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Cold winter weather drives the birds (and tourists) to seek pleasure where the sun always shines. For many Americans, Mexico is the best place to find an affordable, balmy beach to spend a vacation.
Travelers can find plenty to do in Mexico’s popular beach towns, but which offers tourists the most safety?
We’ve done research to find seven of the safest beach destinations in Mexico right now.
At these holiday destinations you can make yourself comfortable as you leave the cold behind for some R&R in the sun.
1. Los Cabos
Los Cabos recently received the “Best destination in Mexico‘ award, and it’s no wonder.
Known for being popular beaches, this Mexican city is also brimming with natural beauty and culture. From November to June you can enjoy weekly art walks, take a hiking trail in the Sierra de la Laguna mountains or simply relax Armonia Spa‘s full-service wellness spa.
Although the winter months are peak season, Los Cabos has activities and festivals to keep you entertained all year round. And good news for that individual travelers–Los Cabos is also one of the safest Mexican beaches for vacationers.
Los Cabos generally maintains a low crime rate compared to other Mexican cities. However, Los Cabos is taking steps to increase this safety for tourists in 2024. Some of the city’s plans include updating security cameras, improving roads and adding new police officers to their force.
2. Tulum
Tulum is known as a city of luxury with its five-star resorts, white sandy beaches and clear blue water. Some consider it one of the most romantic places in the world!
From January to March, this Caribbean beach becomes one tourist hotspot. One of the reasons this beach remains so popular is that there are so many things to do and see.
You can enjoy the modern amenities of this American-friendly city by trying its wellness spas and enjoying its music festivals. Or discover the history behind this party city by visiting ancient Mayan monuments, hiking through the jungle, and enjoying the natural green spaces of Tulum National Park.
Access to this beach destination is even easier this year with new non-stop flights to Tulum.
This beautiful warm-weather destination has a Level 2 travel advisory. So while you might not want to wander alone on dark street corners at night, most travelers feel safe in Tulum.
Last year, the city of Tulum took additional measures increase the safety of tourists. In the middle of the high season, extra police officers and members of the National Guard are now on site to ensure the safety of Tulum’s beachgoers.
3. Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is a small island only six kilometers long and half a kilometer wide. However, it makes up for its small size with its incredible views.
This beach destination is a favorite sunny getaway for American tourists, and the friendliness of the locals sets the tone for a relaxing visit.
The relaxed atmosphere of this island will make you feel at home while you are away this house is full of musicians, chefs and beach lovers! Some of the top spots you won’t want to miss are the pirate ruins of Hacienda Mundaca, the MUSA Underwater Sculpture Museum, and the Sea Turtle Sanctuary.
This welcoming island is a relaxing retreat for tourists and locals alike. There is hardly any room for crime on this small landmass!
4. Cancun
Cancun is and remains one of the most popular beaches in Mexico. This year, however, Cancun is pulling out all the stops and adding new attractions.
The Mayan Train will run for the first time in February, and more Mayan ruins are opening.
As Cancun’s high season begins, visitors can enjoy the nightlife, relax at the resorts or explore the ruins and nearby islands.
Because there is so much fun going on, the crime rate is fairly low. However, the waves can create their own danger. Officials have urged beachgoers to heed swimming warning flags after five tourists drowned.
5. Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is a lively beach town known for its fun, foodand kindness. In fact, it was once called ‘the friendliest city in the world’. There is always plenty of activity in this bustling city, especially in high season when tourists come to enjoy the sun.
Some popular activities include snorkeling, boating or touring the beautiful Los Arcos National Marine Park. Or, if you’re looking for something a little quieter, you can stroll through the historic district, join a food tour, or go whale watching on the beach.
Puerto Vallarta is currently considered a safe tourist area by the US government. However, this seaside resort is located in the Mexican state of Jalisco, where criminal activity has increased somewhat. So be careful if you need to travel outside Puerto Vallarta in the state of Jalisco.
6. Isla Holbox
If you translate Isla Holbox literally, it means ‘black hole’. However, that name does not do this Caribbean beach spot justice.
This small island is about a two-hour drive from Cancun. You still get beautiful views of the beach, but you can skip some of the crowds and mass tourism in this tranquil tropical paradise.
Some of the highlights of Isla Holbox include visiting the glowing, luminous waters, cycling around the island and watching the dolphins and flamingos in their natural habitat.
This island is usually filled with relaxed and happy tourists, so the crime rate here is very low. Isla Holbox allows you to have an ‘off-grid’ experience, away from the crowds, so you can enjoy a relaxing beach holiday.
7. Mazatlan
Mazatlan is a cozy warm-weather destination, full of beautiful architecture, good food, first-class hotels and sunny beaches. Tourists enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this car-free seaside resort.
Spanish conquistadors founded the ancient sixteenth-century city, and its historic buildings show influences from the German, Spanish and French merchants who moved there after Mexico’s independence from Spain.
Some of the most tourist-friendly places in Mazatlán are Centro Histórico and Zona Dorada (the Golden Zone). However, travel outside of Mazatlan, Sinaloa State is currently possible very discouraged by the US government.
A beach in Mexico can be a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle and rejuvenate your body and mind. We’ve found seven safe beaches so you can relax and throw your worries to the wind.
However, no matter how safe the area is, it’s good to be proactive, stay aware of your surroundings and take normal precautions.
Before you head off to a beach destination in Mexico, you can check out the travel advice for the latest safety updates on the beach of your choice.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
