May 5, Cinco de Mayo, marks the day the Mexican Army was victorious over the French Empire in the Battle of Puebla. It’s a day to celebrate Mexico and all its glory. Here, you’ll find beaches lined with palm trees, undeniably impressive, chili-spiced cuisine, rich history and culture, incredible people, and beautiful jungles brimming with wildlife – visiting here is an experience that absolutely delivers. We’ve rounded up our top 5 things to do while visiting this beautiful country.
Each year, thousands of gray whales gather in the Baja California waters to give birth to their calves. Plan your visit during the months of late January to early April to get up close and personal with these gentle giants. And we mean it when we say, gentle giants. The grey whales the migrate between the Gulf of California, and the coast of Alaska are known to approach small boats looking to be pet! The calves are known for being very playful and active in the water – making for an incredible and fun experience out on the water.
Where to stay: Casa Bella Villa
Offering all the amenities of a boutique hotel but a home to call your own, Casa Bella Villa lives up to the “bella” part of its name. Situated at ocean’s edge with incredible outdoor living space so you can soak in the sun, sand and surf, its 6 bedrooms means the whole family will fit! Or a group of your closest friends. Whoever joins you, everyone will love this place. From the comfortable and cozy indoor great room, to the shaded outdoor great room, complete with barbecue, fireplace and a sound system, you’ll cherish every memory made here.
This protected area, located in the Bay of Banderas, just 20 minutes from Puerto Vallarta’s main square, welcomes divers, swimmers, snorkelers, and kayakers to explore its undisturbed tropical wildlife. It encompasses islands with large granite arches shooting out from the ocean, making an incredible backdrop for photos. Its caves and deep tunnels are brimming with beautiful coral, and the warm blue waters are home to tropical fish, eels, rays, and even sea turtles.
Where to stay: Casa Tabachin
Casa Tabachin is one of the original homes in the historic Gringo Gulch area of Puerto Vallarta and is located just a few steps from the heart of the Old Town and its excellent restaurants, boutiques and art galleries. Featuring six bedrooms, including a spacious master suite on the upper level with its own terrace, Jacuzzi and more. With its top-notch amenities and central location, Tabachin is truly the epitome of glamorous Puerto Vallarta in days gone by.
Experience Tulum like a local: on a bike. Bike tours will give you a feel for the streets and daily life; you’ll immerse yourself in the history, ancient temples, and traditions and seek out the secret spots you won’t find in a common guidebook. While exploring the town, you’ll stop along the way for some of the best taco’s you’ll ever eat, sip on fresh coffee, and end it off with a refreshing and much-deserved swim in the restoring blue waters of Mexico.
Where to stay: Casa Pequena
This dreamy beach house sits directly on the soft, white sands of a private beach and is surrounded by lush, tropical vegetation. Inside, it’s all clean lines and contemporary style using local wood and stone – a perfect example of barefoot elegance.
In the exclusive, gated community of the northernmost point of Banderas Bay, sitting along the edge of the ocean in Riviera Nayarit, you’ll find a Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course. Here, each hole offers exceptional views – from the Sierra Madre Mountains to the Pacific Ocean with pristine beaches. One of the coolest parts of this course is the optional par-three, known as “Tail of the Whale,” where its green is on an island, where the water hazard is, you guessed it – the Pacific Ocean!
Where to stay: Villa Tres Amores
No detail of the perfect vacation has been overlooked in this stunning and polished property. Living your dream is easy with open and welcoming indoor/outdoor spaces and five-star amenities. Take advantage of the access to the beach clubs and world-class golf that is provided, or simply relax in private luxury. Four bedrooms and a salt water pool complete this home.
One of the best parts of visiting Mexico is the cuisine. We’ll bring a variety of tastings to experience authentic Mexican cuisine, right in the comfort of your villa. You’ll enjoy different types of tequila and mezcal, each accompanied with skewers of fruits, chocolates, guacamole, totopos, and traditional Mexican wines paired with a custom cheese board local bread, butter, and oil. To finish, enjoy a cigar tasting with a chocolate dessert. The whole experience is a taste for the senses.
Where to stay: La Quinta Villa
Nestled up to the idyllic white sandy beach, this 8-bedroom abode offers captivating views of the water. Inside, you’ll find everything to suit a large crowd including a large, gourmet kitchen, and an open living and dining area. Outside, you’ll find plenty of space to spread out and relax. Cool off in the huge plunge pool or in the beautiful ocean just steps away from the villa. When you’re ready to explore, Playa Del Carmen’s, 5th Avenue is just a short walk away.