6 lesser-known places to visit on your next trip to Mexico
If your ideal holiday to Mexico means avoiding crowds and tourist hotspots, and to immerse yourself in the country's culture, these locations are worth placing on your itinerary! Keep your Spanish book to hand and get ready to chat with some locals – these lesser-known Mexican getaways have managed to retain their local culture, offering travellers an escape from the crowds.
Cozumel
A small island that's 34 miles long by 11 miles wide, Cozumel is far more laid-back than Mexico's neighbouring Riviera Maya. It isn't a location for late-night beach parties and clubbing but, with that said, there are lots of things to do in Cozumel, all of which focus on relaxation and being at one with nature.
Many visitors to the island spend a lot of time either in the water or on the beach. If you're into snorkelling or diving, Cozumel's crystal clear waters offer a range of tropical fish, coral heads, sea turtles and brightly-coloured sponges that make it an underwater paradise. If you're also after pristine white beaches, there are many to choose from, with the best located on the island's west and south sides. Embark on a Jeep tour to get a feel for the island's vast landscape, explore the ancient San Gervasio Mayan Archaeological Site, or hire a bike or moped to visit the various nature parks on offer. Organise your tourist tax before travel.
San Pancho
The perfect place to unwind on a quiet beach – San Pancho offers everything a sun worshipper needs (minus the swathes of tourists). Here, you'll find locals frequenting the various beach bars on offer, and surfers who enjoy sharing the waves with passing whales.
The area also has an incredible gastronomy scene, with various eateries offering local Mexican fare, fresh fish and seafood, steak, ribs and more. Taco tours are also available! Live music is often played at various restaurants in the area, and locals come out late into the evening to eat, dance and enjoy life. Local celebrations (fiestas) are often thrown at the Plaza del Sol, while at certain times of the year San Pancho hosts the San Pancho Music Festival –celebrating artists from both Mexico and the USA.
Manzanillo
Located on the Pacific side of Mexico, Manzanillo is a shipping port that also offers the amenities of a resort. Gorgeous beaches are right at your fingertips – including a beach that was used in the Dudley Moore and Bo Derek film, 10. Locals are friendly, and there are plenty of natural spots in the area to enjoy exploring, including inactive volcanos, sea fishing and day trips to county parks and banana plantations. Quad bike tours are also available, giving visitors the opportunity to explore the surrounding jungle. At the weekends, locals host a market with delicious food and authentic hand-made items.
Guanajuato
If you fancy adventuring more in-land, the city of Guanajuato is a must-visit. Located east of Leon, this colourful melting pot is a UNESCO World Heritage city founded by the Spanish in around 1559 due to its silver mines. Visitors can explore cobbled streets with colourful houses and murals, plazas hosting street performances and live music, and a large variety of bars and restaurants serving up local delicacies. The city also hosts an annual 'Cervantino' festival in celebration of the arts and the author of Don Quixote. The event brings together live music, history and culture, with performances and a parade from various artists.
Holbox Island
A long and thinly-shaped island north of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, Isla Holbox is ideal for anyone seeking a more remote Mexican holiday experience. Most visitors and locals get around by golf buggy, on foot or by bike, as there are few roads and cars on the island. The biggest draw is the vast expanse of sandy beach that's at your disposal. Enjoy snorkelling and swimming in azure waters - away from crowds and tourists.
In terms of a beach break – this is as off-grid as it gets! Private boat tours and water sports activities are available, and there are plenty of bars and eateries offering great local menus and lively evening entertainment.
Sayulita
A must for keen surfers, this tranquil coastal village is home to around 4,000 people and can be found by driving north from Puerto Vallarta. The village has a bohemian feel, with plenty of art stores, street art, live music and craft stores on offer, as well as surf shops, bars and restaurants. It's the perfect place to sample local food after a day riding the waves. The beaches on offer are more suited to surfers than beach-goers and paddlers because of their western location on the Pacific side of Mexico, meaning more choppy seas. That said, it is the ideal place to escape from it all and unwind if you want to get back to nature.
For your next trip, be sure to check out the options on this list for an authentic Mexican experience away from the hustle and bustle of tourist hot-spots.
