Mexico is a land noted for its rich traditions and cultural history, but next time you fly into Cancun or Los Cabos, you’ll be greeted by the latest in computer technology.  The country’s Ministry of Communications and Transportation recently announced that three international airports – Mexico City, Los Cabos and Cancun – have been outfitted with digital biometric kiosks to help expedite the entrance of both nationals and international tourists into the country.

Self-serve kiosks are faster

According to Gerardo Ruiz Esparza, head of the Ministry, these state-of-the-art kiosks are significantly faster and more comfortable than previous devices. Moreover, they will enable quick automated entry of domestic and foreign passengers who do not need a visa to enter Mexico. Rather than waiting in long immigration lines, nationals and visitors can breeze through the automated system in just under three minutes.

The self-serve automated entry kiosks will not only improve visitor experience but help authorities process record numbers of passengers in less time. The 100 kiosks currently deployed will likely process more than 8 million arrivals in the coming year alone. The international terminals in Mexico City, Cancun and Cabo handle nearly 170,000 travelers a day – representing nearly 75 percent of the country’s total tourism that arrives by air. One immigration counter oversees up to 5 biometric kiosks, which will reduce the time spent waiting in line by a whopping 40 percent.

How biometric kiosks work

The new kiosks have a touchscreen multi-lingual interface and have the ability to identify passengers through both biometrics and documents.  Passengers enter their travel information in the system and have their fingerprints scanned. The kiosk captures and uses this biometric data (fingerprints, photo and passport scan) to accurately and securely identify individuals as they enter the country.

With hope, this innovative system will help promote a more convenient and comfortable arrival experience in Mexico, which remains one of the most visited vacation destinations around the world.

Take advantage of direct flights to Cancun

This is great news for anyone who is planning a Mexico getaway to the sun-drenched beaches of the Yucatan Peninsula. If you are looking for warm turquoise waters, some of the world’s prettiest coastline and an endless array of recreational activities, then Cancun is the destination of choice. Located on the Mexican Caribbean, Cancun is a terrific base for explorations throughout the Mayan Riviera, where ancient ruins, pristine islands and friendly locals await.

Getting there has never been easier. A number of airlines offer non-stop flights to Cancun International, and with the new self-serve kiosks, you’ll have your toes in the soft white sands in no time.

Check out these non-stop routes:

• Denver to Cancun (4 hours) — Frontier and United
• Chicago to Cancun (3 hours 45 minutes) – American and United
• NYC to Cancun (4 hours) – AeroMexico, JetBlue and American
• Atlanta to Cancun (2 hours 45 minutes) – Southwest, Delta and AreoMexico
• San Francisco to Cancun (5 hours 20 minutes) – Virgin America and United
• Charlotte to Cancun (3 hours) – US Airways

Additional Resources on Mexico’s automated airport kiosks:

1. Travel Agent Central, Three Mexico Airports Debut New Digital Biometric Kiosks https://www.travelagentcentral.com/transportation/three-mexico-airports-debut-new-digital-biometric-kiosks
2. Hopper, American Cities with Direct Flights to Cancun http://www.hopper.com/articles/814/american-cities-with-direct-flights-to-cancun

It’s official: the top three international destinations American college students are flocking to for the annual rite of Spring Break are all in Mexico, according to a new survey.

Researchers analyzed U.S. travelers’ Spring Break travel plans in 2018, and their study yielded some great news for vacation home owners south of the border, as they can accommodate large groups of budget-conscious Breakers. Worldwide, the top three destinations are in Mexico, with Cancun leading the pack (14.2 percent), then San Jose Del Cabo (6.3 percent), and Puerto Vallarta (5.1 percent).

Rounding out the list of leading international destinations are Higuey, Dominican Republic (4.9 percent); Montego Bay, Jamaica (4.8 percent); Aruba, Aruba (4.5 percent); Nassau, Bahamas (4.3 percent); Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands (3.4 percent); and Cayman, Cayman (3.3 percent). The only European location that made the Top 10 list is London, United Kingdom (2.8 percent).

Researchers reviewed trips planned for the Spring Break season (February 23, 2018 through April 16, 2018) for travel between five and eight days in length. The results revealed that Orlando (9.5 percent) was the number one domestic destination for Spring Breakers. Following in popularity are Phoenix (5.2 percent), Honolulu (4.7 percent), Fort Lauderdale (4.4 percent), Las Vegas (4.2 percent), Fort Myers (4.1 percent), New York (3.8 percent), Los Angeles (3.4 percent), Miami (3.3 percent) and Maui (3.2 percent).

Spring Breakers Choose 8-Day Vacations

The findings also uncovered the most popular days to fly for Spring Break travel in 2018. The busiest travel day anticipated for domestic (4.1 percent) and international flights (5.69 percent) is March 10, 2018. Also, the study found most Spring Breakers are taking a five-day trip for domestic destinations (31 percent) and an eight-day vacation for international destinations (52 percent).

Mexico’s plentiful sand and surf were major factors in its stellar ranking. The survey also indicates a renewed confidence on the part of Americans traveling to the country, despite recent safety concerns.

“Americans are opting for sun and fun this Spring Break, with a majority of travelers planning domestic and international beach getaways, whereas last year many travelers opted for a ski destination,” one researcher concluded.

Bring on the Breakers!

Sea Side Reservations caters to Spring Breakers and travelers of all ages, offering incredible deals on vacation rentals at all the hottest destinations in Mexico, including Puerta Vallarta, Cancun, and La Paz, just to name a few. Since 1996, we’ve been bringing property owners and guests together, offering affordable rentals in beautiful villas, furnished condos, and beachfront homes, steps away from all the attractions visitors want to experience.

 

More Information on Spring Break in Mexico:

1. Coastal Living, “Top 10 Spring Break Destinations in Mexico,” https://www.coastalliving.com/travel/top-10/best-spring-break-destinations-mexico
2. Chicago Tribune, Spring Break Beyond the Beach: Why more travelers opt for active trips, http://www.chicagotribune.com/lifestyles/travel/ct-active-spring-break-20180208-story.html

More couples are trading in conventional hometown weddings for week-long celebrations in exotic lands. Destination weddings are a great way to visit amazing locales while bonding with your closest family and friends. According to TheKnot, more than 50 percent of American brides-to-be fancy a casual bash over a black-tie affair, which explains why many are seeking laid-back destinations where the weather is warm and the beaches always inviting.

Millennial couples, in particular, are fueling the popularity of tying the knot abroad. It’s no surprise that many are planning on saying “I do” in Mexico, given its world-famous beaches, natural beauty and proximity to the U.S.

A tropical beach ceremony in Cabo San Lucas or Puerto Vallarta has lots of appeal for adventure-loving couples, and believe it or not, far-flung nuptials are often more affordable in the long run.

Here are a few important things to know when planning a destination wedding in Mexico.

Start planning early

Ideally, couples will have the wedding date nailed down as early as possible. This will allow you to scope out and book the perfect venue and ultimately secure better rates. Try and send out your Save the Dates at least 9 months in advance, which allows guests ample time to arrange accommodations and flights.

Research the weather

Weather plays a large factor in any wedding celebration, especially for those who want a sunny barefoot bash on the beach. Generally speaking, it’s best to avoid the rainier months of July-October that also coincide with hurricane season. The months of May and November may be perfect for a sunset ceremony on the Riviera Maya, but weather patterns vary from the Yucatan Peninsula to Baja California. Do your research first to ensure the best odds of a rain-free wedding. 

Have marriage paperwork in order

Mexico has specific requirements for a legal civil marriage, and these can vary from state to state.  

Necessary documents include:

• Current passports that are valid for at least 6 months
• Certified copies of your birth certificates that must be notarized and translated by the local Mexican consulate
• Medical tests: some states require couples to have a blood test and chest x-ray two days prior to the event
• Marriage Application form available at local registry
• Copies of your Tourist travel permits (FMM cards)

In addition, foreigners who are marrying in Mexico must have four witnesses present at the ceremony. Ensure that each has a valid passport or government-issued ID.

Consider a wedding coordinator

Professional wedding coordinators can prove invaluable when marrying abroad. Using their local expertise, they can hire the most reputable vendors, inform couples on local marriage requirements and ensure your big day runs like clockwork. A local planner is experienced to handle all the details, saving you considerable time and stress.

Possible waiting period  

If you were previously married and divorced, Mexico imposes a 12-month waiting period before you can legally apply for a marriage license. Authorities will require a certified copy of the divorce decree.

Additional Resources on Mexico Destination Weddings:

1. BrideBox, How To Plan A Destination Wedding In Mexico http://www.bridebox.com/blog/plan-destination-wedding-mexico/
2. TheKnot, Having a Destination Wedding? Read This First https://www.theknot.com/content/why-have-a-destination-wedding
3. TheKnot, Marrying in Mexico: An Overview for Destination Weddings in Mexico https://www.theknot.com/content/destination-wedding-in-mexico

When it comes to vacationing in Cabo, Mexico, CasaGo would like to let you in on a few secrets. For over 2 decades, travelers have been taking advantage of our local expertise to find out where to go and what to do in many of Mexico’s hot spot destinations. Are you excited about visiting Cabo, but want to create a few unique experiences apart from the usual tourist spots? Here are 4 of Cabo’s best kept secrets.

Santiago Oasis

It is no surprise that the area surrounding Cabo–the Baja California Sur–is comprised heavily of desert. However, if you know the right routes you can find a beautiful natural oasis and waterfall. The Santiago oasis sits in the Sierra Laguna in the small town of Santiago, which is located near Los Barriles, between La Paz and the airport at San Jose del Cabo.

This spectacular natural oasis is great for anyone seeking a one-of-a-kind natural wonder. The sights and sounds of the waterfall will lull you into peaceful communion with nature, and make for stunning photos. The Santiago oasis is situated on private property, but can be accessed by the public by first contacting the Rancho Ecologico.

Flora Farms

Flora Farms is THE spot for fresh and made-with-love food in Cabo. This restaurant embodies the farm-to-table philosophy; Flora Farms’ ingredients come directly from their garden and local farms, offering patrons a dining experience with ingredients that are handpicked that very day. Flora Farms is a top destination for in-the-know celebrities visiting Cabo, but is fairly unknown to the general public.

Desert Spa at Villa Arco

Indulge yourself to the max at Cabo’s most luxurious and pampering spa. The Desert Spa at Villa Arco is an award-winning, 31,000 square-foot facility featuring massage rooms, private Jacuzzis, full beauty salon, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. The spa menu includes body wraps, hydrotherapy, and couples’ experiences. Highlights of their signature treatments include the Blissful Body Cocoon, Coconut Milk Immersion, and the Desert Rose Replenishing Facial.

El Pollo de Oro

El Pollo de Oro, which translates to “the chicken of gold,” is well known amongst Cabo locals for their delicious, succulent chicken. For years this restaurant has been a go-to spot for anyone looking for a tasty, expertly seasoned rotisserie chicken. Entering the restaurant, you will be hit with the mouth-watering aromas of the rotisserie chickens on display, and in no time you will be ready to order. You can order a quarter chicken, a half chicken, or a full chicken at unbeatable prices here. El Pollo de Oro has begun to gain more traction amongst tourists, however it is still a fairly unknown gem of Cabo!

Get your trip to Cabo started with CasaGo

Make your trip to Cabo happen with the help of CasaGo. We specialize in dream trips to Mexico at unbeatable prices. For more information on the best-kept secrets of Cabo, contact a CasaGo representative today.

More information on Cabo’s hidden gems:

1. Desert Spa, https://www.villagroupresorts.com/spa-collection/desert-spa/
2. Flora Farms, http://www.flora-farms.com/

For many Americans, Independence Day conjures up images of backyard barbecues, hot dog eating contests, cookouts with family and friends, and spectacular firework displays. If you happen to find yourself south of the border this 4th of July, you will be in the good company of other vacationers who cherish the time-honored traditions of this national holiday.

Whether you’re vacationing in one of the oceanfront resorts of Cancun or a luxury condo in Los Cabos, there are tons of exciting festivities planned this Fourth of July, including themed pool parties, music concerts, family-friendly games, cookouts and more.  

This July 4th, get ready to enjoy some stars and stripes celebrations in paradise!

Las Vegas Charity Night in Rocky Point, Mexico

This 4th of July, Sonoran Resorts in Puerto Peñasco is gearing up for their annual Las Vegas Night for Charity!  This popular event is a great excuse to brush up on your poker and Black Jack skills as you help raise money for the less privileged children and families in Rocky Point. A $35 ticket includes a delicious buffet, $300 in charity chips and raffle tickets for chances to win cool prizes. This 4th of July event draws hundreds of Rocky Point locals and visitors who want to have fun while helping a good cause.

4th of July Music Weekend at Banditos

Banditos cantina is a popular concert venue in Rocky Point, and each year this beachfront sports bar and outdoor patio hosts a music weekend festival featuring rock, funk, reggae and other genres. The party starts Friday June 30 and runs through Sunday July 2. Past lineups have included headliners like Japhy’s Descent, Sara Robinson, Stone Mary, and Mob versus Ballot Box.

Los Cabos 4th of July Parties

Cabo San Lucas is home to some of the most beautiful ocean view resorts, many of which plan amazing 4th of July activities for guests. If you happen to be staying in Los Cabos over the holiday weekend, you’re in for a treat. Poolside cookouts will be serving up American favorites like hamburgers, ribs and hot dogs. Visitors can even partake in classic games like horseshoes and beer pong! Many hotels will be throwing beach parties into the evening, complete with music, dancing, specialty cocktails and even a fire show.  Some resorts are planning nighttime fireworks displays, so be sure to ask about starting times.

Independence Day in Playa del Carmen

The beautiful community of Playa del Carmen boasts a huge population of American expats who embrace their patriotic spirit every Fourth of July. If you’re looking for some family fun, head to Wah Wah Beach Bar, which prides itself on throwing the biggest party south of the border. There is usually face painting and a bouncy house for the kids, as well as drink specials on margaritas plus a mouthwatering all-American buffet with all the traditional 4th of July eats including hamburgers, chili, hotdogs and onion rings! Dress in your finest red, white and blue outfit for a chance to win a prize!

More on spending the 4th of July in Mexico:

• Sonoran Resorts, LAS VEGAS NIGHT FOR CHARITY ON JULY 4^TH http://www.sonoranresorts.mx/excitement-mounts-for-sonoran-resorts-5th-annual-las-vegas-night-for-charity-on-july-4th/
• Banditos, Live Music http://banditoscantina.net/live-music/

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

Whether you’re into DJ talent, swanky rooftop lounges, or strobe lights and disco balls, Cabo San Lucas has no shortage of bars, clubs and watering holes to get your groove on after sunset. The downtown area is renowned for its rocking nightlife and entertainment venues, where clubs, discos and restaurants have everything from house music to live rock n’ roll along with great pub fare and enticing drink specials for the ladies.

Here’s a roundup of some of Cabo’s most popular and vibrant spots to mix, mingle and party all night long.

Mandala Food & Wine Club

Looking for a posh late-night experience amid Buddha statues, glittering disco balls and pulsating dance music? If you are feeling flush, head to Mandala’s glamorous VIP area where the bottle service is amazing. This stylish after-hours club features hip-hop, trance and electronic music and a huge glass dance floor.

El Squid Roe

No Cabo vacation is complete without a visit to this legendary nightclub, which has been luring hordes of rowdy Spring Breakers since 1989! El Squid Roe boasts a full three stories of energetic, late-night fun, complete with Jello shots, dancing cages and neon strobe lights. Be warned that the party doesn’t really get going until midnight, when locals and tourists alike beeline to this iconic downtown club.

Baja Junkie

Another popular spot on the Cabo nightlife scene, Baja Junkie is an awesome club for after-hours revelry and celebrity sightings! Depending on the night, you can enjoy some DJ talent or live music, and don’t be surprised if the tequila shots lead to some bartop dancing. Their fresh margaritas are heavenly, and the cocktail menu is extensive.

Cabo Wabo Cantina

Opened by Van Halen’s former frontman Sammy Hagar, this landmark club has witnessed a lot of growth over the past two decades, and is a mandatory stop for anyone who visits Los Cabos. Cabo Wabo is renowned for its live music, visiting rockstars, signature Waborita cocktails and tasty eats. If you happen to be there in October, see if you can swing tickets to Hagar’s annual birthday bash, which often includes some famous guests.

Cabo Blue

Located in downtown’s Plaza Real, Cabo Blue is packed with both locals and tourists who come for the atmosphere, delicious food and varied musical stylings. There’s a rock band that jams out four nights a week, and depending on the night, you can enjoy everything from electronic beats to country and house music. Cabo Blue is also popular for their daily specials – the fish tacos come highly recommended! 

Cabo Nightlife Resources:

1. West Jet Magazine, Best NightLife in Cabo San Lucas http://www.westjetmagazine.com/story/article/best-nightlife-cabo-san-lucas
2. CabosBest.com, CABO CLUBS AND NIGHTLIFE GUIDE  http://www.cabosbest.com/best-cabo-clubs.html
3. USA Today, The Party That Never Ends: Downtown Cabo’s Uninhibited Nightlife Scene http://www.10best.com/destinations/mexico/cabo-san-lucas/nightlife/downtown-cabos-best/

Destination weddings are becoming increasingly popular, as more couples discover the intrinsic benefits of celebrating their big day in an exotic, warm-weather locale. According to bridal authority TheKnot, Mexico ranks among the world’s top places for a destination wedding. Given the country’s amazing array of natural attractions, archeological ruins and stunning scenery, it’s no wonder why Mexico is the perfect place for couples who want a beautiful—yet affordable—beach wedding in paradise.

The villas and resorts are world-class, the cuisine is fantastic, English is widely spoken, flights are inexpensive, and destinations like the Riviera Maya, Cancun, Acapulco and Los Cabos offer a gorgeous backdrop for one of the most memorable days of your life.

If you’re planning on tying the knot in Mexico, heed these practical tips for planning a destination wedding that is stress-free and fun for everyone!

Hire a wedding coordinator

Your week of wedded bliss begins with hiring an expert planner – someone who knows the best caterers, photographers, venues and florists in the area. Planning a wedding from abroad takes a lot of logistics, patience and time! By enlisting the services of an experienced coordinator, you’ll be saved the hassles and stresses that can turn a bride-to-be into a Bridezilla. Insider tip: look for a planner who has organized other weddings in the same destination or venue.

Plan a visit in advance of the wedding

If you have a date in mind, it’s best to visit your intended wedding destination in advance to familiarize yourself with the local ambience, available venues, accommodations and vendors. Think of this trip as a mini-romantic getaway that doubles as scouting session.

Time it right

While most of Mexico’s famous beach towns promise balmy, sunbathing weather year-round, rains can spoil an otherwise splendid sunset ceremony. Avoid weather-related fiascos by planning your wedding between November and April, which are traditionally considered the “dry season” months. Keep in mind that Christmas and Easter (known as Semana Santa) holidays are particularly crowded in tourist hotspots, making travel arrangements more challenging. In a perfect world, you will book your venue at least 10-12 months in advance.

Send wedding invites early

You’re ready to celebrate in style with your closest friends and family, which means you need to give them ample time to clear their calendars, arrange for childcare and book tickets. Standard etiquette dictates that you should send out Save the Dates a good 6-8 months in advance of the ceremony. A formal invite should be sent out at least 3 months before the wedding and include pertinent info on accommodations, reception, event plans, dress code, gift registries and local sightseeing and activities.

Know the legal requirements for paperwork

A local wedding coordinator can prove invaluable for helping couples obtain the necessary paperwork to be legally married in Mexico. Though requirements vary from state to state, most U.S. and Canadian citizens will need valid passports, their tourist permits, certified birth certificates and an affidavit of single status. Foreign documents must be translated, notarized and apostilled. Couples can also choose to have a symbolic ceremony in Mexico after being legally wed in their hometown.

Golf aficionados owe it themselves to head south of the border and experience the magic of premier golf in Mexico. A 2016 Golf Digest article waxes poetic on the “numerous” picturesque and highly playable courses, many positioned along gorgeous seaside cliffs. From the Baja Peninsula to Chileno Bay, the Mexican golf scene continues to garner international recognition for superb course designs by PGA champions like Nicklaus, Gary Player and Greg Norman.

Among Mexico’s most famed and luxurious fairways, here are 5 world-class courses that have ranked among the best.

Dunes Course at Diamante

For an all-around 5-star experience, take your clubs to this Davis Love III-designed course in Cabo San Lucas. This private links-style course and resort features stunning desert-meets-ocean views and is the #1 ranked course in Mexico by Golf Digest. Posh touches include Diamonte’s signature course side “comfort stations” that offer up libations and gourmet snacks to parched players.  

Cabo del Sol Ocean Course

The aptly named “Ocean Course” sidles up to the Sea of Cortez, giving the sensation as if you’re teeing-off in the water! Dreamed up by the legendary Jack Nicklaus, this dramatic seaside fairway is open to the public and is renowned for its free fish tacos just before the final trio of holes along the shore’s edge. The Ocean Course offers the best combination of value and picturesque views, according to Golf Digest.

Quivira Golf Club Cabo San Lucas

Higher handicappers will revel in the challenging Nicklaus course at Quivira, where a spectacular backdrop includes towering sand dunes framed by mountains and breathtaking ocean vistas. Opened in 2014, this private 18-hole course, situated at the tip of the Baja Peninsula, promises a variety of surprises for the avid golfer.

Querencia Golf Club

Billed as the first private championship course in Los Cabos, and designed by Tom Fazio, Querencia is carved out of a lush 800+ acre property between Costa Azul and Palmilla. Querencia has been named the number one golf course in Mexico by Golfweek and boasts wide fairways and stunning desert and ocean views from every hole.

El Camaleón Mayakoba 

Site of the PGA Tournament – OHL Classic, the Camaleon golf course at the Mayakoba Resort is widely regarded by professionals as one of the world’s finest courses, thanks in part to the expert design of Greg Norman. Exceptional views, challenging terrain and 5-star service are the hallmarks of this tournament-worthy course, conveniently located in Playa del Carmen — just 40 minutes from the Cancun international airport.

Looking for sun-drenched beaches and crystal-clear water? Mexico is a popular travel destination during the winter months, especially among surfers. Some of the best waves are found in Cabo San Lucas and Sayulita, Nayarit, but there are plenty of other choices to please every surfer, from beginner to expert. And if you have difficulty choosing just one destination, consider booking a tour of your favorite hot spots.

Surfing in Cabo San Lucas

If you’re looking for diversity, nothing beats Cabo San Lucas. It’s ideal for groups of surfers of varying skill levels. It offers varying break directions and, when you’re taking a break to relax on the beach, you’ll see some of the most awe-inspiring coastal scenery around. The biggest waves are found in Cabo from June through August, but the beaches are predictably more crowded during these months. If you prefer more elbow room, consider going there during the off-season, particularly if you plan on trying the infamous Zippers break.

You’ll find Zippers just west of Cabo San Lucas. It’s hard to miss, since it plays host to many surfing competitions. This fast right break offers a long ride thanks to the underlying reef structure. If you do go to Cabo during the busy season and you prefer breaks that are off the beaten path, try Shipwrecks. If you go, be sure to rent a sturdy 4WD SUV, since a dainty sedan likely won’t make it there. Keep an eye out for Rancho Rocas del Mar; Shipwrecks isn’t too far south of here.

Surf shops, rentals, lessons, and camps are available throughout the Cabo area.

Sayulita, Nayarit

The Mexican state of Nayarit has a well-deserved reputation for being one of the best coasts in the world for surfers and the beaches of Sayulita are its crown jewels. Here, beginners and longboard riders will find the perfect right breaks, but experts and daredevils will be more than satisfied with the rapid left breaks too. The winter season is best for surfers looking for big swells. It also happens to be the time when humpback whales can be spotted in the bay.

Hip accommodations are available in this rapidly growing surfing community, with cheap board rentals available, lively nightlife, and hard-to-beat casual dining experiences.

Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca

If rapidly growing hotspots aren’t quite your taste, consider booking a trip to Puerto Escondido instead. Located in the Mexican state of Oaxaca, Puerto Escondido is one of the best kept secrets among avid surfers. It’s deep in the southwest of the country. You won’t find touristy crowds here – just steamy beaches, warm water, and waves to die for. Puerto Escondido is a highly affordable destination for surfers looking for a no-frills experience. Serious surfers tend to cluster in the Zicatela part of town.

Playa Zicatela is renowned for its punchy small waves and monster swells, so bring your shortboard and your longboard to take advantage of every condition. If you’re there on the odd day when the waves do fall flat, charter a cheap panga and go sport-fishing for sailfish.