Visiting Mexico certainly makes for the holiday of a lifetime. Getting there, while at this time can’t be done directly from Dublin, is still relatively straightforward. You can connect at a number of convenient destinations, such as London in the UK, or anywhere on the east coast of the US and, from there, fly into Cancún. Cancún is among the most popular destinations for tourism in Mexico, but you can find a bit more local culture and authenticity in some of the surrounding areas.
Here is a list of all the best places to visit and stay in Mexico..
- Playa del Carmen
- Tulum
- Cancun
- Xcaret
- The Reef 28, 5*
- Secrets The Vine Cancun, 5*
- Elements Tulum Boutique Hotel, 4*
- Occidental at Xcaret Destination, 5*
Where to visit in Mexico
Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen is a coastal resort town in Mexico, along the Yucatán Peninsula’s Riviera Maya strip of Caribbean shoreline. What was once a quiet fishing village has been transformed into a vibrant tourist destination without losing too much of its original charm. Playa del Carmen is known for its palm-lined beaches and coral reefs, as well as shops, bars, and night clubs centralised around 5th avenue. It is also a strategic vantage point for day trips to iconic sites in Mexico.
On the shores of the Riviera Maya, thousands of sea turtle eggs are laid each year. On the more secluded beaches surrounding Playa del Carmen and Tulum in the early summer months, you may see a giant mother turtle come ashore to lay her eggs. Then, if your holiday is in September or October, you may be lucky enough to watch as the baby turtles hatch and make their way into the sea!
Tulum
Tulum, located two hours south of Cancún, is a great place to visit on your trip! Though there is a general relaxed and peaceful vibe, there is also a lot to see and do. One of the area’s highlights is the 13th century Mayan Ruins set on a clifftop overlooking the beach. Gran Cenote in Tulum is one of the most famous cenotes in Mexico. You can swim, snorkel, walk the boardwalk, and rent equipment in and around these beautiful limestone caverns.
Cycling is one of the most popular ways to explore Tulum. There are bike paths all along the shore, through the bustling town, and even to the Mayan Ruins. Many hotels offer complimentary bike rentals, but if not, there are numerous places to rent them in Tulum. You can also hop on a group Tulum Bike Tour which takes you through town and stops at both the ruins and a cenote with a lunch picnic along the way.
Cancun
Cancun is one of the most popular areas in Mexico and brings in the most tourists. People often say it’s too touristy however if you’re looking for beautiful beaches, great nightlife, delicious foods, and top-class resorts this is the place for you. The soft white sand and crystal-clear water of the beaches here is enough reason to visit alone.
The hotel zone is on a stunning stretch of coastline, so every resort has access to these stunning beaches. If you’re looking to enjoy some nightlife there is a variety of great bars and nightclubs such as Congo Bar to dance the night away in! The resorts are next level in Cancun making it, so you never have to leave. If you’re looking for a trip of ultimate relaxation and luxury, then you need to visit Cancun!
Xcaret
Xcaret which is in the Riviera Maya is an eco-archaeological theme park. If you are a nature lover a holiday to Xcaret will be a dream, come through. From jungles to beaches the nature is next level. The area is a natural conservation zone for many exotic species of animals, plants, and marine life.
You can learn more about the Mayan history with cultural attractions such as the Cemetery, or Pre-Hispanic Performances. There is variety of bars, restaurants, and a spa to enjoy as well as many fun activities such as learning about the sea turtles nesting site, explore under the sea with snuba equipment and even getting up close with dolphins!
Where to Stay in Mexico
The Reef 28, 5*
The Reef 28 is an adults-only, all-inclusive resort hotel in Playa del Carmen. It’s a chic, modern hotel with a roof-top pool, all-day DJs, and bottomless drinks if you so choose. Each standard room features two huge double beds and lots of convenient amenities. For dining options, you have access to a buffet breakfast, three restaurants featuring Mexican, Italian, and Asian cuisine, as well as pool bar service all day.
The reef 28 has two sister resorts, the Reef Coco Beach and the Reef Playacar. You have access to these other two resorts as a part of the all-inclusive deal while you visit with a complimentary shuttle bus leaving every 30 mins from the hotel to each resort. The other two resorts are more family orientated and are on the beach. The Reef 28 is set back about a 10 min walk from the beach and about 5 min walk from 5th Avenue.
Secrets The Vine Cancun, 5*
Secrets the vine Cancun is the ultimate unlimited luxury adults only hotel. This modern resort makes for the ideal escape with stunning décor as well as breathtaking views from private terraces. You can enjoy worldclass dining options and unlimited beverages every day of your trip. With stunning pools and a spa inspired by a cave and natural cenotes you can enjoy ultimate relaxation. From complimentary golf at the Playa Mujeres Golf Course, wine tastings to live entertainment this resort has everything you could ever want.
Elements Tulum Boutique Hotel, 4*
The Elements Boutique Hotel is situated in a perfect location for exploring, only a 5-minute walk from midtown Tulum. There is a multitude of chic bars, restaurants, night clubs in the midtown area. The hotel also grants you access to an exclusive beach club with fancy cocktails, cool music, dining options, and of course, waterfront sun loungers. An additional perk, this hotel offers free bicycles so you can head out to all the best sights in Tulum with no extra cost.
Occidental at Xcaret Destination, 5*
The Occidental hotel is an onsite hotel in Xcaret surrounded by this amazing ecological preserve just 10 minutes from Playa del Carmen. This all-inclusive luxury hotel provides the ultimate escape as well as being a great place for a family holiday. With a stunning garden and pool area, a beach, and great restaurants what’s not to love. Of course, you can enjoy all the other fantastic activities at the Xcaret park from the luxury of your hotel.
With a solid itinerary and great accommodation options, there’s nothing holding you back from exploring one of the world’s most incredible destinations. Head to Click&Go Holidays and book your Mexican adventure!
