Best Mexico Travel Tips For The Vacation Of A Lifetime

The best time to visit Mexico is during the dry season between December and April when there is little or no rain. The coolest months are December through February, although temperatures can reach averages of 82.4 °F. The wet season is between May and October with showers and increased humidity.

According to Velas Resorts, January is one of the best months to visit Mexico when its dry, beautiful and less crowded than in December and February when people are on break from school. The Caribbean Coast and Riviera Maya have a hurricane season from June to November and our resorts offer great deals during this time of year.

The minimum legal drinking age in Mexico is 18 years old. Mexico requires that young adults show photo identification, either a passport or driver’s license, as proof of age when buying alcohol. Be prepared to have your ID at most resorts, bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, even though most are not strict in their practice of checking.

Mexico is blessed with some of the best beaches in the world, edging the Caribbean coast, Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez. The top beaches in Mexico include Puerto Vallarta’s Playa Los Muerto, Punta Mita just north of PV, Mismolaya to the south, and Playa del Carmen and Tulum on the Riviera Maya, Chileno Beach and Playa Médano in Cabo San Lucas.

One of the most popular vacation destinations on the planet, Mexico is safe for US and international travelers according to the Mexico Travel Advisory. Mexico’s beautiful coastlines, beaches and resorts – including Puerto Vallarta, Los Cabos and Riviera Maya - are not dangerous for vacationers, families and solo travelers, and most resorts are safe with security protected grounds. When visiting any foreign country, travelers should be cautious, aware of their surroundings, explore with a friend, and have an itinerary with directions. The concierge team at Velas Resorts can assist with local tours, sightseeing recommendations, and safety tips.

As a precaution you should not drink tap water in Mexico even if it’s purified at the source. Most resorts and hotels provide bottled water or large jugs of purified water for you to refill your bottle. Velas Resorts stocks its suites with bottled water daily as included in it’s all inclusive plan. As a rule, stick to bottled water when traveling in Mexico.

Velas Resorts caters to groups and event planners with luxury suites, indoor and outdoor venues, and activities for business meetings, conferences, events, weddings, reunions, parties, and retreats. Contact our event planners to create a memorable group event in breathtaking oceanfront destinations including Puerto Vallarta, Playa del Carmen and Los Cabos, Mexico.

When traveling to Mexico, you must take your passport and ID or driver’s license to enter the country. Since the weather is warm year-round, even in the dry and wet seasons, you should always take light casual clothing, beach wear, swimsuits, sunglasses, hats, and sunblock. If you plan on exploring the mountains or desert areas, pack comfortable shoes or sneakers and a jacket for the chilly evenings. Many luxury resorts, restaurants and nightclubs also require dress clothes and evening apparel.

The Tripadvisor Best of the Best 2023 Travelers' Choice Awards includes a wide range of categories that celebrate the finest hotels and resorts worldwide. These prestigious awards recognize establishments that provide unforgettable experiences for travelers.

This year, Grand Velas Los Cabos has been awarded first place in the category of Luxury Hotels in Mexico. This accolade showcases the resort's dedication to delivering unmatched luxury and exceptional service to its guests.

The Tripadvisor Best of the Best Awards are highly regarded within the hospitality industry, as they are based on reviews and opinions shared by millions of travelers worldwide.

Grand Velas Los Cabos stood out among other hotels in the TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Awards 2023 for several reasons. First and foremost, the resort received exceptional reviews and feedback from travelers who had stayed there. The awards are based on the opinions and reviews shared by millions of travelers worldwide, making them a true reflection of customer satisfaction.

Grand Velas Los Cabos impressed guests with its unparalleled luxury and attention to detail. The resort offers top-notch amenities, elegant accommodations, and a wide range of high-quality services, all contributing to a remarkable guest experience. The staff at Grand Velas Los Cabos is known for their warm hospitality, professionalism, and commitment to going above and beyond to ensure guests have a memorable stay.

Additionally, the resort's stunning location in Los Cabos, Mexico, adds to its appeal. With breathtaking views of the ocean and access to pristine beaches, Grand Velas Los Cabos offers a truly idyllic setting for a luxurious vacation.

Furthermore, Grand Velas Los Cabos showcases a strong commitment to culinary excellence. The resort boasts a variety of world-class restaurants, each offering unique and exquisite dining experiences, from gourmet international cuisine to traditional Mexican flavors, the resort's culinary offerings are highly praised by guests.

Overall, the resort's ability to consistently deliver exceptional service, luxurious accommodations, breathtaking location, and outstanding dining experiences sets it apart from other hotels and made it a standout choice among travelers in the TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Awards Best of the Best 2023.

Grand Velas Los Cabos has consistently been recognized for its excellence in the TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Awards, winning several prestigious accolades in previous years. The resort has been named the #1 All-Inclusive Resort in Mexico, the #1 Luxury Resort in Mexico, and has even achieved the impressive ranking of #8 among the Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the world. These repeated victories highlight Grand Velas Los Cabos' unwavering commitment to providing exceptional service, luxurious accommodations, and unforgettable experiences for its guests.

From the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific Ocean, Mexico is a place of natural beauty and adventure for families and kids. The Riviera Maya is a relaxing playground for families with pristine beaches, cenotes, ancient ruins, sacred jungles and eco parks like Xcaret in Playa del Carmen.

Riviera Nayarit offers scenic beaches on Banderas Bay and endless water sports, from scuba diving to swimming with dolphins, as well as sightseeing tours and Mexico’s top golf courses. Los Cabos also offers fun family activities, including swimmable beaches, natural wonders, zipline tours, shopping, dining, and dramatic views of the Sea of Cortez.

Featuring a collection of all-inclusive luxury resorts and boutique hotels throughout Mexico, Velas Resorts offers several All-Inclusive Vacation Packages including luxury suites, food, drinks and premium liquors, concierge service, daily activities, airport transportation, and discounts for local tours. Our Mexican Traditions offer also includes spa credits, early check-in and late check-out, and a welcome bottle of mezcal in your suite.

Plan unforgettable destination weddings at our Velas Resorts in Mexico. We offer beautiful indoor and outdoor venues, including elegant ballrooms, oceanfront terraces, private beaches, gardens, patios, and restaurants. Exchange vows with the Caribbean Sea as your backdrop or in a tropical oceanfront garden. Have a traditional ceremony in a chapel by Mayan jungle and or celebrate poolside. Fill out a Request For Proposal and our wedding specialists will be in touch.

There are few all-inclusive adults-only resorts in Mexico that offer vacation experiences and romantic getaways for grown-ups and couples. Part of the Velas Resorts collection, Casa Velas is the top all-inclusive resort for adults only in Puerto Vallarta with luxury ocean-view suites, a beach club, incredible cuisine, activities, golf, a spa, and beautiful views of Banderas Bay.

With nearly 5,800 miles of coastline, Mexico has beautiful and serene beaches – from the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific Ocean. The most popular beaches can be found in resort destinations that include Riviera Maya, Riviera Nayarit, and Los Cabos, which feature Mexico’s most beautiful beaches. For one of the most exclusive beach experiences, take a short water taxi ride from Puerto Vallarta to the Marieta Islands with Mexico’s most biodiverse and secluded beaches.

Los Cabos is located on the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula, in the Mexican state of Baja California Sur. The beautiful destination encompasses the two cities of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo linked by a 20-mile stretch of beach-front resorts and championship golf courses.

Los Cabos offers many exciting things to do, from beautiful beaches and golf courses to deep sea fishing and desert tours. Discover top attractions including The Arch of Cabo San Lucas at Land's End and the Marina, with fishing charters and dolphin encounters. Enjoy relaxing at Medano Beach and Lovers Beach and scuba diving at Sand Falls or take a day trip to historic San Jose del Cabo.

Los Cabos International Airport is the closest airport to Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. Grand Velas Los Cabos is only 24 miles southwest of SDJ or about a 20-minute drive on Highway 1.

Grand Velas Los Cabos offers many family activities right at the resort, including a famous Kids' Club. The Los Cabos area also offers many family friendly attractions, including Cabo Dolphins and Cabo Submarine - the ultimate underwater tour of the Sea of Cortez. Try surf lessons at High Tide Sea Expeditions or Sea Trek and enjoy scuba diving with Cabo Expeditions. Take the kids to Wild Wet Fun Water Park, just north of San Jose del Cabo. Enjoy a camel ride along the beach or swim, snorkel and play at the beaches of Cabo.

Cabo San Lucas is safe to visit and there are no current travel restrictions to the state of Baja California Sur. That said, Americans traveling to Mexico should always be cautious. A few Mexico travel safety tips include:

• Stay on or around the resort's property
• Stick to tourist areas and stay close to the resort strip
• Travel with friends or groups
• Order cabs or transportation from the hotel
• Do not show off jewelry and cash
• Keep valuables locked in a safe in your hotel

Spring is the best time to visit Playa del Carmen and Riviera Maya when the weather is warm, sunny and the wet season has not yet hit. The most popular time of year to visit Playa del Carmen is the dry season between November and April with temperatures that average 75°F. The rainy season is from May to October with higher temperatures averaging 82°F. July through September are quieter months with tropical showers but many tourists love this season on the Riviera Maya with less crowds and lower rates.

Mexico's Riviera Maya is served by Cancun International Airport (CUN), getting travelers to Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Puerto Morelos, Puerto Aventuras, Xpu-Ha, Akumal, and Soliman's Bay, Tank Ha Bay, and the Sian Ka'an Biosphere. Playa del Carmen is about 40 -50 minutes from the airport and Grand Velas offers shuttle service to and from the terminals.

Mexico's Riviera Maya offers incredible things to do, from white sand beaches to eco-tours to cenote diving and ancient Mayan ruins. Here's are the top 8 things to do in Riviera Maya, Mexico:

1. Sun and swim on Playa Del Carmen beach
2. Scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and parasailing on the Caribbean Sea
3. Diving and snorkeling in Cenote Azul and Cenote Chaak Tun
4. Shopping, dining and nightlife in downtown Playa del carmen on 5th Avenue
5. Tour the Mayan ruins and pyramids of Tulum, Coba and Chichen Itza
6. Explore Sian Ka'an Biosphere - one of Mexico's natural wonders
7. Tour the underground river and cave of the Rio Secreto
8. Play del Carmen's nature and theme park - Xcaret

Stretching for 25 miles on the Caribbean Sea, from Playa del Carmen to Tulum, Mexico's Riviera Maya is blessed with beautiful white sand beaches. The best beaches on the Riviera Maya are:

• Parque Los Fundadores in Playa del Carmen
• Mamitas Beach and Playacar Beach in Playa del Carmen
• Maroma Beach - one of the most beautiful beaches in the world
• Paraiso Beach in Tulum
• Akumal Beach - Place of the Turtle
• Xpu-ha Beach in Puerto Aventuras
• La Playa Xpuha

Puerto Vallarta International Airport is located 11.8 kms or 7.3 miles away - a 15-minute drive - from Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit. You can take a taxi service to or from the resort or call in advance for VIP reservations that include a private suburban, drinks, luggage assistance, and a greeting sign with your name on it at the exit gate of the airport.

The beaches of the Riviera Nayarit and Nuevo Vallarta are wide, soft, and have gentle waves for swimming. The beach at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit is the perfect place for swimming, boogie boarding, surfing, snorkeling and diving in Banderas Bay. The hotels and resorts put up flags when it is not safe to swim, or if there are jellyfish in the water.

Enjoy global cuisine at 4 gourmet restaurants - Frida, Luca, Piaf and Sen Lin - and bars that are all part of the all-inclusive package at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit. Whether you are in the mood for a beachfront dinner, creative Mexican and Italian fare, a cold beer while watching sports, or cocktails by the pool, take a bite of paradise with our all-inclusive dining concept. Our all-inclusive plan also offers in-suite dining and daily drinks and snacks in your minibar.

The best time of year to visit Puerto Vallarta and the Riviera Nayarit is between April and June when the weather is perfect, rain is scarce, and it's less crowded. Why? There are two main seasons in Riviera Nayarit. The rainy season from May through mid-October and the dry season from mid-October through April. During the rainy season, expect frequent showers typically in the late afternoon that cool down this Pacific coastline in the summer and give travelers a break from temperatures of 90ºF. If you're interested in whale watching trips, the best time to see these creatures is from January to March

Nueva Vallarta is 10.6 miles north of Puerto Vallarta, a 29-minute drive or taxi ride. Nueva Vallarta is more peaceful and upscale than PV and is known for its beautiful, softer sand beaches on Banderas bay. Further north along the Riviera Nayarit are the amazing beaches of Bucerías, La Manzanilla (La Cruz), Destiladeras, Anclote and Sayulita.

Casa Velas is a relaxing and romantic Puerto Vallarta resort for adults only and couples. We keep the atmosphere laid-back, tranquil and luxurious without any kids and offer an all-inclusive beverage and liquor. Casa Velas welcomes guests aged 18 years or older.

Casa Velas is located adjacent to the Marina Vallarta Golf Club, with VIP access to the Táu Beach Club, located just five minutes away on Banderas Bay. The hotel is not on the beach, however, guests can reach the sand with our complimentary shuttle or take a walk through our beautiful property.

Located in Marina Vallarta, Casa Velas is located 20 minutes by car or shuttle to the historic downtown district of Puerto Vallarta, El Malecon (boardwalk) and Puerto Vallarta Centro.

All US citizens traveling by land or sea can enter Mexico and return to the US with a current passport card, but if traveling by air will need a passport. Some other countries also require a visa. You may bring into Mexico two cell phones, two cameras, a laptop or tablet, 3 surfboards, two musical instruments, and medicine for personal use.

Puerto Vallarta is located on beautiful Banderas Bay where the waters are calmer than the Pacific Ocean. The bay and beaches are perfect for swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayaking. Summers have less wave action and the water is clearer. The Casa Velas Beach Club is located on a scenic stretch of the bay, perfect for swimming and water sports.

Los Cabos, Mexico is a beautiful resort destination on the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula of Mexico. Los Cabos is comprised of San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas and the Resort Corridor that connect the two cities. Los Cabos is bordered by the Pacific Ocean on the west coast and the Sea of Cortez to the east.

Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo are two cities that make up Los Cabos, Mexico. Connected by a 20-mile corridor of beaches, golf courses, and seaside resorts, they offer two distinct atmospheres. Cabo San Lucas is known for its beaches, water sports, and nightlife, while San Jose del Cabo is more tranquil with a historic charm. Grand Velas Los Cabos is located right in the middle.

San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas - the Los Cabos area - and all of Baja California Sur, Mexico is located in the Mountain Standard Time (GMT -7) zone, the same time zone as Colorado and one hour more than Pacific Standard Time.

Historic San José del Cabo is known for its gorgeous sandy beaches and colonial landmarks. See the San José missionary church and Plaza Mijares in the near San José del Cabo's historic district. Shop for Mexican arts and crafts in Plaza Artesanos and check out unique art galleries with local artists Explore the San José Estuary, a nature reserve with bird species. Enjoy Baja cuisine as you explore the city's creative food scene.

If you want to relax and get a feel of old Mexico, San Jose del Cabo is the place. San Lucas may have a more active nightlife, but San Josè del Cabo boasts a historic charm and a creative new dining landscape. San Jose del Cabo also has long sandy beaches, beautiful deep blue seas and waves to watch crashing along the sand. You can actually whale watch right from the beach. One of the best things in San Jose is the art galleries and the Thursday night Art Walk.

Velas Resorts is only 20 minutes (10 miles) by taxi and 40 minutes by public bus to the central district of Puerto Vallarta, including El Malecon. You can take a cab right from the resort for $12 USD.

Velas Vallarta in Marina Vallarta is only a 10 minute- drive from Puerto Vallarta International Airport. You can easily take a taxi or public transportation each way, or have the concierge arrange a shuttle service for an additional fee.

Velas Resorts can arrange sightseeing and eco tours of Puerto Vallarta and the Riviera Nayarit. We reserve tours with Vallarta Adventures, which works directly with the resort. Guests can enjoy scuba diving, snorkeling, whale watching, zip line, and sailing tours, aa well as the Islas Marietas Eco Discovery and Las Caletas Beach Hideaway trips. These tours have an additional cost.

Just about every major airline in cities across North America fly into Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. If you are flying from the US, these airlines fly into Puerto Vallarta International airport: American Airlines, United, Delta, Southwest, Alaska Airlines, Sun Country, Air Canada and Aeromexico.

The luxury all-inclusive program at Velas Vallarta includes dining at all three restaurants - La Ribera Restaurant, Andrea, and Foodies Cantina - and bars - Alhambra Lobby Bar and Aqua Bar, as well as in-suite dining, food and drinks at the pool and beach, Mexican fiestas, and entertainment. And your suite's mini bar is stocked daily with refreshments and snacks.

The best time to visit Mexico is during the dry season between December and April, when there is little or no rain. The coolest months are between December and February, although temperatures can reach averages of 82.4 °F. The wet season is between May and October with showers and increased humidity. According to Velas Resorts, January is one of the best months to visit Mexico when its dry, beautiful and less crowded than in December and February when people are on break from school. The Caribbean Coast and Riviera Maya have a hurricane season, from June to November, and some resorts offer great deals.

The minimum legal drinking age in Mexico is 18 years old. Mexico requires that young adults show photo identification, either a passport or driver's license, as proof of age when buying alcohol. Be prepared to have your ID at most resorts, bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, even though most are not strict in their practice of checking.

Mexico is blessed with some of the best beaches in the world, edging the Caribbean coast, Pacific Ocean and Sea of Cortez. The top beaches in Mexico include Puerto Vallarta's Playa Los Muerto, Punta Mita, north of PV, Mismolaya to the south, and Playa del Carmen and Tulum on the Riviera Maya, Chileno Beach and Playa Médano in Cabo San Lucas. Playa Arrocito and Playa La Entrega in Huatulco are the safest and best beaches for relaxing and swimming.

One of the most popular vacation destinations on the planet, Mexico is safe for US and international travelers according to the Mexico Travel Advisory. Mexico's beautiful coastlines, beaches and resorts - including Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Maya - are not dangerous for vacationers, families and solo travelers, and most resorts are safe with security protected grounds. When visiting any foreign country, travelers should be cautious, aware of their surroundings, explore with a friend, and have an itinerary with directions. The concierge team at Velas Resorts can assist with local tours, sightseeing recommendations, and safety tips.

The two most popular places to see ancient Mayan ruins in Mexico are Chichen Itza and Tulum, located in the Yucatan Peninsula. The Tulum Archeological Zone is about an hour's drive from Grand Velas Riviera Maya, while Chichen Itza is just over two hours. We recommend scheduling a day in your itinerary to visit both sites. The Velas Resorts concierges can arrange roundtrip transportation and recommend local tour guides.

Along with sprawling metropolises and resort towns, Mexico is home to many villages that continue traditions and the simple ways of life from centuries ago. The government of Mexico has designated several of these pueblos magicos, or "magical towns" which tourists can visit and experience village life. Popular villages include San Sebastian del Oeste, Tequila, Mazamitla in Jalisco, all accessible from Puerto Vallarta.

Definitely! In fact, Mexico has some of the wildest surf spots in the region. Sayulita, near Puerto Vallarta, has one of the most coveted beaches for surfing, with high tides that are the perfect blend of fun and challenge. Also near Puerto Vallarta is Punta Mita, great for beginning surfers to learn and practice surrounded by amazing scenes of wildlife in the Marieta Islands.

Not at all, in fact, traveling with a car may prove to be difficult as many popular destinations and attractions have limited parking. Mexico has a reliable public transit system of buses and plenty of private tours, which are perfect for day trips and excursions. Some destinations in Mexico, like Cabo San Lucas' famous arches and the remote beaches amid Banderas Bay are not even accessible by car, but solely by water taxi. Velas Resorts has partnerships with trusted local cab services and will be happy to recommend safe and reliable transportation wherever you find yourself vacationing.

Velas Resorts offers all-inclusive dining at more than 30 restaurants and bars serving local and international cuisine with daily buffets and a la carte menus, as well as in-suite dining 24 hours a day and stocked fridges and bars. From oceanfront eateries serving local seafood to fine dining restaurants to aqua bars, Velas Resorts offers amazing culinary experiences.

• All day dining at all-inclusive restaurants and bars - buffets and a la carte
• Premium domestic and international beverages, spirits, wine and beer
• 24-hour dining in your suite
• Daily stocked fridge and bar in your suite
• Food and drink service at pools and beaches

Yes. The all-inclusive plans at Velas Resorts include premium domestic and international spirits, cocktails, beer, wine and beverages at our many restaurant and bars. Your suite's mini bar is stocked daily with alcoholic drinks.

Velas Resorts offers 5 family friendly resorts and hotels in Mexico with activities for kids and teenagers, including our Kids' Club and Teens' Club. Kids enjoy fun activities and programs, including pool games, entertainment, arts and crafts, cooking and Spanish classes, video games, and movies. Our resorts also offer kid's pools, splash areas, kid-friendly beaches, playgrounds and babysitting services.

Velas Resorts offers complimentary food and drink service at our outdoor pools and beaches. Our inclusive concept ensures that you enjoy the flavors of Mexico and beyond while lounging poolside or relaxing with your toes in the sand. Our servers are always on hand with tropical cocktails, cold cerveza, and delicious eats.

Velas Resorts offers airport transportation for a fee. Many of our all-inclusive vacation Packages and specials include transportation to and from Puerto Vallarta International Airport, Cancun International Airport, and Los Cabos International Airport.

Velas Resorts offer personalized concierge services for guests 24/7 to book local tours, sightseeing excursions, and eco adventures, including dolphin encounters, cruises, scuba diving and snorkeling trips, fishing charters, and golf outings. Velas Resorts are located in Mexico's most spectacular Destinations with amazing things to do, see and experience.

At Grand Velas resorts, your wedding day is yours alone. There is only one wedding per day at our resorts to ensure everything runs perfectly and evert moment is special. We recommend reserving your date as soon as possible to save the date.

To be respectful and ensure that every guest has an amazing experience at our resorts, weddings and events can go until 10:30 pm in our outdoor areas. These hours may be extended in our indoor spaces for an additional cost. Contact your wedding coordinator for more information.

Wedding guests not staying at any Velas Resorts must purchase a wedding pass upon their arrival at the resorts. Wedding passes are guaranteed for purchase only on the ceremony date and all you to stay for the duration of the wedding event. Contact your wedding sales coordinator for wedding passes and information.