U.S. News and World Report recently released its list of the eight best beaches in Mexico. The list features sites with beautiful scenery and plenty of nearby restaurants.
As wonderful as a lounging on the beach for days is, most travelers like to venture out and try some other activities as well. To help make the choice in beach vacation destination easier, we have narrowed down the U.S. News and World Report list further to the top five Mexico beaches with unique not-to-be-missed attractions nearby.
Playa del carmen
Take a break from the beach, shopping, and nightlife to check out Rio Secreto – the secret river – located in the heart of Playa del Carmen. The underground tour through a network of caves features thousands of stalactites and stalagmites amid the many other geological wonders. Many of its visitors count the experience as spiritual or life-changing.
Tulum
Located about an hour away from Playa del Carmen, Tulum is practically a Mayan time capsule. After relaxing on its beach at the foot of 39-foot cliffs, explore the ruins of an ancient Mayan city.
Puerto Vallarta
Meander through a 20-acre collection of native tropical plants at the Vallarta Botanical Gardens. The garden is home to rare species of plants that are on display in only a handful of botanical gardens in the world. If you are visiting Puerto Vallarta at the right time of year, you may even be able to take part in the March beer festival or any one of the local celebrations.
Cabo San Lucas
Visit the nearby Baja Outback for a hands-on look at the local ecosystem. A favorite attraction is the turtle release conservation adventure – guests can adopt a turtle and personally participate in its release. Other activity options include a tour of Cabo highlights that includes a ride on a glass-bottomed boat and time to explore.
Cancun
About an hour away from the heart of Cancun, you can taste Mayan culture and environment at the Xcaret ecological theme park. The attraction mixes natural wonders like cenotes leading down to marvelous underground caves with cultural attractions like a Mayan Ball Game. The more than 50 attractions are sure to please the entire family.
If you plan to step off the beach for some local adventure, plan your trip around one or more of these unique destinations.
