’ club with culture, nature, and craft activities, and a teen lounge with gaming consoles, a dance floor, and karaoke. A host of gourmet local and international restaurants satisfies even the pickiest eaters. The Grand Velas sits on the powdery white Nuevo Vallarta Beach, near Aquaventuras water park (with dolphins!) and in between two golf courses.
Hotel phone: +52 322 226 8677
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3. Hacienda San Angel – El Centro, Old Town

Best boutique hotel in Old Town Puerto Vallarta.
Four romantic, colonial-style villas house 20 total rooms, with a lush garden courtyard overlooking Guadalupe Church and the ocean. All rooms include dramatic Mexican and European antique décor, plus modern marble floors and French windows; Presidential and Royal suites add outdoor terrace jacuzzis. Three pools, a small chapel, and a gourmet restaurant are spread throughout the grounds, linked by ivy-covered terraces and garden paths. Its fine dining restaurant serves sumptuous Mexican and international dishes, with sweeping sea and city views, live mariachi nightly, and seasonal Sunday brunches. The restaurant is popular for celebrations, so reserve in advance, especially during the high season. The hotel sits amid winding cobblestone streets in El Centro, just steps from the Church, the Malecon, and the city’s best dining and nightlife. Hacienda San Angel is the former home of Richard Burton.
Hotel phone: +52 322 222 2692
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4. Villa La Estancia – Nuevo Vallarta

Best hotel villa in Nuevo Vallarta near Puerto Vallarta.
Luxury, family-friendly resort with spacious suites, a two-level pool, and exclusive beachfront location. Suites are generous, up to three bedrooms, with a full kitchen, and a washer and dryer. All rooms include a jacuzzi in the master bathroom and a private balcony. Excellent on-site restaurants and bars, plus guests have access to dining options at the sister resort next door. Though this resort is very popular with families, it remains peaceful and quiet: no loud pool parties, and the bars close early, around 10:30. Villa la Estancia sits at the north end of Nuevo Vallarta, on a long, tranquil beach; just a fifteen-minute bike ride to the pueblo magico Bucerias and about thirty-minutes’ drive to Old Town.
Hotel phone: +52 800 483 0088
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5. Casa Velas – Marina Vallarta

Best beach hotel for honeymooners in Puerto Vallarta.
Luxury, adults-only boutique hotel with a free form pool, a beach club with an infinity pool, and a holistic spa featuring hydrotherapy and ingredients grown onsite in their botanical garden. A wide range of spacious suites are available, many with private jacuzzis or plunge pools. The Presidential suites is the largest and most luxurious with four bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms, free golf, and massage for all guests. Wellness suites add in room jacuzzis, private plunge pools, a massage table, and fitness amenities. Thoughtful perks include a handbag bar and complimentary beach transfer all day. Located in Marina Vallarta, surrounded by the golf course, near sailing, diving, and marine parks.
Hotel phone: +52 322 226 8670
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6. Marriott Resort & Spa – Marina Vallarta

Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa in Marina Vallarta
Upscale, beachfront resort with infinity, kids’, and lap pools, plus Puerto Vallarta’s largest spa. Family amenities include a kids’ club, teen gaming area, and a sea turtle hatchery and release program (June – November). Its indulgent spa spotlights indigenous Huichol treatments, a hydrotherapy circuit, and in-pool massage. Fantastic restaurants are around every corner here, but the star is their Ceviche & Tequila Bar, offering outstanding seafood and 270 tequilas. Rooms are airy and bright, but average in size; families should opt for a larger suite or connecting rooms. This resort sits right on the Marina Beach, walking distance to the Marina Vallarta Golf Club, boat tours, and marine parks.
Hotel phone: +52 322 226 0000
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7. Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa – South Hotel Zone

Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa in South Hotel Zone
Sophisticated resort in a jungle mountain preserve with two free-form infinity pools, contemporary dining, and a host of nature activities. All rooms and suites feature a private terrace with a hammock, while suite types one bedroom and up include a full kitchen, washer and dryer, and one extra bathroom per bedroom. Its top-notch kids club gets little ones up close with nature through hiking, planting trees, kayaking, and more. Succulent dining, a tranquil spa, and serene tropical view of Banderas Bay rounds out the experience. Garza Blanca sits on a sugary white sand beach with a rock wall and gentle waves just north of Mismaloya, near the Botanical Gardens, Puerto Vallarta Zoo, and Los Arcos Park.
Hotel phone: +52 322 176 0718
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa

8. Casa Kimberly – El Centro, Old Town

Casa Kimberly Hotel in El Centro, Old Town
Dramatic and glamorous boutique accommodations, featuring a rooftop al fresco restaurant and bar, cozy spa, and lozenge-shaped pool. This adults-only hotel is comprised of two villas connected by a bridge; the older formerly owned by Richard Burton, and the other built by him for Elizabeth Taylor – each room is named and designed after one of Taylor’s films. Suites all feature indulgent baths and rain shower, plus lavish décor that blends Hollywood glitz with hacienda charm. Most include a private terrace with a whirlpool, plunge pool, or both. Its restaurant, The Iguana, is one of the top in the city, specializing on contemporary Mexican cuisine and a variety of tequilas. Located in El Centro, near Guadalupe Church, the city’s best restaurants and nightlife, and the Malecon.
Hotel phone: +52 322 222 1336
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9. Grand Miramar – Conchas Chinas

Puerto Vallarta hotel with best sea and sunset view.
On the highest point overlooking Banderas Bay, the Grand Miramar offers panoramic views from its rooftop bar, plus three dazzling pools, a pool-sized jacuzzi, and contemporary suites. All suites include a private terrace and a kitchenette with a stovetop. Two- to four-bedroom residences include full kitchen and dining room; many have private terrace whirlpools. The resort offers five great restaurants, but the stars are Casianos, with its three- to five-course surprise dinner menu, and the Gin Joint, especially popular for sunset cocktails and tapas. From its privileged location in Conchas Chinas, the resort is walking distance to two swimmable beaches and near the nightlife and dining in Zona Romantica.
Hotel phone: +52 322 221 5120
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10. Velas Vallarta Suite Resort – Marina Vallarta

Best all-inclusive resort near Puerto Vallarta.
This family-friendly, all-inclusive, all-suite luxury beachfront resort showcases two free-form pools connected by a lazy river. Spacious, ocean view accommodations with up to three bedrooms, each with a full kitchen, including a stovetop and dishwasher. Its kids’ club offers a third pool, plus activities such as sandcastles, painting, and Summer Camp with beach bonfires. There’s an organic spa, and superb food and drinks on-site, and golf just next door. Velas Vallarta is located on Marina Vallarta Beach, walking distance to boating and marine attractions.
Hotel phone: +52 322 226 8673
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11. Villa Premiere Boutique Hotel – El Centro, Old Town

Villa Premiere Boutique Hotel & Romantic Getaway Hotel in El Centro, Old Town
Four-diamond, adults-only, boutique resort, with luxurious rooms and two beachfront pools. Spacious, ocean view rooms and suites are all inclusive of personal butler service; most feature a private indoor or outdoor whirlpool. Sumptuous dining onsite offers the best in Mexican cuisine, whether traditional or contemporary, plus 24 hour room service. Thoughtful amenities include a poolside “Draw Your Moment” art station, in-room pillow and aromatherapy menus, and loaner bikes and kayaks. Their indulgent spa offers hydrotherapy and an oxygen bar. Villa Premiers is well-located on Camarones Beach in El Centro, just a five minute walk to the city’s best restaurants, the Malecon, and Guadalupe Church.
Hotel phone: +52 322 226 7040
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12. Pinnacle Resorts 180 – Zona Romantica, Old Town

Pinnacle Resorts 180 in Zona Romantica, Old Town
Family-friendly, stylish condo boutique with ocean views and private balconies. Each suite is uniquely designed, but all are one- or two-bedrooms with full kitchens, washer-dryer units, and private balconies; many have outdoor jacuzzis. Top-tier condos include private plunge pools, plus upgraded features such as wraparound balconies. The cozy infinity pool has swim up access to the main bar with a popular happy hour. These chic condos are located in Zona Romantica, in the heart of Puerto Vallarta’s dining and nightlife district, just five minutes’ walk to Los Muertos Beach and Pier.
Hotel phone: +52 322 222 3556
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13. Secrets Vallarta Bay – North Hotel Zone

Best adults-only all-inclusive in Hotel Zone of Puerto Vallarta.
Romantic, adults-only, all-inclusive resort on Camarones Beach, with gorgeous pools, a full-service spa, upscale dining, and a champagne bar. Suites are intimate yet spacious, many with private terrace jacuzzis or swim up options; Presidential suite adds a private plunge pool and whirlpool bath. Its holistic spa emphasizes indigenous treatments with hydrotherapy pools. Fine dining and casual restaurants offer an array of indulgent flavors, from local Mexican recipes, to Pan-Asian and Mediterranean bites. Guests at Secrets also have full access to the nightclub, casino, and restaurants at Dreams, its sister property next door. The resort sits just south of the North Hotel Zone on a golden sand beach, about thirty minutes walking to the Malecon and all of Puerto Vallarta’s nightlife.
Hotel phone: (866) 467-3273
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14. Marival Distinct Luxury Residences – Nuevo Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta hotel with view and near golf course.
All-inclusive, all-suite resort with outstanding services and amenities for families, plus a pool and beach club. Suites are one- to four-bedrooms, with a full kitchen and in room laundry; swim up suites and villas with full sized private pools are also available. Family amenities included in the rate are the kids’ club, free nanny service, and one free tour (options include sea lions, zip lining, pub tours, and more). Add on a “Family Emotions” package for a second tour, customized family picnic, exclusive concierge, and upgraded amenities. There are several restaurants and bars onsite, serving drinks as late as 2 a.m., plus more dining just a three minute shuttle away at their beach club. This secluded hotel is north of Puerto Vallarta in the exclusive Nuevo Vallarta complex, near golf, dining, and a small marina.
Hotel phone: +52 322 226 9740
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Marival Distinct Luxury Residences

15. Fiesta Americana – North Hotel Zone

Puerto Vallarta hotel on best swimmable beach.
All-inclusive resort with a tropical vibe on a sandy, swimmable beach. The resort offers two pools (one main pool and one adults-only), ten bars and restaurants, excellent family amenities, and club level upgrades for added luxury amenities, top floor rooms, and a private lounge. Family rooms are generously sized, sleeping up to six, with a large private terrace. Presidential suites are the largest and have a separate bedroom and private terrace with a whirlpool. Fantastic little kids club with a playground, plus beach and pool activities; the teen club offers video games and foosball tables. A wide range of restaurants suiting all tastes, with Mexican, pan-Asian, and Italian options, plus great cocktails and 24 hour room service. Located in the North Hotel Zone, walking distance to La Isla Mall and the Marina.
Hotel phone: +52 322 226 2100
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Fiesta Americana

16. Hard Rock Hotel – Nuevo Vallarta

Best Puerto Vallarta hotel for partying.
Family-friendly hotel with a party vibe. The Hard Rock showcases two pools, fun bars and restaurants, plus their signature music-themed activities and amenities. All rooms come equipped with a two-person jacuzzi bath and a private balcony. Spacious family suites are all two-bedrooms, though larger suites up to three bedrooms are also available. Entertainment for all includes a kids club with a pool, waterslides, and games; an all-ages club with billiards, arcade games, and music; nightly theater, and a decadent spa. Great food and phenomenal cocktails with syrups made onsite from local fruits, plus a nightclub on weekends until 3 a.m. Sound of Your Stay package includes loaner guitars, mixing stations, turntables, and records. Located in Nuevo Vallarta on a shallow, swimmable beach, perfect for boogie boarding.
Hotel phone: +52 322 226 8470
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17. Westin Resort & Spa – Marina Vallarta

Westin Resort & Spa in Marina Vallarta
Exceptional family resort with two free-form pools, a full service spa, and an array of spacious accommodations. Rooms and suites begin at 54 square meters, all with balconies and free-standing bathtubs, and many with jacuzzis or plunge pools. This wellness-focused resort features a full service spa with hydrotherapy, an active kids club with beach and pool games, and tennis and basketball courts. Its long stretch of beach is nearly private, boasting a beach club with attentive service. Great dining onsite features seasonal ingredients, with Mexican and international menus. Located on the southern tip of Marina Vallarta, walking distance to the golf club, Vallarta Adventures, and a mall.
Hotel phone: +52 322 226 1100
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18. Dreams Vallarta Bay Resort & Spa – North Hotel Zone

Dreams Vallarta Bay Resort & Spa in North Hotel Zone
Family-friendly, all-inclusive resort boasting three refreshing pools (one just for kids), kids’ and teens’ clubs, a nightclub, and a casino. Suites all include a freestanding bath and private balcony, some with swim up access or private terrace jacuzzis. Kids as young as three can enjoy activities at the kids club, while teens have their own space for tabletop and video games. Family entertainment includes breakdancing, fire-breathing, and karaoke, while adults can enjoy the brand new casino and nightclub until 1 a.m. Nine bars and restaurants range from casual to fine dining, with food available 24 hours at Coco Café or through room service. Adult guests have access to the spa next door at Secrets Vallarta Bay. Located just south of the North Hotel Zone on Camarones Beach, twenty minutes walking distance to La Isla Mall and thirty to the Malecon.
Hotel phone: +52 322 226 2900
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Dreams Vallarta Bay Resort & Spa

19. Pinnacle Resorts 220 – Zona Romantica, Old Town

Pinnacle Resorts 220 in Zona Romantica, Old Town
Family-friendly, elegant condo boutique with a rooftop infinity pool and well-appointed suites. Each condo is individually owned, so the décor differs, but all have full kitchens, washer-dryer units, and private balconies, some with whirlpools. Spacious one- to three-bedrooms units all offer striking views of the jungle-covered mountains or of Puerto Vallarta’s red tiled roofs and the Sea of Cortez. Its rooftop Sky Bar offers outstanding sunset views and cocktails. Pre-arrival shopping service can be arranged to stock the fridge with personalized foods and drinks. Ideally located in Zona Romantica, the nightlife and dining hub of the city, and walking distance to Los Muertos Beach and the Malecon.
Hotel phone: +52 322 222 3556
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20. Vallarta Shores Beach Hotel – Zona Romantica, Old Town

Vallarta Shores Beach Hotel in Zona Romantica, Old Town
This boutique condo hotel offers large suites (up to four bedrooms), lots of great indoor/outdoor spaces, and an excellent beachfront location. Well-equipped kitchens are featured in all suites, with a private chef included in the rate for larger, three- to four-bedroom suites. Each suite is a little different, but most include one extra bathroom per bedroom, with Sky Suites and Penthouses adding whirlpool baths and private plunge pools. There is a common area with a larger pool, plus a full kitchen, dining room, and living room for all guests to share. Perfectly situated in the nightlife hub of Zona Romantica on Los Muertos Beach with a view of the original “Boy on the Seahorse” statue (the one on the Malecon nearby is a replica).
Hotel phone: +52 322 222 3838
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Staying in El Centro, Old Town

The best hotels and restaurants in El Centro, Puerto Vallarta
Old Town, the hub of Puerto Vallarta activity, is divided into two sections: El Centro to the north of Cuale River and Zona Romantica south of the river. El Centro is the historic heart of the city and boasts the best-known attractions, Guadalupe Church, the colonial era church that dominates the night skyline, and the Malecon, the beachfront boardwalk with statues, food stalls, music and art. This is a perfectly walkable neighborhood with cobblestone streets and sidewalks, though the latter are often taken over by cafes and taco stands. A foodie paradise; local, casual cantinas and humble tamale stands share space with five-star gourmet restaurants, serving contemporary Mexican seafood and seasonal international menus. This lively downtown area has something going on almost every night, so it can be noisy in the later hours – amazing for active vacations with fun-filled evenings, but not ideal for restful, tranquil sleep.

The Best Hotels in El Centro

The Best Restaurants in El Centro

  • Café des Artistes • $$$$ • Best fine dining in PV. Contemporary, seasonal menu in a romantic setting. Reservations strongly recommended.
  • River Café • $$-$$$ • Secluded restaurant on Cuale Island – great breakfast, romantic dinners, cozy bar.
  • Café de Olla • $$-$$$ • A mainstay of the city, popular for carne asada and octopus. Do try the raicilla, aka Mexican moonshine, in a margarita or a shot.

Staying in Zona Romantica, Old Town

Where to stay and eat near Los Muertos Beach, Puerto Vallarta
The southern half of Old Town is the nightlife center of Puerto Vallarta, known for its numerous bars, cantinas, restaurants, and clubs. This is also the premier gay neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta, the most LGBT friendly city in Mexico. The party atmosphere begins around happy hour and goes well into the night, as late as 3 or 4 a.m., especially during the winter high season and during Pride in late spring. Still very family-friendly, tons of attractions are located here including the city’s most popular beach, Los Muertos; its stunning pier has become a hangout area for locals and travelers of all ages. The city’s oldest farmers market is here every Saturday until 2pm during high season, with produce, snacks, and crafts. Zona Romantica is also home to a number of art galleries, with a biweekly art walk/block party held during the winter months. Gourmet dining and trendy cocktails are available on nearly every corner near the new extension of the Malecon. Delicious local restaurants serve regional specialties just a few blocks inland, along the city’s famous cobblestone streets.

The Best Hotels in Zona Romantica

The Best Restaurants in Zona Romantica

  • Mariscos Cisneros • $ • Best casual local restaurant for seafood.
  • La Palapa • $$-$$$ • Gourmet, four diamond restaurant with a casual beachfront atmosphere. Reservations recommended.
  • 116 Pulpito Gastro Bar • $$-$$$ • Trendy little cocktail and tapas bar. Seating is limited to arrive early to snag a chair.
  • Kaiser Maximillian • $$-$$$ • Upscale, four diamond Austrian and international cuisine. Grab a sidewalk table for great people watching.

Staying in Conchas Chinas

Where to stay and eat in Conchas Chinas.
Often called the “Beverly Hills of Puerto Vallarta,” this affluent neighborhood sits just south of Old Town. Conchas Chinas stretches from the beachfront (with gorgeous little coves, sandy, shelly beaches, and dramatic rocky outcrops), zigzaging up the hill to the highest points in the city with stunning sunset views of Banderas Bay and the city lights at night. This mostly residential area is dotted with multi-million dollar villas and luxury condos, many of which are second homes of celebrities and politicians. The lower part of Conchas Chinas is walking distance to Old Town, yet remains quiet at nights, perfect for travelers who want the conveniences of the city without the late-night buzz. The upper part offers the best views but requires wheels to get to and from town. A beautiful area that feels more remote than it is. There are few restaurants and bars here; most will be closer to downtown.

The Best Hotel in Conchas Chinas

The Best Restaurants in Conchas Chinas

  • The Bar at Casa Karma • $$-$$$ • Cozy al fresco bar in a boutique hotel. Known for their Build Your Own Bloody Mary bar on Sunday afternoons and fantastic tapas menu.
  • El Set Restaurant & Bar • $$-$$$ • Mexican seafood restaurant and bar, known for their sunset views.
  • Restaurant La Playita • $$-$$$ • Excellent service and beautiful views. Go for the chocobanana pancakes at breakfast!

Staying in the North Hotel Zone

Where to stay and eat in Puerto Vallarta's North Hotel Zone
North of Old Town and south of the Marina, this area is known for its exceptional beaches, with long, wide stretches of soft, golden sand. It’s home to a number of large resorts, as well as restaurants, nightlife, and shopping centers. Four beaches run the length of this strip, including the popular Playa del Oro. Though it’s long walk into town from here, travelers can catch the bus to El Centro across from Walmart for about 8 pesos (less than one USD). This is a great area for visitors who want to an easy, fuss-free vacation, with accessibility to downtown and dining, without being in the center of it all. Walking distance to Marina Vallarta attractions and the golf club.

Best Hotels in the North Hotel Zone

Best Restaurants in the North Hotel Zone

  • La Leche • $$$$ • Contemporary, creative fine dining with a new menu every day. Reservations highly recommended, though there is a fantastic cocktail bar upstairs in case of a long wait.
  • Food Park • $$-$$$ • Eight food stalls run out of shipping containers. Great food with a wide selection cuisine from burgers to sushi to tacos, plus a bar cart and dessert cart.
  • La Casa de Mi Compadre • $$-$$$ • Sweet Mexican joint with the margaritas in Puerto Vallarta! The shrimp tacos are not to be missed.

Staying in Marina Vallarta

Where to stay and eat in Marina Vallarta, Puerto Vallarta
Exclusive enclave north of Puerto Vallarta, with luxury hotels, three golf courses, and most of the area’s marine attractions and charters. Marina Vallarta began construction in the mid-‘80s, and for a little while was the largest marina in Mexico. It is now the city’s main hub for water attractions, including sailing excursions, dolphin and sea lion encounters, and two water parks. The main boardwalk has several restaurants, shops, and spas (usually much more affordable than those at the resorts). This is a great neighborhood for families and couples who want to take advantage of all the sea life, snorkeling, and boating excursions the city has to offer. Some of the beaches here are a little too rocky for swimming, but when the currents are mild, this makes for excellent snorkeling.

Best Hotels in Marina Vallarta

Best Restaurants in Marina Vallarta

  • Sonora Grill Prime Vallarta • $$$$ • Outstanding steakhouse with a lively, albeit very loud, atmosphere. Great seafood, plus a wide selection of Mexican wines.
  • Tintoque • $$$$ • Upscale seafood restaurant, with fresh, inspired dishes that change daily. Reservations recommended.
  • Ocho Tostadas • $$ • Well-loved by locals! Great lunch spot for ceviche, fresh snapper, marlin, and octopus.

Staying in the South Hotel Zone

Where to stay and eat near Mismaloya, Puerto Vallarta
This rugged jungle coastline is what put Puerto Vallarta on the map. The South Hotel Zone, especially Mismaloya village, has been the backdrop for several films, but it was 1963’s The Night of the Iguana, and the ensuing love affair between Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, that propelled the small fishing village into the public eye – several Hollywood elites bought second homes here after falling in love with the area’s tropical beauty. This area is just south of Conchas Chinas, but its lush, mountainous terrain and unspoiled beaches make it feel much more remote than it is. Area attractions include the Botanical Gardens, with pristine hiking trails, and the Puerto Vallarta Zoo, where guests can hold baby big cats and hand feed all the animals. From Boca de Tomatlan, travelers can take a tour to Los Arcos Marine Park for snorkeling and scuba or catch a water taxi to secluded Yelapa Beach. There are not many restaurants in the main hotel area, but there are a few small, local spots just a little further south in Mismaloya and Boca de Tomatlan.

Best Hotels in the South Hotel Zone

Best Restaurants in the South Hotel Zone

  • Le Kliff • $$$$ • Renowned fine dining restaurant, perched on a clifftop with panoramic views of Banderas Bay. Reserve in advance. This is a popular spot, especially for romantic sunsets and celebrations.
  • Tony’s Hideaway • $$-$$$ • Hidden gem tucked between homes in Mismaloya. Casual and relaxed, with excellent meats and seafood with true local flavor.
  • El Jacalito • $$-$$$ • Amazing little seafood restaurant under a palapa roof, toes in the sand.

Staying in Nuevo Vallarta (aka Riviera Nayarit)

Where to stay and eat in Nuevo Vallarta
Nuevo Vallarta is an exclusive neighborhood to the far north of Puerto Vallarta, just across the state line in Nayarit, hence it’s alternate name Riviera Nayarit. This newly built development is fronted by the eight-mile-long Flamingos Beach. Flamingos is arguably the best beach in the Puerto Vallarta area, wide and flat for easy walking, soft white sand, and gentle waves for swimming and bodyboarding. Several golf courses are spread throughout the area, along with fine dining restaurants, spas, and upscale shops. The northernmost area is walking distance to Bucerias, a charming, slow-paced town with cobblestone streets, an open air market, and great beach. Nuevo Vallarta’s wide, flat streets make this an excellent area for cycling and walking, though the free trolley runs the circuit of resorts, restaurants, and golf courses makes getting around even easier.

Best Hotels in Nuevo Vallarta

Best Restaurants in Nuevo Vallarta

  • El Dinamita • $$-$$$ • Gorgeous patio dining under lanterns. Ordering from the menu is allowed but discouraged. Tell the waiter what things you like and if you have allergies, and they recommend a customized selection according to your preferences.
  • Mariscos Tino’s La Laguna • $$-$$$ • Fresh local seafood next to a natural lagoon, served under a palapa roof.
  • Etc. Beach Club • $$-$$$ • Great selection of local seafood dishes, fantastic margaritas, in a spectacular beachfront setting.

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  • Booking.com – I find this is the most reliable site for booking family suites and multi-bedroom rentals in the Riviera Maya.
  • Playa del Carmen is an excellent base for a family vacation because it combines the amenities of a city with easy access to the region’s best eco-parks and cenotes. The best areas for families are Playacar (for the best beach and quiet gated community vibe), North Playa del Carmen (for a more local, relaxed feel near Calle 38), and Mayakoba (for ultimate luxury and wildlife). If you prefer massive all-inclusive resorts with water parks, look at the North Riviera Maya (closer to the airport) or South Riviera Maya (closer to the best cenotes and Tulum).
  • For families who want to skip the rental car, stay in Downtown Playa del Carmen. Specifically, I recommend the Playacar neighborhood. It is a gated community at the south end of town that feels much safer and quieter than the busy center. The beaches here are the widest and cleanest in the city. You are still within a 10 to 15-minute walk of Quinta Avenida for dinner, the Cozumel Ferry for day trips, and the ADO Bus Station. In 2026, the Tren Maya station is fully operational west of the highway, making it easy to take the kids on a high-speed train to see the ruins at Chichen Itza or the colonial town of Valladolid without a long bus ride.
  • The water is generally calm and shallow enough for kids, especially from Mayakoba down through Playacar. Cozumel sits directly across the water and acts as a natural buffer against heavy surf. For the best swimming conditions, I suggest heading to the beaches north of Calle 38 or inside the Playacar Phase 1 area. Be aware that sargassum (seaweed) can impact the coast from April through August. Many high-end resorts now use barriers to keep their beachfronts clear, so check recent reports if you are traveling in late spring or summer.
  • The Hotel Xcaret Mexico is my top recommendation for an all-inclusive family stay. Located just south of town in the South Riviera Maya, their All-Fun Inclusive concept is unbeatable for kids. It includes unlimited transportation and entry to all Xcaret parks, including Xcaret, Xel-Há, and Xplor. This saves a family of four hundreds of dollars in entry fees and makes logistics effortless.
  • For a local experience with children, I suggest visiting Punta Esmeralda at the north end of town. It features a small freshwater cenote that flows directly into the sea, creating a calm, shallow pool that is perfect for toddlers and young children to splash in while you relax on the sand.

The 13 Best Hotels for Families in the Playa del Carmen Area

1. Hotel Xcaret Mexico – South Riviera Maya

Best hotel for families in Playa del Carmen.
All-inclusive, family-friendly resort owned by Xcaret Adventure Parks and including unlimited access and transportation to all 10 of their parks and tours with every booking. The parks include ziplining, snorkeling, ATVs, underground rivers, and more. The resort itself boasts 6 pools, a huge lazy river, kids’ and teens’ clubs, and a sandy, swimmable beach. Hotel Xcaret offers spacious suites for up to 5, all with hammocks on their private balconies, some with swim-out access to a shared pool. Great location in South Riviera Maya just 5 km from Playa del Carmen’s restaurants, nightlife, shopping, and the ferry to Cozumel.
Hotel phone: +52 984 206 4805
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Hotel Xcaret Mexico

2. Grand Velas Riviera Maya – near Mayakoba

Grand Velas Riviera Maya Hotel near Mayakoba, PdC
All-inclusive resort with three pools, kids’ and teens’ clubs, incredible restaurants, and a spa. Nature View Suites for a family of 4. Zen Suites for families of 5 or 6. Their kids’ club is open until 11:00 p.m. with activities and crafts all day; the teens’ club is open until midnight, with a dancefloor, karaoke, and video games. Rooms and suites all include whirlpool tubs and private terraces, some with plunge pools. Located at the edge of an unspoiled beach with soft sand and gentle waves just south of the Mayakoba resort complex.
Hotel phone: +52 322 226 8689
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Grand Velas Riviera Maya

3. Hard Rock Hotel – South Riviera Maya

Playa del Carmen hotel with waterslides.
Music-themed beachfront resort with 5 pools (some adults-only, some for kids and families), a natural lagoon with native fish, and the largest spa in the Riviera Maya. Family perks include kids’ and teens’ clubs, a rock climbing wall, their signature music amenities (loaner guitars, instrument and DJ lessons, band camp, etc), and a huge skate/bike/gymnastics center. 9 restaurants and 8 bars serve a huge range of cuisines all day, along with 24-hours room service. A wide range of rooms and suites all feature private balconies, hammocks, and indoor or outdoor jacuzzis; the largest sleep up to 6. Wonderful location near the golf course, marina, and Dolphin Discovery at Puerto Aventuras in South Riviera Maya.
Hotel phone: +52 984 875 1100
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Hard Rock Hotel

4. Paradisus – North Playa del Carmen

Paradisus Hotel in North Playa del Carmen
All-inclusive resort on a gorgeous beach with a coral reef, three pools, a baby club (ages 1-4), and a kids club (ages 5-12). Suites range from junior up to two-bedroom connecting units; the Family Concierge upgrade adds a private terrace with a Jacuzzi, kids’ minibar items, a gaming console, a private restaurant, and club lounge access. This resort is only fifteen minutes’ drive or twenty-five minutes’ walk to downtown Playa del Carmen.
Hotel phone: +52 984 877 3900
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Paradisus

5. Banyan Tree – Mayakoba

Banyan Tree Hotel in Mayakoba, PdC
All-villa boutique, where each boasts its own private pool, an outdoor whirlpool tub, and a terrace. The resort has two shared pools, a Thai spa, an active kids club, and boat service to the beach. The food here suits all tastes, with strong Mexican and Thai influences plus great options for picky eaters. Set in the exclusive Mayakoba resort and golf complex on a sun-drenched beach in a mangrove jungle.
Hotel phone: +52 800 953 0565
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Banyan Tree

6. Fairmont – Mayakoba

Fairmont Hotel in Mayakoba, PdC
Beachfront resort with five pools, great kids’ amenities, and amazing food. Rooms and suites all include soaking tubs and private terraces; oceanfront and beachfront rooms feature butler service. Most suites are one-bedroom units, but connecting options are available for families needing extra space. Residences have up to four bedrooms with full kitchens. The kids club offers cooking classes and crafts, while their adventure camp keeps tweens active with kayaking and beach sports.
Hotel phone: +52 984 206 3000
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Fairmont

7. Hotel Esencia – South Riviera Maya

Hotel Esencia in South Riviera Maya, PdC
Elegant boutique hotel on a gentle beach with two pools, generous suite options, a Maya-inspired spa. Suites and villas for up to nine can include soaking tubs, plunge pools, or full-sized pools. Babysitting and family activities are offered onsite. Restaurants feature fresh, local, seasonal ingredients in a range of cuisines. Located in South Riviera Maya (Xpu Ha), halfway between Playa del Carmen and Tulum.
Hotel phone: +52 984 873 4830
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Hotel Esencia

8. Andaz – Mayakoba

Andaz Hotel in Mayakoba, PdC
Stylish, luxury hotel in the exclusive Mayakoba beach resort with a golf course and lagoons. Andaz offers 2 pools, a holistic spa, and is set on a stunning white beach. Rooms and suites are all spacious, with free minibar items (sans alcohol) and private balconies; suites add private outdoor plunge pools. Food is outstanding at their 4 regional Mexican/international restaurants; guests can add a meal plan or book a room only. Family-friendly amenities include a kids club for ages 4 to 12, babysitting, and free bikes.
Hotel phone: +52 984 149 1234
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Andaz

9. Playacar Palace – Downtown Playa del Carmen

Playacar Palace Hotel in Downtown Playa del Carmen
All-inclusive, downtown resort with expansive rooms and suites, exceptional restaurants, and a huge pool overlooking the sugary sand beach near the Cozumel ferry. Family amenities include a kids club for ages four to twelve and free bicycle tours. Guests have signing privileges at all Palace properties, with free transfer to the water park at The Grand at Moon Palace. Their stellar resort credit program can be used toward dolphin encounters, excursions, and more.
Hotel phone: +52 984 873 4960
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Playacar Palace

10. Grand Palladium White Sand – South Riviera Maya

Grand Palladium White Sand Hotel in South Riviera Maya, PdC
Beachfront resort with nine pools, a host of restaurants, and a spa. This resort is made up of four hotels, with White Sand being the best for families, being closest to the water park and kids’ clubs (one each for babies, kids, and teens). Upgraded suites can add whirlpool tubs, private pools, or connecting rooms. Located in South Riviera Maya, near Akumal.
Hotel phone: +52 984 877 2100
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Grand Palladium White Sand

11. Grand Hyatt Resort – Downtown Playa del Carmen

Grand Hyatt Resort in Downtown Playa del Carmen
Downtown Playa del Carmen beach resort (steps from a wide range of restaurants, shops, and bars) with two pools, a kids club, and a teens’ arcade. Their large rooms include balconies; suites add soaking tubs; options include swim ups or private plunge pools. Babysitting and kids club access are available for a fee, while the teens’ arcade is open for all. Upgrade to Club Level to add daily breakfast, snacks, an open bar, and evening apps.
Hotel phone: +52 984 875 1234
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Grand Hyatt Resort

12. Mahekal Beach Front Resort & Spa – Downtown Playa del Carmen

Mahekal Beach Resort in Downtown Playa del Carmen
Bohemian-style, beachfront resort with four pools, superior restaurants, and a variety of accommodations, including fun treehouse rooms or penthouse suites. Some suites add private plunge pools, outdoor showers, full kitchens, and butler service. Be advised that their nature-centric vibe means no TVs in most rooms. Located on the active main beach in downtown Playa.
Hotel phone: +52 984 873 0611
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Mahekal Beach Front Resort & Spa

13. Puerto Aventuras Hotel & Beach Club – South Playa del Carmen

Best hotel for kids in Playa del Carmen.
Cozy, boutique hotel with all junior suites and two pools on a kid-friendly beach with kayaks. Rooms all include a private terrace with a hammock and whirlpool. The beach is as calm as a pool, with a coral reef for snorkeling and barriers to block the waves. Located in South Riviera Maya, right next door to a marina and Dolphin Discovery aquatic center.
Hotel phone: +52 984 875 1950
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Puerto Aventuras Hotel & Beach Club

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Where to Go in Mexico

Mexico Travel Guide › Mexico Best Destinations
Updated: February 20, 2024

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The 11 Best Places to Visit in Mexico

1. Mexico City

Best places to visit in Mexico: Mexico City
Mexico City is a world class destination, a vibrant metropolis teaming with humanity. There is a rich and varied cultural scene, with 185 museums, 9 archaeological sites and 4 UNESCO World Heritage sites, plus fabulous food from fine dining restaurants to abundant street food. There is something for absolutely every kind of traveler.

2. Guadalajara

Best places to visit in Mexico: Guadalajara, Jalisco.
Guadalajara is Mexico’s second biggest city, and the capital of the state of Jalisco. A less frenetic metropolis than Mexico City, it’s full of tree-lined boulevards, and home to both the Mexican institutions of mariachi music and tequilla.

3. San Miguel de Allende

Best places to visit in Mexico: San Miguel de Allende
Located in Mexico’s central highlands, San Miguel de Allende is known for its thriving arts scene and cultural festivals, gastronomy, and baroque architecture. Once known for catering mostly to backpackers and budget travelers, the city now features many luxury and boutique hotels and high-end shopping, with a plethora of quaint bougainvillea filled alleyways to explore.

4. Los Cabos

cabo beach bay
Situated at the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula, Los Cabos is the coastal area encompassing the two popular resort destinations of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. The beautiful waters and beaches offer a variety of water sport adventures and marine life, and the surrounding dessert more natural wonders to explore. There’s a pervasive party atmosphere spread out across endless bars and night clubs. Despite its natural beauty, the area is built up with look-alike resorts and all-inclusive hotels, large chain stores and restaurants.

5. Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta waterfront
Surrounded by lush mountains and stretching around the beautiful Bahía de Banderas, Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico’s most popular coastal destinations. The malecón promenade runs along the beach downtown, with loads of waterfront restaurants and bars, and a collection of iconic sculptures. Puerto Vallarta is also popular with families and LGBTQ travelers. There are a number of smaller resort towns both north (Punta de Mita, Sayulita, San Francisco) and south (Mismaloya, Boca de Tomatlan, Yelapa) of PV.

6. Zihuatanejo

Ixtapa Zihuatanejo beach bay
Zihuatanejo is a small resort area on the coast of the state of Guerrero, north of Acapulco. The city is slow and quiet but becomes quite touristy when cruise ships are in town. There are narrow cobblestone streets with small restaurants, boutiques and artisan studios, and a romantic waterfront sidewalk. Nearby Ixtapa is also attractive but has larger resorts and less of a local vibe.

7. Oaxaca

Oaxaca City street
Oaxaca City is the gastronomic capitol of Mexico, also known for it’s architecture and natural beauty. The city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Handicrafts, ceramics, and rugs are popular with visitors.

8. Merida

folkloric dancers
Merida is the quiet capital of the state of Yucatan, with a large Mayan population and robust cultural scene. There’s lots to see in the city and plenty of pleasant day trips to ancient ruins and natural beauty in the surrounding area.

9. Tulum

tulum beach sand
Tulum is a small city on Yucatan’s Caribbean coast, known for its amazing beaches and well preserved Mayan ruins on a cliffside above the beach. A hip scene full of boutique shopping, small luxury hotels, and fusion cuisine blending modern techniques with traditional Mexican ingredients. Yoga, bike riding, and visits to cenotes in the surrounding jungle are popular activities, as are large electronic dance music festivals.

10. Isla Mujeres

Best places to visit in Mexico: Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is a small Mexican island in the Caribbean Sea off the Yucatan Coast near Cancun. It’s known for beaches, resort hotels, snorkeling, and scuba diving on the surrounding coral reefs. Golf carts are the main form of transportation around the island – which gives a pretty good approximation of the relaxed vibe on the island.

11. Cancun

Best places to visit in Mexico: Cancun, Yucatan.
Cancun is known for its gorgeous powdery white sand beaches, large luxury resorts, and nightlife. A major tourist destination for decades, the city is divided into the Zona Hoteleria along the beach and Cancun Centro (the city) inland that has more local flavor and flare. Golf, shopping, and day trips to surrounding cenotes, water parks, and cultural sites are easily accomplished.

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Tulum Nightlife

MexicoTulum › Bars & Clubs
Updated: February 20, 2024

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Best nightlife in Tulum.

Tulum Nightlife – My Advice

  • Cash: Most bars in Tulum accept cash only, even the high-end ones. Some accept U.S. dollars, but most require payment in Mexican pesos. If given the option, pay in pesos to get the best rates; you will always overpay if using dollars. Many bars that do allow credit cards add a 3% surcharge.
  • Tipping: Tipping is part of the custom here, and 10 to 15% is the standard rate. But first check bill for the word “propina” (meaning tip) to see if it has already been added to the bill. If so, add the necessary amount to bring the propina total up to 10 to 15%. Tipping in pesos is best, so the staff don’t have to pay a bank to exchange it into pesos.
  • Most of Tulum’s best bars are in the Pueblo or Middle Beach Zone. The Pueblo has more laid back, affordable bars, while the Middle Beach Zone has more chic, upscale spots. Most bars in the beach zones are on the jungle side of the road with outdoor seating.
  • Tulum’s top 5 nightlife take turns hosting the biggest parties, with each bar being the designated party spot on a certain night of each week. All of the bars are open every night, but the biggest parties follow this schedule:

    Tuesdays & Wednesdays: Batey Mojito & Guarapo Bar (Pueblo)

    Thursdays: Casa Jaguar (Middle Beach Zone)

    Fridays: Gitano (Middle Beach Zone)

    Saturdays: Papaya Playa Project (Beach Town)

    Sundays: Salsa Night at La Zebra Hotel (South Beach Zone)

  • x

    The 7 Best Bars and Clubs in Tulum

    1. Batey Mojito & Guarapo Bar – Pueblo • $

    Tables on the street in front of Batey in Tulum
    Batey is the soul of Tulum Pueblo’s bar scene, with most other bars built like satellites around it. Best known for their fresh fruit mojitos, be sure to peek inside to watch them press the fresh sugarcane in a converted VW Bug. Live music most nights. Open almost all day with a chilled-out vibe early and a lively crowd later, especially on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

    2. Casa Jaguar – Middle Beach Zone • $$$

    In front of Casa Jaguar in Tulum
    A trendy, Caribbean restaurant through the week, Casa Jaguar hosts wild jungle parties every Thursday night on their back terrace. Parties begin after 11:00 and run late into the night with local and international DJs setting the tone. Casa Jaguar hosts smaller jungle parties on Tuesdays and some Saturdays.

    3. Gitano – Middle Beach Zone • $$$

    The entrance of Gitano Tulum
    With a swanky Mexican restaurant in front and a sultry mezcal bar in the back, Gitano is the place to be on Friday nights. DJ sets start around 11:00 with all night drinking and dancing under the jungle canopy. Gitano also hosts smaller jungle parties on Friday nights. On Sundays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, live bands play earlier in the evening at a more subdued pace.

    4. Papaya Playa Project – Beach Town • $$$

    Saturday night at Papaya Playa Project in Tulum
    The biggest, most hedonistic party of the week is held on the beach at Papaya Playa Project on Saturday nights – especially during the Full Moon Parties, held monthly on the Saturday closest to the full moon. Big-name DJs spin and dancing goes on until 3:00 or 4:00 a.m. Cover price varies but generally begins at $25. The largest parties take place in December, January, and New Year’s Eve, with crowds of up to 3000. For these parties, buy tickets in advance and show up early to avoid waiting for hours to get in.

    5. Sunday Salsa Night at La Zebra Hotel – South Beach Zone • $

    Sunday salsa night at La Zebra Hotel in Tulum
    Every Sunday, La Zebra Hotel hosts a free, family-friendly, salsa dance party. Free lessons are offered from 6:30 to 7:30 followed by 3 hours of dancing with a live band. The party is served by the main bar and restaurant and by their beach bar The Mulberry Project, offering an amazing selection of handcrafted, signature cocktails. Free admission.

    6. Kin Toh – Beach Town • $$$$

    The lounge bar at Kin Toh in Tulum
    With the best bar design in Tulum, Kin Toh features outdoor “nests” with sunset views over the jungle and indoor island-like tables surrounded by hanging catamaran nets for lounging. The signature drinks are thoughtfully crafted, while the food served in the main restaurant is experimental – not for everyone. Reservations recommended for sunsets, dining, or groups but not usually necessary for a single or couple visiting the bar. Kin Toh has a 25 USD minimum consumption, which will be charged to a card on arrival.

    7. Ki’bok – Pueblo • $

    The terrace bar above Kibok in Tulum
    Tulum’s best coffee shop, Ki-bok, opens its upstairs terrace at night and becomes a fun, open-air bar. The balcony faces over the street above Batey, for a bird’s eye view of the festive street below. Drinks are simple and affordable.

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Los Cabos Hotels

MexicoLos Cabos › Best Hotels
Updated: February 20, 2024

My Favorite Hotels in Cabo
• Cabo San Lucas: HaciendaCasa Dorada
• San Jose del Cabo: ViceroyCabo Surf
• Corridor: Esperanza
• For families: Casa DoradaCabo Surf
• For couples: Esperanza

Beach resorts in Cabo San Lucas.

The wonderful Hacienda Beach Club & Residences and Casa Dorada Resort & Spa in Cabo San Lucas.

Hotels in Cabo Area

  • I love the Cabo area. When visiting I usually split my time between the beaches near Cabo San Lucas and the downtown area of trendy San Jose del Cabo.
  • Best Hotels in Cabo San Lucas: Hacienda Beach Club & ResidencesCasa Dorada Resort & SpaVilla La EstanciaBahia Hotel & Beach HouseSandos FinisterraMontecristo VillasPueblo Bonito PacificaPueblo Bonito Sunset Beach
  • Best Hotel for Families in Cabo San Lucas: Casa Dorada
  • Best Hotel for Couples in Cabo Area: Esperanza Resort (Corridor)
  • Los Cabos means “the capes,” and is made up of two towns, Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, along with the coral reef marine park, Cabo Pulmo. Most of the hotels and attractions are in Cabo San Lucas, San Jose, and the Corridor (the stretch of Highway 1 linking the two towns). Cabo and San Jose are close in distance, about 30 km apart, but each town has its own distinct feel. Cabo is the livelier town, known for its nightlife, while San Jose is a more tranquil area, known for its Arts District. The Corridor is home to several golf courses and many of the area’s swimmable beaches.
  • The Cabo area can be divided into 4 distinct areas: Cabo San Lucas (beaches and nightlife) • San Jose del Cabo (famous art district) • San Jose Puerto Los Cabos (private and tranquil with the only swimmable beach in San Jose) • The Corridor (golf, surfing, snorkeling)
  • Best Resorts in Cabo: Esperanza Resort (most romantic and best spa) • Cabo Surf Hotel (best family boutique) • Hilton Beach & Golf Resort (best family resort).
  • Los Cabos is known for beautiful beaches, all of which are public, but few of which are swimmable due to a dangerous undertow. Those beaches that are swimmable also have some of the best snorkeling in the world; Jacques Cousteau has called the Sea of Cortez “The Aquarium of the World”. The best beaches for swimming or snorkeling are: Medano Beach, Playa Empacadora, and Lovers & Divorce Beaches in Cabo; La Playita in San Jose; and Chileno Bay, Playa Monumentos, Old Man’s Beach (aka Playa Acupulquito), Tequila Cove, Santa Maria Beach, and Palmilla Beach in the Corridor.
  • Taxis are expensive in Los Cabos, costing around $50USD one-way from the airport to the hotels. Round trip fare from Cabo to San Jose is usually between $80 and $100USD. Car rentals are fairly cheap here, while tours and some hotels offer their own transportation.
  • Pay in pesos whenever possible. Many hotels, restaurants, and tour operators accept payment in U.S. dollars. However, travelers will almost always overpay if using dollars, as the exchange rate for tourists favors the peso.
Best hotel in Los Cabos.

The Esperanza hotel on the Cabo Corridor.

The 18 Best Hotels in Los Cabos

1. Hacienda Beach Club & Residences – Cabo San Lucas

Best beach hotel in Cabo San Lucas.
Awesome location on Medano Beach and a short walk to downtown Cabo San Lucas. Two heated pools, three hot tubs, top notch fitness center, spa, pool bar, and one of the best restaurants in town. One-bedroom units are great for couples. Two and three-bedroom apartments are great for families. This is a fantastic place to stay.
Hotel phone: +52 624 163 3100
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Hacienda

2. Casa Dorada Los Cabos Resort & Spa – Cabo San Lucas

Best hotel pool in Cabo San Lucas.
On the beach just down from the Hacienda is the four-star Casa Dorada. Not quite as lux but still a super hotel and one of my favorites. Great value with a gorgeous beachfront pool. Swimming on the beach is wonderful and town is an easy walk along the sand or through the backstreets. One and two-bedroom suites are available.
Hotel phone: +52 624 163 5700
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Casa Dorada

3. Esperanza – Corridor, Cabo del Sol

Best 5-star resort in Los Cabo.
Romantic, ocean view suites front a virgin beach in this luxury, boutique resort. Their award-winning spa features hand-made, indigenous treatments and is complemented by cascading infinity pools and a beachfront whirlpool. Breezy casitas, suites, and villas all feature local, artisanal furnishings, hammocks, and soaking tubs. Along with plenty of adults-only spaces (it’s a great honeymoon resort), amenities for children here include a kids’ club with cooking classes, mini-golf, and games. Though the beach here is rocky, the resort is only a short drive to several sandy, swimmable beaches. Located southeast of the Cabo del Sol complex in the Corridor.
Hotel phone: +52 624 145 6400
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Esperanza

4. Viceroy Los Cabos – San Jose, Hotel Zone

Best 5-star hotel in Los Cabos.
The most visually striking hotel in Los Cabos, the Viceroy’s architecture resembles a futuristic pueblo on a gorgeous golden sand beach. Its interior courtyard paths are set amid reflecting pools, meeting up at a pod-like restaurant designed like an inverted bird nest, before continuing on toward a chic swimming pool and further to the beach club. Rooms are spacious with minimalist décor, electronic lighting, and shades, and all feature large terraces with oversized soaking tubs, daybeds, and a breakfast table. Dining is remarkable here, with organic produce and local seafood served daily in Nido (the bird nest) and Casero, their contemporary Mexican fine dining restaurant. Their spa offers massage and body treatments with a special focus on aromatherapy and music. Located in the San Jose Hotel Zone, a fifteen-minute bike ride (complimentary bikes) or short taxi to the Downtown Art District.
Hotel phone: +52 624 104 9999
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Viceroy

5. Cabo Surf Hotel – Corridor, Palmilla

Beach hotel for couples in Los Cabos.
This upscale yet casual, family-friendly boutique sits on a long, sandy beach in a cove with the best surf break in Los Cabos. Ideal for families, the hotel offers connecting rooms, and the largest suite has three bedrooms and a full kitchen. The attached surf school offers classes for ages six and up; peak surf lasts from March through November, but there are gentle waves all year long for beginning surfers or swimmers. With a cozy spa, all-day dining, two pools and two hot tubs, there is something for everyone here. Located on Old Man’s Beach in the Corridor, just north of Palmilla Beach, about five minutes’ drive to dining, shopping, and art in downtown San Jose.
Hotel phone: +52 624 142 2666
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Cabo Surf Hotel

6. Marquis Los Cabos – Corridor, Tequila Cove

Great beach resort in Cabo area.
This five-star resort, a member of the prestigious Leading Hotels of the World consortium, is one of the few adults-only, all-inclusive properties in Los Cabos. All suites offer sweeping ocean views, Jacuzzi tubs, and private balconies; master suites and casitas include private pools, some with rooftop terraces and gardens. Superb restaurants feature local, seasonal menus in a variety of cuisines, including French, pan-Asian, and Baja, alongside local tequilas and artful cocktails. Three divine pools, a holistic spa, and direct beach access ensure an unparalleled guest experience. Located in the Corridor on Tequila Cove, a short walk to a calmer beach, and near golf courses.
Hotel phone: +52 624 144 2000
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Marquis Los Cabos

7. Hotel El Ganzo – San Jose, Puerto Los Cabos

Boutique beach hotel in San Jose del Cabo.
Stylish, adults-only boutique with a rooftop pool, glass Jacuzzi, and a private beach club accessed by boat. With picturesque views of the marina and Sea of Cortez, along with chic décor, original murals, and live music by visiting artists and musicians-in-residence, El Ganzo offers a creative alternative to the usual beach getaway. Exceptional restaurants and bars feature ingredients grown onsite in the hotel’s culinary garden. Local elements feature heavily in their spa menu, with Baja flowers, mezcal, and agave incorporated into traditions from Bali, India, and Thailand. Located in Puerto Los Cabos near the San Jose Estuary, a fifteen-minute ride on one of their loaner bikes to the downtown arts district.
Hotel phone: +52 624 104 9000
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Hotel El Ganzo

8. The Cape – Corridor, Cabo Bello

Boutique beach hotel near Cabo San Lucas.
Mexico Moderno architecture lends an urban vibe to this intimate hotel, featuring an infinity pool, saltwater pool, and Cabo San Lucas’ only rooftop lounge. Contemporary rooms all boast views of the ocean and El Arco, along with copper soaking tubs and craft cocktail bars. Spacious one- to three-bedroom villas add full kitchens, while penthouse villas include private, rooftop plunge pools. Its spa is carved into the stone cliffs with a signature massage matching the sound and intensity of the ocean waves in real time. Fantastic dining options include Nikkei (Japanese-Peruvian) and Baja-American cuisine, as well as poolside and beachfront bar service. Located in Cabo Bello on Monuments Beach, a popular surf break in the Corridor, just fifteen minutes from downtown Cabo San Lucas.
Hotel phone: +52 624 163 0000
Hotel websiteCheck prices for The Cape

9. Montecristo Villas – Cabo San Lucas, Sunset Beach

Villa with pool in Los Cabos area.
A collection of spacious villas, each with its own private pool and hot tub, in a gated community overlooking the Sea of Cortez and Sunset Beach. Elegantly appointed units all have three bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms, a full kitchen, two living rooms, and sleep up to ten people. Butler service and grocery shopping service are both complimentary. The common area features a free form infinity pool, tranquil spa, and a sports bar. Rates include shuttle service to Quivira Golf Club and all sister properties, offering access to twenty more restaurants and a private area on Sunset Beach. Located in the hills just above Downtown Cabo San Lucas.
Hotel phone: +52 624 142 9971
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Montecristo Villas

10. Hilton Beach & Golf Resort – Corridor, Tequila Cove

Beach resort in Cabo.
A contemporary, family-centric resort, the Hilton offers exceptional pools, rooms, and plenty of activities for kids, families, and adults. The kids’ club for ages 4-12 hosts piñata parties and Mexican craft activities, while adults can take up mixology and cooking classes. Two fantastic, 24-hour pools overlook the only swimmable beach in the area; swim-up bars in the pools, swing bar on the beach. Rooms are spacious, beginning at 50 square meters, all with private balconies and some with outdoor Jacuzzis. Located in the Corridor next to Tequila Cove, exactly in between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose.
Hotel phone: +52 624 145 6500
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Hilton Beach & Golf Resort

11. Hyatt Ziva – San Jose, Hotel Zone

4-star beach resort in Los Cabos.
Luxury all-inclusive resort with four pools surrounded by shady cabanas, a kids’ splash playground, a teen game room, and nightly entertainment. Spacious rooms and suites all include a private balcony or terrace; connecting, swim up, or club level options available, the latter with access to an exclusive lounge and upgraded room amenities. Sixteen unique restaurants and bars offer flavors from around the world, including Mexican, French, and Japanese, along with a tequila bar and 24-hour cantina. Its Zen Spa features peaceful massage palapas surrounded by water. Located in the San Jose Hotel Zone, near an amazing swimming beach, Palmilla.
Hotel phone: +52 624 163 7730
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Hyatt Ziva

12. Grand Fiesta Americana – Corridor, Cabo del Sol

Cabo San Lucas beach resort.
Family-friendly, all-inclusive resort, boasting six pools, four whirlpools, and fifteen bars and restaurants; truly something for everyone! Its unique spa specializes in “vinotherapy,” wine-based massage and therapeutic treatments. The resort offers a variety of rooms and suites, all with balconies, and some with private pools or gardens. Direct beach access fronted by a reef makes this an ideal spot for snorkeling. The Grand Fiesta sits in the Corridor, right next to the Cabo del Sol Ocean and Desert golf courses.
Hotel phone: +52 624 145 6200
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Grand Fiesta Americana

13. Hacienda del Mar – Corridor, Cabo del Sol

Sheraton Grand Hacienda del Mar in Corridor, Cabo del Sol
Elegant colonial-style resort with five pools, located between two golf courses in the Cabo del Sol complex. Its “Old Mexico” vibe is its most distinctive attribute, with ornamental cupolas, Catholic artwork, antique gold, red tile roof, and hand-painted tiles. Enormous suites from one to four bedrooms and two floors can sleep up to ten. Their amazing kids’ club features time in the kids’ pool with waterfalls and slides, Spanish lessons, and even camping. Spa days and romantic dining round out the experience.
Hotel phone: +52 624 145 8000
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Hacienda del Mar

14. Pueblo Bonito Pacifica – Cabo San Lucas, Sunset Beach

Beach hotel with pool.
Exquisite adults-only, all-inclusive resort with two dazzling pools, an award-winning spa, and a private golf course. Sophisticated rooms and suites all include private terraces, some with personal plunge pools. Tower rooms and suites add 24-hour butler service, upgraded amenities, and access to an exclusive lounge. Sumptuous dining here focuses on contemporary Baja flavors using local, organic produce, fresh seafood, and fine meat cuts. The Pacifica’s design and style celebrate its desert surroundings with sand-colored buildings, cactus gardens, and raked sand landscaping. Located on Sunset Beach on the Pacific side of Cabo San Lucas, about ten minutes’ drive to the marina and downtown nightlife.
Hotel phone: +52 624 142 9696
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort

15. Bahia Hotel & Beach House – Cabo San Lucas, Downtown

Downtown Cabo San Lucas hotel near restaurants and nightlife.
Fashionable boutique hotel with a free-form pool and beach club on the edge of downtown Cabo San Lucas. This chic hotel is home to two of the top restaurants in Cabo San Lucas: Bar Esquina, known for its seasonal Mexican-Mediterranean menus, and SUR Beach House, with its craft cocktails and Asian-Peruvian-Mexican flavor fusions. Newly renovated rooms feature modern Mexican décor with rich woods, tree stump tables, and lots of natural light. Bahia Hotel is only one block from Medano Beach and walking distance to nearly every bar and restaurant in town.
Hotel phone: +52 624 143 1890
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Bahia Hotel & Beach House

16. Casa Natalia – San Jose, Downtown

Best hotel in downtown San Jose del Cabo.
This sunny boutique hotel with creative flair and a fountain-fed pool is home to one of the city’s best restaurants, Mi Cocina. Casa Natalia embodies the artistic vibe of San Jose, with colorful rooms featuring Mexican textiles, original artworks, and bold accent walls and furnishings. All rooms feature bright terraces with hammocks, while spa suites add outdoor whirlpools. Superior suites and above include complimentary, private breakfast delivered to your terrace. Complimentary transfer to the Beach Club at El Ganzo. Located in Downtown San Jose on the main square, walking distance to the town’s famous Art Walk, historic church, and restaurants.
Hotel phone: +52 624 146 7101
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Casa Natalia

17. Villa La Estancia – Cabo San Lucas, Downtown

Cabo San Lucas hotel with view.
Gorgeous resort on sandy, swimmable Medano Beach, with cascading, sea-facing pools and five Jacuzzis. This hacienda-style resort with Spanish colonial décor is home to well-appointed rooms and spacious suites that include up to three bedrooms. An oversized spa offers a wide menu: from romantic, couples massage and hydrotherapy packages to kids’ services in the Mini Spa. Guests may dine at the casual, poolside grill and upscale, Italian restaurant onsite, or choose one of the many restaurant options at the sister properties next door. Full meal plans are available here, or guest may take the short walk to Downtown Cabo San Lucas to check out the local gastronomy scene. Located on Cabo’s most popular beach, near nightlife, dining, and shops.
Hotel phone: +1 877-897-1951
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Villa la Estancia Beach Resort & Spa

18. Sandos Finisterra – Cabo San Lucas, Downtown

Hotel near downtown Cabo San Lucas hotel.
Gorgeous all-inclusive, family-friendly resort carved into a cliffside boasting three pools, a kids club with activities, a nightclub, and a spa with hydrotherapy. Rooms feature contemporary décor with balconies, some with private Jacuzzis. The common areas are decked out in a retro style, and take the rugged landscape into consideration, using the natural rocks as interior walls. Its high vantage point offers unsurpassed, panoramic views of the Pacific, Sea of Cortez, and Cabo. The resort is walking distance to the Cabo marina, bars, and restaurants, but guests will want to drive back up.
Hotel phone: +52 624 145 6700
Hotel websiteCheck prices for Sandos Finisterra

Staying in Cabo San Lucas, Downtown

Cabo San Lucas Beach.

The main beach in Cabo San Lucas, a short walk from the Marina and downtown.

Cabo San Lucas, usually shortened to Cabo, was a tiny fishing village only forty years ago. But this sleepy town has been experiencing a tourism boom since the late ’70s, fast becoming one of the top beach destinations in the world. Downtown Cabo is best known for its lively bars and nightclubs, golden sand beaches, and relaxed attitude. The town is laid out in a C-shape, following the contours of the coast, beginning with Medano Beach to the northeast, the marina in the center, and wrapping around to Land’s End and the famous El Arco rock formation at the southeastern tip. All of the beaches in this area front the Sea of Cortez and are swimmable, including Medano (the most popular), Playa Empacadora (mostly locals), and Lovers Beach (accessible by water taxi). Beaches on the south side face the Pacific, such as Sunset Beach; these are closed to swimming due to the deadly current.

Just inland from the beaches, Downtown Cabo is home to casual and fine dining restaurants, and wild nightclubs and bars. The marina area includes Puerto Paraíso mall, water taxis to Lovers Beach and Divorce Beach, tour and fishing boats, plus more bars and restaurants, some that will cook any fish that travelers catch. A small main plaza with a historic church, local natural history museum, and souvenir shops sits to the southwest of the Marina. Everything is close; in fact, you can walk the length of Madero Beach, all the way around the marina, and to Land’s End in about thirty minutes.

Best Hotels in Cabo San Lucas, Downtown & Beach

Staying in Cabo San Lucas, Sunset Beach

The Sunset Beach area sits on the southern edge of Cabo, overlooking the Pacific. This is the latest area to be developed in Cabo, so the beach itself is fairly secluded and unspoiled. Though not swimmable, Sunset Beach is the perfect spot to unwind in the sun or hit the links; away from the raucous partying of downtown, but still accessible to its dining, marina, and conveniences. This area is home to a few luxury resorts, high-end residences, and Jack Nicklaus-designed Quivira Golf Club.

Best Hotels in Cabo San Lucas, Sunset Beach

Staying in San Jose del Cabo, Downtown and Hotel Zone

Best beach resort near San Jose del Cabo.

The Viceroy Hotel in San Jose del Cabo.

San Jose is a relaxed town with a boho vibe. Romantic colonial architecture, fine restaurants, low-key cantinas, and its famous Art Walk are the town’s biggest draws. San Jose is greener than Cabo and the surrounding area because of an underwater river that flows through here, eventually surfacing to create a lush estuary. The wetlands here are home to a bird sanctuary with walking trails, a small beach, and observation platforms, and it’s a popular spot for bicycling or horseback riding. The nineteenth-century Spanish church, Parroquia San José del Cabo, is the historic heart of downtown, with the Art District’s main galleries just one block away on Alvaro Obregon.

Most of the activities are in downtown, but most hotels are just southwest in the Hotel Zone. This is a 3.5 km strip of beach beginning at Costa Azul beach to the southwest and ending at the far northeast of Playa Hotelera (Hotel Beach). This long stretch of golden sand is popular for sunning and beach sports, but is not swimmable. The only swimmable beach in San Jose is further northeast in Puerto Los Cabos.

Best Hotels in San Jose, Downtown and Hotel Zone

Staying in San Jose, Puerto Los Cabos

Hotel on water in San Jose del Cabo.

The waterfront pool at Hotel El Ganzo.

Puerto Los Cabos is on the opposite side of the estuary from Downtown and is home to the Marina, the swimmable beach La Playita, and some of the newest hotels in San Jose. This area is generally quieter than downtown, though there are a few attractions here, including the Dolphin Discovery at the marina and the Wirikuta Cactus Garden, filled with sculptures, local flora, and hosting a nightly theater show. Puerto Los Cabos is less than ten minutes from Downtown by bike or car.

Best Hotels in San Jose, Puerto Los Cabos

Staying in The Corridor

Boutique hotel in Cabo Corridor.

The Cabo Surf Hotel on the Cabo Corridor but sill close to San Jose del Cabo.

“The Corridor” is a roughly 30 km stretch of Highway 1, connecting Cabo and San Jose del Cabo. Many of the area’s largest resorts are here, alongside a few golf courses, swimmable beaches, and adventure parks. Resorts and attractions here are spread out, so those who plan on exploring much outside their resort grounds will need to rent a car or arrange for other transportation; there is nothing within walking distance of most hotels here.

The best surf breaks on the Corridor are at Old Man’s Beach and Playa Monumentos. The best snorkeling is at Santa Maria Beach and Chileno Bay. The best beaches for swimming are Palmilla and Tequila Cove.

Best Hotels in the Corridor

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Where to Stay in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo

Mexico › Best Places to Stay in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo
Updated: February 20, 2024

See Also

Ixtapa Zihuatanejo beach in Mexico.

Best Areas to Stay in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo

Separated by a mere five miles of highway along a prime stretch of Mexico’s Pacific Coast, Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo are as different as can be. Ixtapa is a sedate, purpose-built beach resort community dating back to the 1970s, whereas Zihuatanejo – immortalized in the Shawshank Redemption – is a former fishing village turned busy little town, with a local feel to it and a picturesque setting on the Bahía de Zihuatanejo, framed by two hilly headlands. Ixtapa is centered on a stunning white-sand beach, whereas Zihua has appealing beaches of its own that stretch around the Bahía de Zihuatanejo, and numerous good restaurants and bars to boot. Unless you’re aiming for an all-inclusive vacation in Ixtapa, you’ll want your own wheels, since some of the outlying beaches and attractions both in Zihua and Ixtapa are fairly spread-out.

Ixtapa Zihuatanejo

The tranquil waters of Zihuatanejo.

Ixtapa has the lion’s share of all-inclusive, 4 and 5-star beach resorts, whereas if you’re looking for a place on a budget, then central Zihuatanejo, Lazaro Cardenas, and Playa La Madera are your best bets. Zihua’s boutique, upscale hotels dot the hillsides above Playa La Ropa and Playa Las Gatas, south of central Zihua.

Flat and relatively compact, the purpose-built resort community of Ixtapa is centered on a long, white-sand beach and bookmarked at either end by a golf course. There are several quality guesthouses here, but the bulk of accommodations consists of upmarket, all-inclusive hotels that line the beach. There are a couple of natural attractions further west, and Ixtapa is connected to Zihuatanejo by frequent and cheap public buses.

Five miles south of Ixtapa by motorway, and flanked by the Lazaro Cardenas and Playa La Madera neighborhoods, Centro is the busy heart of Zihuatanejo, consisting of a compact grid of narrow streets. This is where you’ll find the municipal beach and seafront promenade, the food and craft markets, the most authentic local restaurants, banks, and Zihua’s sole cultural attraction: its waterfront museum.

Lazaro Cardenas is a quiet, hilly, and mostly residential neighborhood, just to the north of Centro and connected to it via a pedestrian bridge from the waterfront, right by the main pier. Several casual eateries and a smattering of midrange and budget hotels aside, the main attraction here is the quiet location that’s just a short walk from Zihua’s bustling center.

Linked to Centro by bridges over the narrow Rio Lerma, Playa La Madera is a mostly residential neighborhood that looks out onto a shallow, swimmable beach. It’s a quiet neighborhood dotted with inexpensive hotels and numerous good restaurants. Centro is a short and easy walk away, along the waterfront, while Playa La Ropa is a 20-minute, hilly walk south along the coastal road.

ixtapa busy beach

The beautiful and busy beach of Ixtapa. With its larger luxury resorts, Ixtapa has a very different vibe from nearby Zihuatanejo.

From Playa La Madera, the Escénica La Ropa road climbs uphill and then skirts the bay above Playa La Ropa, a wide sweep of white sand, connected to the coastal road by a couple of streets. It’s a rather spread-out, leafy neighborhood, and accommodations here run the gamut from friendly cheapies and midrange family hotels to exclusive, adults-only boutique places high up on the hillside, while restaurants range from cheap and cheerful beach shacks to sophisticated fusion places with cliff views and a smart-casual dress code. This is Zihuatanejo’s most popular base for gringos, and having your own wheels helps, since it’s a longish walk into town.

Adjoining the Playa La Ropa neighborhood, and located at the south end of the scenic road that loops its way south around Zihuatanejo Bay, sleepy Playa Las Gatas is a collection of tranquil, hilly streets, with boutique guesthouses and hotels looking out to sea from their lofty locations amidst a riot of lush vegetation. There are a couple of high-end restaurants here and the neighborhood is named after the sheltered beach below, reachable only by boat.

Halfway between Zihuatanejo Airport and Zihuatanejo proper, Playa Larga is a seaside community consisting of a couple of streets that look out onto the long sweep of eponymous white sand. Several inexpensive hotels and a handful of seafood eateries aside, its other attraction are some decent Pacific swells that draw surfers.

Flanked by mangrove wetlands and located at the south end of Playa Blanca, the tiny community of Barro de Potosí is just south of Zihuatanejo Airport and some 15 miles south of Zihuatanejo proper. Inexpensive beach restaurants and a few budget and midrange range hotels are found here.

Best Places to Stay in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo

Zihuatanejo beach bay

Zihuatanejo Bay, surrounded by forested hillsides.

Best Neighborhood in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo for Sightseeing & Shopping: Centro
Ixtapa and Zihua are rather short on sights. Pretty much the only cultural attraction is the Museo Arqueológico de la Costa Grande by the municipal beach in Centro. The museum gives you a decent overview of the Olmec, Tarascan, Mexica and Teotihuacan cultures of the Guerrero coast, though most displays are in Spanish only. Centro is also the best for shopping, whether you’re looking for touristy, mass-produced souvenirs (Mercado de Artesanías Zihuatanejo), locally grown coffee (Café Caracol, Café Zihuatanejo), fine textiles (La Zapoteca), or traditional and contemporary masks made by artisans from all over the Guerrero state, sold at El Jumil, by the waterfront.

Best Neighborhoods in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo for Nightlife: Centro, Ixtapa
Visitors generally don’t come to Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo to party hard. Nightlife in Ixtapa consists of hotel bars, plus several sports bars and clubs that cater almost exclusively to tourists that are clustered in central Ixtapa, among the shopping malls, banks and restaurants found between the beachside Boulevard Paseo Ixtapa, and the Paseo de Las Gaviotas. If you’re looking for a less generic scene and want to mingle with locals, head for central Zihuatanejo. There are several excellent bars along the waterfront and in the tiny streets branching off from the beachside paseo. Standouts include the Angustina Mezcal bar, Tasting Room Por Capricho del Rey (for craft beer), and Malagua.

Best Neighborhoods in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo for Food and Restaurants: Centro, Playa la Madera, Playa de La Ropa, Playa Las Gatas
Centro boasts more traditional and inexpensive restaurants and eateries where you can try local specialties, such as pozole (meat-and-hominy stew) and tiritas (local take on ceviche); standouts include Restaurantes Mexicanos Any, Fonda Doña Licha and Carmelitas. It’s hard to get more local than the taco stands such as La Papa Loca and the 24-hour La Flechita Roja. Playa La Madera features a good mix of local and upscale offerings, such as Patio Mexica and El Arrayan, while Playa de La Ropa and Playa Los Gatos are known for their upscale, fusion restaurants with a view, such as Espuma, La Escollera and El Suspiro.

Zihuatanejo street

Early morning in the neighborhood in Zihuatanejo.

Best Neighborhoods in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo for Families: Ixtapa, Playa de La Ropa
Ixtapa is perfect for a family vacation with younger kids, particularly if you’re looking for the convenience of an all-inclusive resort. Family-friendly attractions in Ixtapa include Parque Aventura Ixtapa, with its zip lines, rope ladders and Himalayan bridges, plus the small Mundo Mágico waterpark with slides and pools. There’s also a small crocodile reserve off Playa Linda, just north of central Ixtapa, where kids can spot crocs and iguanas. If you’re looking for a more adventurous yet comfortable stay, and a good base for exploring Zihuatanejo, there are several family-friendly hotels in the Playa de la Ropa neighborhood. The beach is great for families, with its calm, shallow waters and water sports opportunities for older kids.

Best Neighborhoods in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo to Stay for First Timer: Centro, Playa La Madera, Playa La Ropa
It depends if you’re looking for a slice of local life, great dining or beaches. If you’re keen on proximity to all three, it’s hard to go wrong with basing yourself either in Centro, with its terrific restaurants and the beaches only a short drive away; Playa La Ropa, with its creative, upscale restaurants and great beach, or Playa La Madera – a halfway house between the two; its own beach is not amazing, but it’s closer to the La Ropa beach than Centro, and quieter than Centro, while being only a short stroll away from its restaurants and bars.

Most Romantic Neighborhoods in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo: Playa Las Gatas, Playa La Ropa, Lazaro Cardenas
It’s hard to beat the sea and sunset views from the intimate, high-end, boutique, adults-only luxury hotels high above Playa Las Gatas and Playa La Ropa; some come with private terraces and plunge pools. Or you can opt for romance on a budget and get similar sea-and-sunset vistas from midrange digs on the hillsides of Lazaro Cardenas.

Best Neighborhood in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo for a Local Vibe: Centro
For a local vibe, you can’t beat central Zihua, with its tight grid of bustling streets, busy local markets (check out the Mercado Municipal off Avenida Benito Juárez and the smaller produce markets found off Calle Mangos that branches off Avenida Benito Juárez), and excellent local eateries and taco stands. Wandering the streets and taking in local life is a joy and it’s hard to get more local than late-night bites at Zihua’ legendary taco stands.

Best Neighborhoods in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo for Water Sports: Ixtapa, Centro Playa La Ropa, Playa Las Gatas, Lazaro Cardenas
The majority of Ixtapa’s beachside hotels offer a plethora of water sports, such as parasailing, and rent out sea kayaks and Hobie cats. Snorkelling gear is rented out off Isla Ixtapa’s beaches, though the visibility isn’t amazing. Parasailing can also be done off Playa La Ropa, which also has outfits that rent out sea kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. If you’re looking for sports fishing, look no further than Zihuatanjeo Sports Fishing Charters in Ixtapa. A more wallet-friendly option is the Sociedad de Servicios Turísticos Triángulo del Sol fishing cooperative by the boat ramp in Centro that arranges fishing trips, with the price depending on your bargaining skills. There are two good scuba diving outfits along the waterfront in Lazaro Cardenas, and another one that’s based on the Playa Las Gatas, where the water is calm and great for snorkeling. Surfers should head for Playa Larga, 8 miles south of Centro.

Safest Areas of Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo: Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo have a low crime rate, compared to other parts of the Pacific Coast. The main beach in Ixtapa, plus Playa La Ropa and Playa Las Gatas neighborhoods are safest, and Centro is generally safe to walk around, even late in the evening. Standard precautions apply: don’t flash lots of cash, expensive jewelry or electronic gear, and avoid deserted, poorly-lit streets at night.

Unsafe Areas of Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo: While not specifically off-limits, the mostly residential neighborhoods of Zihuatanejo east of the main Avenida José Maria Morelos y Pavón see practically no visitors and you may feel rather conspicuous there. Some of the streets in Lazaro Cardenas are poorly lit at night.

Best Neighborhoods in Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo for Tourists

Zihuatanejo beach

A gorgeous long beach in Zihuatanejo.

Ixtapa

A state-tourism-planned resort to match Cancún, Ixtapa was built in the 1970s along a long, white-sand beach, Playa de Palmar. Unlike Cancún, Ixtapa didn’t take off in a huge way, but while there isn’t much here in the way of a local community, it’s an excellent place to stay for families with kids that are looking for creature comforts and hassle-free, all-inclusive vacations by the beach. 4- and 5-star hotels line the prime two-mile stretch of Playa de Palmar, with easy access to water sports, such as parasailing. Nearby attractions include a small water park, two excellent golf courses, a yachting marina, small crocodile sanctuary, and boat trips to Isla Ixtapa from Playa Linda, a short drive from central Ixtapa. Plus, Zihuatanejo and its beaches and restaurants are a short drive away and make for an easy day trip.

Best Hotels in Ixtapa

Centro

The heart of Zihuatanjeo is where all the action is. Downtown Zihua consists of a grid of narrow, busy streets, and this is where you’ll find all the essentials: banks, large produce market, lots of inexpensive, authentic Mexican eateries, 24-hour taco stands, as well as cheap hotels, tacky t-shirt stores, and pretty much the only cultural sight in town: the archaeological museum dedicated to regional history. The municipal beach is not particularly clean; this is where fishermen clean their catch, and the pier is where you catch boats to Playa Las Gatas. But the waterfront is great for a stroll, and tacky souvenir sellers aside, there are several excellent stores near the waterfront that specialise in quality keepsakes: regionally-made masks, locally grown coffee, and hand-woven textiles. Come evening, the bars along the waterfront and in the tiny streets nearby get pretty lively.

Best Hotels in Centro

Lazaro Cardenas

Flanking the Zihuatanejo Bay to the west, and a short walk from central Zihuatanejo, Lazaro Cardenas is a quiet, hilly neighborhood with winding streets, great sea views from its smattering of midrange and budget hotels and guesthouses, and a hanful of places to eat. Two diving centres are found along the coastal Calle de la Noria, and Picante catamaran cruises depart from the headland. Some of the streets are poorly lit at night.

Best Hotels in Lazaro Cardenas

Playa La Madera

Reachable from the east end of the Paseo El Pescadór – the waterfront promenade in central Zihua – Playa La Madera is a compact, leafy neighborhood overlooking a clean stretch of sand and calm waters. On the hill above the beach there are some pricey condos, as well as some decent midrange hotels. There are several inexpensive seafood restaurants along the beach, and more sophisticated offerings along the canal-facing Calle Adelita. And if you’re looking to learn to cook the Mexican way, the owner of Patio Mexica café runs excellent cooking classes.

Best Hotels in Playa La Madera

Playa La Ropa

A mile so over the headland from Playa La Madera, and reachable via the scenic, winding Escénica La Ropa road, Playa La Ropa is Zihua’s best road-accessible beach – a mile-long stretch of white sand, with calm waters and casual waterfront restaurants serving a mix of local seafood and international dishes. This neighborhood is quite spread-out, with a handful of streets connecting the scenic coastal road to the beach. Near the south end of the beach, accommodations are a mix of budget and midrange hotels, with the upscale and exclusive boutique options found high above the bay, near the headland viewpoint. Along the coastal road you’ll also find LOOT – a hipster café and art showroom, with a rooftop bar and occasional live concerts.

Best Hotels in Playa La Ropa

playa las gatas

The view from under a shaded palapa at Playa las Gatas.

Playa Las Gatas

Named after the sheltered, popular beach cove below its cliffs, this quiet, affluent neighborhood is located at the south end of the Escénica La Ropa road that connects it to central Zihua via Playa La Ropa and Playa La Madera. There’s a scattering of well-to-do houses along the hilly street here, along with a handful of Zihua’s best boutique hotels, most boasting lofty sea views. The beach itself is great for snorkelling and has crystal-clear, calm waters for swimming and a restaurant. To reach the beach, you have to head all the way to Centro, to Zihuatanejo’s main pier, to catch a boat out there.

Best Hotels in Playa Las Gatas

Playa Larga

A surfer magnet when the conditions are right, this tiny seaside settlement just north of Zihuatanejo Airport is a good choice if you’re looking to hit the waves or ride horse on the beach. Or just come for a wallet-friendly seafood lunch on the wide, white-sand Playa Larga.

Best Hotels in Playa Larga

Barra de Potosí

Technically not part of Zihuatanejo proper, this tiny, laidback community is just south of Zihuatanejo Airport, and worth a stay if you’re looking for tranquility, great seafood at a beachfront enramada (eatery), and some serious beach time along the long sweep of Playa Blanca. Even if you don’t stay here, it’s a worthwhile 30-minute drive from Zihua, and there are boat trips into the surrounding mangroves for keen bird watchers.

Best Hotels in Barra de Potosí

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Mexico City Itinerary

MexicoMexico City › Itinerary
Updated: January 11, 2024

See Also

Highlights of Mexico City.

The Best of Mexico City

    Best Things to Do in Mexico City: Cruising the waterways of Xochimilco; Visiting museums dedicated to Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera; Enjoying a night of mariachi in Plaza Garibaldi; Visiting Museo Nacional de Antropología
    Best Tours: Mexican Food ToursMexico City Urban AdventuresSabores Mexico Food ToursAmigo Tours
    Best View: Torre Latinoamericana
    Best Restaurant: Pujol
    Best Nightlife: Zona Rosa
    Best day-trip: Teotihuacán
    Best Hotels: Gran Hotel Ciudad de MéxicoHistórico CentralZócalo Central

      Top 5 Mexico City Highlights

      1. The Zócalo

      The traditional heart of Mexico City is the vast central plaza known as the Zócalo, and any visitor to the city should aim to spend a good chunk of time here. Once the focus of Aztec Tenochtitlán, today it hums with tour groups, drummers, street vendors, buskers, souvenir markets, and political protesters. Dominating it all is the Catedral Metropolitana, the largest church in Latin America and one of the oldest, dating back to the 1570s. Its cavernous interior is crammed with ornate altars and side chapels. Not much remains of the Aztec city, but the nearby Museo del Templo Mayor preserves the remnants of its once great pyramid temple – mostly foundations, but spine-tingling nonetheless. The connected museum adds context and displays artifacts retrieved from the site. The other key attraction here is the Palacio Nacional on the east side of the Zócalo, which is free to enter and contains a series of stunning Diego Rivera murals. Rivera began working here in 1929, his México a Través de los Siglos a vast, multi-colored trip through Mexican history from Quetzalcoatl to Pancho Villa. The best view of the Zócalo can be had from the rooftop restaurant in the Gran Hotel Ciudad de México on the west side of the plaza.

      2. Museo Mural Diego Rivera

      Mexico City is crammed with fabulous art museums, from the classical Museo Nacional De Arte to the relatively new and space-agey Museo Soumaya, but the Diego Rivera Mural Museum really is a must-see. Rivera’s huge Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in the Alameda encompasses almost every famous Mexican historical figure (Cortés is depicted with his hands stained with blood).

      3. Museo Nacional de Antropología

      Anyone even slightly interested in the great civilizations of ancient Mesoamerica should aim to spend at least half a day in Mexico’s top museum. Every Mexican culture is represented here, from the Olmecs to the Maya. Some of the objects on display are truly spectacular, such as the iconic 24-tonne Piedra del Sol, or “Aztec Calendar Stone”. The galleries are arranged chronologically around the central courtyard – it’s advisable to buy a guidebook in the museum shop or rent an English audioguide before you start, to make the most of your visit (most labels are otherwise in Spanish only). The upper floor focuses on the cultures of Mexico’s indigenous groups today.

      4. Coyoacán

      The affluent southern suburb of Coyoacán makes for an enticing day-trip, its blossom- and tree-lined colonial streets perfect for exploring on foot. The Museo Frida Kahlo is a fitting tribute to the beloved Mexican artist, displaying Kahlo’s signature tehuana dresses and numerous examples of her work – including her famous final painting, Viva la Vida, the inspiration for the Coldplay song of the same name. The museum occupies the “Blue House” where Frida was born and spent most of her life (sometimes with husband Diego Rivera, who also has work displayed here). Soviet exile Leon Trotsky was often a guest here in the 1930s, and his abode has been preserved as the Museo Casa de León Trotsky. This where Stalin had Trotsky assassinated in 1940 – with an ice axe – and the rooms have been preserved as he left them.

      5. Xochimilco

      Cruising the flower-lined canals and floating gardens in the suburb of Xochimilco is an iconic Mexico City activity, made even more enticing at the weekends when locals come out to eat and drink, creating a festive atmosphere. Renting a candy-colored boat (with captain) is relatively easy and cheap, allowing for a few hours of chugging along the canals, passing vendors in small canoes selling flowers, fruits, and hot snacks, as well as marimba players and entire mariachi bands. The floating gardens themselves – or chinampas – are rafts of mud and reeds anchored to the canal floors by tangles of roots. Xochimilco itself is a great place to sample the city’s pulquerias, traditional bars specializing in pulque, an alcoholic drink produced from agave plants since pre-Hispanic times.

      Planning a Mexico City Itinerary

      One Day in Mexico City

        • Explore the Zócalo, Mexico City’s huge central square, home to the cathedral, the Aztec ruins of Templo Mayor, and the Diego Rivera murals in the Palacio Nacional
        • See Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in the Alameda at the Museo Mural Diego Rivera
        • Visit Museo Nacional de Antropología, the country’s premier museum, with displays on all of Mexico’s major pre-Hispanic cultures
        • Eat or drink at the historic Bar La Ópera, or Enrique Olvera’s vaunted restaurant Pujol
        • Listen to the roving mariachi bands in Plaza Garibaldi, or see a performance by the Ballet Folklórico de México

      Two Days in Mexico City

        • Explore the Zócalo and stroll the streets of the old city
        • Visit Museo Nacional de Antropología and Museo Mural Diego Rivera
        • Eat at the historic Bar La Ópera and Enrique Olvera’s Pujol
        • Check out the roving mariachi bands in Plaza Garibaldi
        • See the Ballet Folklórico de México
        • Explore Mexico City’s largest and most colorful retail market, La Merced
        • Spend time in the upmarket suburb of Coyoacán, visiting the Frida Kahlo and León Trotsky museums, and its art and craft markets

      Three Days in Mexico City

        • Take in the views from the Torre Latinoamericana (if it’s smoggy wait till sunset when the lights highlight the city far more clearly)
        • Soak up the history in the Zócalo and old city
        • Visit the stunning Art Deco Palacio de Bellas Artes, home to some of the city‘s most flamboyant murals
        • Peruse La Merced market
        • Eat at Bar La Ópera and check out the mariachi bands in Plaza Garibaldi
        • Explore Coyoacán and San Ángel, home to the studios of Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo, and the historic restaurant San Ángel Inn (housed in a 17th-century Carmelite monastery)
        • Take a cruise around the floating gardens of Xochimilco, and visit local pulquerias (traditional bars) such as Pulqueria El Templo de Diana
        • Visit the Museo Nacional de Antropología and Museo Mural Diego Rivera
        • Dinner at Pujol, with cocktails in the Zona Rosa
        • Devote a half-day to visiting the giant pyramids of Teotihuacán – go early before the crowds arrive (it opens at 9am). Take a organzied tour (Amigo Tours) or go solo with a direct public bus from Terminal Norte
        • Shop for regional crafts and souvenirs from all over Mexico at La Ciudadela market
        • See the Ballet Folklórico de México

      One Week in Mexico City

        • Explore the Zócalo and visit all 7 of Mexico City’s big art museums: the Museo Mural Diego Rivera, the Museo Nacional de Antropología, Museo Soumaya, Palacio de Bellas Artes, Museo Rufino Tamayo, Museo de Arte Moderno and Museo Nacional de Arte
        • Lunch at rooftop Terraza restaurant, on the7th floor of Gran Hotel Ciudad de México, with sensational views over the Zócalo
        • Enjoy a few nights out in the Zona Rosa
        • Peruse the shops and top-class restaurants in upmarket Polanco; or grab a gourmet burger at Butcher & Sons
        • Check out the outdoor cafes and bistro-style restaurants of Condesa – and slurp an ice cream at famous Neveria Roxy
        • Spend an afternoon in leafy Chapultepec Park, boating on the lake and visiting the Museo Nacional de Historia in Chapultepec Castle
        • Trawl the food stalls and mescal bars at Mercado Roma
        • Spend a day in San Ángel and Coyoacán
        • Soak up the scene in historic cafes and restaurants like Café de Tacuba, Café del Palacio inside Bellas Artes, Hostería de Santo Domingo and El Taquito
        • Pay homage to Mexico City’s wrestling culture and take in some live lucha libre at Arena Coliseo
        • Shop at the Ciudadela market
        • Catch a Mexican soccer match at Estadio Azteca, home to América (“The Eagles”), the nation’s most successful club
        • Ride the ancient waterways of Xochimilco
        • Visit the Museo Dolores Olmedo Patiño, housing a huge collection of work by Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo, and the Museo Diego Rivera Anahuacalli, home to Rivera’s collection of pre-Columbian sculpture
        • Listen to the mariachi bands at Plaza Garibaldi
        • Explore La Merced market
        • Visit the giant pyramids of Teotihuacán
        • Visit the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, Mexico’s most important religious site

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Tulum Cenotes

MexicoTulum › Best Cenotes
Updated: January 3, 2024

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Cenote near Tulum, Mexico.

What is a Cenote?

Cenotes are limestone sinkholes filled with fresh water, formed when bedrock collapses and exposes groundwater below. Most of the Yucatan’s 6000 cenotes are small, underground, and inaccessible, though a notable number are large enough to swim, snorkel, or dive in. Many are crystal blue and open to the air, while others are accessible by stairs leading down into caverns and are connected to large underground river systems. If you do only one thing during your time in Tulum visit a cenote.

Cenote Dos Ojos in Tulsayab, near Tulum

Dos Ojos (Two Eyes) is the most famous cenote, made up of 5 cenotes including the its namesake cenotes: the Blue Eye and the Black Eye.

Tulum Cenotes: My Advice

  • Most cenotes have a charge of 80 to 150 pesos to enter and offer lockers, restrooms, and snack bars. Just take a towel, taxi money, and snorkel-mask (optional), and you’ll have an amazing time at any of these cenotes.
  • Getting to cenotes by bike is easy from Tulum. Pedaling 10 to 30 minutes north from the pueblo along Avenida Coba takes you past Cenote Zacil-Ha, Cenote Car Wash, and Gran Cenote to name a few. Cycling 20 minutes west along the main road through the pueblo Carretera Cancun-Tulum (aka Carretera Cancun-Chetumal) leads to Cenotes Cristal y Escondido; 15 more minutes leads to Kaan Luum Lagoon. Heading east along the same road leads to Caleta and Cenote Tankah in 15 minutes and Casa Cenote in 30 minutes. These are all open-air cenotes, cheap to enter, no guide required.
  • Some of the farther-flung cenotes (some of which are part of underground cave systems) are easily accessible by driving or taxi. These include Cenote Dos Ojos, Cenote Sac Actun, Jardin del Eden, Cenote Azul, Yal Ku Lagoon, and the Cobá cenotes Choo-Ha, Multum-Ha, and Tamcach-Ha. Taxis in Tulum do not use meters; instead, they charge a flat rate based on what zone they travel through. There is no Uber in Tulum. Reaching most of these should cost between 400 and 600 pesos. It is best to have the driver wait for you at the cenote to take you back, rather than standing on the highway trying to flag one down. The open-air cenotes and Cobá underground cenotes are cheap to enter and don’t require a guide. The cavern cenotes Dos Ojos, Sac Actun, and others listed in the article below will require a guide and gear, and cost 400 to 600 pesos to enter.
  • Do not wear sunscreen. Cenotes are fragile environments interconnected by underground river systems. The chemical agents in sunscreens, even the biodegradable types, can cause irreparable damage to the already threatened ecosystems here. Many cenotes have showers near the entrances, where guests are required to rinse before entering the water.
  • You can easily visit cenotes on your own, but if you don’t want to worry about arranging transportation, I highly recommend this cenote and snorkeling tour with hotel pickup and drop off.
Scuba diving lessons at Casa Cenote in Tankah, near Tulum

Scuba lessons at Casa Cenote.

The Best Tulum Cenotes

1. Cenotes Dos Ojos • Tankah, northeast of Tulum

Snorkeling at Dos Ojos in Tankah near Tulum
Dos Ojos (Two Eyes) is the most impressive cenote group in Tulum, named for its two largest cenotes, the Blue Eye (a sparkling, open-air cenote) and the Black Eye (a pitch-dark cavern with stalactites and stalagmites; you’ll need a guide and a flashlight to see this one). Dos Ojos is a flooded cave system with 5 cenotes total and connecting with Sac Actun (more info on Sac Actun below). Public access is available for its 2 open-air cenotes for 350 pesos (definitely on the high end for cenote rates), while its 3 cave cenotes require a guide (rates vary, but it’s worth the price). Experienced divers can also set up scuba tours through parts of Dos Ojos inaccessible to swimmers and snorkelers. • Map

2. Cenote Zacil Ha • Avenida Coba, northwest of Tulum

Cenote Zacil Ha in Tulum
Popular with local families, Zacil Ha is a small, open-air cenote with a zip line, diving platform, and 2 pools. The cenote is only about 3 meters deep, but the zip line is what keeps people coming back (it’s just 10 pesos a zip). There is a small, affordable snack bar on site, but most local families bring their own picnic. At 80 pesos to enter, this is among the cheapest cenotes to visit. • Map

3. Jardin del Eden Cenote • Xpu Ha, northeast of Tulum

The rock islands of Cenote Jardin del Eden in Xpu Ha near Tulum
Enormous, open-air cenote in the jungle with emerald-sapphire water. Jardin del Eden has a cliff at one end topped with a diving platform, and toward the center is a group of flat rocks just beneath the surface of the water (formerly the roof when the cenote was inside a cave), where people tend to sit and hang out. Visibility is excellent and many people bring their masks to snorkel (though there is not much aquatic life to see here), while divers visit to explore the cenote’s deep underwater caves. There are restrooms, life jacket rentals, and a small snack bar here. Entry is 200 pesos. • Map

4. Cenotes Cristal y Escondido • West of the Pueblo

Diving into Cenote Cristal in Tulum
Though very close to the Tulum pueblo, these two open-air cenotes with lovely, clear waters are off the tourist radar, so they tend to be pretty quiet. Cenote Cristal is the busier of the two, with a round shape, a diving platform, and a few little hangout spots built around. Across the street, Cenote Escondido is a long, skinny strip of water teeming with fish and with a rope swing at one end. Both cenotes are connected by an underwater tunnel, though you’ll need scuba gear to swim its length. 120 pesos includes entry to both cenotes. Enter and pay at Cristal; park at either cenote. Don’t confuse Cenote Cristal with Cenote Cristalino. Though Cenote Cristallino in Xpu Ha is beautiful, the operators have made life jackets mandatory, which takes the fun out of swimming there. • Map

5. Cenote Azul • Xpu Ha, northeast of Tulum

Cenote Azul near Tulum and Playa del Carmen
Cenote Azul is a collection of open-air pools all connected by a network of walkways with a few diving platforms spread throughout. The main cenote is the deepest, though there are a few deep pools mixed with mostly shallow pools radiating out from the central area. This is a popular cenote for families, as there are plenty of shallow areas for younger kids to enjoy. The cenote is shaded by jungle and rocky shelves over the water, letting in dappled sunlight for most of the day. Several flat, partially submerged rocks offer a perfect spot to chill in the water while tiny fish nibble your feet. There is a small store with snacks and drinks for sale. 120 pesos to enter. • Map

6. Casa Cenote (formerly Cenote Manatí) • Tankah, northeast of Tulum

Kayaking at Casa Cenote in Tankah near Tulum
This busy cenote is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba lessons. What makes Casa Cenote so special is its mix of freshwater and saltwater, its lazy-river current (the vast majority of cenotes don’t have a current at all), and its abundance of wildlife. Coati, birds, and butterflies visit its banks, while tropical fish and blue crabs flock around the mangrove roots. Panchito, a solitary little crocodile, lives near the back of the cenote; he’s never bitten anyone in all his years living there, but still, be sure to give him a wide berth. 120 pesos to enter, no guide required. There is a security checkpoint after you turn off the highway on the road Fraccionamiento Tankah leading to Casa Cenote. Tell the guards you are headed to Casa Cenote, and they will let you pass. There are not many services here other than porta-potties and life jacket rentals, but there are a handful of good restaurants in the area (the best is Chamico’s, about 2.5 km north along the beach). • Map

7. Cenotes Choo-Ha, Tamcach-Ha, and Multum-Ha • Cobá, northwest of Tulum

Cenote Multum Ha, near Cobá
On the same patch of land about 6 km from the Cobá ruins are three underground cenotes, each with unique features. Choo-Ha is the most “cavey” filled with stalagmites and stalactites and shallow, jewel blue water. Tamcach-Ha is the largest, deepest, and most popular with 2 diving platforms set at 5 and 10 meters high. Multum-Ha, the quietest of the three, is an almost perfect dome with hanging vines coming down through a small hole in its top. Life jackets, showers, and restrooms are available. The cenotes cost 100 pesos each to enter. • Choo-Ha Map Tamcach-Ha Map Multum-Ha Map

8. Yal Ku Lagoon and Cenote • Akumal, northeast of Tulum

A school of fish at Yal Ku Lagoon and Cenote in Akumal
Yal Ku is a large park with a cenote that flows into a lagoon that flows into the sea. This the best snorkel spot in the whole of Riviera Maya (aside from the coral reef) due to its mix of fresh and saltwater. Snorkelers will find tons of wildlife here with the small colorful fish (angelfish, parrotfish, and more) mostly near the cenote and mangroves and the larger fish, barracudas, rays, and sea turtles near the ocean end of the lagoon. There are two companies sharing control of Yal Ku with two different entrances. The blue and white entrance (cenote end) is the best for snorkelers, as they do not require life jackets, but there are few facilities here and almost no shade. The pink entrance (ocean end) offers palapa rentals, a snack bar, and cabins, but life jackets are mandatory, even for certified divers. Once in the lagoon, you can swim to any part of Yal Ku, no matter where you came in. Both companies charge 280 pesos to enter and both have snorkel masks available to rent. • Map

9. Cenote Chaak Tun • Playa del Carmen

Cenote Chaak Tun in Playa del Carmen
Two underground cenotes, one with a hole in the top letting in sunbeams and dramatic hanging vines, the other low lit (even pitch black in parts) with impressive stalagmites and stalactites. Chaak Tun is available to visit only as a 2-hour snorkeling tour package, beginning with a shaman’s blessing and ending with a Maya meal and tequila with a little hiking and over an hour spent in the water. Tours in English and Spanish begin every 30 minutes from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; come early or at the tail end of the day to avoid the tourist crowds that flock here on day trips from Cozumel. The 550 pesos admission includes an enthusiastic guide, all gear, a wetsuit, and food. • Map

10. Kaan Luum Lagoon and Cenote • West of Tulum

Kaan Luum Lagoon and Cenote in Tulum
Kaan Luum is the only spot on this list that is still more popular with locals than travelers (though that is fast changing). This family-friendly lagoon is ideal for young swimmers with most of it shallower than 1.5 meters. Its pale jade water abruptly turns dark blue where a deep cenote begins. The cenote is also marked off with a rope and buoys; only scuba divers are allowed in. Facilities include a large palapa (where locals picnic), a pier and group of small palapas (where everyone hangs out), 2 overwater swingsets, and an outhouse. 100 pesos to enter; to discourage drones, they charge an extra 150 to bring one in. • Map

11. Cenote and Caleta Tankah • Tankah, northeast of Tulum

Cenote Tankah near Tulum
This hidden gem offers the best of both worlds: an open-air cenote in the jungle and a caleta (small cove) on the beach. The caleta is a nearly circular cove at the edge of a sandy beach with saltwater waves washing in and freshwater heading out to sea from an underground river system; the clash of waters is fun for stronger swimmers. Walking inland along a jungle path leads to a shallow, round cenote ringed with palm trees. The cenote is fairly rocky, better for lounging than swimming. Entry to both is through the beach club at Caleta Tankah Hotel. 150 pesos includes access to the restaurant (good drinks, so-so food) and restrooms there. • Map

12. Cenote Car Wash (aka Cenote Aktun Ha) • Avenida Coba, northwest of Tulum • $

Cenote Car Wash, as seen from the platform
An open-air cenote with crystal clear water, a diving platform, great visibility, and underwater caves popular for diving. This is one of the quieter, less crowded cenotes, known for its natural beauty and tranquility. Its nickname comes from its history as a pit stop for taxis traveling between Tulum and Cobá, who used to wash their cars here. Like Casa Cenote, there is a current (though not as strong) and a small, elusive crocodile living here (just a little baby – for now). Facilities include restrooms, showers, lockers, and snorkel gear. Cenote Car Wash is the cheapest cenote near Tulum, only 50 pesos to enter (200 pesos for divers). • Map

13. Cenotes Sac Actun • Tankah, northeast of Tulum

Blue water of Sac Actun in Tankah near Tulum
Cenote Sac Actun is part of Sistema Sac Actun, the longest underwater cave system in the world. Archaeologists have found remains of a mastodon here, as well as a skull and partial skeleton of a teenage girl dating back 13,000 years – the oldest skeleton ever found in the Americas. Located near and connecting with Dos Ojos, Cenotes Sac Actun offer a similar feel with its flooded caverns studded with stalagmites and stalactites, but unlike Dos Ojos, Sac Actun’s cenotes are all underground. A guide is necessary here, but advanced reservations are not. 600 pesos includes entrance and guided tour. • Map

Map of Cenotes Near Tulum

Map of cenotes near Tulum.
Hotels on Map: JashitaUna VidaMezzanineAhau

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Maps of Tulum

MexicoTulum › Tulum Hotel Maps

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Map of Tulum Hotels

Map of Tulum Hotels.
Hotels on Map: JashitaO’ TulumHotel MerevaAleaNereaConradHiltonBespokeBardo • Una VidaHotel MilamHotel Tiki TikiHolistikaNaaySecretsKimpton AlunaMezzanineMi AmorOur HabitasEl PezTagoDuneThe Beach TulumCabañas TulumHotel ShibariAhauKananLula HotelLa ZebraAlayaCasa VioletaSueñosHotel PanameraXelaEncantadaRadhooLa ValiseNestBe TulumNômadeCasa MalcaCasa Gitano

Map of Where to Stay In Tulum

Map of where to stay in Tulum Peublo and Tulum Beach.
Hotels on Map: 1. Jashita 2. Conrad 3. Hilton 4. O’ Tulum 5. Mereva 6. Alea 7. Nerea 8. Bespoke 9. Bardo 10. Una Vida 11. Casa Don Diego 12. Milam 13. Holistika 14. Hotel Tiki Tiki 15. Naay 16. Secrets Resort 17. Kimpton Aluna 18. Villa Pescadores 19. Mezzanine 20. Diamante K 21. Mi Amor 22. Our Habitas 23. Azulik 24. Punta Piedra Beach Posada Hotel 25. Zamas 26. El Pez 27. Hotel Esencia 28. The Beach Hotel 29. Shibari 30. Ahau 31. Kanan 32. Lula 33. La Zebra 34. Casa Violeta 35. Sueños 36. Encantada 37. Xela 38. La Valise 39. Nest 39. Be Tulum 40. Nômade 41. Casa Malca

Map of Cenotes Near Tulum

Map of cenotes near Tulum.
Hotels on Map: JashitaUna VidaMezzanineAhau

Map of Cancun to Tulum

Getting from Cancun to Tulum map

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Cancun Restaurants

Mexico › Best Cancun Restaurants
Updated: January 3, 2024

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The 9 Best Restaurants in Cancun

  1. Casitas • $$$$
    Romantic, special occasion dining in Cancun
    Beachfront fine dining at Kempinski Hotel with a sumptuous menu of grilled fresh seafood and tender steaks. Specialties include their elevated version of Yucatecan tikin xic, a whole fish coated in spices and citrus and cooked in a banana leaf, as well as their flawlessly prepared steaks. The wine selection is robust, featuring international labels as well as Mexican wines (Mexico is known for their reds, especially cabernets and tempranillos). The romantic ambiance is most profound in their signature private casitas directly on the beach, wrapped in sheer veils with softly illuminated tabletops, though they also have tables on a nearby terrace. Service is impeccable, attentive, and friendly. Reservations are required for the beachfront casitas and there is a surcharge, but it is entirely worth it, especially for special occasions. Reservations are recommended for terrace seating.
  2. La Fonda del Zancudo • $$-$$$
    Date night dining in Cancun
    Atmospheric dining in an old abandoned house, serving gorgeous, Mediterranean-inspired dishes using fresh, local, organic ingredients, some grown onsite in their tiny garden. Standout dishes include their rich tuna tartare, baked figs, and empanadas, along with their refreshing cucumber martini and sangria. They also have a chalkboard menu with daily specials, with a lot of variety, especially for seafood and veggie dishes. Seating is in an open courtyard surrounded by crumbling stucco walls with dramatic vines climbing up the sides and fairy lights strung through the trees. Reservations are not required for small groups, but larger tables may want to reach out via Facebook; they answer very promptly. This Downtown restaurant is open for dinner only.
  3. Les Cepages • $$$$
    The best French restaurant in Cancun
    Contemporary, French cuisine in an elegant setting with rich flavors, exquisite presentation, and fantastic wines. The sophisticated menu changes seasonally, taking inspiration from locally-sourced produce and fine meat cuts, though certain popular items appear regularly, like the brie salad, lamb chops, and chocolate soufflé. The restaurant is helmed by the amiable and talented Chef Sal Luna, who makes sure to personally greet all guests he’s cooking for and to answer any questions or make suggestions, even going off-menu. Table service is always warm, attentive, and personal. Les Cepages is located in Downtown and is open for lunch and dinner.
  4. La Habichuela • $$$$
    Garden patio dining in Cancun
    Flavorful Mexican-Caribbean restaurant, famous for its unique recipes featuring delicious seafood and beef and its tropical garden vibe. Their most popular dish by far is their cocobichuela (so popular it ended up being a $600 question on Jeopardy): curried lobster and fish over rice served inside a coconut and topped with a grilled pineapple ring. Decorated with Maya statues, dense palm fronds, and strings of lights, the garden patio is the preferred spot for dining. Save room for dessert and order a Mayan coffee to end the night; it comes with a fun tableside fire show. There are two locations, but you definitely need to visit the original one in Downtown, open since 1977, to experience the true Cancun spirit.
  5. Surfin’ Burrito • $
    Cheap eats budget dining in Cancun
    This well-loved hole-in-the-wall has a full menu of California-style comfort food, like coconut shrimp, fish tacos, and ceviche. But they are best known for their massive mahi-shrimp burritos, loaded with grilled veggies, beans, and rice; topped with tamarind and habanero sauce, as featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. Their build-your-own burrito option is super popular, especially for those who don’t do seafood; their arrachera beef is particularly delicious. Burritos are always finished off on the grill to give a little crunch and a fuller flavor. Go easy on the drinks here; the cocktails are bigger than your head, ice-cold, and strong. Seating is limited to three high-top tables and assorted bar stools, so waiting for a table can take a while; food and cocktails are all available to-go, and they deliver from 8:00 a.m. until midnight. The restaurant is in the middle of the Hotel Zone, near the nightlife and open 24 hours.
  6. El Galeón del Caribe • $
    Best local dining in Cancun
    The only authentic, local-style restaurant in the Hotel Zone, El Galeón serves tasty, affordable seafood dishes under a palapa roof with a dirt floor and picnic tables arranged near the lagoon. The specialty of the house is pescadillas (fish tacos); order 3 or 4 per person. Their mixed ceviche with shrimp and octopus is outstanding and huge; two people can share this one. Pair your meal with a michelada and finish it off with their sweet fried bananas. Service is friendly but very casual, so don’t expect to be doted on. This gem of a restaurant is hidden from the street. At kilometer 19.4, you’ll see their sign and a small parking lot on the lagoon side of the street. The restaurant itself is down a set of wooden steps hidden in the foliage. Hours are loose, from noon-ish to 7:00ish. Cash only.
  7. Los Aguachiles • $$-$$$
    Best Ceviche in Cancun
    Casual, authentic spot for super fresh seafood and ice-cold drinks. The restaurant is best known for its house ceviche, made with shrimp, octopus, or a combo of the two served with their house salsa blends. Other menu highlights include the tuna tostada, grilled octopus, and chilorio tacos (spicy pork) for the non-seafood eaters. Mezcal features heavily on the drink menu, mixed with various aguas frescas, most popularly the pepino fresco (cucumber lime) and the maracuyá (passion fruit). This humble Downtown spot is a favorite among locals – clean, welcoming, and family-friendly. Open for lunch and early dinner from 1:00 pm to 7:30 pm.
  8. Sushi Go • $$-$$$
    The best sushi in Cancun
    Unassuming local chain serving super fresh and affordable sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese favorites. Rolls are definitely the stars here, with the Dragon Roll (tempura shrimp, cream cheese, and eel sauce) topping the list of favorites, along with the #4 (salmon, mango, cream cheese) and #21 (spicy tuna wrapped in avocado). Their tempura udon, ribeye roll, and gyoza are also top-notch. Diners will also find a few Mexican-inspired appetizers on the menu, like spicy tuna tostadas and salmon taquitos. The atmosphere is casual and clean, with friendly staff, table service, a full bar, and killer tempura fried ice cream. They also deliver to anywhere in the Hotel Zone. Open daily from 1:00 pm – 11:00 pm.
  9. Porfirio’s • $$$$
    Upscale Mexican restaurant in Cancun
    Upscale, Mexican restaurant with a lively atmosphere. Porfirio’s serves a wide range of Mexican staples like tamales, chicharones, and elote, along with more traditional, adventurous fare, like chapulines (fried grasshoppers) on guacamole. The cocktail menu features unique house recipes, like their chilimango (with fresh mango, vodka, chili and peach liqueur) and a robust selection of Josefinas (spicy mezcal cocktails with sweetened lemon and fresh, local fruits). Dinner is accompanied by live mariachi performers dancing among the tables, miming along with the music over the speakers. Yes, it’s cheesy but way fun. Open for lunch and dinner from 1:00 pm -1:00 am in the Hotel Zone.

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