It is time to tick the Mexican Riviera off your bucket list! And there is no better way to see this stunning collection of twenty coastal cities and lagoons nestled along Mexico’s western shore than with a Cruise Holiday. Princess Cruises offer a wide range of itineraries setting sail from either Los Angeles or San Francisco on 5, 7, or 10 day cruise holidays or sail with Norwegian Cruise line onboard the Norwegian Bliss to enjoy a top and tail stay in Vegas and LA.
Read below for our ultimate guide to touring this beautiful region!
Why the Mexican Riviera?
The Mexican Riviera boasts a perfect combination of natural beauty, a rich history of art and architecture, and a vibrant culinary scene. It is an ideal destination for anyone seeking a truly immersive travel experience.
Natural Coastal Beauty
The Mexican Riviera is where turquoise waters meet golden sands, and the sunsets are nothing short of magical. With stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking landscapes, it’s a paradise for nature lovers and those looking for the most instagram-worthy nature shots.
Alluring Art and Architecture
The Mexican Riviera is home to a rich and diverse cultural heritage, with a wealth of art and architectural treasures waiting to be explored. From the ancient ruins of pre-Columbian civilizations to the vibrant colonial architecture of cities like Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan, the region offers a fascinating glimpse into Mexico’s rich artistic and architectural legacy. The stunning Huichol art, vibrant Talavera ceramics, and intricate silverwork of the region are an absolute treat for any travellers looking for some creative inspiration.
Creative Cuisine for Foodies
The Mexican Riviera is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of flavours, ingredients, and culinary traditions that are sure to tantalise your taste buds. From the fresh seafood of the coastal towns to the mouth-watering street food of the bustling cities, the region boasts a vibrant and creative culinary scene. You can savour the traditional Mexican dishes like tacos, tamales, and enchiladas, as well as regional specialties like seafood ceviche and birria. And if you’re in the mood to party, authentic Mexican drinks like tequila, mezcal, and margaritas will be sure to put a pep in your step.
When is the best time to go to the Mexican Riviera?
The Mexican Riviera is one of those places that you can really go to all year round! However we would say the best time to visit would be between November and May. December tends to be one of the most popular months so book early to avoid disappointment if that is when you are thinking of travelling. Also, watch out for Spring Break dates in the USA as some of the popular destinations such as Cabo become packed with college students during that time.
What to do on the Mexican Riviera? – Itinerary must-haves
Of course one of the best parts of a cruise holiday is all the fantastic destinations you can visit!
Cabo
Cabo, at the very tip of Baja is one of the most popular destinations and most cruise itineraries will include a stop here.
Famous for El Arco (the Arch) at Lovers Beach, this resort island is home to white sandy beaches, wildlife watching opportunities and towns with Spanish colonial charm. Spend your day on the island at one of its many beautiful beaches and either chill out or get active with snorkelling, horse riding and sailing excursions all available.
La Paz
La Paz is another destination where you will find plenty of beaches to relax along. La Paz is a great spot for kayaking and excursions include trips to Paradise Cove and Balandra Bay full of coral reefs. The trips also take you along the shoreline close to ancient mangrove forests where there is an abundance of wildlife for you to spot!
Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is another great spot for anyone that loves adventure. Soar above the tropical rainforest situated behind the city on the Jungle Zipline. Puerto Vallarta is also home to lots of little towns only accessible by boat where you can hide away for the day. This spot is also famous for its tequila so a trip to a tequila making class is always a fun way to spend the day!
Our Insider Tips
Although the official currency of Mexico is the Mexican Peso, American dollars are widely accepted throughout the country.
While many residents of the west coast are accustomed to the water temperature, those who are unaccustomed to cooler waters may find it chilly, especially during the off-season. It’s recommended to wear a rash guard or other protective gear for extra coverage.
While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning some basic Spanish can help you better navigate and connect with locals, making your trip more enjoyable and immersive.
For the best souvenirs, visit the markets in towns like Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan offer a range of handmade crafts and local delicacies.
Explore the local street art: Many towns in the Mexican Riviera feature stunning street art, which is often overlooked by tourists. Take a walking tour or simply explore on your own to discover these hidden gems.
Cruise offers
A number of Princess Cruises ships sail through the Mexican Riviera with Royal Princess, Ruby Princess, Star Princess, Emerald Princess and Golden Princess all doing sailings in the region. Embarking from either Los Angeles or San Francisco there are a number of different itineraries available so you can either cruise for 5, 7 or 10 days. While on board you’ll have plenty to keep you entertained as you sail through the warm Mexican waters. Relax by the pool or in the hot tub, get active with the wide range of sport activities available on board, enjoy culinary demonstrations & wine tastings, take in a show in the theatre or enjoy movies under the stars.
You also have the choice to explore this fabulous region onboard the Norwegian Bliss with Norwegian Cruise Lines. With stays in Las Vegas and Los Angeles, followed by a five-night cruise through Mexico’s Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada, this cruise takes you to stunning shores, natural rock formations, and breathtaking sunsets.
Experience the iconic strip’s entertainment and nightlife of Vegas and get starstruck in Los Angeles! Onboard enjoy delectable dining, get pampered in the luxurious Haven Suites and evening entertainment from musicals to casinos. By day, you can relax by the pools and spa or opt for something more thrilling such as the Joy Speedway, a driving race around a two-story racetrack, laser tag or a galaxy immersive virtual experience and much more!
So are you convinced yet? Contact our travel experts now and let us help you make your Mexican Riviera cruise dreams a reality!
