If
you’ve explored Cozumel, Cancun and Riviera Maya, there’s another side of
Mexico you should cruise: the Mexican Riviera along the Pacific Ocean. The coastline
– lots of sandy beaches backed by lush green mountains – is visually stunning,
and the charming ports are ready to welcome cruise ship passengers.
The
Mexican Riviera is a year-round cruise destination, and there’s a lot to do. Excursions
range from exciting watersports to fascinating remnants of ancient civilizations.
Ensenada
is the northernmost port on the Mexican Riviera, less than 70 miles south of
the U.S. Lots of visitors like to visit La Bufadora, a marine geyser that
spouts water 60 feet into the air. If you like wine, you may be surprised to
learn that the area around Ensenada is a developing wine district – and, you
can visit some of the wineries.
At
the southern tip of Baja California, Cabo San Lucas is where the Sea of Cortez
meets the Pacific, with scenic results. Try your hand at stand-up
paddleboarding or parasailing, go fishing for marlin, or golf on a championship
course. You could also venture to nearby San Jose del Cabo to see the lovely
mission founded in 1730 or, drive about an hour north to see the artists’
colony and colonial buildings at Todos Santos.
The bustling port of Mazatlan has an amazing long seaside promenade and a quaint
historic core. You can easily spend an afternoon touring the leafy plazas and
stopping for refreshments in the shade of elegant buildings. History buffs may
enjoy the nearby mining towns of Capala and Concordia, which have cobblestone
streets and buildings dating from the 1600s.
The storied Sierra Madres
form a mountainous backdrop for beautiful Acapulco, where you can see cliff
divers do their dangerous and breathtaking work at La Quebrada. The old part of
the city features the Our Lady of Solitude Cathedral, as well as murals that famed
artist Diego Rivera painted during the last two years of his life.
Puerto Vallarta is a long-time
resort town with a lovely seaside promenade lined with sculptures (touch one
for good luck), fine beaches, and a busy market with lots of crafts, textiles
and jewelry for sale. The town is also a favorite of foodies, with an emphasis
on fresh, delicious seafood.
Many major cruise lines offer
Mexican Riviera cruises for all or part of the year, including Disney Cruise
Line, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises. To explore
the possibilities, talk with Anita, your professional travel advisor.
