Coastal Mexico: Beaches, Colonial Towns and Archaeological Sites

What, you haven't decided where to take your trip yet? Do you wish to see historic sites and relax on the beach? There are seven of Mexico's beaches included here, all of which feature colonial architecture or archaeological monuments.

Coastal Mexico: Beaches, Colonial Towns and Archaeological Sites
Visit Mexico and relax on the shores of Isla Mujeres.Photo by Jorge Fernández Salas / Unsplash

Not sure where to go on vacation yet? Are you interested in history and the beach? The following list features seven beaches in Mexico that also feature colonial architecture and archaeological sites.

All the elements of a beach vacation: water, sun, and culture

At least seven Magical Towns in Mexico let you combine walks through historic and pre-Hispanic buildings with the sun, sand, and sea where you can also surf, dive, snorkel, or do ecotourism. These towns have beautiful scenery and beaches where you can relax or have an adventure.

Quintana Roo has the most Magical Towns with beaches. Bacalar, Tulum, and Isla Mujeres are all popular tourist destinations. The World Travel Awards say that Tulum is the best place to go to the beach in Mexico and Central America. Tulum has an archeological zone that is unique in the world. It has a medium-sized jungle, mangroves, and coastal dunes for its visitors to see.

You could also go to Bacalar or Isla Mujeres for your summer vacation. The second one has beautiful architecture and ancient ruins. It has more than 1,500 rooms, from small hotels to hostels, so there is something for everyone.

On the other hand, Bacalar is a paradise where you can kayak, snorkel, dive, and mountain bike. The Bacalar lagoon comes out between small fishermen's homes. There, you can dive and take boat rides. Also, you can see one of the best views from the Fort of San Felipe.

But Mazunte, in Oaxaca, or Sayulita, in Nayarit, are the places to go if you want adventure and a little peace this summer. The second one is one of the best places to surf, and you can also take a walk on its cobblestone streets or ride a horse to see the scenery. Its main attractions are the Sayulita River, which is great for ecotourism, and Monkey Hill, where you can see many different kinds of birds.

Loreto and Todos Santos, both in Baja California Sur, are two more Magical Towns with beaches that you can visit. This is the only part of the state where the average temperature stays between 18 and 28 degrees Celsius (64 and 82 Fahrenheit) all year long. On the other hand, Loreto has beautiful natural landscapes, islands with a variety of endemic plants and animals, and a National Marine Park with a lot to see underwater, from blue whales to coral reefs.

Sayulita

Attractions: One of the best-surfing destinations. Ideal for strolling through its cobblestone streets and admiring its buildings. There are zip-line circuits and you can snorkel.
Food: Fish and grilled shrimp.

Isla Mujeres

Attractions: It has archaeological remains and marine parks with natural reefs. You can dive in El Farito, Punta Norte and Manchones.
Food: Tikin-Xik fish, snail ceviche, chimole.

Tulum

Attractions: An archaeological zone, cenotes, and lagoons ideal for ecotourism such as the Labnaha Ecological Park. Of its ancestral structures, El Castillo stands out.
Food: Seafood and fish dishes.

Bacalar

Attractions: The Fort of San Felipe Bacalar, El Cenote Azul where you can dive; and the Parish of San Joaquín Bacalar.
Food: Rice and beans, cooked with coconut oil; xpelón tamales (a variety of beans).

Loreto

Attractions: Kayaking, snorkeling, sailing, and sport fishing. The cliffs of Isla Danzante favor scuba diving and Isla Catalana is ideal for admiring the flora and fauna.
Food: Machaca and fajitas, as well as seafood specialties.

Todos Santos

Attractions: It is characterized by its green fields and orchards of fruit trees. This place is the home of surfing champions, artists, and foreigners.
Food: Lobster, shrimp, fish, clams, and other sea delicacies. It is famous for its typical sweets made with fruits from the region.