Start your trip with a relaxing beach day in Tulum. Known for its clear turquoise waters and soft sandy beaches, Tulum is a perfect spot to unwind and soak up the sun. Take a dip in the water and enjoy a refreshing drink while lounging on the beach. Don't miss the chance to explore the Tulum Ruins, which offer great ocean views.
Head to the nearby town of Playa del Carmen to explore the underwater caves and natural swimming holes called cenotes. These cenotes offer crystal clear water to swim in with incredible rock formations surrounding them. Our top picks are the Gran Cenote and the Cenote Azul.
Cancun is known for its luxurious spas and resorts, making it the perfect spot for a day of pampering. Indulge in massages, facials, and other treatments to rejuvenate your body and mind. Our top picks for spas are the Nizuc Spa by ESPA and the Le Blanc Spa Resort.
Spend the day exploring the island of Cozumel, known for its beautiful coral reefs and crystal-clear waters. Take a snorkeling tour to discover colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine life. Make sure to visit the Punta Sur Eco Beach Park, which showcases Cozumel's diverse wildlife.
Head to the small town of Bacalar, known as "The Lagoon of Seven Colors." Explore the stunning natural beauty of the seven shades of blue and green colors of the lagoon. Take a boat tour to the nearby cenotes and discover the underwater caves and marine life. Don't forget to try the famous "Chaya and Cheese" dish that the area is known for.
Unwind with sunset yoga on the beach in Puerto Morelos. Soak up the relaxing atmosphere and enjoy the beautiful scenery as you practice yoga with an experienced instructor. Afterwards, enjoy a calming walk on the beach and keep an eye out for sea turtles that often nest on the shore.
End your trip on a high note with a visit to the botanical gardens in Puerto Vallarta. Walk through the lush tropical gardens and admire the wide variety of exotic plants and birds. Make sure to stop at the on-site restaurant that serves delicious farm-to-table food sourced from the garden itself.
During your trip, the best way to get around is by car. Many of the places on this itinerary are located in small towns or require driving along scenic routes. The estimated cost of renting a car for seven days in Mexico is around $140-$280, depending on the type of car and rental company. However, if you prefer not to drive, there are also many local taxi companies and ride-sharing services available.
If you have more time, consider adding an extra day in Tulum to visit the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. If you have less time, some locations can be combined together, such as combining days 2 and 3 to spend more time in Cancun. Also, make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and comfortable clothing for the warm climate.
The closest airport to these attractions is Cancun International Airport (CUN), located about 9 miles south of Cancun. The airport is the second busiest airport in Mexico and offers flights to domestic and many international destinations. There are also smaller regional airports located in the towns of Cozumel and Puerto Vallarta.