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Cold winter weather drives the birds–and tourists–to search out fun 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 put in the research to find seven of the safest beach destinations in Mexico right now.
These vacation spots allow you to set your mind at ease while ditching the cold for some R&R in the sun.
1. Los Cabos
Los Cabos recently received Travel Weekly’s “Best Destination in Mexico” award, and it’s no wonder.
Known for its popular beaches, this Mexican city is also brimming with natural beauty and culture. You can enjoy weekly art walks from November to June, hike a trail in the Sierra de la Laguna mountain range, or relax in Armonia Spa’s full-service wellness spa.
Although the winter months are peak season, Los Cabos has activities and festivals to keep you entertained at any time of the year. And, good news for solo 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 safety for tourists in 2024. Some of the city’s plans include updating security cameras, improving roads, and adding new police officers to their forces.
2. Tulum
Tulum is well-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 a tourist hotspot. One of the reasons this beach continues to be 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 out the wellness spas and enjoying the music festivals. Or, check out the history behind this party town by visiting the ancient Mayan landmarks, hiking the jungles, 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 maintains a level 2 travel advisory level. So, while you won’t want to wander off alone in dark street corners at night, most travelers feel safe in Tulum.
Last year, the city of Tulum took extra steps to increase the safety of tourists. In the middle of peak tourist season, extra police officers and members of the National Guard are now present to ensure the safety of Tulum’s beach-loving guests.
3. Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is a small island just four miles long and half a mile wide. However, it makes up for its tiny 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 laid-back vibe of this island allows you to feel at home while you’re away–only this home is full of musicians, chefs, and beach lovers! Some of the top spots you won’t want to miss are the pirate ruins at Hacienda Mundaca, the MUSA Underwater Sculpture Museum, and the sea turtle sanctuary.
This welcoming island is a relaxing haven for tourists and locals alike. On this tiny land mass, there is hardly any room for crime!
4. Cancun
Cancun has been and continues to be one of the most popular beaches in Mexico. However, this year, Cancun is pulling out all the stops and adding new attractions.
The Mayan Train is set to make its first run in February, and more Mayan ruins are opening.
As peak season begins in Cancun, visitors can revel in the nightlife, relax at the resorts, or explore the ruins and nearby islands.
With so much fun going on, the crime rate is reasonably low. However, the waves can create their own level of danger. Officials have urged beach-goers to heed the warning flags for swimming after five tourists drowned.
5. Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is a vibrant resort town known for its fun, food, and friendliness. In fact, it was once called “the friendliest city in the world.” There is always plenty of activity in this bustling city–especially in the peak winter season when the tourists come to soak up the sun.
Some popular activities are snorkeling, boating, or touring the beautiful Los Arcos National Marine Park. Or, if you are looking for something more low-key, you can walk the historic district, join a food tour, or whale-watch on the beach.
Puerto Vallarta is currently considered a safe tourist area by the U.S. government. However, this beach town is in Mexico’s Jalisco state, which has seen some increase in criminal activity. So exercise caution if you must travel outside of Puerto Vallarta in Jalisco state.
6. Isla Holbox
When you translate Isla Holbox literally, it means “black hole”. However, that moniker doesn’t do this Caribbean beach spot justice.
This small island is about two hours away from Cancun. You still get gorgeous beach views, but you can skip some of the crowds and mass tourism at this quiet tropical paradise.
Some of the highlights of Isla Holbox are visiting the glowing, bioluminescent waters, biking the island, and watching the dolphins and flamingos in their natural habitat.
This island is usually filled with relaxed and happy tourists so crime here is very low. Isla Holbox lets you get an “off-grid” experience away from the crowds so you can enjoy a restful beach vacation.
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 pedestrian beach town.
Spanish conquerors founded the old sixteenth-century city, and its historic buildings show influences from the German, Spanish, and French merchants who took up residence after Mexico’s independence from Spain.
Some of the most tourist-friendly spots in Mazatlán are Centro Histórico and Zona Dorada (the Golden Zone). However, traveling outside of Mazatlan in Sinaloa state is currently highly discouraged by the U.S. government.
A beach in Mexico can be a great way to get away from the grind and rejuvenate your body and mind. We found seven safe beaches so you can relax and cast your cares to the wind.
However, no matter how safe the area is, it’s good to be proactive, stay aware of your surroundings, and exercise normal precautions.
Before you leave for a beach destination in Mexico, you can check the travel advisories for the latest safety updates on your beach of choice.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com