Resorts are a great way to relax and get away from the bustle of city life, and Mexico has tons of resort towns. Mexico is known for its food, its ancient temples, and its white sandy beaches. Naturally, most resort towns are along 500 shores on the 9 930 km (6 000 miles) coastline.
Resort towns like Cancun and Los Cabos often take the spotlight as Mexico’s most well-known resort towns. Tourists love visiting them for their golden beaches and parties, but they aren’t the only resort towns that deserve the spotlight.
Many of these resort towns are also some of the best places to visit in Mexico. So, they cannot be missed on your next trip to the sunny country.
There is a seaside resort for everyone. Here are the 15 best resort towns in Mexico.
15 Best Resort Towns in Mexico
Mexico is a popular tourist destination because of its hot summers and white sand beaches. It’s no wonder there are so many resort towns.
1. Cancun
In the southeast of Mexico, in the Yucatán Province, sits a little city called Cancún. Cancún is a well-known resort town and is the second most visited tourist destination in Mexico, after Mexico City.
Cancun is a popular holiday destination for young people on their spring break. The best time to visit Cancun to avoid the party crowds is from April to November.
Downtown Cancun is the leading residential area for locals and is architecturally and culturally rich. Parque Las Palapas is the central park where you’ll find all kinds of local food carts, artisan souvenirs, and entertainment.
Recommended Resorts in Cancun:
Le Blanc Spa Resort
Only a few minutes away from downtown Cancun, this luxurious resort has everything you need. All-inclusive rooms include hot tubs, room service, and coffee facilities.
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Presidente InterContinental Cancun Resort
This continental resort offers guests a private Caribbean beach. It provides water sport rentals alongside its five hot tubs and two pools.
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Los Cabos Corridor
Los Cabo Corridor is in the Mexican state of Baja California Sur on the peninsula’s southern coast. It is a coastline that connects Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.
2. Cabo San Lucas
It is one of the two towns on the Los Cabos Corridor and also the bigger city. It is a popular holiday destination among Hollywood stars who enjoy luxurious resorts and beaches.
In January, professional windsurfers, kiteboarders, and standup paddleboarders should not miss the Lord of the Wind showdown. This competition is a battle against the infamous El Norte winds.
Recommended Resorts in Cabo San Lucas:
Playa Grande Resort Spa
Situated on 8 acres of private Cabo San Lucas beach, this Mexican-style resort has all you need. It has three outdoor pools and a hot tub as well as a resort spa.
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Hacienda del Mar Los Cabos Resort, Villas & Golf
This family-friendly resort has everything to keep everyone busy. There are babysitting facilities to keep the kids occupied as well as an outdoor pool and a wellness centre.
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3. San Jose del Cabo
While the bigger Cabo San Lucas attracts tourists, San Jose del Cabo is the more laidback twin. It is a great place to visit if you like the beach, but don’t want a big crowd around you.
However, quieter doesn’t mean it’s more boring. There are many activities to keep yourself occupied.
One of the activities is to go hiking or mountain biking on the many trails. Cerro de Las Chivas trail is beginner-friendly. It takes about 45 minutes to reach the top, where you can zipline across the canyon.
Recommended Resorts in San Jose del Cabo:
Marquis Los Cabos All-Inclusive Resort & Spa
Suites at this luxury resort include private balconies and terraces. The resort has four restaurants as well as an extensive spa.
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Barceló Gran Faro Los Cabos
This resort has stunning views of the Sea of Cortez from its spacious rooms and five swimming pools. It also has a selection of restaurants and complimentary room service.
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4. Cozumel
If clear waters, coral reefs and sand between your toes sound like an ideal getaway, then Cozumel should be on your list. The island is a popular scuba diving and snorkelling spot in the Atlantic Ocean.
The Cozumel Reef is part of the Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest reef next to the Great Barrier Reef. The assemblage of sea life and colourful corals can be explored with this Atlantis Submarine Expedition.
Cozumel’s downtown, San Miguel, is a must-see. It is very safe and small enough to explore on foot, but big enough so you’ll never get bored.
You might enjoy reading my article on interesting facts about Mexico.
Recommended Resorts in Cozumel:
Iberostar Cozumel
This all-inclusive resort is a favourite among couples. In addition to the fantastic facilities on site, it also has a tennis court and games room.
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Occidental Cozumel
This resort is all-inclusive and has traditional and international cuisine at its seven restaurants. Rooms are air-conditioned and have balconies.
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5. Puerto Escondido
Puerto Escondido is the largest beach town on Oaxaca’s Pacific coast. Despite its name meaning ‘hidden port’, it is a popular global surfing destination. Many tourists flock here to ride the Puerto Escondido Mexican Pipeline waves.
For a truly breathtaking beach experience, visit the Manialtepec Lagoon at night to see the bioluminescent beach.
This is a laid-back town with a chilled atmosphere, but the locals also know how to party. The Fiestas de Noviembre is a month-long celebration in November. The festivities include surfing competitions, beauty pageants, concerts and food festivals.
Recommended Resorts in Puerto Escondido:
Posada Real Puerto Escondido
The beachfront resort has exceptional on-site water sports facilities as well as a game room and tennis court. This resort can be enjoyed by the whole family.
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Vivo Resorts
Only a 15-minute drive from Puerto Escondido, this resort offers pristine beaches away from the tourist-filled beaches. There are multiple sports facilities and recreational classes.
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6. Puerto Vallarta
This resort town is located on the west coast of the state of Jalisco in Banderas Bay. In 2019, over five million tourists seeking relaxation and refuge visited this popular destination.
Puerto Vallarta is a great family-friendly vacation because of the abundance of activities to keep everyone busy. Like this ATV Mountain Adventure in the Sierra Madre mountains. You’ll explore the Puerto Vallarta countryside with breaks for traditional Mexican cuisine and refreshment.
Recommended Resorts in Puerto Vallarta:
Villa Del Palmar Beach Resort Spa
The Bandera Bay Beach resort has a spa and wellness centre as well as nightly entertainment, so you’re never bored. The spacious suites have dining areas and small kitchens.
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Casa Velas
This luxury resort has first-class facilities and is in an excellent location. Close to the beachfront boardwalk full of fun restaurants and shopping centres.
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7. Acapulco
Acapulco is one of the most famous beach resort towns in Mexico. It was a popular vacation spot for many Hollywood stars between the 1930s and 1960s.
When visiting, don’t forget to see the El Fuerte de San Diego, built by the Spanish Empire in the 18th century. It gives you a glimpse into Mexico’s history and culture.
Another glimpse into Mexican culture and art is a mural put up by world-famous Mexican painter Diego Riviera.
Recommended Resort in Acapulco:
Princess Mundo Imperial Riviera Diamante Acapulco
Private balconies at this beachfront resort allow you to overlook Revolcadero Beach and the Pacific Ocean. With five tennis courts, four pools and three bars, you’ll never be bored.
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Dreams Acapulco
This beachfront resort is one of few pet-friendly accommodations. It is in a great location in town and has a big garden to keep the kids and fur babies busy.
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8. Mazatlan
Mazatlan is a colonial town on the coast of Sinaloa. It is a safe and friendly city to visit, especially in the Golden Zone, Old Town, and Malecon.
When you’re tired of swimming and lounging on the golden beaches, be sure to visit Old Town. Some of the buildings in Old Town or Centro Historico date back more than 500 years.
Each year in early June, Cultura Mazatlan has a Dia de La Musica (Day of Music). Stages are erected, and local musicians perform to the public for free.
There are some fantastic places to stay in Mazatlan.
Recommended Resorts in Mazatlan:
Pueblo Bonito Emerald Bay Resort & Spa
This enormous resort has its tennis and golf course and five restaurants. The 4-star hotel also has three swimming pools and a fitness facility.
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DoubleTree by Hilton Mazatlan
This resort is in the middle of the Golden Zone, which means it’s close to shopping, dining and entertainment facilities. Air-conditioned rooms come with private bathrooms and balconies.
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9. Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen was once a tiny fishing village but is now a cosmopolitan beach resort town. It is a top-rated beach destination and is only an hour’s drive from Cancun.
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Playa del Carmen isn’t all about turquoise waters and sand in your hair. It is also culturally rich in art. There’s 5th Avenue, which is a beloved tourist hot spot for souvenirs and boutiques. Also, don’t forget to stop by the Frida Kahlo Museum while you’re there.
Recommended Resorts in Playa del Carmen:
Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun
This award-winning resort boasts 13 pools and seven restaurants. Suites have hot tubs, furnished terraces, and marble bathrooms.
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Hotel Xcaret Mexico All Parks All Fun Inclusive
This resort has a private beach, swimming pool, and tennis court. A fun perk is that guests can enjoy full free access to Experiencias Xcaret’s nature parks and tours.
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10. Tulum
Most famous for the Mayan Ruins, many things to do in Tulum don’t involve looking at temples. Located on the Riviera Maya, Tulum is also a beautiful tropical paradise. This coastal town also has lots of exotic wildlife, cenotes and caves.
Visit the incredible Cenote Dos Ojos, which translates to ‘two eyes’. You can also swim and snorkel in the various cenotes and see all of the beautiful sea creatures of the Caribbean Sea.
Recommended Resorts in Tulum:
Central Park Resort & Spa Tulum
This resort is only 5km away from the archaeological sites of Tulum, so you don’t have to travel far for sightseeing. Each room is air-conditioned and has a small kitchenette.
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Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa
This resort is an AAA four-diamond award-winning resort with 24-hour room service. It has a splash park for kids and also secluded swim-out suites.
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11. Xpu Ha
Xpu Ha is a small town that is actually more of a resort village. It is nestled between Playa del Carmen and Tulum.
This village is laidback and has plenty of outdoor activities so that you can enjoy the sun. You can lounge at Serenity Beach Club or go snorkelling in the clear blue waters.
Recommended Resorts in Xpu Ha:
Barceló Maya Beach
Guests at this resort can enjoy buffet-style meals at one of the five on-site restaurants. The resort also has a children’s playground and boutique store.
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Barceló Maya Caribe
The all-inclusive resort has a beach on one side and natural woodlands on the other. It is a great place to stay for families as there is a kids’ club. For adults, there are fitness facilities and a tennis court.
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12. Zihuatanejo
Zihuatanejo is more of a city than a town, but still very much worth visiting. You might recognise its beach from the blockbuster film Shawshank Redemption. This beach isn’t only a fictional Andy Dufresne’s dream holiday destination, but many famous artists love it too.
Zihuatanejo, or Zihua as called by locals, is a favourite boating and watersport spot for locals. The five main beaches are wonderful places for water sport enthusiasts.
Recommended Resorts in Zihuatanejo:
Thompson Zihuatanejo
In the heart of the Zihuatanejo jungle, this 5-star resort is an idyllic beach escape. Along with the many pools and spas, water sports facilities are also available on site.
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Embarc Zihuatanejo
This resort is in an excellent location and close to Principal Beach, and only a short drive from Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport. Rooms include family or private studio rooms.
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13. Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is only a 20 minute ferry ride to reach it from Cancun. While it has some resorts, it hasn’t become oversaturated with them yet and has a lovely, laid-back ambience.
Isla Mujeres’s North Beach, named Playa Norte, has charming beach bars and restaurants, attracting many tourists.
The magical Underwater Sculpture Museum is a once in a lifetime experience. The living museum comprises stone sculptures that are constantly changing due to the live reef systems.
Recommended Resorts in Isla Mujeres:
Privilege Aluxes
Privilege Aluxes is particularly loved by couples and newlyweds. It has a Privilege Beach Club, which serves fresh seafood and cocktails. It has two outdoor swimming pools and a spa.
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Mia Reef Isla Mujeres
Each room at this resort gets an ocean view and a complimentary breakfast. It has access to a private beach and a swimming pool.
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14. Puerto Penasco
Home to some of the most luxurious beach resorts in Mexico, Puerto Penasco is a must-visit resort town. Besides the beaches, there are many in-water activities too. Try your hand at snorkelling, scuba diving, and paddleboarding at the many beaches.
If you still want to explore the waters but prefer to stay dry while doing it, take one of the many boat trips offered. You might even spot a few dolphins along the way.
Recommended Resorts in Puerto Penasco:
Princesa de Penasco Condo
Resort amenities include BBQ facilities and a private beach area. Rooms have a kitchen, dining room, and private bathrooms.
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Bella Sirena Resort
This resort is an excellent find in Puerto Penasco, only 400m (440 yards) from Sandy Beach. It has everything you need in your room, including a kitchen and hot tub.
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15. Huatulco
Huatulco is a set against the Sierra Madre on the Pacific Coast. It has nine bays and over 30 beaches to explore. Not yet a town, this small area in the state of Oaxaca was designated and developed for tourism.
Huatulco is the perfect spot for tourists that want tranquillity and peace. It has many secluded resorts and secret beaches throughout. There are also many waterfalls, coffee plantations, and hidden lagoons.
Eco-tourists will love the sea turtle sanctuary and can have a chance to swim with a few sea turtles and crocodiles. You can also stop at La Bocana Beach for a mud bath and excellent massage.
Recommended Resorts in Huatulco:
Holiday Inn Huatulco
This Mediterranean-style resort is a fun place for the whole family. There is a special kids’ club to keep the young ones engaged and an outdoor pool.
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Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa
This luxury resort has a private beach and eight restaurants. Each air-conditioned room has a balcony and private bathrooms.
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In Summary of Resort Towns in Mexico
Mexico has fantastic beaches and resort towns. Each with its charm and unique qualities. You’ll never run out of things to do.
Places like Cancun are known for being packed with party-going tourists, but not all resort towns are like that. Some resort towns, like Huatulco, are geared toward tranquillity and lazy days in the sun.
Whether you’re looking for extreme water sports or just want to lounge in the sun, Mexico has a resort town just for you.
I covered all of the costs associated with writing this article. However, this best resort towns in Mexico post includes affiliate links. That means if you click through and end up making a purchase I will receive a small commission. I wanted to make sure you were aware of this.
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Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.