It’s hard to imagine vacationing in Mexico without sprawling across Playa Del Carmen’s golden sands, reveling in the vibrant night scene in Cabo San Lucas, or marveling at the troves of Mayan and Aztec archeological sites scattered across Tulum, Cancún, and Mexico City. But nowadays, it’s hard to determine which destinations are safe to visit and worth the trek. If you’re wondering where to find Mexico’s must-see sands, bars, and sights, relax and unwind: We’ve compiled a list of the best Mexican vacations for you.

Puerto Vallarta
Why go: Puerto Vallarta gets more rave reviews than most other Mexican vacation spots. The blend of excellent beaches, authentic regional cuisine, and a quaint setting sets “PV” apart from Cancún, Cabo San Lucas, and other package tourist centers.

Garza Blanca Preserve Resort and Spa
Villa La Estancia Nuevo Vallarta Beach Resort & Spa
Sunset Plaza Beach Resort & Spa
Sheraton Buganvilias Resort & Convention Center

Playa del Carmen
Why go: “Playa” boasts a hip food scene and an even hipper bar scene—that is, if you can tear yourself away from the breathtaking ocean front. The nearby community of Playacar is also helping to distinguish the area as a great golf getaway—visit the Playacar Golf Club for a challenging course and clubhouse pampering.

Best Hotels in Playa del Carmen
The top-rated hotels in Playa del Carmen are sorted by hotel class and then by user rating, as provided by TripAdvisor. Here you can find rates, photos and information about the leading Playa del Carmen hotels.

Rosewood Mayakoba
Secrets Silversands Riviera Cancun – Adults Only All Inclusive
El Dorado Royale and Casitas Royale, A Spa Resort, Gourmet – Adults Only All Inclusive
Maya Villa Condo Hotel
Le Reve Hotel and Spa – Adults Only

Tulum
Why go: It’s not just a set of Mayan ruins anymore; now, Tulum is the new frontier of Riviera Maya beaches. And luckily, the area hasn’t succumbed to the mega-resort influences that have overtaken Cancún, Cabo and parts of Playa del Carmen. Nature lovers, yoga lovers, and secluded beach lovers alike can still find solace here. But hurry up. The empire is expanding.

Best Hotels in Tulum
The top-rated hotels in Tulum are sorted by hotel class and then by user rating, as provided by TripAdvisor. Here you can find rates, photos and information about the leading Tulum hotels.

Gran Bahia Principe Riviera Maya – All Inclusive Complex
Ana y Jose Charming Hotel and Spa
Hip Hotel Tulum
Hotel Posada 06 Tulum
Maison Tulum

Cozumel
Why go: This Yucatán island is probably best known for two things: coral reefs and cruise boats. But Cozumel is also a quiet spot to learn about Mayan culture. Visiting the island’s San Gervasio or El Cedral ruins makes a great alternative to the well-known ancient temples around Tulum or Cancún.

Best Hotels in Cozumel
The top-rated hotels in Cozumel are sorted by hotel class and then by user rating, as provided by TripAdvisor. Here you can find rates, photos and information about the leading Cozumel hotels.

InterContinental Presidente Cozumel Resort & Spa
Casa Mexicana Cozumel
Hotel B Cozumel Boutique by the Sea
Playa Azul Golf Inclusive
Casa Del Mar Cozumel