Mexican adventures by the seaside

When we will return to traveling again, the best thing is to do it in Mexico, which has an infinite number of destinations where each traveler can find his paradise and enjoy it. Mexico fulfills the dreams of many travelers from all over the world who wish to carry out a revitalizing adventure on its beaches.

Few experiences compare to experiencing the smell of saltwater, the warm sand on your feet, relaxing to the sound of the waves, savoring a cocktail, and marveling at the views that destinations bathed by the sea can offer their visitors. And if you want to add to these experiences with nightlife, visits to archeological sites, or excellent Mexican cuisine, there will surely be an option tailored to your needs.

Sea of Cortez

Adventures can begin on the Baja California peninsula, whose Sea of Cortez was called "the aquarium of the world" by explorer Jacques Cousteau, and which offers ample opportunities on its shores for diving, snorkeling, or kayaking.

The brilliance of this area has not gone unnoticed. La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur, was recently named by the New York Times as one of 52 places to visit in 2020. Even if it has been visited in past years, a new arrival is recommended to enjoy the remodeling of the boardwalk that in addition to being expanded, now has new areas for cycling, sculptures, and craft space.

And in Los Cabos, many are already familiar with the famous arch, but after the obligatory photo is taken, there is much more to discover. It is difficult, for example, to ignore the abundant nightlife on offer in this destination. One popular option is Cabo Wabo Canina, a space opened in 1990 by American rocker Sammy Hagar that often features live music. At The Squid Roe, there's no excuse for not showing off the best dance steps on one of its dance floors.

On the other side of the Sea of Cortez, there are even more coastal gems in states like Sonora and Sinaloa. The latter is home to one of the travelers' favorites: Mazatlan. There, places like Playa Gaviotas and Playa Venados are perfect for swimming, diving, or marlin fishing. Off the coast, explore downtown Mazatlan, where the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is located, built, and opened in the late 19th century.

Pacific Coast

Further south, the options for having fun and finding an ideal paradise continue, whether it's Riviera Nayarit which has the great advantage of housing several small towns, each with its flavor. San Francisco (also known as San Pancho) and Sayulita are some of the best known. However, Lo de Marcos, with its colorful buildings and narrow streets; or the island of Mexcaltitán, accessible only by boat, should not be overlooked. There you can visit the Museo del Origen, home to some 5,000 pre-Hispanic pieces from the region. Then, you will also have to try the famous shrimp tamales of the area.

In Jalisco, Puerto Vallarta is home to important hotels and resorts, many of them all-inclusive, that invite you to stay all day in their facilities to take a dip in their pools, go into the sea for a while, watch the sunsets and try delicacies.

But Jalisco is not only this destination. It is enough to mention the paradises that Costalegre has, a tourist corridor that includes four municipalities and numerous bays. For example, Costa Careyes offers luxury experiences, a golf resort, and tennis courts. During the first quarter of each year, the Arte Careyes festival is held, which combines cinema, music, and art. As a sign of the exclusivity that can be found in this area, access is by invitation only.

In Bahía de Navidad, the destinations of Barra de Navidad and Melaque also represent great options. They are places to take a long walk along the coast and surround yourself not generally with large branded accommodations, but with bungalows, small hotels, and restaurants with very accessible prices.

During the winter months, many foreigners from the north make an adventure here to stay for a few months and escape the icy temperatures.

A little to the southeast, already in the state of Colima, Manzanillo faces the spectacular bays of Manzanillo and Santiago. Beaches like La Audiencia and resorts like Las Hadas are part of its great charm.

If you're traveling by car from Guadalajara to this coastal destination, a great option is to make a short detour at Tecomán (about 70 kilometers from Manzanillo), to get into beach mode, finally fill your flip-flops with sand and taste some fresh seafood at Las Hamacas del Mayor restaurant.

Playa Azul in Michoacán attracts tourists, especially in October, to witness the sea turtle exhibit. But in any season of the year, travelers are enchanted by the idyllic scenery.

Another treasure of the entity is Nexpa, one of the beaches spoiled for surfers due to the strength of its waves, which average between two and three meters high, although it's not uncommon to see some of them over four meters. This makes it an ideal environment to carry out events such as the Nexpa Surfing and Fishing Tournament, which attracts hundreds of visitors every year.

In the state of Oaxaca, Puerto Escondido and Huatulco are some of the best-known coasts and it is not surprising. The first destination is a paradise for surfers, who find magnificent waves to dominate in places like Zicatela Beach. On the other hand, Huatulco's nine bays extend along some 35 kilometers of coast and are a dream for travelers.

But for those who wish to have as natural an experience as possible, the option is to reach Zipolite, which has been certified to operate as a nude beach. Even so, you don't have to take off your clothes or bathing suit to also enjoy its gastronomic and cultural options. Some visitors, for example, choose to attend an evening movie or music show at the Firefly Cinema.

And in Mazunte, the concern of the locals to preserve the environment is clear. The Centro Mexicano de la Tortuga, for example, has programs for releasing these animals in which tourists can participate. In addition, talks are offered to learn about sea turtle species.

During the afternoon, you can't miss a stop westward at Punta Cometa, a peninsula at the southern tip of Oaxaca where many people congregate to watch the beautiful sunsets.

Gulf of Mexico

On the other side of the country, the waters of the Gulf of Mexico also provide a delightful respite for those who seek it out. Tamaulipas has its natural paradises such as the bordering Bagdad Beach, known for its dunes; and Miramar Beach, very close to Tampico and that boasts its environmentally friendly practices.

In addition, the beaches of Veracruz are irresistible for diving and snorkeling in Tamiahua and Tuxpan; or for enjoying the calm waters. And in Tabasco, you should not miss a stop at places like El Bosque beach, which stands out for being a point where the waters of the sea, the river, and the lagoons converge.

In the Yucatan Peninsula, a visit to the beautiful city of Campeche and the archeological sites of the state of the same name can be paired with a relaxing stay at Playa Bonita (no other name is more appropriate) or Sabancuy, with very calm waves, fine sand and still semi-virgin spaces.

Meanwhile, the Yucatán attracts, like a magnet, to spend a relaxing break in Dzilam de Bravo and the port of Progreso, which has played a key role in sea trade and which, to date, receives several cruise ships whose passengers want to enjoy the wonders of the Yucatan.

Cancun is always one of the favorite beach destinations in Quintana Roo and throughout Mexico, and 2020 will be the year to visit it, as there will be a series of events throughout the year and particularly during April to commemorate its 50th anniversary.

In Tulum, about two hours away, things seem to be moving at a more leisurely pace, but that doesn't imply any kind of tedium. In fact, in addition to the archaeological zone, there is a growing nightlife and gastronomy. You only have to ask what's new and choose from that range of options.

For travelers, many reasons can make them fall in love with Mexico. The beaches are just some of these reasons. But the truth is that, once you get to know them, they practically force you to return continuously to soak up that free and carefree spirit they always offer.

Source: Diario.mx