Wild Pacific or Calm Atlantic? Mexico has both! 

If you’re overcome by wanderlust and looking for the best places to visit in Mexico, then there are two great beach holiday destinations to think of: Cancun and Los Cabos, more specifically Cabo San Lucas.

Endowed with endless beaches, shimmering ocean waters and romantic resorts, there’s plenty you can enjoy in these coveted Mexican coastal cities. Cancun and Cabos San Lucas are quite different; each with a unique feel and vastly different geographical and tourist attractions.

While Cabo is largely defined by the desert-meets-sea ambience, Cancun holds the calling cards for honeymooners who are looking for romance. Read on as we round up the things you can indulge in when you visit Cancun and Los Cabos.

No matter which part of Mexico you choose to discover, vacation rentals are a great way to experience this country.

Rentals have all the amenities and comfort of home, the elegance of a quality hotel, but also the vibe of living like a local. This is the ideal accommodation for many kinds of travelers, particularly for honeymooners.

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Cancun

Located on the Yucatan Peninsula along the Mexico’s Caribbean side, Cancun is a city that’s endowed with rich historical sites, white sandy beaches and luxury resorts.

If you’re seeking holiday romance in truly blissful surroundings, then the warm, translucent Caribbean and the super soft and talcum white sandy beaches can be the perfect choice for you.

To the South of Cancun, lies a jungle playground with freshwater ideal for snorkelling and rappelling.

Here, you’ll also find colourful reefs that are perfect for diving and exploring. Easily accessible from the Eastern part of USA, Cancun also offers huge value for those looking for all-inclusive ease and extreme luxury.

You can make the most out of the large, modern resorts which are lined shoulder-to-shoulder along the white costal sands. Here are some of the things to do while in Cancun:

Cancun, Mexico - Tourists on the beach in all inclusive hotel in Cancun, Mexico.

The Mayan Encounters

The Northern region of Yucatan Peninsula has a fascinating history of both the Mayan and Hispanic people.

Serving as a gateway to Mundo Maya, you can explore the enormous geographic region that includes Mexican states like Quintana Roo, Tabasco, Yucatan Chiapas and Campeche.

Cancun holds the historical evidence indicating the presence of Mayan culture dating as far as 1800 B.C.

This is a place you have visit to learn how Mayans rose to prominence between 200 BC and 1000 A.D. Scattered throughout the Yucatan Peninsula are remains of the ancient Mayan Civilization, such as the El Rey archaeological site at the Sheraton Cancun Resort and Towers.

Mayan Ruins

Enjoy the Appetizing Cuisines

If you’re looking for a romantic splurge, then Cancun’s locally inspired appetizers and fresh grilled fish are sure to impress.

Take your time at The Ritz-Carlton to enjoy the beachfront cabana dining experience and sample tequila (from 100 varieties) at La Destileria.

If you’re on a trip heading to Riviera Maya tourist attractions, you can stop for lunch or dinner on your way at the Yaxche eatery located in Playa Del Carmen for authentic Mayan Cuisines.

Take visit to Isla Mujeres Island

Located 6km off the North East coat of Cancun, the 5-mile long and 3-mile wide Isla Mujeres is ideal for those who want to break from the glitz of Cancun.

With outstanding aquatic conditions, the refreshing waters of the island can take you back to the days before Cancun existed.

The island is beautifully endowed with clear, warm water, coral reefs, caves, and abundant marine life. Major activities to indulge in on the island include:

  • Snorkelling in the crystal clear waters
  • Diving and fishing
  • Day tripping and overnight visits
  • Enjoying the fantastic seafood on offer
  • Relaxing on the pristine beaches
ISLA MUJERES, MEXICO - : tourists enjoy tropical sea on famous Playa del Norte beach in Isla Mujeres, Mexico. The island is located 8 miles northeast of Cancún in the Caribbean Sea.

Los Cabos

Located at the tip of Baja Peninsula, Cabo is a favourite spot for celebrities such as George Clooney, Jennifer Aniston and many others.

The city is scenic, sunny, manicured and upscale. While in Cabo, you can immerse yourself in the perfect weather, enjoy the glorious sunsets and explore the super-fresh seafood plus plenty of other local cuisines.

You can also take your time at the sublime spas, whale watching sites, world-class golf courses, horseback riding among other activities. Some of the interesting things to do in Cabo include:

Cabo Pulmo Snorkelling Tour

The Cabo Pulmo National Marine Park is a perfect location for snorkelling and exploring other seascapes.

The place is a sanctuary for a diverse range of aquatic life and is a home to lobsters, giant groupers, eels, rays and many other tropical species.

From the Marina, you can tour the small fishing village of Cabo Pulmo or head to the tropical waters of the Sea of Cortex for a great diving experience.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Guided Tour at Baja Canyons and Waterfalls

If you love adventure, then Baja’s Canyons, hilltop waterfalls and the panoramic views over the Los Cabos rock formations are the best to explore. The pristine swaths of white sandy beach are also breath-taking.

The expert guides will take you through the region’s fascinating history as you enjoy the landscapes of the southern tip of Baja Peninsula that encompass seven different microclimates.

You can take your tour through gorgeous desert canyon paths and admire the arid slopes of Sierra Leguna mountain range and enjoy watching the coloured tropical birds that are largely found on the coastal wetlands and it estuaries.

The Heavenly hotels

At Cabo, you’ll never struggle to find romantic and luxurious accommodation that will make your holiday memorable.

Rooms in the city are spacious and impressive – the Estrella Suites have plunge pools and fire pits to spice up the experience.

Other notable resorts in the region include Esperanza Resort, Hilton Los Cabos Beach and Golf resort, Capella Pedregal to mention just a few.

Delicious Bites

You can find simple but delicious fish tacos and a range of others sophisticated eateries in Cabo. You can enjoy flavourful Baja specialties at open-air Edith’s in Cabo San Lucas, where steaks and mesquite grilled shrimps are the specialty.

If you love romantic dining, then Casa Natalia Hotel in the San Jose del Cabo region can provide the perfect dining experience amid flickering candles.

Cancun can be a perfect destination if you’re looking for lots of action. Los Cabos on the other hand features all-inclusive properties, plenty of quiet waters and beautiful landscapes.

Hence, Cabo is an ideal destination for older travellers who are looking for relaxation and tranquillity, while Cancun is a perfect spot for party-type holidays and families who need some adventure.

Whichever place you choose, Mexico’s Cancun and Los Cabos are great for that once-in-a-lifetime beach holiday experience and can give you a lifetime of fond, tropical memories to cherish!

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Author

  • Samantha King

    Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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