Is booking a fun-filled Mexico getaway on the top of your 2018 New Year’s resolution list? Check out this list of the hottest vacation trends in Mexico for 2018, brought to you by the local travel experts at CasaGo. 

Puerto Peñasco

Recent travel data indicates that Puerto Peñasco, Mexico, has become one of the top travel destination spots in the world for Americans, right up there with Paris, London and Rome. Also known as Rocky Point, Puerto Peñasco sits right on the water in the warm and sunny Baja region of Mexico. Rocky Point is the perfect getaway for vacationers looking to relax amidst endless natural beauty. There are a number of resorts, condos and villas overlooking the clear waters of the Sea of Cortez that are a perfect fit for families, romantic partners, and spring breakers. There are no shortage of things to do and see in Puerto Peñasco, which is famous for its beaches, day trips to nearby volcanoes and oyster farms, parasailing, golf courses, kayaking, jet skiing and more!

Vacation rentals over hotels

New tourism trends have developed in recent years, with more and more travelers looking for unconventional, off-the-beaten-path vacation experiences. One of the ways to guarantee a truly unique experience in Mexico is to book a house rental, instead of a hotel or resort. Choosing alternative accommodations allows visitors to soak up local flavor apart from the usual tourist crowds, and make a deeper, authentic connection to the people and places they come across.

From environmentally-friendly eco tours, to renting a secluded beach bungalow or house boat, more and more people are customizing and personalizing their Mexico vacation experience. 

Mexico City’s food scene

Mexico City has exploded recently on the international foodie scene, with visitors flocking here from around the globe to experience a culinary revolution. Cutting-edge chefs are reimagining traditional Mexican cuisine for contemporary palates. From street food (some companies offer guided tours of taco shops) to elite fine dining establishments, Mexico City has options to appeal to every taste and budget. New trends to look out for are fusion experiments — such as Japanese-meets-Mexican — and gourmet markets and food halls where the gastronomically adventurous can purchase rare speciality items. According to Lesley Téllez, the founder of Eat Mexico, “Some boundary-pushing chefs are re-examining what it means to make Mexican food in Mexico. Locals are enthusiastic, and it shows.”

Guadalajara’s art scene

From intimate workshops to commercial spaces, culture junkies can discover tomorrow’s art world stars today in Guadalajara. With a budding art scene rivaled only by that of Mexico City, Guadalajara itself is a work of art, with old historic architecture juxtaposed with new, modern buildings. Fill your days viewing sculpture, photography, painting and ceramics from new and established artists at top galleries such as Casa Rombo, Páramo Galleria, and Curro y Poncho. 

Want more information on how to get your Mexico trip started?

If you are interested in visiting Mexico in 2018 and want to find the best option for you, contact a CasaGo representative today. Whether you want to attend gallery openings in Guadalajara, try sushi tacos in Mexico City, or camp out in the Mexican wilderness, the team at CasaGo will help make your dream trip a reality at an unbeatable price. Our trained staff specializes in finding the perfect destination just for you!

Further reading on 2018 Mexico travel trends:

1. The Culture Trip, Guadalajara’s 10 Best Contemporary Art Galleries And Museums, https://theculturetrip.com/north-america/mexico/articles/guadalajara-s-10-best-contemporary-art-galleries-and-museums/
2. Travel + Leisure, These Are the Gorgeous Vacation Destinations Taking Over Pinterest, http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-news/travel-trends-on-pinterest-2017
3. Travel + Leisure, 5 Destinations to Visit in Mexico Right Now, http://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/mexico-destinations-2017
4. Islands.com, Los Cabos, Mexico, https://www.islands.com/18-best-places-to-travel-in-2018#page-12

When you think “Mexico” and “vacation,” you may also think “winter” or even “Spring break.” After all, the last two are the most popular times to enjoy the sun and fun south of the border.

But Fall is a fantastic time to enjoy Mexico, for a number of reasons.

1. No crowds

If you’ve visited Mexico only at the popular times, you’ve seen crowds, especially in the beach resorts. Well, welcome to the Fall. Crowds have disappeared, leaving beautiful beaches, honey-colored sand, and warm, warm sun. It can be an idyllic vacation for you and your family.

2. Plenty of opportunities to use beach and ocean equipment

If you like to use the resort equipment, such as kayaks or paragliders, there’s often a waiting list for them in the high season. In the Fall? They’re yours for the asking.

3. Deals, deals, deals on vacation costs

If you’re on a budget or just like a deal, autumn is a great time to travel to Mexico. Prices for hotels and airfare can be steeply discounted. You can get a vacation to remember for an unbeatable price.

4. Deals, deals, deals on shopping

For many people, shopping is a vacation activity ranking up there with lazing on the beach. Jewelry, clothing, and decorative textiles are coveted shopping items in Mexico. In the Fall, their prices are likely to be lower than at peak vacation times. Plus, shop owners are very willing to negotiate. The lower number of tourists in the Fall translate to the lower number of sales for them, so they are quite willing to prompt a sale by giving a lower price.

5. Attentive service

You won’t have to compete with tons of other vacationers for the attention of your server, hotel staff, vacation area staff, or shop owners.

6. Good weather

Fall is in the end of the rainy season, so you won’t be dealing with tons of rain. It is hot in Mexico during the autumn, but can grow cool in higher elevations. There is a risk of hurricanes toward eastern Mexico, as the hurricane season ends in November. Be sure to check weather averages for your area and pack accordingly.

7. Festivals

Many Mexican festivals take place in the Fall, so if you’re looking for cultural riches in addition to warm and scenic beaches, it’s one of the best times to go. One of the most famous Mexican holidays, Day of the Dead (Dia de Muertos), happens over several days in late October to early November. On Dia de Muertos, Mexicans celebrate loved ones who have died with processionals, celebration, and decoration.

Another popular seasonal holiday is Mexico’s Independence Day, which is celebrated on September 16. Independence is celebrated with parades, festivals, and food.

These seven reasons add up to plenty of great excuses to visit Mexico now before winter comes and the crowds become huge again.

More info on vacationing in Mexico in the Fall:

1. Trip Savvy, Fall Travel in Mexico, https://www.tripsavvy.com/fall-travel-in-mexico-1589152
2. Traveling Mom, Mexico in the Fall: Pros and Cons, https://www.travelingmom.com/destinations-international/mexico-in-the-fall-pros-a-cons/

There are dozens of stunning beach destinations in Mexico, but few that promise the natural beauty and provincial charms of La Paz. Boasting a privileged location on the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula, this cosmopolitan city lures travelers with a perpetual Spring-like climate and an endless array of eco-tourism activities.

If you want to experience the best that Mexico has to offer, without the hustle and bustle of tourist crowds, La Paz offers the perfect backdrop for adventure, romance and cultural exploration. If La Paz is on your Bucket List, be sure to check out our top 5 things to do in this colorful city! 

Snorkeling & Scuba Diving at Espíritu Santo

La Paz sits between the Gulf of California and the Sea of Cortez, making it a word-class destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Explore surreal underwater seascapes at more than 25 diving spots flanking La Paz Bay, where you’ll have opportunities to swim alongside sea lions, manta rays, hammerhead sharks, endangered sea turtles and other marine life. Tour operators feature half and full-day snorkeling or diving excursions to Espíritu Santo and other islands that include a professional guide, boxed lunch, gear, beverages and a relaxing catamaran tour.

A stroll down El Malecon

El Malecon is one of the most popular attractions in La Paz for good reason. This lively oceanfront boardwalk, built in 2004, is a great place to grab a drink or a meal, pick up souvenirs, enjoy the sunset, or do some people watching. This breezy promenade stretches more than five kilometers along the beach and is brimming with bars, restaurants and shops.

Desert Horseback Ride

About 30 minutes north of La Paz, you’ll find an authentic ranch that offers horseback tours through the surrounding desert. These spirited excursions take guests through cacti-laden landscapes down to small fishing hamlets on the sea, where you’re free to let loose and gallop on the soft sands.

Angling for Big Game Fish

Are you ready for the fishing adventure of a lifetime? La Paz sportfishing is legendary, and the variety of big game fish is astounding. Whether you’re a beginner or veteran angler, local charters will hook you up with some hard-fighting fish. Most of the action happens close to shore in the Sea of Cortez, where the waters are so clear, you can actually see schools of tuna, dorado and sailfish. Local operators will tailor a fishing package that suits your timeline and interests, whether you want to try spear fishing, fly fishing or trolling the open waters.

Experience amazing cuisine

The cuisine in La Paz goes far beyond fresh seafood and chocolate clams. The restaurant scene is eclectic, thanks to a large international expat population. In La Paz, you can sample just about every style of fare imaginable, from Swiss, Italian and French to Japanese. Of course, there are plenty of trendy cafes and eateries that serve up traditional Mexican food, including octopus ceviche with cilantro and lime and grilled tampiquena arrechera (flank steak). 

More Resources for Things to Do in La Paz:

1. CrazySexyFunTraveler, 6 Things to do in La Paz Baja California Sur https://www.crazysexyfuntraveler.com/things-to-do-in-la-paz-baja-california-sur/
2. Panterra Expeditions, Espiritu Santo Island Tour http://panterra.com/espiritu-santo-island-tour/
3. Ze Wandering Frogs, Top 10 Things to Do in La Paz Mexico http://www.zewanderingfrogs.com/top-10-things-to-do-in-la-paz-mexico/

If you haven’t yet been whale watching, it’s time to pack a suitcase and fly to Mexico. Whale watching is a truly unforgettable, one-of-a-kind experience. Plan a trip for you and your special someone and enjoy a romantic getaway on the waves. Or, bring the kids and make memories that will last a lifetime. Mexico is a particularly popular destination for whale enthusiasts because of the annual migratory patterns of these majestic creatures.

When to schedule your whale watching trip

Off the sunny coast of Mexico, you can see California Gray Whales reaching the end of their 6,000-mile migration from the chilly waters of Alaska. They begin their journey toward the end of each summer and arrive off of Mexico’s Baja peninsula late in the fall. Unmated whales migrate here to form courtship groups. Those who conceived a calf already follow the migration to give birth in the warm waters. In this area, whale watching season is officially from November to April. This season applies to whale watching in the Sea of Cortez, as well.

Other species of whales may be seen all year-round. These include blue whales, fin whales, Bryde’s whales, minke whales, and sperm whales. Humpback whales are spotted in the winter, spring, and summer, and the dwarf sperm whale tends to make an appearance in the fall. But the best time to schedule your trip is during the annual migration, when you’re almost guaranteed to get close to these marine mammals.

Best places to go whale watching in Mexico

If you’re along the coast during peak migrating season, you’re likely to spot a whale or two. But the best places for spotting whales are around Baja, the Sea of Cortez, and Magdalena Bay. The Baja California peninsula extends for more than 1,000 miles, bordered on the east coast by the Sea of Cortez and, of course, on the west coast by the Pacific Ocean. Magdalena Bay is about 800 miles down from the border, and its whale population fluctuates from year to year. The Sea of Cortez has more consistently large populations of many different whale species, including the endangered blue and fin whales. This is thanks to the tides that flow around the islands. As the waters mix, ideal conditions are created for plankton to flourish.

Tips for memorable whale watching excursions

A memorable whale watching experience starts with the right planning and preparation. Be sure to find a captain who has years of experience taking groups out to see the whales. It takes experience to know how to gently guide a boat toward the whales without spooking them.

Dress appropriately for the excursion. Never wear flip flops, sandals, dress shoes, or heels on a boat. Choose rubber soled shoes like sneakers that will help you keep your footing on the water. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, and dress in layers. When you’re out on the water, you’ll feel chillier than you would on land, especially when the sea spray hits you. Wear a waterproof jacket to keep you dry. And don’t forget to bring your camera and binoculars!

More on Mexico whale watching:

1. USA Today, Whale Watching in Baja, Mexico, http://traveltips.usatoday.com/whale-watching-baja-mexico-11724.html
2. Miramar Adventures, Baja Mexico Whale Watch Locations, http://www.miramar-adventures.com/Baja_Whales.html

Mexico is a vast country that boasts some of the world’s most spectacular scenery, whether you’re a beach lover or prefer cool mountain climes. Owing to its sheer size and geographic diversity, visitors will encounter different microclimates and weather patterns from coast to coast, which should be taken into consideration when planning a family vacation or romantic escape.

If you’re wondering about the best time of year for a Mexico vacation, the answer will hinge largely on your personal preferences and the various destinations that you’ll be visiting. Some travelers (especially those seeking a winter vacation) crave warm, sunny weather and don’t care too much about tourist crowds. Others may be looking for a more wallet-friendly trip with great discounts on condo rentals and tours, and don’t mind the occasional downpour.

Although temperatures fluctuate greatly depending on location and elevation, Mexico’s weather is generally marked by a dry season and a rainy season.

High tourist season in Mexico

December through April are the driest months in Mexico, which also coincides with peak tourist season. Average day time temperatures along popular beach towns like Cancun range between 82 and 91 degrees F, offering travelers perfect weather for a host of outdoor and water activities.

If you’re not keen on spending your vacation among hordes of Spring Breakers, which descend upon Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Playa del Carmen each year, plan your vacation so that it doesn’t coincide with the busiest spring break period (March and April). Keep in mind that Easter (locally known as Semana Santa) is another peak time for travel in Mexico, as local families flock to the coast for a few days of rest and relaxation. Accommodation prices during Easter week and other holidays tend to go up considerably, so if you’re watching your budget, consider a trip during the “rainy” or transition period.

Low tourist season in Mexico

The rainy or “wet season” spans from May/June through November throughout most of the country. Depending on the location, you may experience occasional drizzles or frequent late afternoon showers. A little rain shouldn’t deter you however, as there is plenty of time to squeeze in fishing tours and sightseeing excursions.  

One of the biggest advantages of this time of year is the lush, green vegetation and fewer tourist crowds.

If you’re planning to visit Baja California Peninsula, note that Mexico’s hurricane season officially starts in June, which can bring heavy showers and the threat of storms to both the Pacific and Gulf coasts.

Planning for seasonal wildlife activities

If there’s a certain activity or festival on your bucket list, you may want to tailor your vacation dates accordingly.

• Best times for whale watching on the Pacific coast: January to March
• Best time to view sea turtles nesting: September and October
• Best time to swim with whale sharks along the Yucatan Peninsula: May through September
• Best time to see monarch butterfly migration: Late January through March

Additional “Best Times to Visit Mexico” Resources:

1. GoMexico, 5 Amazing Wildlife Encounters in Mexico http://gomexico.about.com/od/adventureecotourism/ss/wildlife-encounters.htm
2. OnTheGo, THE BEST TIME TO VISIT MEXICO https://www.onthegotours.com/Mexico/Best-time-to-visit
3. GoMexico, Mexico Month By Month http://gomexico.about.com/od/planningandinformation/tp/mexico-by-month.htm

Mexico is a top destination for singles looking to get away for a week or two. When you book your trip with Sea Side Reservations, you’ll have access to incredible vacation rentals for singles—from the luxurious to the rustic. Plan a solo trip for some much-needed “me time” or plan a getaway with your friends. From nightlife to outdoors recreation, Mexico has it all.

Cancun

Cancun is often the first destination that comes to mind when planning a solo getaway to America’s southern neighbor. This dynamic city is located on the Yucatan Peninsula and, as you might expect, it’s famous for its beaches and nightclubs. Cancun receives a few million visitors each year. In fact, the city’s hotel occupancy rate was 82 percent during 2015, which beat other top resort towns like Acapulco and Los Cabos. Working with a vacation rental company can give you access to top accommodations around the city, despite this competition. Scheduling your vacation is an important factor to consider, since Cancun is the destination of choice for college students on spring break.

When you arrive in Cancun, you’ll have your pick of activities. Lounge on the picture perfect beaches, float to your heart’s content on the crystal-clear water, or put on some snorkels and make friends with the turtles. You can even swim with the dolphins in Xcaret Park and Isla Mujeres! Fishing, jet skiing, and kayaking are all popular activities. If you have an adventurous spirit, take a side trip to Chichen Itza—a famed Mayan site that includes the Kukulkan Pyramid. Tulum is even closer to Cancun. This walled city was one of the last inhabited Mayan sites.

When the sun goes down, Cancun truly comes to life. Choose from a virtually limitless selection of dance clubs, live shows, bars, and cigar lounges. If you crave excitement, be sure to check out Coco Bongo—a must-see for dance club enthusiasts.

Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a beautiful, sun-drenched city on the Pacific Coast in the Mexican state of Jalisco. This vibrant city was once a sleepy village known for its fishing, but that all changed when The Night of the Iguana was filmed here in 1964. Now, Puerto Vallarta is like Cancun’s little sister. It gets a couple million visitors each year, who flock to this top destination for its gorgeous beaches, exciting nightlife, and incredible cuisine. Puerto Vallarta is also known for being the destination of choice for LGBT folks, given its warm, friendly ambience.

In Puerto Vallarta, there’s always plenty to do when you’ve had your fill of sunbathing on the beach. Take a stroll along the oceanfront walkway, go parasailing, or sign up for a bird’s eye view of the jungle canopy via zip-line tours. Puerto Vallarta is also known for its golfing, eclectic art scene, horseback riding, and shopping.

Playa del Carmen

Singles who prefer a quieter atmosphere might head over to Playa del Carmen. This city, located south of Cancun, is a veritable sanctuary. Relax in your luxurious villa rental or stay at a resort for all the modern amenities you could want. Like all great destinations in Mexico, single visitors enjoy easy access to fabulous beaches, casual and fine dining, and recreational activities galore. Pamper yourself at the spas, swim with the dolphins, or explore the Yucatan jungle.

International tourists arriving in Mexico hit a record high in 2016 with 35 million visitors, a nine percent increase from 2015. The beaches of Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas, Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and San Jose del Cabo continue to be some of the most popular destinations for visitors from the United States and Europe. But what if you’re traveling for your honeymoon or to partake in the local culture? What if you want a unique family-friendly vacation or a truly “away from it all” experience? Sea Side Reservations can link you up with the perfect accommodations in five hidden places most tourists know nothing about.

The Artist Colony of Todos Santos, Baja California Sur, Mexico

Looking for relaxation, luxury, surf, and art? Todos Santos is just an hour to the south of Cabo San Lucas, but it’s got a much more laid-back, free-spirited, “hippie” vibe that visitors dig. In addition to the swimmable, surf-friendly beaches, you’ll find independently-run shops, lively cafes, and art galleries. The Todos Santos Music Festival in January is a good time to head down if you enjoy checking out unique cultural events. Los Cerritos is the beach of choice, ideal for long, romantic walks while looking out over the ocean and Sierra Laguna Mountains. If there’s one thing you “must do” while you’re in town, it’s to learn to surf wit the Mario Surf School at Los Cerritos beach. Rancho Pescadero is a haven for celebrities who want to “get away from it all,” located 10 miles outside of town, but we have a number of options for nearby accommodations, depending on your preferences.

Ancient World Culture in Merida

The charming colonial town of Merida is starting to land on the radar, ranked the fourth “Best City For Travel in 2017” by Lonely Planet. Despite being the capital of Yucatán state and having a number of museums, Merida is still largely undiscovered by tourists. This historic center is where you go to enjoy Mayan culture, archaeology, buildings dating back to the 16th Century, and home-cooked food, rather than mega-resorts, hipster cocktails, and overcrowded beaches. Luxury hotels and spas are starting to pop up, but The Huffington Post still recommends taking your family to Merida to experience Mexico’s colonial past at places like The Anthropology Museum downtown, the Museum of the City, and the Parque Centenario. There are free events nearly every night of the week at The Plaza de la Independencia, including an exciting recreation of Mayan soccer on Friday nights. Tuesday walking tours from the Merida English Library are a great way to learn more about the architecture and history of Merida. The oldest cathedral in the Americas is located here – The Cathedral of San Ildefonso, built in 1561 from dismantled pyramids. While you’re in the Yucatan Peninsula, be sure to take a dip in a cenote – a sparkling clean swimming hole connected to others through an underground river system, a unique attraction to the region. Sisal Beach is a low-key fishing beach popular with locals, but not tourists.

The Hideaway Island of Holbox

The NY Times named the island of Holbox, a two-hour ferry ride from Cancun, as the 32nd best place to go in 2016. The Wall Street Journal called it “that rare find: an under-the-radar getaway with good food, good hotels, and – for now – no scene.” Imagine eating coconut shrimp, relaxing in hammocks, kayaking the Rio Kuka, walking down an empty dock at sunset. The island of Holbox is ideal for people who mourn the loss of former hidden gems like Tulum and Sayulita. You can find thatched roof beachfront bungalows in vibrant colors, yoga studios, mariachi players aboard water taxis, flocks of wild flamingoes, and mangrove kayaking with the crocodiles. Isla Holbox has a storied history as an 18th century stopover for Spanish and Italian pirates traveling from Veracruz and Campeche. June through September is a great time to travel to the region to see (and swim with) 40-foot whale sharks migrating offshore. The Bridal Guide recommends indulging in the sugary white sand of this “bohemian” island hideaway, or – if you’re feeling more adventurous, visiting a traditional Mayan village, birding, snorkeling, or cruising over to an even more remote spot called “Isla Pasion.” Thrillist adds that the “nakedness of the island” excites visitors, along with the pink dolphins and colorful coral reefs of ecological reserve Yum Balam.

Zihuatanejo

Skip Pacific Coast hangouts like Puerto Vallarta and Acapulco in favor of a tropical paradise with warm water, coconut groves, and sugary soft sand. It’s a place where characters in the movie Shawshank Redemption escaped to, a place where destination weddings are booked, and a quiet stopover that travelers discover by accident and decide to never leave. Paddle board yoga, deep sea fishing, jungle kayaking, horseback riding, and zip-lining are unique experiences for your vacation in the foothills of the Sierra Madre. In her book, “1,000 Places To See Before You Die”, Patricia Schultz praised the “calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling” at Playa las Gatas; the chic and romantic Viceroy Zihuatanejo Resort on the nicest stretch of Playa la Ropa; and the fresh seafood on the sunset-facing terrace at Kau-Kan. Visit from November through April for the best weather, she advises.

The Wildlife of Espíritu Santo

Espiritu Santo (translated “Holy Spirit Island”) is a UNESCO World Heritage Bioreserve situated off the coast of Baja California in the Sea of Cortez. The unique, otherworldly landscape boasts miles of sand dunes touched only by wind, a 23,800-acre desert, flawless turquoise waters, and towering red cliffs. It’s a “must-see” for wildlife lovers, as a home to manta rays, sea lions, gray whales, dolphins, turtles, and sharks. The only lodging directly in the area is the Baja Camp, which is operational from May to October and features gourmet meals with wine. Other accommodations can be found in nearby La Paz. Hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving are the main attractions in this adventurer’s paradise. Sunset Magazine described arriving on Isla Espiritu Santo as “like sailing into a Maxfield Parrish painting,” and named it one of the top 32 “island escapes.”

Book your stay in Mexico

Though tourism is on the rise across Mexico, there is still much to discover and explore. Contact Sea Side Reservations for more information on booking unique accommodations for your trip.

Additional “Best Kept Secrets in Mexico” Resources: 

1. Reuters – Foreign Tourism To Mexico Up 9 Percent, http://www.reuters.com/article/us-mexico-tourism-idUSKBN15S27L
2. Travel and Leisure – Best Secret Beaches on Earth, http://www.travelandleisure.com/slideshows/best-secret-beaches-on-earth#todos-santos-mexico
3. Bridal Guide – Mexico’s Hidden Gems, http://bridalguide.com/honeymoons/browse-by-location/mexico/mexico-hidden-gems
4. Thrillist – Mexico’s Best-Kept Vacation Secrets, https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/mexicos-best-kept-vacation-secrets
5. Lonely Planet – Mexico Travel Tips, https://www.lonelyplanet.com/mexico/travel-tips-and-articles/76589
6. The Huffington Post – Underrated Mexico Destinations For Families, http://www.huffingtonpost.com/minitime/underrated-mexico-destina_b_8270884.html
7. Vogue – Yucatan Mexico Travel Guide, http://www.vogue.com/article/yucatan-mexico-travel-guide
8. WSJ – Mexico’s Best Kept Secret, https://www.wsj.com/articles/escaping-to-mexicos-best-kept-secret-island-1458840830
9. Trip Advisor – 10 Secret Mexican Islands You Can Have All To Yourself http://blog.tripadvisor.com/2016/02/05/10-secret-mexican-islands-you-can-have-all-to-yourself/

The arch of Cabo San Lucas, locally known as “El Arco,” is a distinctive and beautiful rock formation that juts from the sea, creating a perfect arcing portico. Few images can do justice to this well-known landmark, which represents the southernmost extreme of Mexico’s Baja California peninsula. El Arco also marks the juncture where the mighty Pacific Ocean meets the Cortez Sea – making for plenty of fabulous photo opportunities, especially at dawn and dusk.

There are plenty of ways to visit the arch of Cabo San Lucas (also known as Lands End), including glass bottom boat tours, water taxis, sunset cruises, and snorkeling/diving tours. More intrepid travelers can even rent kayaks and paddle their way around the rock formations, where pelicans and sea lions congregate among the rocky islets and small but very inviting beaches.

El Arco – an Icon of Cabo San Lucas

Frequently rated as one of the best things to do in Cabo, a trip to El Arco is highly recommended for visitors of all ages. You can hire a glass bottom boat or water taxi near the Cabo marina for the short 20-minute jaunt to the arch, or book one of the all-inclusive boat tours that includes swimming around the rock formations, time at Lover’s Beach, lunch, and snorkeling opportunities.

The calm waters around the arch make it a great site for all kinds of sports, including sea kayaking, jet skiing, parasailing, snorkeling and scuba diving.  Los Cabos boat tours that feature a visit to Lands End come in all varieties, but traditionally follow a similar route through Cabo San Lucas Bay, past the rock formations of El Arco into the larger swells of the Pacific Ocean, before heading east along the Corridor. Some boat tour operators feature pirate themes, open bars and more of a party atmosphere, allowing plenty of chances to relax, meet new friends and enjoy the stunning landscapes of the Baja Peninsula.

Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts rave about the crystal clear waters surrounding El Arco, where tropical fish, sea turtles, sea lions and the occasional whale are spotted.

Recommendations for visiting the Arch

If you’re traveling with young children to Cabo San Lucas, consider renting a glass bottom boat to experience the magic of El Arco. Some families love the Pirate Ship tour that includes afternoon snorkeling and an entertaining pirate show that promises to delight the little ones.

Couples may prefer the intimacy afforded by the Jazz and Wine cruise to El Arco – one of the planet’s most beautiful and romantic places to watch the sun set.

Mexican law states that no spirits can be labeled “tequila” unless they are produced in one of four states, the most notable being Jalisco. Often dubbed the champagne of Mexico, tequila comes in reposados, anejos and blancos — but all varieties are distilled from the sugary juices of the blue weber agave. Unlike fine wines or scotches, tequila doesn’t get better with age. In fact, many of today’s luxury tequilas offer the distinctive, refined flavors of a long-aged brandy or rum, after only a few months of sitting in oak barrels.

Today’s award-winning artisanal tequila offerings are on par with craft beers. There is absolutely something for everyone. Whether you prefer to sip on an amber-hued anejo over ice, or mix up the tastiest margarita this side of Cancun, there’s a tequila made just for you.

Let’s take a look at five contenders that have each garnered accolades at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and have passed muster for an exceptionally smooth finish.

Tequila Trago Reposado

Made in Los Alambiques Distillery in Central Mexico, Trago Reposado is perfect for crafting top-shelf margaritas and has subtle hints of caramel and vanilla flavors. Many attribute the quality of this fine spirit to the soil and weather conditions where the blue agave is grown, in the highlands surrounding Jalisco.

Tequila Siete Leguas

Siete Leguas is an estate grown tequila that is carefully aged in white oak barrels (from 4 months to 7 years) to render its full flavor and unique smoothness. The secret to this clean, rustic taste are the traditional methods used to harvest and process the agave. A mule-drawn millstone crushes the cactus heart and copper stills are used to remove impurities. Enjoy a glass, neat on the rocks, and you might detect notes of spearmint, cinnamon or pine.

Tequila X.Q. Añejo

Renowned for its trademark “X” shaped bottle, X.Q. Anejo is aged for 36 months and is recommended for those who savor the taste of a 100% blue agave, high quality tequila. You may notice aromas of jalapeño, toffee and wood spice.

Tequila Tapatio Blanco

Just like champagne, tequilas come in all varieties and price points. Attractively priced for its sophisticated finish, Tapatio blanco is surprisingly full-bodied and spicy. Enjoy this spirit in Mexico’s most famous cocktail— simply shake with fresh lime juice and a splash of triple sec.

Avion Silver Tequila

This impressive un-aged tequila has won the Gold metal not once but twice at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Tasty all by itself or in your favorite mixed drinks, Avion Silver is praised for its intense herbal notes of rosemary and mint, which is followed up with subtle hints of pineapple and grapefruit.

Situated 900 miles south of San Diego, Los Cabos is comprised of two popular travel destinations:  Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo.  In the 1950’s, the area’s pristine waters, unparalleled deep sea fishing and breathtaking scenery lured Hollywood celebrities like Bing Crosby and Desi Arnez, who flew down on chartered jets for epic fishing vacations. As word spread and infrastructure developed, Los Cabos slowly evolved into the Baja Peninsula’s biggest tourism hotspot, now attracting more than 2 million visitors each year.

Everyone hears about the sublime beaches, Technicolor sunsets and luxury resorts of Los Cabos, but few may know about the region’s colonial history and how it influenced the naming of Cabo and surrounding towns. Before the Spanish conquistadors and Jesuit missionaries arrived in Baja, Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo were inhabited by the Añiñi and Yenecami – indigenous tribes whose population slowly dwindled after exposure to European diseases.

Spanish colonization of the Baja Peninsula

Owing to the region’s unforgiving conditions, Spanish colonization of the Baja Peninsula did not begin in earnest until 1730, when Father Nicolas Tamaral and Father Jose Echeverria founded a Jesuit mission in what is now called San Jose del Cabo. The Jesuits, who were backed by Spanish soldiers, were tasked with converting the indigenous communities, as they worked to establish churches, schools and hospitals in the region. Father Nicolas Tamaral founded the San Jose del Cabo mission on April 8 of 1730 in Pericu territory. It was named in honor of Joseph de la Puente y Peña, Marquess of Villapuente, who was the main sponsor of Jesuit missions in the Baja Peninsula. Later, “del Cabo” was added to differentiate the mission from San Jose de Comondu, which was erected several years earlier.

During the early to mid 18^th century, the Spanish Jesuits formed a number of missions along the Baja Peninsula, including: Mision de Nuestra Señora de Loreto Concho, Nuestra Señora del Pilar de la Paz (1733) and Mision Estero de las Palmas de San José del Cabo Añuiti (1730). The mission Santa Rosa de las Palmas, founded by Jesuit Jaime Bravo in 1723, was renamed “Nuestra Señora del Pilar de La Paz” one year later, and is now called Todos Santos. The iconic statue of the Virgin of Pilar, which is the focus of Todos Santos’ annual November festival, can be found near the town’s central plaza.

Cabo’s rich history today

Fortunately, visitors to Los Cabos can still enjoy the region’s charming Spanish colonial architecture and character, evidenced by romantic courtyards and picturesque streets framing traditional plazas. Today’s Cabo vacationers are also welcomed with a slew of inviting leisure and adventure activities, including sunset sails in the Sea of Cortez, golfing, snorkeling and scuba diving, zip-line canopy tours and dolphin swims.