1. Sunrise at the Beach
Get up early folks, the sunrises here are even better than the sunsets.
2. Eat Authentic Tacos
The real deal is nothing like what you order off the 99 cent value menu at Taco Bell. Tacos al pastor hot off the rotisserie at an authentic Mexican taquería is a truly local experience worth adding to your bucket list.
3. Become a History Buff
Mexico is filled to the brim with top-quality museums and historical sites.
4. Scuba Diving
Most Mexican beach destinations offer at least one quality dive shop for aficionados of underwater adventure.
5. Explore Mexico City
Mexico’s capital is one of the world’s most underrated metropolises. From stunning squares to colonial architecture, world class museums and a lively nightlife and culinary scene, there’s something for everybody in el DF.
6. Deep Sea Fishing
Nothing quite as exhilarating as hauling in a 25 pound dorado!
7. Try Tlayudas in Oaxaca State
Perhaps inappropriately named Oaxacan Pizza by gringos, you simply can’t leave Oaxaca without savoring at least one tlayuda. It’s an extra-large tostada smothered with beans, tasajo, chorizo, Oaxacan cheese and vegetables.
8. Visit Unesco World Heritage Sites
As of July 2015 there are 33 total Unesco World Heritage sites in Mexico (27 cultural sites, 5 natural and 1 mixed.)
9. Gorgeous Beaches
Whether you prefer strolling by yourself on secluded shores or showing off your new bikini to the crowds, there’s a beach that fits your style in Mexico.
10. Perfect Tropical Weather
Escape the cold during those brutal northern winters. The sun’s almost always shining down here.
11. Sip a Margarita
Lime. Strawberry. Blended or on the rocks. No trip south of the border is complete without knocking back at least one of the country’s signature cocktails.
12. Climb a Pyramid
Chichen Itza, Palenque, Teotihuacán, Monte Albán…take a journey to the past at any number of Mexico’s awesome archeological sites.
13. Tour a Tequila Distillery
Head to the blue agave fields of Tequila, Jalisco and learn how Mexico’s famous liquor is manufactured. (Tours include degustación (tasting), of course!)
14. Diego Rivera
Catch of glimpse of Mexico’s Communist past through the eyes of the nation’s most famed artist.
15. Frida Kahlo
Tour the home where Frida and Diego Rivera once lived. The Casa Azul is now a mini museum and gallery in the funky Coyoacán neighborhood. Coyoacán is a great place to go for a wander to get an idea of real life in Mexico City.
16. Sample a Selection of Hot Sauce
Valentino’s, Cholula, Búfalo and more…lovers of all things picante will be drooling come meal time.
17. Visit Guadalajara
Mexico’s “2nd City” is the birthplace of mariachi music and home to the famous Chivas football club.
18. Mezcal
Tequila’s beefier brother from Oaxaca State. Eat the worm or don’t? It’s up to you!
19. Dolphin Watching in the Wild
You’ll never visit an aquarium again after seeing these majestic creatures free in the wild.
20. Pick up a Wrestling Mask
Mexicans love their lucha libre. Pick up a mask at the market in Mexico City.
21. Gorgeous Handicrafts
It’s easy to shop for unforgettable souvenirs. From pottery to tapestry, every craft is represented by the fine artisans of Mexico. For an unbelievable selection head to Mercado de Artesanías de la Ciudadela in Mexico City.
22. Explore Cenotes on Yucatán Peninsula
Don’t know what a cenote is? You’re going to want to find out.
23. Party in Cancún
If you’re looking for the ultimate wild night out, the discos of Cancún will have you dancing all night long.
24. Surf the Mexican Pipeline
Even if you’re not a beach bum, spending the day watching the big waves (and the big wave surfers) at Mexico’s most famous surf break, Zicatela Beach in Puerto Escondido, is a great excuse for knocking back cervezas in the sun.
25. San Miguel de Allende
There’s a reason gringos have flocked to this gorgeous colonial town six hours north of the capital.
26. Friendly People
The locals in Mexico are seriously laid-back.
27. Oaxaca City
Oaxaca City offers a special blend of indigenous markets, stunning colonial architecture, Zapotec ruins, distinctive gastronomy and access to a host of unique sites of interest just up the valley.
28. It’s Affordable
Mexico is an excellent travel destination for stretching your dollars. From accommodation to shopping, activities and dining out, it’s incredibly affordable here, particularly when you take quality into account.
29. Gecko Rock Resort
See how we snuck that in there
In all seriousness, though, if you’re after relaxation and great food, you can’t do better than our little paradise on the coast.
30. Experience an Arribada
While they’re difficult to predict. Don’t miss out on experiencing the mass laying of the Olive Ridley sea turtles if they happen to arrive while you’re in Puerto Escondido.
31. Jumping Sting Rays
Wow! Just wow.
32. Fresh Salsas on the Table
Fresh homemade salsas at even the most basic restaurants and comedors means you’ll never have a bland bite in Mexico.
33. Go Out Dancing
Whether you’re after modern night clubs or traditional Latin dancing, it’s easy to find somewhere to get your groove on.
34. Enjoy Shrimp Cocktail on the Coast
Mexican shrimp cocktail, with a ton of avocado, is a real treat…particularly under the shade of a beach umbrella with your toes in the sand.
35. Give Mole a Go
This Oaxacan specialty sauce provokes an indescribable flavor sensation. It’s not for everyone but those who love it swear by its subtle combination of chocolate, coffee and spice.
36. Wander the Markets
If you’ve never strolled through a traditional Mexican market you’ll be blown away by the colors, sights and sounds.
37. Whale Sanctuary of El Vizcaino
This ecological reserve in Baja California is a must see.
38. Fresh Handmade Corn Tortillas
You haven’t eaten a tortilla until you try the real McCoy.
39. Shop for Talavera
Puebla is the home of this stunning hand-painted Morocco-inspired pottery. The art traversed the Atlantic from Spain and is still alive in Mexico’s crockery and ceramic tiles.
40. Blown Glass
Pick up a set of striking blown glass Margarita glasses to be the hostess with the mostess back home.
41. Visit Guanajuato
This colorful mountain town was once home to the country’s great silver barons.
42. Fresh Fish
If you like seafood, you’ll love coastal Mexico. Period.
43. Relax under the Palapa
Nothing screams tropical vacation quite like a thatch roof. Spending the afternoon relaxing with your under the shade of a palapa is time well spent.
44. Shop for Silver in Taxco
Taxco makes the ultimate weekend getaway from Mexico City. The original Spanish capital is nestled in the mountains, offering winding cobblestone streets, amazing architecture and spectacular silverwork at prices you won’t believe.
45. Mariachi Bands
You may not be interested in plugging an extra-long mariachi playlist into your MP3 player, but it’s definitely a big part of the must-do Mexico experience.
46. San José del Pacífico
Visit the cloud forest in the heart of the Sierra Madre mountain range between Oaxaca City and the coast. Make sure you rent a cabin with a fireplace as it’s chilly up there in the clouds.
47. Waterfalls
Check out the magic waterfalls in the mountains above Huatulco. It’s a bumpy ride on dirt roads but worth the journey.
48. Rock Climbing
Potrero Chico near Hidalgo is just south of the US border and a world famous big wall sport climbing paradise.
49. Hike in Tepozteco National Park
Climb 1200 feet to 600 year old Aztec temples and incredible valley views near Cuernavaca.
50. San Cristóbal de las Casas
An exquisite colonial gem in the mountains of Chiapas. Explore surrounding indigenous villages on horseback.
51. Mountain Bike Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido
Not for the faint of heart. This multi-day bike trip requires a local guide and quality gear.
52. Exceptional Bird Watching
With countless lagoons, lakes, mountains, jungles and rivers there’s a lot more nature to love in Mexico than most people realize.
53. Perfect for Reptile Lovers
Mexico is a herpetologist’s dream: geckos, iguanas, crocodiles and every lizard imaginable in between. Plenty of frogs and toads, too.
54. Fabulous Shopping
Mexico City is a shopper’s paradise, with modern malls, upscale boutiques and plenty of traditional markets.
55. La Ventanilla Laguna Tour
Spy birds, crocodiles, iguanas and turtles, up close and personal from your guided rowboat.
56. Chill out in a Hammock
Take a load off in style. Many beach restaurants provide hammocks alongside the tables so you can have a snooze while you wait for the food to arrive. Ah, paradise.
57. Eat Pozole
Pozole is a traditional pre-Columbian stew made with hominy, meat and vegetables. Try both rojo (red) and verde (green).
58. Buy a Sombrero
You’ll need two sombreros. The cheap woven version to wear during your vacation and a colorful decorative one to hang on the wall at home.
59. Baked Flan
Mexico may not be world renowned for desserts but a slice of flan Napolitano will knock your socks off.
60. Let it all Hang out at Zipolite
Visit the beach from the Mexican cult classic film Y Tu Mamá También. If you’re brave there’s a nude beach nearby.
61. DIY Corona Commercial
Grab a bucket of ice cold Coronas and get out your selfie stick. It’s time to plaster social media and make friends and family back home jealous.
62. Incredible Diversity
Many people inaccurately only consider Mexico as a beach destination. The beaches are awesome but so are the colonial cities, ancient ruins and mountain villages. You’ll find amazing biodiversity as well, with deserts, jungles and everything in between.
63. Amble through the Zócalo
One of the largest public squares in the world, the Zócalo is bordered by the National Palace and the Metropolitan Cathedral.
64. Discover Mountain Villages
Some of the most interesting places to see in Mexico are off the beaten path. You’ll find a much simpler life deep into the mountains.
65. Easy Transport
Hopping from place to place is super easy, affordable and comfortable due to Mexico’s network of first class bus companies.
66. Go Bohemian in Mazunte
An eclectic beach town on the Oaxacan coast known for its unique granola ambiance.
67. Beer Selection
A lot of people “think” they know Mexican beer until they get here. From Indio to Bohemia, Negra Modelo and more, there’s a lot more to Mexican beer than Corona and a lime.
68. Drink a Fresh Coconut
Grab a coco frío and plop in a straw.
69. Interesting Music
Mexican music creates a lively atmosphere that’s easy to dance to…well, after a couple beers.
70. Learn about Indigenous Cultures
There are still plenty of places you can visit in Mexico where the locals will barely speak Spanish. In particular Oaxaca and Chiapas States are excellent destinations for learning about pre-Colombian Mexico.
71. Go to the Rodeo
Everyone thinks fútbol is the national sport of Mexico but it just might be the rodeo.
72. Anthropology Museum in Mexico City
The Museo de Antropología Nacional is perhaps the top museum in the world in terms of pre-Colombian American artifacts. The highlight, of course, is the famed Aztec sun stone.
73. Breathe in the Jungle
Listen to the howler monkeys as you explore ancient ruins in Chiapas just like Indiana Jones.
74. Take to the Skies with a Microlite Flight
Captain Roberto brought his Microlite all the way over from Italy to share his love of flight with Puerto Escondido. Choose from beach or mountain trips.
75. Horseback Riding on the Beach
The world looks different from the back of a horse. In Mexico you can ride off into the sunset, literally.
76. Sip a Cup of Hot Oaxacan Chocolate
Oaxacan chocolate is quite different than what you’re probably used it. It’s thicker, less sweet and flavored with cinnamon…but boy it sure is good with a plate of churros.
77. Leon Trotsky House
This small, quirky museum will give you an entirely different angle on the history of Mexico and Mexico City.
78. Go Snorkeling
Both the Pacific and Atlantic coastlines are teeming with coral reefs and tropical fish. Grab your mask and fins and hit the water.
79. Appreciate Colonial Architecture
Mexico offers an incredible collection of structures featuring the New Spanish Baroque architectural style from the colonial period. Newer neoclassical buildings mark the post-independence era.
80. Bask in the Bright Colors
Mexico doesn’t do subtle when it comes to panache. It’s bold, bold and more bold.
81. Browse Piñatas
Mexico’s piñateros are talented artists who take piñata making far beyond your standard children’s birthday party fare.
82. Gobble Up Mexican Sweet Breads
Visit any bakery and find a wide array of Mexican sweet breads and other treats to enjoy with your morning coffee or chocolate. If you’re around for the Day of the Dead, try pan de yema, a rich, sugar-coated egg bread you can pull apart and eat like pastry.
83. Enjoy Fresh Organic Coffee in Oaxaca & Chiapas
Coffee direct out of the mountains is out of this world good. Oaxaca and Chiapas are the two primary coffee producing states.
84. Load up on Guacamole
If you’ve ever wondered if the guacamole is better in Mexico. Yes. Yes, it is.
85. Tear into a Huge Papaya
Mexican papayas are enormous. Just one can serve as an entire meal…for two!
86. Palm Trees and Tropical Foliage
Mexico is home to some incredible botanical gardens. Everywhere you look you seem to find yet another plant you’ve never seen before.
87. Visit a Coffee Plantation
Organic coffee plantations are quite a bit different than most commercial coffee farms. Head up into the mountains and see how shade grown coffee blends together with the forest naturally.
88. A Variety of Cacti
There are so many different types of cactus here that it truly boggles the mind.
89. Plenty of Swimming Options
Whether you’re chilling out at the hotel pool or trying your hand at boogie boarding in the Pacific, it’s easy to cool off and enjoy a quick dip.
90. Golf
All major resort towns will offer at least one championship level golf course. Just be sure to bring your credit card and expect to pay through the nose for a round of golf in paradise!
91. Puerto Escondido
We’re bias but Puerto Escondido is truly awesome. The perfect blend of an authentic Mexico experience with just enough tourism infrastructure to offer all your favorite activities.
92. Boutique Hotel Culture
In Mexico you don’t have to stay at giant resorts with no personality. There’s a thriving boutique hotel scene here to add just an extra dash of special to your vacation.
93. Cliff Divers in Acapulco
The La Quebrada Cliff Divers perform daily in Acapulco, leaping from an incredible 115 feet into waters that average just 12 feet in depth.
94. Stay at the Famous Los Flamingos Hotel
Relive Acapulco’s Hollywood glory days at the celebrated Los Flamingos Hotel. The hotel was a hot spot during the 1960s for actors such as John Wayne and Johnny Weismuller.
95. Soak up the Sun
Pull up a chaise lounge and get to work on that holiday tan.
96. Fill up on Mangos
Mango season is a special time in Mexico. Eat ‘em fresh or blend up a mango daiquiri.
97. ¡Aguas de Fruta!
In Mexico it’s more common to drink agua de fruta with your meal than Coke or juice. A blended mixture of fruit, sugar and water, aguas come in every flavor imaginable.
98. Dive into a World of Chile Lime
Mexicans put chile lime on everything, including fruit and cucumber! When in Rome do as the Romans.
99. Practice your Spanish
Hola. Una cerveza por favor.
Gracias.
100. Head up the Valley to Hierve el Agua
Hierve el Agua literally translates to where the water boils but people generally call this natural rock formation outside of Oaxaca the Frozen Waterfalls. It’s something else.
101. Glorious Sunsets
What a beautiful way to end the day!

Sunset at Gecko Rock.