5 Ways To Level Up A Luxury Vacation In Mexico
If you’re planning a luxury vacation in Mexico, you probably can’t wait to hit the beach for hours on end. After all, there’s a reason the rich and famous travel to places like Cabo and Acapulco. Paradise can’t be much better than what’s on offer in these spectacular destinations. Long days by the ocean with a cocktail in hand might be your only fantasy.
Finding the best Mexican beachfront rentals is easy, and whatever choice you make is likely to be as close to perfect as you can get. But some of us need a bit of action, even on our beach vacations.
I love the idea of sitting by the beach all day, heading back to my rental or hotel room only to get some more sunscreen. However, after a couple of days, I start itching to do something else. Something to break up the days.
There are many unexpected ways to spend time in Mexico, away from your towel, without compromising on your relaxation. Here are five ways to level up your luxury vacation.
#1 – Stand-Up Paddle Boarding in Acapulco
The waters of Acapulco Bay might seem a bit rough for stand-up paddle boarding. All sorts of other water sports are available that take advantage of rough waves, but if you want a more relaxing way to enjoy the water, stand-up paddle boarding is perfect for you.
It’s a very easy activity, and ideal for any age. You need to be able to stay upright, so if you have chronic balance issues, this isn’t for you. But you don’t have to be in shape or used to riding the waves.
One caveat is that you’ll have to get up early in the morning when the water is calm. The undertow is stronger the closer you are to the beach, and you’ll have to swim out a little bit, but when you hit the calm water, you’ll soon find your rhythm and enjoy the sights from a totally new perspective.
#2 – Incredible Mayan Ruins In Cancun
Cancun is the most popular resort area in Mexico, with over 3 million tourists a year. It is known mostly for its idyllic beaches. But the most interesting part of the area is the Mayan archaeological sites not far away. El Castillo in Chichen Itza is probably the most recognizable. It is a “step-pyramid” that was built as a temple somewhere between the 8th and 12th centuries.
The pyramid served as a temple to the Feathered Serpent deity, and you can see statues and inscriptions dedicated to it in and around the pyramid itself. On the equinoxes, a play of light and shadows on the stairs takes the form of a serpent.
The site is about 60 miles west of Cancun. There are many more archaeological sites in the region, including more pyramids and ruins of cities. Xel-Ha, about 75 miles south of Cancun, has a water park with ruins on-site, and can be a great day-trip.
#3 – Whale Watching in Cabo
Los Cabos consists of the two cities of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, along with the corridor connecting the two. As with the other destinations on this list, the beaches are simply spectacular. But there is plenty to do when you’re bored of lying on the sand.
One of the most popular is whale watching, and for good reason. It’s important to remind ourselves once in a while that we’re far from alone on this planet. There are other major creatures that are easy to forget about, but which suffer from our impact on the oceans.
There are many spots a few hours out of Los Cabos where you can see a range of different types of whales. But you can take off from Los Cabos itself to see majestic humpback whales. A trip will last around 2 to 3 hours, and can be fascinating, educational, and relaxing all at once.
#4 – Explore the Historic Sites of Mazatlán
Mazatlán is a wonderful beach destination, but it is also a colonial city that is fascinating to tour. There are restored historic homes which give a hint of the town’s recent past as a fishing village. Although it later became an important port, it retains a quaint feel.
There are also plenty of important buildings. The famous lighthouse, El Faro, is a great place to watch cliff divers do what you’re too smart (and scared) to ever try. There’s also the 19th century cathedral on Plaza Principal.
Mazatlán has three islands that are perfect for day trips. You can explore Isla de Venados by kayak if you want to spend time on the water.
#5 – Rural Villages in Zihuatanejo
The name is a bit of a mouthful, but Zihuatanejo is one of those wonderful seaside towns that you won’t regret visiting. It’s known as Zihua for short if that makes hashtagging it easier!
Zihua is a relatively quiet area to spend a luxury vacation. But that does not mean it is boring. On the contrary, its peacefulness is typical of the people who live there. Visiting some of the rural villages are great experiences, especially for those of us who live bustling lives in cities.
You’ll get to explore an entirely different way of living, and will be welcomed by the kind villagers willing to put up with our gawking. These villages will bring out your inner hippie, and you’ll start considering changing your entire lifestyle!
About Christian Reynolds
Christian is the chief reporter, editor, and webmaster at Cleveland Leader. An aspiring news anchor, his hobbies outside of investigative reporting are golf, martinis, and adventure travel. If you have a scoop on any developing story, please contact him on this page.
