With its pristine beaches, turquoise seas and luxurious resorts, it’s no wonder Mexico is a favourite destination for many a honeymooning couple. Also known for its rich heritage, ancient Mayan ruins and delicious food and festive atmosphere, Mexico has something to offer every couple; it’s the perfect place to treat yourselves and start building beautiful memories together.
It’s best to visit Mexico during Mexico’s dry season, between December and April to make sure that rainy days don’t interfere with your plans.
Here are the best honeymoon destinations in Mexico.
1. Cancun
Cancun is one of the most popular destinations in Mexico – with good reason. It boasts long stretches of stunning beaches alongside gentle, warm seas that are a multitude of blues. Lounge beneath tall palm trees, step aboard a boat to go dolphin watching, snorkelling or diving or – if you’re in the mood to celebrate your nuptials again – go dancing at some of the best nightlife spots in Mexico. Be sure to also check out Cancun’s underwater museum which has stunning statues and sculptures on the seabed.
Stay: The Marriott has outdone itself with its luxury Cancun property; the Marriott Cancun Resort (AUD 250 per night). Book the Ultimate Romance Getaway which includes a couples massage, an exquisite suite and a bottle of champagne to toast your future together! Another luxury property is the Paradisus Cancun Resort (AUD 500 a night) which has carefully curated ‘romance’ packages. The Passion Package, for instance includes breakfast in bed, a rose petal turndown service and a private romantic dinner under the stars.
Eat: Dine at Casitas, at the Ritz Carlton for a delicious meal and a romantic ambience. Casitas has set up private cabanas by the beach and serves fresh seafood and Continental fare. The experience is enhanced by soft live music. Other restaurants known for their stunning ambience and delicious food are Thai and Puerto Madero.
Getting There: Cancun has an international airport just a twenty minute drive from the main city area.
Weather: Cancun is warm all year round with average temperatures ranging from 25-30°C. However, it’s best to visit from December to APril when there’s less chance of rain and high humidity.
2. Tulum
Tulum is a stunning seaside town, surrounded by sparkling aquamarine seas, pure white beaches and sky high palms. In between sunbathing and dining, set aside a day to visit the Mayan Ruins of Tulum. Plan to arrive fairly early in the day to enjoy a swim at a secluded cove the ruins overlook and then begin exploring the Mayan ruins. There are also several cenotes – natural underground pools formed in limestone – surrounding Tulum. Make sure to visit one and take a dip underneath jungle canopies and stalactites; it’s a wonderful unique experience to share with your partner.
Stay: Maria Del Mar is an ocean side, centrally located luxury property. It’s an adults only hotel with access to a private beach only nine suites, so you’ll be assured plenty of privacy and quiet. Consider the ‘Romantically Together’ package, which includes breakfasts, a romantic ‘aphrodisiac’ dinner, a couple’s massage in the hotel’s plush spa, a couple’s herbal bath and a private snorkelling trip. The package is approximately AUD 2350. The Mi Amor Hotel (AUD 400 per night) is another adults only luxury property with a spa, yoga facilities and plush rooms and suites.
Eat: While the Marira Del Mar has an in-house restaurant; Restaurant Mina with delicious Mexican – Argentinian fusion food and ocean views, make a reservation for dinner one night at Cetli in downtown Tulum. Cetli serves a delicious mole paired with fresh fish, meats and feisty margaritas.
Getting there: Fly into Cancun and then take a two to three hour bus or car to Tulum.
Weather: Tulum’s average temperature is 26°C, but it’s best to visit from October to December when its warm and (relatively) rain free.
3. Punta Mita
Punta Mita is an exclusive, beachside ‘village’ with a gated community that has a few luxurious resorts and private villas and homes, many of which are owned by celebrities. At Punta Mita, you’ll be assured privacy, beauty and opulence like you’ve never experienced before. You and your partner deserve it! Spend your days bathing in azure seas, fishing, snorkelling and diving; you may even spot some whales.
Stay: Put up at the W Punta De Mita, a premium hotel run by the Marriott which has splendid ocean and jungle view suites, a spa and an adjacent beach. Rooms are between AUD 350-500. Or, stay at the Four Seasons Punta Mita which has a Private Retreat package that promises a suite with a private room and barbeque as well as your own personal host. Rooms at the Four Seasons are between AUD 600-1000.
Eat: Dine at Punta Mercedes to enjoy a sunset dinner, an extensive choice of wines and appetisers which are cooked on hot rocks at your table! Or, have some authentic Italian food at Casa Teresa,
Getting There: Fly into Puerto Vallarta and then drive to Punta Mita which is an hour’s drive away.
Weather: Average temperatures in Punta Mita are between 23-28°C and the best time to visit is in August and September where humidity is at its lowest.
4. San Jose Del Cabo
San Jose Del Cabo is the quieter, but just as beautiful, counterpart to the neighbouring Cabo. Renew your vows in private at the Iglesia San Jose,a gorgeous 18th century church or spend the day snorkelling in the Baja Bay.
Stay: Paridus Los Cabos is a sprawling property next to the ocean which has created the ‘Royal Service’; an adults only experience which includes the attention of a personal butler to cater to all your needs, exclusive dining at the hotel’s restaurants and access to private pools in the resort. A night at the resort starts at AUD 621.Other luxury hotels include Cabo Azul Resort by Diamond Resorts (AUD 212) and the JW Marriott Los Cabos Beach Resort and Spa (AUD 300).
Eat: Plan to have a meal at Flora Farm which offers farm to table dining in the company of friendly locals. Or, for a more fine dining experience, make a reservation at Vela at The Hilton which serves deliciously fresh seafood and Italian fare.
Getting there: Fly into Los Cabos airport and take a 30 minute bus to San Jose Del Cabo.
Weather: San Jose Del Cabo is hot all year long with an average temperature of 30°C. The best time to visit is in October and November.
5. Sayulita
Sayulita is another charming seaside destination which is slightly more pocket friendly than Tulum, San Jose Del Cabo and Punta Mita. Sayulita has something to offer every type of couple; spend your days learning to surf, biking through the jungles, horse riding, snorkelling and diving or simply tanning on the warm sand.
Stay: The Villa Amor – which translates to the house of love – is a favourite honeymoon destination in Sayulita. With rooms priced at approximately AUD 200 a night, staying here is easier on the pocket; great for couples who are trying to recover from the wedding extravaganza! The hotel offers ocean views, elegant suites, a spa and an infinity pool; enough to ensure you and your spouse get the opportunity to deeply relax. Siete Lunas (AUD 330 per night) is another beautiful hotel worth considering. Perched on top of a hill which leads down to the ocean, it has eco friendly rooms and suites.
Eat: Tierra Viva is known for its careful attention to detail and excellent service. Enjoy a quiet, fresh Mexican meal for dinner here. Couples who have been out fishing and scored a catch can send it over to the restaurant to be cooked for their dinner!
Weather: Sayulita tends to get hot and humid in summers (33-35°C) so it’s best to visit in November and December when it’s cooler.
Getting There: Drive to Sayulita from Puerto Vallarta International airport which is 22 kilometres away.
6. Loreto
Loreto is unique thanks to its blend of old world charm and modern conveniences. It’s a wonderful destination if you and your partner want to stay active on your honeymoon; as well as water sports there are some intriguing hiking trails in Loreto’s suburbs. San Javier, near Loreto, is home to ancient cave paintings.
Stay: Stay at the Loreto Bay Golf Resort & Spa at Baja (AUD 200-350), a sprawling resort at the foothills of the Sierra la Giganta mountain range. Another luxury resort is the Villa Del Parmar Beach Resort, with five pools, access to stretches of white sands and gourmet restaurants. A night at the resort is between AUD 600-800 a night.
Eat: Enjoy a meal at the El Zopilote Brewery & Cocina, a micro-brewery which serves wholesome Mexican fare. You can also dine at Mi Loreto, a cosy restaurant known for its great Mexican food.
Getting there: Fly into Loreto airport from Mexico City.
Weather: Loreto has varying temperatures, ranging from 17-35°C. The best time to visit Loreto is in October when temperatures are moderate.
7. Mayakoba
Mayakoba, which translated means ‘village of water’ is a hidden gem in the Riviera Maya that is home to a handful of exclusive resorts – and nothing else. Because of this, couples can be assured privacy, luxury and views of breathtaking beaches set against emerald forests. Different hotels in Mayakoba are connected by a network of canals and guests are invited to hop onto a boat to dine at restaurants in neighbouring hotels. You can also choose to go on a canal ride through the mangroves, rent a catamaran for a romantic cruise or simply spend your days relaxing on the sand, in the pool and at the spa.
Stay: Mayakoba as only four hotels; The Andaz, The Banyan Tree, The Fairmont and The RoseWood. The Banyan Tree is an ideal choice for honeymooners; its curated a collection of romantic experiences including private in-villa massages and private dinners by the pool. Conspire with the concierge and arrange for an intimate surprise; you and your partner will come in to your villa to find it decorated with candles, flowers, aromatic oils and incense; delightful elements to lay the foundation for a romantic night. Rooms at The Banyan Tree are between AUD 500-1000; however, the honeymoon package is priced higher.
Eat: The Banyan Tree has twelve restaurants and a pool bar serving a variety of cuisines from Italian to Thai to Mexican. Dine at Cello for exquisite Italian food or at Ixchel to have a traditional meal on a boat. Or, visit the explore the other restaurants in the region; try the Agave Azul in The Rosewood or Casa Amate at The Andaz.
Getting There: The hotel you’re staying in will arrange for a bus transfer from Playa Del Carmen to Mayakoba.
Weather: Mayakoba is hot (approximately 30°C) but its shaded by mangroves and ancient trees which will keep you cool. Visit Mayakoba in April or May.
8. Palenque
A stay in Palenque will allow you to immerse yourselves deep into the ancient Mayan Culture. Just a few kilometres out of the city are the Palenque ruins; magnificent stone structures that tell the stories of ancient civilisations. Palenque is surrounded by jungles and waterfalls; it’s a brilliant destination for the adventure hungry couple. s well as the Palenque ruins, visit the Palenque Site Museum, filled with relics from the Mayan era. Spend another day visiting the Misol Ha and the Agua Azul waterfalls; stunning water bodies set against lush green jungles.
Stay: The Hotel Boutique Quinta Chanabnal is a luxury hotel three kilometres away from the ruins. Enjoy the plush, expansive suites and take a dip in the multi-tiered swimming pool. If your muscles ache after an excursion, enjoy a romantic couples massage in the spa. A nights stay at the hotel is approximately AUD 380-450.
Eat: Start your days with indulgent breakfasts and organic coffees at Cafe De Yara. In the evenings, for a more romantic, fine dining meal, head to La Selva to enjoy delicious Mexican fare.
Getting There: Fly into the Villahermosa airport and then drive to Palenque; it’s a two hour drive at the most.
Weather: Palenque is hotter than beach destinations, so visit it in November or December when the temperatures are between 20-25°C.
9. Bacalar
Bacalar is a stunning lake on Mexico’s Yuactan Peninsula which is known for its sparkling waters which are seven different shades of blue. Spend your days paddling in the warm crystal waters or kayaking leisurely around the lagoon. Stroll through the 18th century Spanish fort or visit the beautiful Church of San Joaquin.
Stay: Stay at the Mia Bacalar Luxury Resort & Spa for a truly luxurious experience. Perched on the edge of the lagoon, the rooms are spacious with stunning views; some even have private plunge pools! Make sure to make a reservation at the spa for a sauna followed by a romantic couples massage. Rooms are priced between AUD 450-800 a night. If you’re after a more intimate experience, stay at La Albarina, an adults-only hotel known for its excellent service and with suites overlooking the lagoon. La Abarina is more pocket friendly with rooms between AUD 250 – 350. Other honeymoon worthy hotels to consider are the Bacalar Lagoon Resort which has private bungalows and Hotel Maria Maria, which is a budget friendly guesthouse.
Eat: La Playalita is an open air, lake-side restaurant and serves delicious local cuisine. Arrive at sunset to watch the many-hued sunset over the lake. Another place to enjoy Mexican fare is Kai Pez, an outdoor cafe with a wooden pier leading to the lake.
Getting There: Take a flight into Cancun and then hire a car to drive to Bacalar; it’s a three hour drive.
Weather: Bacalar is warm all year round, but January to April is the best time to visit as there’s less chance of rain.
10. Cozumel
Visit Cozumel, an island just off the Mexican coast for power white beaches, spectacular views and the chance to discover fascinating underwater worlds. While the West Coast of Cozumel is more developed with plenty of activity, restaurants and nightlife, the East side is quieter with secluded beaches and coves; take advantage of them to build some wonderful romantic memories. Cozumel is bordered by one of the largest reefs in the world so be sure to spend some time snorkelling and diving to discover and explore fascinating underwater worlds together. You may even see dolphins, turtles and stingrays!
Stay: If you and your partner are looking for an all inclusive, sprawling resort, make a reservation at the Presidente Intercontinental Cozumel Resort and Spa (AUD 300-500 per night). It boasts access to private beach, a tennis court, a large pool and staff who are only too happy to help plan snorkelling and horse riding excursions. Another hotel with a private beach is Hotel B (AUD 150-250 per night). Hotel B also has an infinity pool, a floating bat and a restaurant which serves exquisite Mexican as well as international cuisine, making it the ideal place to relax and unwind after months of wedding planning. Another hotel to consider is The Explorean (approximately AUD 580 per night).
Eat: Buccanos at Night is a fine dining oceanside restaurant which is a beautiful place to enjoy a glass of wine, watch the sunset and then dine on delicious food made using only the freshest ingredients. Be sure to try some of the seafood dishes. You can also try Sorrisi, which proves that Italians really know how to do food and romance. Enjoy the risotto and pastas.
Getting there: Couzmel is a 45 minute ferry ride from Playa Del Carmen, which you can drive to from Cancun Airport.
Weather: The best time to visit Cozumel is from March through June, when it’s warm and sunny but not overbearingly hot; temperatures are at an average of 28°C. In winters (December and January) temperatures drop to an average of 22°C.
11. Isla Holbox
Isla Holbox is a quiet, cars free island paradise just off the Yucatan Peninsula. Fall off the grid together and spend days walking hand in hand on unblemished beaches, snorkel amongst turtles and vibrant marine life and watch the sunset over turquoise waters.
Stay: Hotel Holbox Dream (AUD 150-200) is a charming, fuss free hotel with the beach at its doorstep. Guests love it for its friendly staff and tranquil surroundings. For a more luxe option, stay at Villas Flamingos (AUD 450-700); get a private bungalow with an ocean view and in-room Jacuzzi. The hotel will go out of its way to make your stay more romantic; ask them for one of their signature romantic dinners and you’ll be treated to a table by the waves, candle and star light and exquisite food.
Eat: If you are looking for something other than Mexican, try Le Jardin which is known for its extensive and delectable selection of French breakfast pastries. Or, try The Mandarina which has an international menu. If, on the other hand, you’ll can’t get enough of Mexican fare, stroll over to Rosa Mexicano.
Getting There: There are regular bus transfers from Riviera Maya, Cancun and Merida to Isla Holbox everyday. Or, take the public ferry from Chiquila to the island.
Weather: Isla Holbox is warm year round, with temperatures averaging between 26-30°C. The best time to visit is in December and January, when there is the least chance of rain.
