Deciding where to go in Mexico can give travelers a headache. Should you head to the cactus-strewn deserts of the north or the cloud forests of Chiapas? Should you visit the beaches and markets of Oaxaca? Each region entices visitors with distinct cuisines, traditions, languages, and landscapes, offering a wealth to see and do. Indeed, Mexico’s appeal goes far beyond its resorts.
We’ve asked our local writers to pick their favorite destinations in Mexico – and they didn’t disappoint. From laid-back beach towns and scenic wine and cheese routes to spots that serve freshly caught fish by the kilo, this is where the locals go in Mexico.
Sunset hikes and seafood lunches: Melaque
Liza Prado is a travel writer and Mexico guidebook author
My go-to vacation spot is Melaque, Jalisco, a classic Mexican beach town where the streets are made of hard-packed sand, front doors are kept open for the breezes, and mom-and-pop stores overflow with tropical fruits, glass bottle sodas, and portable coolers filled with freshly made tortillas. The beach is a five-mile-long bay dotted with whitewashed buildings and palm trees. The surf attracts skimboarders, and the sand is gloriously empty most of the year. For beachfront eats, there’s a clutch of thatched-roof restaurants on the north side of the bay where freshly caught fish is served by the kilo, whole and fried.
I always take a pair of sneakers for sunset hikes. The malecón (boardwalk) ends in a well-marked trail that ascends to the top of a steep bluff. The reward is 360-degree views of the coastline’s dramatic cliffs, lush islets, forgotten bays, and tiny Melaque below.
In the evenings, the central plaza becomes the social center, with kiosks selling all manner of trinkets and treats, and taco stands doing brisk business.
Vineyards, artisan cheese, and horse-drawn carriage tours: Querétaro
Originally from Mexico, Jennifer Fernández Solano resides in Valencia, Spain but frequently returns home to travel
Querétaro, the state capital, is a hidden gem of Mexico characterized by its well-preserved Baroque architecture dating back to the Spanish colonial era. However, what truly draws me is the region’s wine and cheese route. As Mexico’s second-largest wine-producing area after Baja California, vineyards line the roads, making it easy to check out two or three different wineries on the same day. My favorite is De Cote, allowing visitors to roam freely through the rows of vines and enjoy a picnic among the beautiful landscapes. I also love Freixenet, renowned for its exceptional bubbly.
After satisfying your wine cravings, don’t miss Cava Bocanegra, an artisanal cheese cellar close to Tequisquiapan, where visitors can enjoy incredible cheese boards with fantastic vineyard views.
Aguachile, whale watching, and laid-back beach culture: Mazatlán
Natalia de la Rosa is a food and travel writer from Mexico City
Mazatlán has captivated me with its unparalleled seafood and vibrant street food culture. Many restaurants and street vendors strictly use the day’s catch to offer a variety of dishes—from spicy caguamanta stew to aguachile made with fresh raw shrimp, green chili sauce, lime juice, purple onion, and cucumber. Visiting Mazatlán is a culinary adventure, with hidden gems revealing themselves with each trip.
This charming city offers a mix of historical sites and beach culture. Visitors can stroll through the Centro Histórico, with its vibrant social scene and picturesque architecture. For a unique experience, take a boat to Isla de Piedra, where relaxing and swimming in calm waters is a must.
The best time to visit is late October to mid-April when seafood is at its finest, and the weather is pleasant. Savor the signature aguachile dish made with shrimp and fresh ingredients at local street carts or cozy eateries.
Lagoon swimming and temazcal (sweat lodge) sessions: Bacalar
Rosie Bell is a Mexico-based travel journalist
Bacalar, recognized as a ‘Magical Town’ by Mexico’s government, offers a peaceful escape known for its stunning multicolored lagoon. It’s reminiscent of Tulum before the social media frenzy. Here, visitors can engage in activities like stand-up paddleboarding, boat cruises, and lounging in lagoon hammocks at locations like Los Aluxes.
While Chetumal is the nearest airport to Bacalar, a scenic bus ride from Playa del Carmen awaits travelers seeking fresh seafood cuisines overlooking the lagoon. Moreover, the unique Casa Hormiga is an excellent accommodation option that offers comfortable stays and opportunities to engage in local Mayan rituals.
