Dreaming of a peaceful escape to Mexico’s stunning coastline? From hidden gems to popular favourites, discover towns known for their safety, charm, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re seeking a quiet retreat or an adventure by the sea, these beach towns offer the perfect mix of sun, sea, and security.
1. Puerto Vallarta
Located on the west coast of Mexico, Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico’s safest and most culturally rich coastal cities, celebrated for its vibrant community and scenic beauty. What makes it safe is the large enterprising expatriate community and hard working local community, which together support the local economy and reduce crime. Puerto Vallarta is a big tourist hub, has a vibrant nightlife, culture and arts scene with many international hotel chains.
- Overview: A vibrant city known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural scene.
- Best Time to Visit: November to May, to enjoy pleasant weather and vibrant local festivals.
- Safety: Strong safety measures with visible police and community involvement make it a top choice for travelers.
- Highlights: Offers diverse beaches, from the family-friendly Playa de los Muertos to the secluded Playa Las Gemelas.
- Accessibility: Puerto Vallarta International Airport provides excellent connectivity.
2. La Paz
This often overlooked capital of Baja California remains a hidden gem on the Sea of Cortez. La Paz is renowned not only for its tranquil waters and stunning beaches but also for its vibrant nightlife, food and art culture.
- Overview: Known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning marine life, ideal for water sports enthusiasts.
- Best Time to Visit: October to April, perfect for whale watching and water activities.
- Safety: La Paz is noted for its safe and tranquil environment, making it ideal for a peaceful retreat.
- Highlights: Famous for Playa Balandra and its scenic Malecon.
- Accessibility: Well-connected by road, with options for local and international flights.
3. Cozumel
Cozumel is located on the south east coast of Mexico, not very far from Cancun. It is famous for its world-class diving and equally notable for its tight-knit community and safety, making it a top pick for tranquil island living.
- Overview: This island paradise is celebrated for its world-class snorkeling and vibrant reefs.
- Best Time to Visit: Dry season from November to April offers the best conditions for diving and beach activities.
- Safety: Known for its tight-knit community and proactive safety measures.
- Highlights: Must-visit beaches include Playa Palancar and Playa Chen Rio.
- Accessibility: Served by Cozumel International Airport, with frequent ferries from Playa del Carmen.
4. Playa del Carmen
Located on the south east coast, this once sleepy fishing village has transformed into a bustling and safe tourist hub, offering a perfect blend of Mexican culture and beachfront luxury.
- Overview: A dynamic beach town known for its lively atmosphere and stunning beaches.
- Best Time to Visit: December to April, when the weather is ideal for exploring and beach activities.
- Safety: Active local police presence and a friendly atmosphere contribute to its safety.
- Highlights: Vibrant nightlife and close proximity to ancient Mayan ruins.
- Accessibility: A short drive from Cancún International Airport, with good bus and taxi services.
5. Tulum
Tulum combines breathtaking Mayan ruins with pristine beaches, setting itself apart as a safe and serene destination amidst the Yucatan Peninsula’s tourist circuit.
- Overview: Famous for its breathtaking beaches and well-preserved Mayan ruins.
- Best Time to Visit: Between November and December for the best mix of good weather and fewer crowds.
- Safety: Tulum’s small-town atmosphere and community-focused safety initiatives make it particularly secure.
- Highlights: The ruins overlooking the beaches offer a unique cultural experience.
- Accessibility: Nearest major airport is in Cancún, with Tulum accessible via bus or car.
6. Mazatlán
Known as the “Pearl of the Pacific,” Mazatlán is overcoming outdated stereotypes with its revitalized historic center and commitment to safety, making it a favourite among savvy travellers.
- Overview: Known as the “Pearl of the Pacific,” this town offers rich history and vibrant cultural festivities.
- Best Time to Visit: October to May, ideal for enjoying its famous carnival and outdoor activities.
- Safety: Mazatlán is considered safe with dedicated tourist police and community vigilance.
- Highlights: Long sandy beaches and historic old town.
- Accessibility: Mazatlán International Airport, with good highway connections.
7. Huatulco
Huatulco’s commitment to environmental preservation and community safety makes it one of Mexico’s premier destinations for those seeking both sustainability and security.
- Overview: Renowned for its pristine ecological reserves and nine beautiful bays.
- Best Time to Visit: The dry season from November to May is perfect for beach activities and boating.
- Safety: Low crime rates and a strong emphasis on environmental conservation ensure a safe visit.
- Highlights: Offers tranquil beaches and opportunities for eco-tourism.
- Accessibility: Huatulco International Airport provides easy access with flights from major cities.
8. San José del Cabo
San José del Cabo offers a quieter, safer alternative to its more famous neighbour, Cabo San Lucas, with its charming historic district and peaceful beaches.
- Overview: A quieter alternative to Cabo San Lucas, offering a mix of traditional charm and modern luxuries.
- Best Time to Visit: November to June for the best weather and water conditions.
- Safety: Its peaceful, small-town vibe and attentive local police make it a safe destination.
- Highlights: Beautiful churches, art galleries, and serene beaches like Playa Palmilla.
- Accessibility: Easily reachable via Los Cabos International Airport, with good road links and taxi services.
While this blog has named some of the safest beach towns in Mexico, we recommend that you check the government travel advisories before you travel anywhere. We take safety seriously and cannot guarantee that our information will be up to date on the day of your travel. Safety conditions anywhere are dynamic and subject to local geo-political, economic and natural conditions of the location you may be visiting and could change anytime.
Contact us at: Service@waterviewstravel.com
Photo Credits: Pixabay Photos. E&Os excluded.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q.1
Do all accommodations have access to a water view?
We design all itineraries to help you enjoy water views wherever you go, provided your desired travel location is near a body of water.
Your itinerary in part or in full is designed to take you to places where you will enjoy a water view, either from your accommodation or the activities available to you. Please note that while we make every attempt to choose default accommodations with a water view, we cannot guarantee that every default accommodation or your particular room will have a water view as this is subject to the location, travel season, availability, booking time, etc.
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Q.2
Are all your Itineraries multi-stop?
Unless specified otherwise, all our itineraries are multi-stop to help you enjoy a variety of locations and activities.
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Q.3
Do you offer the full travel package of flights, car rental, hotel, insurance and activities?
Our itineraries include transport options to help you move around. You have the option to stay at the default accommodation in the itinerary (which in most cases has a water view) or modify your accommodation choice based on your personal preferences. We also recommend activities that help you to enjoy being near or on the water. We recommend that you purchase insurance from a reputable insurance carrier of your choice.
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Q.4
Are all the tours self-guided?
Unless specified otherwise or you purchase activities that involve guided tours, all the itineraries (tours) are self-guided.
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What are the minimum and maximum number of travellers that can book a tour on your platform?
There is no set minimum or maximum numbers, all bookings depend on you and your travel plans. You can book to travel alone or with a group.
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Are the tours suitable for all ages?
Most tours are suitable for all ages subject to the location, length of trip, activities involved and your personal circumstances. We encourage you to use your own judgment on what is suitable for you and your group.
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Q.7
We are travelling as a big group and we cannot find a single vehicle online to transport our group. Can you arrange for us to access a bigger vehicle or arrange a driver?
If you are a big group that needs to access a bigger vehicle, please contact us by email at: service@waterviewstravel.com so that we can assist you.
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Q.8
We have an idea of what we want to do or where we want to go but are not sure how to plan our trip. Can you help us?
Yes, we can help. Waterviews specializes in planning trips to places where you will enjoy spectacular water views or water activities worldwide. If you have any questions or a dream location not listed on our website, contact us at: service@waterviewstravel.com
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I would like to go to a country or location that is currently not listed on your website. Can you help me plan my trip?
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Are meals, gratuities, insurance and local taxes included in these tours?
Unless otherwise specified, these trips do not include meals, gratuities or local taxes that may be chargeable by the accommodation and other service providers. Insurance is only included if you purchased it at the time of booking, otherwise, you are advised to buy insurance from a reputable provider to cover you during your travel.
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Q.11
What if my travel plans change?
From dreaming to planning and booking, we are with you every step of the way. Your well-being and enjoyment are our priorities. Our booking platform allows flexibility and we are happy to assist should your travel plans change. If your travel plans have changed, contact us right away at: service@waterviewstravel.com
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