Choose from 291 Fun Things to Do in Mexico
ShowingFilter 161-180 of 291 listings.
Playa Palancar
Playa Palancar is a laid-back beach where you can swim, snorkel, or just relax in a hammock under the coconut-palm trees. It’s one of Cozumel’s most beautiful beaches, with fine white sand and access to an outstanding coral reef just offshore. For a relaxing beach day away from the crowded tourist spots, there’s no better place.
The Basics
While pretty Playa Palancar is surrounded by posh all-inclusives, it’s a public beach. There are several small restaurants and shops selling seafood, drinks, and souvenirs, as well as renting snorkeling equipment and organizing dives. Playa Palancar doesn’t have the party atmosphere or range of hotels and other services that some of the beaches closer to San Miguel do, but for family-friendly fun and fantastic views, it’s hard to do better on the island.
Visit Playa Palancar independently; boats wait to take snorkelers out to the reef, and you can rent equipment close by. Alternatively, go as part of a Cozumel sightseeing tour with hotel or port pickup and drop-off. Island tours typically also include a chocolate factory, a tequila tasting, and the San Gervasio Maya ruins.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Playa Palancar is ideal for beach bums, snorkelers, and families with kids.
- Remember to bring sun protection and water, as the beach offers little shade.
- Bring cash—the bars, restaurants, and shops don’t accept debit or credit cards.
- The beach offers basic facilities, including restrooms and outdoor showers.
- Lounge chairs and beach umbrellas are available to rent.
How to Get There
Playa Palancar is located off the coastal highway, about 20 minutes south of the Cozumel Cruise Terminal. It’s well signed from Avenida Melgar; look for signs before the Costera Sur exits inland. There’s no public bus service (yet, but ask around to see if this has changed). If you hire a taxi to this more remote part of the island, be aware that you may need to wait a bit to get a taxi back to your hotel.
When to Get There
The beach is lovely year-round. Winter brings large numbers of travelers to Cozumel, and the weeks before and after Easter are some of the busiest. Yet even during high season, Playa Palancar is less crowded than other spots on the island.
Cozumel Maya Ruins
Close to the beach turnoff you’ll see signs for El Cedral Maya Ruins. El Cedral is the site of the first Maya settlement on Cozumel. The tiny Maya ruin, a fertility temple, is the size of a small house. It has some historic significance for locals, but fails to impress most visitors.
Address: Avenida Rafael Melgar and the Costera Sur, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 51
Playa Uvas
Facing Cozumel’s white sands and turquoise waters, Playa Uvas beach club sits directly on the coast and offers a variety of activities and amenities. Active visitors will enjoy snorkel tours, parasailing, and kayaking, and there are lounge chairs, beachside massages, and pool facilities for those who simply want to relax in the sun.
The Basics
Of Cozumel’s private beach clubs, Playa Uvas is closest to downtown and the piers, making it easy for guests to reach the reefs of Chankanaab National Park. Tour options range from a day on the water in a catamaran to a day in the water scuba diving. All-terrain vehicle tours also stop at the club for visitors to snorkel. The property features a full bar and restaurant, as well as a small souvenir shop.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The admission fee that the beach club charges to use its facilities includes a 30-minute guided snorkel tour with gear, and a free drink.
- Tours typically cover entry fees to the beach club and marine park.
- A VIP package is available, including an open bar, food, towel and locker, and a 30-minute massage.
How to Get There
Playa Uvas is on the west coast of the island, a short 10- to 15-minute taxi ride from downtown Cozumel or any of its piers. It’s about 25 minutes from the airport. Tours that include a stop at the beach club depart from the port or downtown Cozumel.
When to Get There
The beach club is open from 8am to 4pm. It tends not to get as crowded as other Cozumel beaches, but expect to encounter more visitors on weekends and whenever cruise ships are docked nearby. Stake out your spot early to snag one of the palapas on the beach.
Chankanaab National Park
Meaning “Little Sea” in Mayan, Chankanaab National Park’s name was inspired by its natural lagoon. One of the most popular attractions in Cozumel, the park offers diving and snorkeling tours, dolphin encounters, ziplining, and other activities. Huts, hammocks, and chairs are available on the beach. Because it’s only a 10-minute drive from the cruise ship terminal, the park is a favorite destination among cruise passengers.
Address: Carretera costera sur Km. 8.5 s/n Carretera a Chankanaab, Cozumel, Mexico
Admission: Varies
From $ 65
Playa del Amor (Lover's Beach)
Playa del Amor - or Lover's Beach - is a true hidden gem, nestled amongst the craggy rocks of Land’s End.
Reached only by boat, this perfect crescent of sand is surrounded by rocky outcrops, including views of El Arco.
The secluded location is a romantic destination for a day by the sea, the lovely stretch of sand extending across the Land’s End peninsula from the Sea of Cortes to the Pacific Ocean.
The water here is dangerous, so take care if you go for a swim or snorkel, and only enter the water on the Sea of Cortes side of the beach.
Practical Info
Playa del Amor is on Land’s End, washed by the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Sea of Cortes on the other. The beach can only be reached by cruise or water taxi from Cabo San Lucas.
Address: Sol Mar, Cabo San Lucas 23410, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 15
Papantla
The town of Papantla is located deep in the heart of the Totonacapan region about three hours north of Veracruz City. This quiet haven is famous for its impressive views of the majestic Sierra Papanteca range, sweet indigenous vanilla, Totonac people and the popular El Tajin ruins.
Enjoy breakfast at one of the local cafes before taking to the streets in search of the eleven murals painted by Mexican masters like Teodoro Cano Garcia—a student of Diego Rivera. One of the most famous of these is located in the Church of Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion. The city is also known for its numerous museums, but travelers agree the unique Museo de las Mascaras, which contains more than 300 masks from around the country, is definitely worth a visit.
Practical Info
Papantla is alive with energy any time of year, but it’s especially nice to visit during one of the city’s major festivals. Travelers can enjoy sweet treats during the Vanilla Expo each in December or see traditional dance, sample local food and hear plenty of local music during the Corpus Christi Festival in June.
Address: Papantla, Veracruz, Mexico
From $ 128
Nohoch Nah Chich
Dive into the depths of the Yucatan’s longest subterranean cave system at Nohoch Nah Chich outside Cancun. Exploring this enormous cenote studded with stalactites and stalagmites offers the experience of a lifetime for diving enthusiasts, while nondivers can swim and snorkel in its freshwater rivers and pools.
The Basics
Nohoch Nah Chich, whose name is Mayan for “giant bird cage,” is an easily accessible cenote popular for diving day trips with certified diving guides from Cancun and Playa del Carmen. It’s part of the Yucatan’s vast Sac Actun cave system, which extends for more than 216 miles (348 kilometers) and stretches 5 miles (8 kilometers) inland. At Nohoch Nah Chich you can learn about the formation and history of the underwater caves that the ancient Maya believed were sacred portals to the underworld.
You can visit the cenote independently or on a day tour from Cancun or Playa del Carmen that may also include rappelling, ziplining, and a ride in an all-terrain vehicle. If you want to avoid renting a car in Mexico, you can opt for a tour that includes round-trip transportation from your hotel.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Nohoch Nah Chich is a must-see for divers and snorkelers visiting the area.
- Diving in the cenote is for experienced divers only; nondivers can swim and snorkel.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces, and bring sun protection and mosquito repellent.
- The cenote offers basic facilities, including parking and restrooms.
How to Get There
The main entrance to Nohoch Nah Chich is in the Maya community of Rancho San Felipe, about 2.8 miles (4.6 kilometers) south of Cenote Dos Ojos on Highway 307. It’s accessible either by private tour or your own transportation.
When to Get There
Cenote Nohoch Nah Chich is open year-round and cenote tours operate in all weather conditions. Winter brings large numbers of travelers to the Yucatan; during this time, plan to arrive early to beat the crowds.
Rancho San Felipe
While at Nohoch Nah Chich, set aside some time to explore Rancho San Felipe and meet the residents of this modern-day Maya community. The ranch belongs to a Maya family that has lived in this remote jungle location for over 30 years. Experience a traditional purification ceremony led by the village shaman and taste homemade classic Maya fare.
Address: Riviera Maya, Mexico
From $ 119
Palmilla Beach (Playa Palmilla)
For the best paddling and swimming beach north of Medano, head to Los Cabo San José and Playa Palmilla.
Known for its family-friendly, calm swimming waters, Palmilla Beach - or Playa Palmilla - stretches in front of the exclusive One & Only resort.
Thatched huts provide shade, and the long stretch of sand is ideal for strolling and beachcombing. Dive into the water to snorkel offshore, or find a secluded stretch of sand to call your own.
Practical Info
Palmilla Beach is 5 miles (8 km) south of Los Cabo San José, 15 miles (24 km) from Cabo San Lucas along Highway 1.
Address: Highway 1, San José del Cabo 23410, Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 85
Playa Delfines
Playa Delfines is a welcome respite from the crowded beaches and bustling nightclubs that make Cancun a popular Spring Break destination. One of the highest points in the city, this beach lies just beyond the “Hotel Zone” strip and offers breathtaking views perfect for tropical vacation photo ops. The quiet stretch of sand is ideal for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing lounge and the untouched nature of Playa Delfines makes it a favorite among travelers eager to get off the beaten path. Be advised, its rustic feel means there are few places to purchase food or drink, so it’s best to pack your own. And while the shores are calm, the undercurrent can be rough and waves impressive, so proceed with caution when dipping your toes in the ocean here.
Practical Info
Playa Delfines is about 18 kilometers from El Centro and accessible by taxi or local bus from the ADO station. The beach also offers free public parking, though spots can be hard to find.
Address: Cancun, Mexico
From $ 15
Pantaleón Panduro Museum (Museo Pantaleón Panduro)
Every year Mexico holds a prestigious nationwide ceramics competition. The tradition was started in 1977, and the contest has nine categories and a coveted President’s Award. If you are at all acquainted with Mexico’s fine folk art traditions, it should come as no surprise that the winning entries exhibit great innovation and a mind-blowing level of detail.
The Museo Pantaleon Panduro in Tlaquepaque houses over three decades of winning entries, and the collection is a true testament to Mexican ingenuity. Centered around a courtyard, vaulted hallways branch out into 27 galleries, where visitors can view everything from avant-garde crucifixes to the finest examples of traditional pots and dishes. Highlights include elaborate nativity scenes, skeleton figurines wearing hand-tailored clothing, delicate lattice work pots, a selection of miniature churches, and amazingly detailed candelabra, including one covered in ceramic figurines that depict scenes from Moby Dick, Romeo and Juliet, Le Miserable and other classics of literature.
The museum is named after Pantaleon Panduro, a 19th century artist who created playful clay busts and figurines that cemented Tlaquepaque’s reputation for true artistry.
The Museo Pantaleon Panduro in Tlaquepaque houses over three decades of winning entries, and the collection is a true testament to Mexican ingenuity. Centered around a courtyard, vaulted hallways branch out into 27 galleries, where visitors can view everything from avant-garde crucifixes to the finest examples of traditional pots and dishes. Highlights include elaborate nativity scenes, skeleton figurines wearing hand-tailored clothing, delicate lattice work pots, a selection of miniature churches, and amazingly detailed candelabra, including one covered in ceramic figurines that depict scenes from Moby Dick, Romeo and Juliet, Le Miserable and other classics of literature.
The museum is named after Pantaleon Panduro, a 19th century artist who created playful clay busts and figurines that cemented Tlaquepaque’s reputation for true artistry.
Practical Info
Tlaquepaque is 5 km southeast of Guadalajara’s center. If you’re coming from downtown it’s a relatively inexpensive cab ride, or bus 275 runs south to Tlaquepaque from Av 16 de Septiembre and Madero. Admission is free.
Address: Prisciliano Sánchez 191, Centro, Tlaquepaque, Jalisco 45500, Mexico
Hours: Tue-Sat 9am - 6pm, Sunday 10am - 3pm. Monday Closed.
From $ 40
Nuevo Vallarta
A luxurious and spacious hotel and resort zone, Nuevo Vallarta lies at the center of beautiful Banderas Bay—a long, sandy stretch of beach and cool Pacific water known for its small fishing villages. Born from the tourist boom that was Puerto Vallarta in the 1970s, Nuevo Vallarta was built to offer all that the traveler could want: luxury hotels, fine dining, boutique shopping and some fabulous water sport attractions. The Marieta Islands preserve lies just a few miles offshore, and the water here is home to countless species of fish and larger marine life including the elusive sea turtles. Whale-watching is another seasonal event and one that shouldn’t be missed, much like a visit to this pristine part of Puerto Vallarta.
Practical Info
Nuevo Vallarta is located about 15 minutes north of the Puerto Vallarta airport. The American dollar and Mexican peso are widely accepted.
Address: Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico
From $ 35
Pelican Rock
Located off the coast of Cabo San Lucas, Pelican Rock features dramatic rock formations and a small, gravelly beach that's often crowded with snorkelers, swimmers, scuba divers, and cliff jumpers. This protected spot at Land’s End is famous for its abundant wildlife, both above and below the ocean’s surface, and popular with Los Cabos snorkeling tours.
The Basics
Pelican Rock is only reachable by boat, and most visitors arrive as part of a guided snorkeling or kayaking tour that includes hotel or port pickup and drop-off. Sightseeing cruises typically also visit other must-see Land’s End attractions, such as the Arch of Cabo San Lucas (El Arco), Lover’s Beach, Medano Beach, and the area’s resident sea lion colony.
Glass-bottom boat tours let you view Los Cabos’ colorful sea life without getting wet, and there’s also a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) tour and a popular Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo sightseeing combo tour to consider.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Pelican Rock is a must-see for nature and wildlife lovers.
- Choose a snorkeling or sightseeing cruise with hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Arrive early if you want to beat the crowds, especially during high season.
- Set aside some time to see the other highlights of Land’s End.
How to Get There
Pelican Rock is located off the extreme southernmost tip of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula (Baja California Sur) and only accessible by boat. The easiest way to reach Pelican Rock is on a sightseeing cruise from Cabo San Lucas or via water taxi from the downtown marina.
When to Get There
Los Cabos can be visited year-round. Winter sees large numbers of tourists, whereas other times of year are less crowded. Rainy season occurs from August to October; during this time, expect higher-than-average humidity and water temperatures upward of 80°F (27°C).
Snorkeling at Pelican Rock
Pelican Rock is the highlight of many Los Cabos snorkeling tours. In addition to colorful coral formations, tropical fish, and maybe sea turtles or rays, snorkelers also have the chance to see frogfish, goatfish, lobsters, nudibranchs, and even some whitetip sharks. Snorkeling tours depart from Cabo San Lucas and often include a water sightseeing tour of Land’s End.
Address: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
From $ 15
Playa Norte
Playa Norte (North Beach) is a gorgeous, relaxing beach located on Isla Mujeres, a small island off the Yucatan Peninsula. Isla Mujeres means the “Island of Women,” but both women and men will love lounging at Playa Norte.
Known for its many palm trees and white sand beach, Playa Norte stretches along the northern end of Isla Mujeres, where beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rental. Though its water is shallow, swimmers need to be aware that there can sometimes be a strong undertow; swim with caution. Experienced swimmers and snorkelers will enjoy paddling around to see the underwater sea life, and onsite shops have snorkeling gear to rent along with kayaks and stand up paddle boards.
In addition to water activities, Playa Norte is also home to a slew of fun beach bars and restaurants. Take a minute away from the beach for a tropical drink or some fresh seafood.
Practical Info
Playa Norte and the rest of Isla Mujeres is easily accessible from Cancun with daily boats leaving frequently from several different harbors, with some departing every half hour.
Address: Playa Norte, Isla Mujeres, The Yucatan, Mexico
From $ 54
Paseo de la Reforma
France has the Champs-Élysées, New Orleans has St. Charles Street, and Mexico City has the Paseo de la Reforma. More than just a major thoroughfare that spans the length of the city, the street is a historical touchstone to remind all who pass through of the robust history of Mexico City.
Once commissioned by then-newly crowned emperor Maximilian, the Paseo de la Reforma was built to connect the center of the city with his imperial residence, Chapultepec Castle in Chapultepec Park. Originally named after his beloved, the promenade was named Paseo de la Emparitz. After Maximilian’s execution and the liberation of the Mexican people, the street was renamed the Paseo de la Reforma and has since stood as a testament to the resiliency of the Mexican people.
Today, the most prominent buildings in Mexico City reside along the avenue. For a time during President Diego’s regime, the paseo became popular with the Mexican elite, and some European styled houses developed. Also along the paseo are many historic monuments, including ones to Cuauhtémoc, Simón Bolívar, José de San Martín and Christopher Columbus.
Practical Info
The Paseo de la Reforma runs from Chapultepec Park to the northeastern end of Mexico City.
Address: Ciudad de Mexico, D.F., Mexico, Mexico
From $ 15
Paseo de Montejo
While the center of Merida is all Spanish Colonial in architecture and layout, Paseo de Montejo is the product of a brief period when the French controlled Mexico and built a grand boulevard lined by mansions. Several upscale hotels, nightclubs, and hot restaurants are on this stretch, retaining their original interesting façades. It’s a pleasant street for walking, with wide shady sidewalks and interesting shops and galleries here and there. It ends at a roundabout with the city’s history laid out in stone on a relief in the center. Just before that are two places showing where we’ve come: a small tourist shopping mall on one side and a Super Wal-mart on the other.
If you stay on this boulevard heading north in a car, eventually it turns into a highway that goes 40 minutes to Progreso’s beach and cruise ship dock, on the Gulf of Mexico.
It’s a long, hot walk to get here from the center, however, so most visitors see Paseo de Montejo on a horse carriage ride or take a taxi to the end and walk back via Santa Lucia and Santa Ana parks.
If you stay on this boulevard heading north in a car, eventually it turns into a highway that goes 40 minutes to Progreso’s beach and cruise ship dock, on the Gulf of Mexico.
It’s a long, hot walk to get here from the center, however, so most visitors see Paseo de Montejo on a horse carriage ride or take a taxi to the end and walk back via Santa Lucia and Santa Ana parks.
Address: Mexico
From $ 17
Playa Mia Grand Beach Park
Playa Mia Grand Beach Park offers myriad options for enjoying the Caribbean Sea, whether you want to swim in the warm ocean, enjoy a massage, zip down water slides, or float in one of the park’s many pools. Here you can find beachfront lounge chairs and hammocks, a buffet and full bar, and even an underwater Maya city to explore.
The Basics
Playa Mia Beach Park is an ideal place to relax and enjoy Cozumel’s ample sunshine. A day pass offers access to the water park, beachfront lounge chairs, and use of kayaks, sailboats, paddle boats, and other water gear. You can choose to upgrade your ticket to an all-inclusive option, which offers an international buffet and open bar. It’s also possible to visit Playa Mia as part of a Cozumel snorkeling tour, during which you can explore some of the island’s vibrant coral reefs.
Things to Know Before You Go
Playa Mia Grand Beach Park is an great for families with kids.
Remember to bring sun protection, swimwear, and towels.
There is an onsite shopping center offering handicrafts, clothes, and jewelry.
How to Get There
Playa Mia Grand Beach Park is located on the island of Cozumel, off the coast of Playa del Carmen on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Ferries to Cozumel typically leave every half hour from Playa del Carmen and arrive at San Miguel, the island’s main town and cruise ship port. From San Miguel, it takes roughly 25 minutes to get to Mr. Sancho’s by road. Taxis, rental cars, and scooters are easy ways to travel on the island.
When to Get There
Playa Mia is open daily from 9am to 6pm. The park is busiest from December through April, when the weather tends to be sunny and warm. There are fewer crowds during hurricane season (May through October), but be sure to check the weather for storms. Arrive early to grab a beach chair close to the water.
Family-Friendly Activities at Playa Mia Grand Beach Park
Kids can enjoy the water park’s 200-foot-long (61-meter-long) Twin Twister water slides, a colorful playground, and Buccaneer's Bay, which features a pint-sized pirate ship and water cannons. Beach activities such as volleyball and water balloon tossing are also an option.
Address: Carretera Costera Sur Km 15, Cozumel, Mexico
Admission: Varies
From $ 30
Paradise Reef
One of Cozumel’s most popular dive sites, Paradise Reef is famous for its clear water, diverse coral structures, and teeming schools of colorful fish. Here you can spot large sea species such as eels, rays, and nurse sharks in addition to smaller creatures such as seahorses, boxfish, and delicate pipefish.
The Basics
Paradise Reef is an ideal spot for snorkelers and novice scuba divers, as well as advanced divers who want to experience the reef’s colorful atmosphere. Most cozumel snorkeling and diving tours include a visit to Paradise Reef along with Palancar Reef and El Cielo Marine Park. Some Cozumel-based tours include hotel pickup and drop-off, while other excursions include round-trip transportation from Cancun and Riviera Maya-area hotels.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Paradise Reef is a must-see attraction for nature and wildlife lovers.
- Remember to bring sun protection and water. It’s also a good idea to wear a wetsuit or rash guard to protect your skin from rough coral and jellyfish.
- Evidence of scuba diving certification is required for certified dives.
- Be careful not to touch or disturb the wildlife.
How to Get There
Paradise Reef is located off the island of Cozumel near Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. It lies south of the Puerta Maya Cruise Ship Pier and is one of the first dive sites in the Cozumel Marine Park. Experienced swimmers can do the dive from shore, but most choose not to fight the current and instead dive from a boat. You can opt for a private charter boat or a guided tour.
When to Get There
You can visit Paradise Reef year-round, but it’s busiest from December through April, when the weather tends to be sunny and warm. There are fewer crowds during hurricane season (May through October), but be sure to check the weather for storms.
Cozumel’s Coral Reefs
Cozumel is best known for its expansive coral reefs, some of the largest in the world. Paradise Reef and the Palancar Gardens are ideal spots for novice divers and snorkelers due to their shallow depth and offer a chance to glimpse sea turtles, colorful fish, towering coral spires, and gently waving sea fans. The Palancar Caves are probably the most famous dive site, with huge brain corals and swim-through tunnels. Palancar Horseshoe is another massive formation of corals.
Address: Cozumel, Mexico
From $ 189
Pedregal de Cabo San Lucas
Take the Baja trail down to where the land ends, and amid the joining of two seas you’ll find beautiful, luxurious Pedregal de Cabo San Lucas. The first luxury community of Cabo San Lucas and still regarded as one of the city’s best, this little peninsula of rock is home to numerous five-star luxury resorts, restaurants, shops, and a thriving nightlife. Terrific views at every twist and turn of Pedregal’s cobblestone streets make for an attraction in itself, and if you want to walk the life of luxury, take a stroll through Pedregal and see the multi-million dollar homes and the beautiful Pacific beachside. A trip to Pedregal is a step into elite Cabo living, so if you’re ready to lounge like royalty, look no further than this little Cabo peninsula.
Address: Los Cabos, Mexico
From $ 85
Oaxaca Culture Museum
This beautifully restored monastery is connected to the Templo de Santo Domingo and houses one of the nation’s most impressive museums. Well-curated exhibits transport travelers through the history of Oaxaca, from ancient times to modern day. Visitors will learn not only about New World influences, but about pre-Hispanic traditions through halls lined with handmade crafts, herbal medicines and local costumes.
Perhaps the most impressive item in the Oaxaca Culture Museum is the Mixtec hoard from Tomb 7, which dates back to the 14th century. A rare collection of silver, jade and gold, which was discovered by Alfonso Caso in the early 1930s, showcases the ancient tradition of burying royalty among riches.
Practical Info
The museum is located in Alcala, southwest of El Llano Park. It is open from 10 a.m. until 6:15 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. All placards are in Spanish only, but travelers can rent an English audio guide for M$50.
Address: Calle Macedonio Alcalá S/N Centro, Oaxaca, Mexico
Hours: Open Tuesday trough Saturday 10 am - 6:15 pm
Admission: M$51
From $ 6
Nohoch Mul
Scale the ancient stone steps of the Yucatan’s tallest Mayan pyramid, Nohoch Mul, which overlooks the ruins of the Coba archeological site. Coba was once a grand town, comparable in size to the more popular Chichen Itza, and at 137 feet tall, Nohoch Mul stands some 40 feet taller than Chichen Itza’s El Castillo pyramid. At the top, you’ll find a small temple with sculptures of a descending god. Only a small fraction of Coba has been excavated, even the backside of Nohoch Mul remains enshrouded by jungle, and from the top of the pyramid, you can see jungle-covered hills in the distance that are in fact yet-to-be-uncovered structures.
Practical Info
Coba sits inland, about 40 minutes drive from the coastal town of Tulum. The site has bathrooms at the entrance, but is otherwise far less developed than spots like Cichen Itza. At the entrance, you can hire walking guides and pedi-cab tours, or simply rent a bicycle to tour on your own.
Address: Coba, Mexico
Hours: Every day, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission: Entrance to the Coba archeological site costs about $4
From $ 70
Palancar Reef
The star attraction of Cozumel Reefs National Park (Parque Nacional Arrecifes de Cozumel), Palancar Reef is a rich underwater landscape ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving. Aquatic species thrive amidst these colorful corals, including sea turtles, rays, nurse sharks, barracudas, moray eels, and a kaleidoscope of colorful fish.
The Basics
A snorkeling or scuba diving excursion is one of the best way to experience Palancar Reef, allowing you to see the area’s robust wildlife and varied coral structures. Some diving and snorkeling tours visit Palancar along with nearby Columbia Reef and El Cielo marine park—a sandy, starfish-filled expanse of blue Caribbean ocean. Other excursions combine snorkeling with a sailing trip or island beach party. Most tours leave from the marina in downtown Cozumel, Palancar Beach (Playa Palancar), or from your hotel pier, while some excursions include round-trip transportation from Playa del Carmen.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Palancar Reef is a must-see attraction for wildlife lovers, families with kids, snorkelers, and scuba divers.
- Remember to bring sun protection, a swimsuit, and plenty of water.
- It’s a good idea to wear a wetsuit or rash guard while diving or snorkeling to protect against the sun, jellyfish, and rough coral surfaces.
- Be careful not to touch or disturb the wildlife.
- Evidence of dive certification is required to participate in certified dives.
How to Get There
Palancar Reef is located off the island of Cozumel near Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. The closest access to the reef is Palancar Beach, a laid-back public beach close to the intersection of Avenida Melgar and the Costera Sur. Taxis, car rentals, and motor scooters are the most popular ways to travel on the small island of Cozumel.
When to Get There
You can visit Palancar Reef year-round, but it’s busiest from December through April, when the weather tends to be sunny and warm. There are fewer crowds during hurricane season (May through October), but be sure to check the weather for storms.
Must-See Dive Sites at Palancar Reef
While snorkelers typically visit the shallowest parts of Palancar’s coral reefs, scuba divers have several world-famous spots to explore. The Palancar Caves are probably the most famous dive site, with huge brain corals and swim-through tunnels. Palancar Horseshoe is another massive formation of huge corals. Less experienced divers can visit Palancar Gardens, a shallower spot with mellow currents.
Address: Mexico
Admission: Free
From $ 51
Palace of Fine Arts (Palacio de Bellas Artes)
Overview
As Mexico City’s major cultural center, the Palace of Fine Arts hosts art exhibitions and a range of live events, including music, dance, theater, and opera. The building is a mix of art nouveau, art deco, and baroque architectural styles referred to as Porfiriano, after Mexican President Porfirio Diaz who commissioned the project.
The Basics
Located on the western side of the city’s historical center, next to Alameda Central park, the Palace of Fine Arts (Palacio de Bellas Artes) is surrounded by manicured gardens that offer contrast to the opulent columns and domes of the impressive structure. In addition to hosting live performances, it also houses a permanent art collection with statues and murals by Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, Rufino Tamayo, and José Clemente Orozco.
One of the highlights is Rivera's Man at the Crossroads mural, which was originally commissioned for New York's Rockefeller Center but was destroyed and painted over by the Rockefellers because of its anti-capitalist imagery. Rivera recreated the work for the palace in 1934. Many tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at the venue, including its theater curtain that’s made of almost a million pieces of colored glass from Tiffany's.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Umbrellas, bags, backpacks, and large packages are not allowed.
- The museum is equipped with elevators, and standard and electric ramps for those with disabilities.
- Entry to the building is free, but you must pay a fee to be admitted to the museum.
How to Get There
The Palace of Fine Arts doesn’t offer a parking lot, but there are private parking lots located nearby. Since the museum is situated by the historical center, it is easily accessible by the Metro Lines 2 and 8; hop off at the convenient Bellas Artes stop, which is right next to the palace.
When to Get There
The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm, with Sundays attracting a bigger crowd. In addition to the museum, you can also attend a performance at the theater, including regular shows by Mexico City's Ballet Folklórico de México. Tickets to the performances are typically available on the day.
National Palace (Palacio Nacional)
Diego Rivera fans will also want to visit the National Palace to take in the artist’s The History of Mexico mural, painted between 1929 and 1951, which depicts Mexico's history from ancient times to the present.
Address: Paseo de la Reforma y Campo Marte S/N, Mexico City, Central Mexico, Mexico
Admission: Varies
From $ 6