Notably, there were no new additions for the destination, as all 25 beaches maintained their Blue Flag status from the previous year. That means Los Cabos remains the leader in this category among all municipalities in México. 

What is a Blue Flag beach?

No, Blue Flags are not guaranteed for the long term, nor are they an aesthetic evaluation. Ocean views or the fineness of beach sand aren’t criteria for the FEE, the Copenhagen, Denmark based non-profit that created the Blue Flag program in 1987. Water quality is, however, as are cleanliness and certain signs and services. Blue Flag jury members check thoroughly the safety of onshore waters, to ensure no sewage or harmful bacteria is present. 

If a beach wants to receive a Blue Flag, it must also maintain essential services for visitors. These include clean restrooms, drinkable water for beachgoers, and trash facilities, with sortable bins for recycling. A map is also required showing where all these things are located, one of 33 individual criteria that a beach’s sponsors must meet before the coveted flag is awarded. Because sustainability is at the heart of the program, signs educating visitors on local flora, fauna, and ecosystems are also mandated. Free access to the public is also a prerequisite, but this is an unnecessary directive in México, where such access is guaranteed by federal law. 

Similar criteria – minus the free access – are used to judge marinas and tourism boats which are also eligible to earn Blue Flags from FEE. For 2024 and 2025, for example, México garnered 78 Blue Flag beaches, two marinas (both in Nayarit), and 40 tourist vessels (all in Quintana Roo).

How does Los Cabos compare to other Mexican destinations?

Los Cabos has for several years been the leader among Mexican beach destinations for Blue Flags earned. Even though Quintana Roo as a state now has more than Baja California Sur – where Los Cabos is located – that’s still true. Los Cabos accounts for all the qualified beaches in its state. Benito Juárez, the municipality home to Cancún and the closest correlation, has only 11 of its state’s 33 Blue Flags overall. That’s less than half the number garnered by Los Cabos. Riviera Maya municipality Solidaridad, with 15, is now its closest competitor.

What’s even more remarkable is that Los Cabos has built up its blue flag inventory in a relatively short amount of time. Only nine years ago, Los Cabos had but three Blue Flag beaches: El Chileno, Palmilla, and Santa María. This recent buildup is the case for Mexico, too. As recently as 2014, there were only five Blue Flag beaches in the country, including El Chileno in Los Cabos.

Nowadays, México boasts more Blue Flag-certified beaches, marinas, and boats than any other nation in the Americas. It has 120, vastly outpacing North American neighbors Canada, with 26, and the U.S., with only two. Mexico 10th internationally, behind European nations Spain, Greece, Italy, France, Portugal, Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany – and Turkey, which bridges Europe and Asia.

Which beaches now carry the Blue Flag banner in Los Cabos?

Here’s the full list of Blue Flag beaches in Los Cabos for 2024 – 2025:

Cabo San Lucas (14)

• El Corsario
• Hacienda 
• Médano Breathless
• Médano Casa Dorada
• Médano Club Cascadas de Baja
• Médano ME Cabo
• Médano Pueblo Bonito Los Cabos
• Médano Pueblo Bonito Rosé
• Médano Riu Palace Baja California
• Médano Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas
• Médano Riu Santa Fe
• Médano Villa del Arco
• Médano Villa del Palmar
• Médano Villa La Estancia

Tourist Corridor (8)

• Acapulquito
• El Chileno
• Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos
• Grand Velas Los Cabos
• Las Viudas
• Palmilla
• Paradisus Los Cabos
• Santa María

East Cape (3)

• El Surgidero
• La Gaviota
• La Ribera

It makes sense that Cabo San Lucas is the local leader in this category. Its most popular beach, Playa El Médano, is more than two miles long, and hosts numerous Blue Flag stretches that front beachfront resorts. If you’re a local or traveling with pets, it’s important to note that dogs (unless designated service animals) are not allowed on the Blue Flag portions of Médano Beach. In fact, that stricture is in place for all local Blue Flag beaches.

Other flag colors of note in Los Cabos 

However, blue isn’t the only hue seen on flags flying over Los Cabos beaches. Several other colors are also commonly used to indicate water conditions, not just overall quality and available services. Green flags, for example, confirm calm waters and thus safe swimming conditions – an important qualifier given that some of the region’s beaches are not swimming-friendly, either due to steep dropoffs in depth or, particularly on the Pacific Ocean side, because of strong rip currents. 

Red flags, by contrast, warn against swimming due to adverse conditions. White flags indicate the presence of jellyfish in the water, which can inflict painful stings. Black flags are the worst, though. No, it doesn’t mean pirates are lurking about, but rather that the beach is closed, a rare occurrence but a possibility during hurricane season in Los Cabos. 

So green and blue are the colors to look for. The first promises a great beach experience on the day you visit, and the second assures it remains sustainable for the future. However, that could all change next year when the Blue Flag jury returns to have another look.

Chris Sands is the Cabo San Lucas local expert for the USA Today travel website 10 Best, writer of Fodor’s Los Cabos travel guidebook, and a contributor to numerous websites and publications, including Tasting Table, Marriott Bonvoy Traveler, Forbes Travel Guide, Porthole Cruise, Cabo Living and Mexico News Daily. His specialty is travel-related content and lifestyle features focused on food, wine and golf.

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With these two new flights, Viva Aerobus will have 16 routes departing from Mérida.

“At Viva, we are committed to investing in Mérida,” said Walfred Castro Novelo, Viva’s director of corporate communications, during the route’s announcement at the Yucatán International Congress Center on Monday. “We recognize the city’s immense potential, along with that of the entire Yucatán region, and we aim to contribute to its development through improved national and international connectivity,” Castro stated. 

Mérida is one of Viva Aerobus’ operational bases, operating a weekly average of 100 arrival flights to Yucatán. 

The Tijuana route will start on Nov. 3 with four weekly flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. It will depart from Mérida at 8 p.m. and will make quick refueling stops at the Guanajuato International Airport (near the city of León) on the outward journey and in Monterrey on the return journey. Passengers won’t have to leave the aircraft during these stops. 

The Los Angeles route will kick off Dec. 18, just in time for the winter holiday season. A seasonal route, it will run once a week on Wednesdays through Jan. 8, 2025. 

“[Los Angeles] is a route that we have been pursuing for years,” said Tourism Promotion Minister Michelle Fridman. “It is a complex route because of how long it is. We are going to do the first test in December,” she added. 

During the event, Fridman thanked the low-cost airline for their commitment to attracting more tourism from the west coast of the U.S. Starting July, Volaris will also add two new routes departing from Yucatán’s capital: Orlando and Miami in Florida.  

Tourism in Mérida has been on the rise. According to government data, the Mérida airport saw over 3.7 million passengers in 2023, the highest number ever recorded. According to Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste (ASUR), the airport conglomerate in Mexico’s southeast, this means an increase of 19.69% compared to the previous year, which just barely topped 3 million passengers.

With reports from La Jornada Maya and T21

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Tourism Minister Miguel Torruco Marqués said in a statement that the passengers arrived aboard 1,200 cruise ships and spent a total of US $325.8 million tourist dollars in Mexico — 6.2% more compared to the same period of 2023.

Torruco added that the average cruise ship tourist expenditure in Mexico was US $83.9 per person, 3.9% more than in 2023, or $80.7 dollars per person. 

Mexico’s ports with the highest number of cruise ship tourists included:

• Cozumel and Mahahual in Quintana Roo
• Ensenada in Baja California
• Cabo San Lucas in Baja California Sur
• Puerto Vallarta in Jalisco.

Altogether, these four ports hosted 90% of the total number of cruise ship tourists that arrived at Mexico’s ports from January to April.

Cozumel, which had 520 cruise ship arrivals and welcomed 1.81 million passengers, saw a 14.2% increase in visitors and a 5.5% rise in the number of ships compared to the same period of 2023.

Meanwhile, Mahahual saw 207 cruise ship arrivals and 844,087 tourists, reflecting a 15.6% increase in the number of ships and a 35.6% rise in passengers. With these statistics, Quintana Roo continues to lead the way in cruise ship tourism to Mexico.

Ensenada welcomed 281,007 passengers onboard 93 cruise ships, while Cabo San Lucas saw 83 ships and 257,069 passengers.

Finally, Puerto Vallarta docked 78 cruise ships and 238,471 passengers. 

One of the cruises that arrived in Mahahual, Quintana Roo, was the Icon of the Seas, recently named the world’s biggest cruise ship. The ship, operated by Royal Caribbean Group, reached Mahahual in February carrying 8,000 passengers — double the population of the port village. 

Home to the world’s second largest coral reef, Mahahual is a small fishing town that comes alive during the winter cruise ship season. It has grown in popularity recently as it is the only cruise port in southern Quintana Roo.

Mexico News Daily

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Travelers and frequent Mexico visitors have likely heard of these amazing magic towns. This is because of their special historical and cultural importance. There are 177 of them throughout Mexico. They’re rich in traditional arts and crafts and are full of beautiful, friendly locals. Plus, they have great food. Which, for a foodie like me, is important.

They are the real Mexico. Mexico’s lesser-visited regions. These smaller, more rural towns are full of welcoming locals, great hospitality, and a million smiles. 

These magic towns can be found in every state, and in the Yucatán region, where I live, we’re lucky to have nine — no, ten. Cozumel Island has been named a Pueblo Mágico. So far, I have visited six out of the ten, live in one, and have plans to see the last three as soon as I can. 

Out of these ten, Izamal is easily my favorite. 

Where is Izamal? 

Izamal sits on the Yucatán Peninsula in southeastern Mexico. It is only 45 miles (72 kilometers) east of Mérida, the capital. At less than an hour’s drive and is a popular day trip. 

I’ve visited a couple of times and have plans to return again with a friend. Once again, I want to walk the town bathed in the golden glow cast from the saffron-coloured streets. Izamal, Mexico is a photographer’s dream. Being a photographer (my friend is as well), I can’t wait to show her one of the most beautiful towns I’ve ever seen. 

She’s going to go bananas over this place (hahaha bananas are yellow, too)! 

What’s so great about Izamal? 

Where do I start? Every time I arrive in Izamal, something inside me rejoices. The canary-yellow town radiates joy, like looking into the cheery face of a sunflower. But on a town-sized scale.

But it’s more than the elegance of the golden Spanish colonial architecture trimmed in perfect white. It’s a feeling. Like the color can somehow make you happy on the cloudiest of days. Then add in the friendly people. I swear they radiate warmth as well.

What is there to do in Izamal?

I love nature, history, and photography. So, I climbed the pyramid. I explored the San Antonio de Padua Convent, with its stunning architecture. Then, I spent hours wandering the streets taking enough photos to rival a Japanese tourist.

The pyramid, Kinich Kak Moo is Mayan for “the fire macaw with the sun face”. It’s the most important Mesoamerican pyramid located on the edge of town. The plaque is written in Spanish, Mayan, and English. 

It’s dedicated to a Sun God. According to legend, he appeared as a fire macaw. He descends daily to collect offerings from the limestone pit, which  is now enclosed by the pyramid. Something about this story captures my imagination. Standing on top of the pyramid with Izamal lying at your feet, I can almost see a giant gliding fire macaw soaring the skies. Yes, you can still climb the pyramid, but it’s steep and the view is good from the bottom, too. If you do climb it, make sure to do so with care and take your time. 

The church, the San Antonio de Padua Convent, is the crowning glory of the center of town. I love the symmetry of its massive atrium. Golden arches stretch in long lines, revealing impressive scale and grandeur. Fun fact: This atrium is second in size only to the Vatican. Wowsers.  

Izamal’s town square is right at the base of the stairs. Here you’ll find small stalls selling souvenirs, great food to grab lunch on the go, or a snack, or my favorite, an ice cream. Along the side, you’ll find a line of horse and carriages. The horses wear fun hats, waiting to take you on a tour of the town. Great if you have mobility issues or don’t feel like walking. 

But for me, that’s the magic of Izamal, Mexico. Walking the streets. Smiling back as locals ride past on bicycles, waving like you’re a long-lost friend. Watching the beautiful street lamps flick on at dusk. To see the cheery sunflower of the buildings deepen into an earthier yellow ochre. Day or night, the charm of the architecture gets me every time. 

If you visit this gorgeous golden town, please tell me in the comments. I’d love to hear what you liked best about visiting Izamal.

Mexico Correspondent for International Living, Bel is an experienced writer, author, photographer and videographer with 500+ articles published both in print and across digital platforms. Living in the Mexican Caribbean for over 7 years now she’s in love with Mexico and has no plans to go anywhere anytime soon.

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Sayulita, a Pueblo Magico on the coast of Riviera Nayarit, is a rite of passage for anyone coming to the Puerto Vallarta area. This once-sleepy fishing village was long a haven for surfers, bohemians, artists, and those looking to venture slightly off the beaten path. Things look a little different these days as Sayulita has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the entire country, a reputation that has brought a mixed bag of results. Business is booming, but the tiny town has suffered from overcrowding, pollution, and overdevelopment. 

Still, Sayulita is a bucket list Mexico experience and an important part of the fabric that makes up the Pacific coast of Mexico. There are ways to do it just right. So, if you’re looking for the perfect insider’s guide to a weekend in Sayulita, you’ve come to the right place.

Friday

To do Sayulita correctly these days, you have to embrace it for what it is — different from how it used to be. Pacific Mexico diehards remember the days when Sayulita was heaven on earth: a small stretch of beach backed by a sandy grid of streets, one main plaza, and a handful of casual beach restaurants and taco stands, quiet evenings, and tons of privacy. Today’s Sayulita is trendy, and, sometimes, overwhelmingly so. You may need to invent another word to describe what Sayulita is today.

Still, to do Sayulita correctly, I recommend booking a room at Aurinko Bungalows. One of the last vestiges of the Sayulita of yore, this dreamy surfer hotel is a collection of humble rooms, some with outdoor kitchens, others with patios and hammocks, just a few blocks from the beach. The modest hotel is also one of the best deals in town, particularly for its location.

Of course, you can always go more high-end in Sayulita, like Villa Amor, a collection of one-, two-, and three-bedroom villas overlooking the beach. Yogis love this for the on-site studio while sun worshippers bask next to the two-level swimming pool. Villa Amor is also more removed from the buzzy downtown, offering a bit more tranquillity.

After settling in, make your way into town, which abuts the beach. The tangle of streets feels bursting at the seams with restaurants, coffee shops, bars, boutiques, and souvenir shops. Head straight for the beach to Don Pedro’s Restaurant & Bar. Old Sayulita still thrives at this beachfront icon. Overlooking the main beach, Don Pedro’s is the perfect spot to drink it all in, from the views to the frosty beers and potent margaritas.

You can eat here for dinner, or you can head to Tacos Al Pastor Diaz, a locally loved street-side stand churning out the best tacos in town. Order tacos al pastor or a volcan. You won’t regret it. After dinner, grab a cocktail at Escondido Bar and say hello to the more modern side of Sayulita. This tiny bar swings industrial chic and specializes in craft cocktails. The Penicillin #2 is a fan favorite, made with mezcal, tequila, ginger, lime, and honey. 

Saturday

Morning

Breakfast in Sayulita is an event, and you’ll be spoiled for choice with great breakfast places. ChocoBanana is one of the original breakfast spots in town, serving everything from salsa-slathered eggs to fluffy pancakes or hearty bowls of fruit. There’s also YAH-YAH Sayulita Cafe, just around the corner from ChocoBanana, serving vegan and gluten-free dishes, as well as bagel sandwiches, pastries, and yummy smoothie bowls.

Wherever you decide to eat, make sure you’re fueled up for a day of activity, because an active lifestyle is one of the pillars of Sayulita living. No matter what outdoor adventure speaks to you, you’ll find it in Sayulita.

I recommend either signing up for a surf lesson or taking a yoga class. Surf culture and yoga culture intersect in Sayulita, and you’ll find an abundance of opportunities to do both. Sandbar is the perfect surf break for beginners, but if you’re looking for something more advanced, then head out to The Cove. For yogis, Hotelito Los Suenos has a weekly schedule of yoga classes, with at least one session per day and sometimes multiple sessions. You can also come to Sayulita strictly for a yoga retreat at locations like Haramara or La Joya.

Afternoon

Surely, by now, you’ve worked up an appetite again, and since Sayulita is overflowing with restaurants, you won’t have a problem finding a spot for lunch. Burrito Revolution is the perfect spot to replenish calories after a workout. Casual to the core, this burrito connoisseur’s Mecca serves overstuffed burritos at a few streetside tables.

Afterward, you can head to the beach for a much-needed nap or hit the cobblestones for retail therapy. Sayulita is a shopping paradise, with high-end boutiques, souvenirs, galleries, and Huichol art shops. 

Evoke the Spirit is one of the most famous, known for its signature yarn-painted skulls whose roots lie with the Wixarika culture that is active in this part of Mexico. For something slightly more practical (and splashy), Pinche Mexico Te Amo sells T-shirts, hats, and accessories. Manyana is a sleek, contemporary clothing boutique that is more evocative of the new Sayulita. The locally sourced products, from clothing and ceramics to sunglasses and beyond, are made within the state of Nayarit. 

Evening

If you still have an appetite, you’ll want to make a reservation at Tukari, one of the loveliest restaurants in town. Snuggled away behind sleek, white walls, the central dining garden gives off a boho chic vibe. The menu is a fusion of Mediterranean and Mexican. After dinner, meander over to Hula Sayula for a rooftop cocktail and a roster of spinning DJs.

Sunday

It may be your last day, but you’ll make the most of it. Visitors can do so many excursions from Sayulita, whether it’s a whale-watching tour or a trip up the coast to the smaller beachfront towns like San Pancho or Lo de Marcos.

If you’re going the whale-watching route, La Orca de Sayulita is one of my favorites because it is truly dedicated to learning about the majestic humpback whales that migrate past Sayulita each year. Other boat tours from Sayulita can be fun, too, but typically they feature open bars and are more focused on a party vibe. La Orca de Sayulita, however, is led by biologists and has a maximum capacity of eight passengers per departure.

After your morning tour, return to Sayulita for one final (and fabulous) meal at Bichos, a creative taco restaurant set within a garden. Order the tacos adobada if you’re a carnivore, or. the mushroom tacos if you prefer plant-based. Cheers to a successful Sayulita weekend with a delectable margarita.

Meagan Drillinger is a New York native who has spent the past 15 years traveling around and writing about Mexico. While she’s on the road for assignments most of the time, Puerto Vallarta is her home base. Follow her travels on Instagram at @drillinjourneys or through her blog at drillinjourneys.com.  

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Which option is most practical or affordable often depends on the situation, unless of course one immediately acquires a rental car, in which case the only worries are navigating local traffic (and Spanish language street signs) and figuring out where to park when in busy downtown areas of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. Over a dozen car rental brands, including Avis, Budget, and Hertz, offer service at the Los Cabos International Airport.

It bears noting, though, that renting cars for the entirety of one’s stay can be expensive, even when factoring in the money that would have been spent on other forms of transportation. Most visitors thus opt for a mix-and-match approach, choosing transportation services as needed based on factors like price, comfort, safety, and convenience.

Taxis vs. Uber

Uber is often the best option to get around Los Cabos. The service is as comfortable and secure as that provided by local taxis but you can track when your driver will arrive and the rides are much cheaper. Going from Cabo San Lucas to San José del Cabo, a 20-mile ride, costs US $50 (800 pesos) and up via taxi. The same ride with Uber will be about US $20 to $30 It’s hard to be precise since like in the U.S., Uber uses dynamic pricing that raises rates during rush hour and other high usage times. But even with this variability, it’s still much more affordable. 

However, Uber service isn’t available in all circumstances. The local taxi unions have political power and consistently seek to block competition, even when legal. A favored tactic, for example, is a blockade to prevent anyone from getting in or out of local hotels and resorts whose policies they disagree with. As a result of this hard-line approach, many resorts have caved and won’t allow Uber to pick up from their property. Confirm details with your driver to ensure onsite pickup is possible. 

For several years after Uber arrived in the area in 2018, drivers were allowed to drop off passengers but not pick them up from the airport. That’s no longer the case — both services are now permitted — allowing visitors to choose what is by far the cheaper option. An airport run from Cabo San Lucas will cost US $50 or so from Uber but US $80 to $100 via taxi.

Other airport transportation options

You can’t visit Los Cabos without going to and from the airport to your hotel or resort. As a rule, you should ask your lodging provider what method they recommend, as some local luxury properties provide this service free or at a very reasonable cost for their guests. If you find the cost quoted excessive you may opt for an alternative. But it’s advisable to check first. 

There are many private transport providers in Los Cabos. Shared shuttles are affordable at US $20 to $25 per person from downtown Cabo San Lucas — typically the farthest point served — and are fine when going to the airport for departure. But the service isn’t as enjoyable when arriving. Often you’ll have to wait at least half an hour for other passengers to clear customs, then the ride (with frequent stops) will take another hour or more to reach Cabo San Lucas. 

Private cars, SUVs, vans, or limos are thus preferred for comfort and expedience, but these are naturally more expensive. Expert to pay US $85 or more for a private SUV, for example, although if you’re traveling with family or friends, this option may not cost much more than you would have paid collectively for a shared shuttle. 

Buses vs. rental cars

The cheapest way to get around Los Cabos is via local buses. Everyone but the most adventurous will want to avoid the white buses, Transportes Colectivos, without creature comforts (sometimes it feels like the shocks are missing, too). These are for residents and visit off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods. The purple buses, Ruta del Desierto, are extremely comfortable and a good way to get from Cabo San Lucas to San José del Cabo for about US $4 to $5, or to resorts in the Tourist Corridor. This coastal corridor connects the cape cities and is home to many popular lodgings. 

For longer trips, Autobuses Águila charges extremely low fares for super comfy buses that show movies en route. Naturally, they’ll be in Spanish, but tickets are only about US $11 from Cabo San Lucas to Todos Santos, US $12 to Los Barriles, and US $22 to La Paz, with bus depots located centrally, for the most part. The Cabo San Lucas terminal is at Plaza Golden Palace.

The only issue with Águila is that once you get to road trip destination favorites like Todos Santos or La Paz, you’ll be back to square one in terms of getting around. Uber or taxis are again an option if you want to visit, for example, beautiful beaches in La Paz like Balandra or El Tecolote. But rental cars, which allow you to take road trips or see attractions on your schedule, are far preferable, if a bit more expensive. Yes, a U.S. driver’s license is acceptable for local driving. 

It’s important to note that the rate prices posted do not include insurance, which is highly recommended for driving in México. That will add another US $20 or so per day. If you’re staying at a small, budget-friendly hotel, you’ll also want to confirm that overnight parking is available. Local gas stations, meanwhile, are full service and tips are appropriate. There are no mileage charges but renters must refill the tank before returning the car.

Walking vs. water taxis

Walking is a great way to see the downtown areas of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. In the former, the city’s marina and Playa El Médano, its most popular beach, are centrally located and easily accessible on foot. However, walking from one end of the marina boardwalk to the other takes about 30 minutes. This is a particularly relevant fact for cruise ship passengers, who are ferried via tenders to the main dock (muelle principal), which is a very long walk from Médano Beach. 

Water taxi drivers are often seen soliciting fares on the marina boardwalk for those who’d like to take a shortcut. These small outboard-powered boats (called pangas locally) also provide a lower-priced albeit bare-bones alternative for Land’s End tours or trips to Playa del Amor (Lover’s Beach), which is only reachable via boat. 

Chris Sands is the Cabo San Lucas local expert for the USA Today travel website 10 Best, writer of Fodor’s Los Cabos travel guidebook, and a contributor to numerous websites and publications, including Tasting Table, Marriott Bonvoy Traveler, Forbes Travel Guide, Porthole Cruise, Cabo Living and Mexico News Daily. His specialty is travel-related content and lifestyle features focused on food, wine and golf.

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Here are some of the best places in Mexico if you want to travel sustainably:

Chiapas

Located in southeastern Mexico, Chiapas is a treasure trove of biodiversity, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. With its lush tropical jungle, majestic waterfalls, ancient Mayan ruins, and vibrant indigenous culture.

Nature: Chiapas is home to one of Mexico’s most biodiverse tropical forests. Travelers can immerse themselves in pristine nature while exploring national parks and biosphere reserves. One of the highlights is the Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve, which hosts an impressive variety of flora and fauna, including jaguars, tapirs, howler monkeys, and many birds. Waterfalls like Agua Azul, Misol-Ha, and Cascadas de Roberto Barrios offer spectacular waterfalls surrounded by vegetation, ideal for swimming, hiking, and enjoying the natural beauty.

Culture: Chiapas is home to vibrant indigenous cultures, where ancestral traditions intertwine with daily life. Travelers can visit the villages of San Juan Chamula and Zinacantán, where they will witness ancient religious practices and traditional crafts. Palenque, with its huge temples and palaces surrounded by jungle, is one of Mexico’s most impressive archaeological sites. Other sites like Bonampak and Yaxchilán offer the opportunity to explore remote ruins amidst nature.

Eco-friendly Accommodation:

Hotel Chan-Kah Resort Village: Located in Palenque, near the famous Mayan ruins. It combines luxury with sustainability, offering comfortable and environmentally friendly rooms. They also offer jungle excursions to explore the local flora and fauna.

Eco Hotel Maya Tulipanes: Located in the Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve, the rooms are built in harmony with the environment and offer stunning jungle views. The hotel organizes bird-watching, kayaking, and guided hikes.

Ecolodge Las Nubes: In the community of Tziscao, near the Guatemalan border. Its rustic cabins overlook the lake and the surrounding mountains. The hotel is committed to conserving the natural environment and offers activities such as boat rides, hiking, and visits to local communities.

Oaxaca

Located on the Pacific coast, Oaxaca is one of Mexico’s most iconic states. With its varied geography, pristine beaches, mountains, valleys, and forests, it offers a unique experience for travelers seeking to explore eco-consciously.

Nature: On the coast, places like Puerto Escondido and Mazunte offer pristine beaches and opportunities for surfing, diving, and whale watching. In the state’s interior, the Sierra Norte de Oaxaca is a paradise for travelers interested in exploring fog forests, spectacular waterfalls, and indigenous communities that preserve ancestral traditions. Destinations such as Hierve el Agua, Sierra Juárez, and the ecological community of Benito Juárez offer unique natural experiences.

Culture: In cities like Oaxaca de Juárez and Ocotlán de Morelos, travelers can explore colorful markets where local products such as textiles, ceramics, mezcal, and traditional food are sold. Ancient Zapotec and Mixtec ruins are another major attraction; sites like Monte Albán, Mitla, and Yagul offer the opportunity to explore the region’s archaeological legacy and learn about the indigenous cultures that flourished here centuries ago.

Eco-friendly Accommodation:

Celeste del Mar: Located in Mazunte, this eco-hotel offers peace and relaxation experience by the sea. The rooms are built with local and environmentally friendly materials, and the hotel has a restaurant serving organic and seasonal food. 

Mixtli Ecohouse Zipolite: Located on Zipolite beach, these eco-friendly cabins offer simple and comfortable accommodation in harmony with nature. The hotel also promotes sustainable practices, such as using renewable energy and water conservation.

Santa Catarina Lachatao: Located in the Sierra Norte de Oaxaca, this eco-lodge offers a unique chance to commune with nature. The cabins are built with panoramic views of the mountains. They also offers hiking, bird-watching, and craft workshops with the local community.

Quintana Roo

Located on the Yucatán Peninsula, it is known for its stunning white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and coral reefs. However, beyond its popular tourist destinations like Cancun and Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo also offers a variety of opportunities for eco-conscious tourism, where travelers can enjoy the natural beauty of the region responsibly and sustainably.

Nature: Quintana Roo is home to a great marine biodiversity, with coral reefs, mangroves, and protected areas that are home to a variety of marine species. One of the main destinations for eco-conscious tourism is the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a vast and pristine ecosystem that includes jungles, mangroves, lagoons, and coral reefs. Here, visitors can participate in guided tours to observe birds and manatees, kayak in the mangroves, and snorkel in protected reefs.

The beaches of Quintana Roo are an important nesting site for sea turtles, including species such as the green turtle and the loggerhead turtle. Several local organizations work on conserving these species, protecting nests, educating the community, and offering volunteer programs for travelers interested in contributing.

Eco-tourism in Marine Reserves: Places like the Banco Chinchorro Biosphere Reserve and the Xcalak Reef National Park are popular destinations for diving and snorkeling, where visitors can explore coral reefs and observe an incredible variety of marine life.

Eco-friendly Accommodation:

Azulik: Located in Tulum, this eco-luxury wellness retreat combines unique architecture with a focus on sustainability and well-being. The resort is built in harmony with nature and offers villas and cabins with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. They promote environmental conservation and offer unique experiences, such as dinners under the stars and natural spa treatments.

Hotel Esencia: This boutique hotel is located in Xpu-Ha, between Playa del Carmen and Tulum. Esencia offers a luxury experience alongside a respect for nature. The hotel is surrounded by tropical gardens and pristine beaches and offers comfortable rooms with sea or garden views. They also promote sustainable practices, such as water and energy conservation.

Hotel Cielo y Selva: Located in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, this glamping offers a unique chance to get up close with the wild side of Mexico. Their tents are built with natural materials and equipped with modern amenities. The camp promotes environmental conservation and offers hiking, kayaking, and bird-watching activities.

Baja California Sur

Located at the southern end of the Baja California Peninsula, it is an iconic destination offering a unique combination of natural beauty, marine biodiversity, and local culture. Its stunning desert landscapes, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters make it an ideal destination for eco-conscious tourism, where travelers can enjoy nature responsibly and contribute to its conservation.

Nature: This is one of the world’s best destinations for marine life. Places like the Upper Gulf of California, Colorado River Delta Biosphere Reserve, and the Revillagigedo Archipelago Biosphere Reserve offer unique opportunities to observe whales, dolphins, manta rays, whale sharks, and other marine species in their natural habitat. Regional tour operators are committed to sustainable wildlife-watching practices that protect animals and their environments.

Baja California Sur boasts a wealth of pristine beaches and protected areas that offer opportunities for eco-conscious tourism. Places like Cabo Pulmo, a marine reserve that hosts the oldest coral reef in North America, and Espíritu Santo Island, a paradise of deserted beaches and crystal-clear waters, are popular destinations for ecotourism. Here, visitors can enjoy activities such as diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking while contributing to environmental conservation.

Culture: Towns like Loreto, Todos Santos, and La Paz offer the opportunity to explore local culture, gastronomy, and traditions. Many local communities are involved in tourism initiatives promoting sustainable development and preserving local culture and heritage.

Eco-friendly Accommodation:

White Lodge Baja: Located in Los Cabos, this eco-luxury wellness retreat features an on-site spa and 10 private cottages built in total harmony with nature. It’s 45 minutes from the Historic Center of San Jose del Cabo.

Hotel Baja Club: This historic mansion-turned-hotel in La Paz is now one of the most luxurious properties in La Paz. Its architect, Max von Werz, is a fervent advocate of sustainable architecture. In fact, his team rescued original timber beams and restored as much of the original materials as possible to create this beautiful hotel. The property’s onsite Greek restaurant also serves sustainable seafood.

Camp Cecil de la Sierra: In the quiet town of Todos Santos, this luxury tent camp offers glamping on a local ranch in the Sierra Laguna Mountains. In addition to gorgeous views, guests can enjoy homemade food, cultural immersion, and organized tours around the local reserve.

Traveling responsibly in Mexico is possible in protected areas where eco-tourism is ingrained in local policy and culture and everywhere we go. As travelers, we have the opportunity — and obligation — to ensure our impact is positive in our destinations. This is especially important when visiting places not officially designated as protected.

Camila Sánchez Bolaño is a journalist, feminist, bookseller, lecturer, and cultural promoter and is Editor in Chief of Newsweek en Español magazine.

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“At Volaris, we are constantly looking to increase travel options and provide unparalleled flight experiences to meet high potential markets like Las Vegas,” said Holger Blankenstein, executive vice president of Volaris.

The state of Nevada is the third largest market for U.S. visitors to Baja California, after California and Arizona, according to Miguel Aguiñiga Rodríguez, the Baja California tourism minister.

“This new route will be a direct bridge between these two important economic destinations, which will also allow us to continue strengthening cultural ties between both nations,” he said.

The Tijuana-Las Vegas route is part of Volaris’ expansion strategy in Mexico, the U.S. and Latin America. Other new routes Volaris has announced this year include El Salvador to Miami; San José, Costa Rica to Guadalajara; and Cancún to McAllen, Texas. Volaris is Mexico’s biggest airline, flying 24.3 million passengers in 2023.

In February, American Airlines launched a non-stop route between Phoenix, Arizona and Tijuana, marking the city’s first direct flight to the U.S. in seven years, after the closure of the Volaris Tijuana-Oakland route. 

The addition of new direct flights between Tijuana and cities in the U.S. arrives at a time when Tijuana is seeing a drop in tourism. According to the head of the city’s Tourism and Conventions Committee, since the start of the year, medical tourism is down by 50% while restaurants are seeing 45% fewer U.S. visitors, resulting in a 30% drop in profits. 

In an interview with CBS, Karim Chalita Rodríguez blamed low tourism numbers on security concerns among U.S. citizens, a weak dollar versus the Mexican peso and bad weather. 

With reports from T21, A21 and El Universal

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The route, which will operate daily, is the U.S. airline’s third destination in Mexico, in addition to Cancún and Los Cabos. It is currently the only direct route connecting New York with the popular Mexican beach destination. Ticket prices start at US $116. 

“As the only airline with direct service from New York’s JFK to Tulum, we are thrilled to offer our customers our award-winning service, low fares, and another option when traveling to the Mexican Caribbean,” said JetBlue Vice President David Jehn. 

Passengers on the inaugural flight were offered breakfast burritos and fruit towers, according to a report in Travel and Leisure magazine. JetBlue also handed out free round-trip tickets and travel vouchers as part of a round of in-flight bingo organized by the crew. 

The new daily flight takes off at 8 a.m. and arrives in Tulum at 11:15 a.m. 

Before the Tulum airport opened in December 2023, travelers had to fly into Cancún, located about 130 kilometers to the north. 

“We’re already seeing a different dynamic that we never had [because] people planned their vacation [around] landing in Cancún,” Andrés Martínez Reynoso, the director of the Quintana Roo Tourism Board, told Travel and Leisure, adding that the airport is “changing the way we look at our own destination … Now with Tulum, it brings especially the destinations that we have in the south … closer to the north of the state. In a way, people are going to have more options when they vacation there.” 

International flights to Tulum began in March, with major carriers American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines currently operating flights from U.S. cities including Atlanta, Dallas and Miami. 

Canadian airline WestJet will operate limited seasonal flights starting in November, and Air Canada began operating flights from Toronto to Tulum in May.

Copa Airlines is scheduled to inaugurate its first flight between Panama City and Tulum on June 26, and there will be connections to Europe launching this winter.

Viva Aerobús, Mexicana de Aviación and Aeroméxico offer domestic connections to Tulum airport. 

With reports from Aviación al Día and Travel and Leisure

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Well, the secret is out, and the investments have followed by the millions. Over the past few years, Riviera Nayarit and Puerto Vallarta have received massive injections of investment, which have been poured directly into the development of five-star hotels and resorts. You may recognize names like One&Only Mandarina and Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo, the two bookends along a vast stretch of coastline peppered with one impressive resort after the next.

Development is not exclusive to hotels and resorts. Infrastructure has also received massive funding, from the recently rebranded Riviera Nayarit International Airport in Tepic to the new highway connecting Guadalajara with Puerto Vallarta, passing through the state of Nayarit. Puerto Vallarta’s international airport is in the process of expanding to include a new terminal, as well, to bring more tourists to the region and help alleviate the congestion in and around Puerto Vallarta.

Looking ahead towards the end of 2024 and through 2026, the coastline is expecting the debut of some heavy hitters, with big names like Rosewood, Montage, and Ritz-Carlton on the horizon. Here’s a look at some of the biggest five-star development projects coming to Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit.

Rosewood Mandarina

Heads turned in 2020 with One&Only opened One&Only Mandarina along Riviera Nayarit. Now the next phase of the Mandarina development is set to debut with the opening of Rosewood Mandarina. Slated for a 2025 launch, this will be Rosewood’s fourth property in Mexico.

The resort will offer 140 guest rooms, suites, and villas, with views across the mountains, beach, and ocean. Three bars and restaurants will be part of the property, including a specialty restaurant and sunset bar, as well as a pool grill and beach bar. The resort will have three pools, a fitness center, a spa with 10 treatment rooms, and event space. 

Me by Melia Sayulita

While Sayulita has long been known for its boutique hotels and surf bungalows, the bohemian village north of the Bay of Banderas is about to welcome its first brand-name hotel. The ME Sayulita will have 125 rooms and villas, three restaurants, a pool, gym, spa, beach club, a rooftop bar, and a pool venue. It is slated to open by the end of 2024.

Milaroca, A Belmond Hotel

In 2024, Milaroca, A Belmond Hotel will open along the Riviera Nayarit coastline. The resort’s 57 guest pavilions will be shrouded in 105 acres of thick jungle, overlooking a beachfront two kilometers long. The rooms will range from junior suites to one-bedrooms, jungle suites, and 12 three-bedroom villas. Most rooms will have private plunge pools, as well. The resort will have six dining venues, a wellness center, four outdoor swimming pools, and 27 private villas. 

Zel Sayulita

The Zel brand is a lifestyle hotel partnership between Melia Hotels International group and tennis superstar Rafa Nadal. The brand is bringing its first hotel to Mexico in 2025 with Zel Sayulita. The beachfront hotel will have 145 rooms wreathed around a central courtyard, a nod to the Mediterranean roots of the Melia brand. The courtyard will be the place for socializing, dining, and relaxing. 

Six Senses Xala

South of Puerto Vallarta, along the Costalegre, Six Senses is readying to make its Mexico debut. Scheduled to open in 2026, Six Senses Xala will be part of the Xala master-planned residential community. The beachfront resort will have 51 bungalow-style villas with private pools, nestled amid coconut palms and mango fields. True to the Six Senses brand, environmental conservation is a huge part of the program. At Six Senses Xala, this includes the reforestation of 590 acres of land and the construction of a new coastal protection reef to create a consistent surf wave, all the while helping to preserve the marine habitat. Sea turtles will be monitored and protected through the sea turtle camp, and local families and farms will reap the benefits of renewable energy and year-round potable water. 

Montage Punta Mita

Just north of Puerto Vallarta, along the luxe Punta Mita peninsula, Montage is developing its 63-acre newest hotel. Montage Punta Mita will open in 2026 and will feature 140 guest rooms and 91 Montage Residences. Along with multiple dining options, a resort pool, spa, and signature children’s program, this beachfront resort will bring another five-star experience to the Punta Mita peninsula

Pendry Punta Mita

Speaking of the five-star Punta Mita experience, Pendry Punta Mita is another exclusive hotel that is currently under development. The resort will open with 115 guest rooms, six dining concepts, the Spa Penury, a kids club, 30 Penury Residences, and a stretch of beachfront with a brag-worthy surf break. Pendry Punta Mita will open in 2026.

It’s certainly a change in pace for this part of Mexico, which up until recently was known more for its boutique and budget accommodations than for an extreme swing towards luxury. But with hundreds of miles of spectacular beaches, rugged mountainous landscapes, outdoor adventure, gastronomy, and international access, it’s not a surprise that wealthy travelers took notice.

Meagan Drillinger is a New York native who has spent the past 15 years traveling around and writing about Mexico. While she’s on the road for assignments most of the time, Puerto Vallarta is her home base. Follow her travels on Instagram at @drillinjourneys or through her blog at drillinjourneys.com. 

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