Choose from 291 Fun Things to Do in Mexico
Bahia de Cabo San Lucas
The Bahia de Cabo San Lucas is the cape’s hub for water sports and beach activities.
Rent jet skis and kayaks at Medano Beach, or hang out at the resorts lining the long stretch of sand overlooking the bay.
Take an underwater snorkel tour of the bay and nearby Sea of Cortez, or go diving off the Chileno reef or Cabo Pulmo Marine Park.
There are charter boats for sports fishing in the world’s marlin capital, or more gentle cruising in a glass-bottom boat on the bay at sunset. For youngsters, what could be better than a cruise aboard a pirate buccaneer’s cruise, me hearties.
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The Bahia de Cabo San Lucas washes east of the marina and north along Cabo San Lucas’ many swimming beaches.
Beach of the Dead (Playa de los Muertos)
- The Beach of the Dead is ideal for all beachgoers. Families may prefer to be near the pier, where swimming can be better for children.
- Remember to bring sun protection and plenty of water, as the beach offers little shade.
- Beach chairs and umbrellas are available to rent.
Africam Safari
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Aquaventuras Park
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Amatitan
Angela Peralta Theater
An art gallery near the entrance shows off temporary exhibitions by local and international artists. Tours also visit a museum upstairs shows the building in ruins and at different stages of restoration.
Azteca Stadium
- The stadium is a popular attraction, so tours may sell out; book early to avoid missing it.
- There are no tours on match days or the day before a home match.
- Match tickets can be purchased at the gates on game day or online ahead of time.
- Be sure to head to the stadium early, especially if you still need to purchase tickets.
- Don’t wear a belt because it will most likely be confiscated by security (although there are vendors who will babysit it during the match for a fee).
- Carry some extra pesos in your pocket to give to the bathroom attendants in exchange for toilet paper.
Abastos Market
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Boca de Tomatlan
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Angel of Independence (Monumento a la Independencia)
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Banderas Bay (Bahia de Banderas)
Located near Puerto Vallarta on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Banderas Bay (Bahía de Banderas) is famous for its 42-mile (68-kilometer) stretch of picturesque coast. Jungle, sandy beaches, and rich aquatic life define this area, which is ideal for watersports and land adventures alike.
The Basics
Most tours exploring Banderas Bay’s terrestrial and aquatic offerings leave from Puerto Vallarta. Explore the bay’s waters on a snorkeling excursion, some of which also include kayaking and a visit to Marietas Islands National Park. If you’re a certified diver, you can opt for a scuba diving tour to explore undersea tunnels, hidden caves, and reefs brimming with tropical fish. Sailing tours are another option for experiencing the picturesque bay. On land, you can pedal along the coastline on a biking tour, delve into local culture on a taco-tasting tour, or explore the jungle on a day trip to nearby Las Caletas.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Banderas Bay is a must-see for nature and beach lovers.
- Remember to bring sun protection and plenty of water for outdoor excursions.
- Proof of PADI certification is required for certified dives.
- Be careful not to touch or disturb aquatic or terrestrial wildlife.
When to Get There
April through June is the best time to visit Banderas Bay, when rain is scarce and there are fewer tourists. January through March is the best time for whale watching, although the area tends to be crowded during this time.
How to Get There
Part of the Pacific Ocean, Banderas Bay borders Puerto Vallarta and stretches between Punta Mita in the north and Cape Corrientes in the south. Puerto Vallarta is the main jumping-off point for tours and activities in the area. The closest international airport is Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport, located roughly three miles (five kilometers) from downtown Puerto Vallarta.
Whale Watching in Banderas Bay
Among the most popular outdoor activities in Banderas Bay, whale watching tours provide an opportunity to see humpback whales, which travel to the bay in early December for mating and calving. Most of these excursions leave from Marina Vallarta in Puerto Vallarta.
Arbol de Tule
El Tule is located in the village of Santa María del Tule, 13 km east of the capital. The square surrounding the tree features souvenir shops, snack stands, and the usual army of roving vendors.
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Balankanche Caves
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Arena Mexico
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Akumal
- Akumal is an ideal destination for nature lovers and peace-and-quiet seekers.
- Be sure to bring sun protection, swim gear, water, and comfortable walking shoes.
- Be careful not to touch the sea turtles or any other wildlife in Akumal.
Acapulco Cruise Port
Avenida Kukulkan
- English is widely spoken in almost all of the tourist areas.
- Paths leading out to the beach are easy to spot from Avenida Kukulkan.
- Remember to bring sun protection and water, as the strip and beaches offer little shade.
- Get a taste of Maya culture at the Cancun Maya Museum and San Miguelito.
Agua Azul
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Benito Juarez Market
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3D Museum of Wonders
- The museum is great for families, art lovers, and those looking for a fun activity beyond the beach.
- Expect to spend about two hours exploring the museum’s collection.
- Buy skip-the-line admission tickets in advance to avoid waiting at the ticket booth.
- The museum has a gift shop and restrooms.
- All photography, including flash, is allowed inside the museum.
- The museum is accessible to wheelchair users. Strollers are not permitted inside the exhibits and must be left by the entrance.