10 Best Honeymoon Destinations in Mexico for Couples
Did you know Mexico has over 450 beaches, perfect for romance?
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I’ll never forget the moment my partner and I decided to start planning our honeymoon. Spread out on our living room floor with a laptop, a notebook, and a world of possibilities, we felt both thrilled and completely overwhelmed. We knew we wanted sun, incredible food, and a mix of relaxation and adventure, but where to start? That’s when Mexico, with its vibrant culture, stunning coastlines, and rich history, emerged as the undeniable frontrunner.
While I haven’t walked on all of these beaches yet, planning our own trip has turned me into an avid researcher of the very best honeymoon destinations in Mexico. This list is a culmination of that dreamy, detailed planning—a guide built on deep dives into travel blogs, hotel reviews, and countless videos, all aimed at finding the perfect spots for a romantic adventure. Whether you envision non-stop luxury, bohemian charm, or cultural immersion, this guide to the top honeymoon destinations in Mexico will help you find your paradise.
- Below, I’ll share the best sites I use to search for flights, hotels, and tours to make sure my honeymoon is comfortable, memorable, and full of special moments.
All you need for a romantic Mexico getaway
Find flights, hotels, and tours for a perfect honeymoon — simple and stress-free.
Before we dive into the list, a word on packing. The key to a perfect honeymoon wardrobe is looking effortlessly chic while staying comfortable. I’m already planning to pack a versatile lightweight cashmere wrap. It’s perfect for breezy evenings, covering up for temple visits, and adding a touch of luxury to any outfit—ideal for the romantic dinners we’re dreaming of.
Table of contents
1Tulum: The boho-chic paradise
Tulum is at the very top of our list. It seems to perfectly embody the blend of style, wellness, and rustic charm we’re looking for. The images of pristine white-sand beaches backed by lush jungle, and ancient Mayan ruins perched on a cliff overlooking the turquoise sea, look absolutely surreal. From my research, the town is filled with world-class restaurants, chic boutiques, and trendy beach clubs that seem right up our alley.
The vibe we’re seeking:
It appears to be effortlessly cool and spiritually charged. We’re picturing days filled with yoga sessions, swimming in crystal-cenotes (natural limestone pools), and cycling between beach clubs. Evenings would be for candlelit dinners on the sand and maybe even dancing under the stars.
What we’d love to do:
Waking up at dawn to explore the breathtaking Tulum Ruins before the crowds arrive is a must-do on our plan. The idea of standing hand-in-hand atop the cliff, listening to the waves crash below, sounds like a powerful and intimate way to start our journey together.
- 🏨 Where we’d stay: For a truly iconic experience, we’re looking at Habitas Tulum or Azulik – both seem to be pioneers of the chic, eco-luxe vibe the area is famous for.
- 💡 Pro tip I’ve learned: Everyone says to rent bicycles to explore the hotel zone. It’s supposedly the best way to get around and feels incredibly romantic.
- 🍽️ Must-do dining: Gitano for its magical jungle ambiance and Arca for an incredible culinary journey are both bookmarked on our Google Maps.
Top Attractions in Tulum
Find the best tours and activities to enjoy the magic of Tulum.
To capture the dreamy, aesthetic vibe of Tulum, a reliable portable charger is a must for all the photos we plan to take. This solar-powered portable charger seems ideal to ensure our phones never die, even on a full-day cenote adventure.
2Los Cabos: Where the desert meets the sea
The dramatic landscape of Los Cabos is incredibly appealing. I’ve learned it’s actually two distinct areas—the lively party hub of Cabo San Lucas and the more refined, artsy San José del Cabo—connected by a 20-mile corridor of stunning resorts and dramatic coastline.
It seems to offer some of the most luxurious all inclusive resorts in Cabo, which is a tempting option for us as we want to relax completely.
The vibe we’re seeking:
It looks dramatic and luxurious. The landmark El Arco rock formation is mesmerizing. I love that the vibe can be whatever we want: we could have pulse-pounding nightlife or serene, five-star relaxation. The desert landscape meeting the deep blue sea creates a stark, beautiful contrast that we’d love to photograph.
What we’d love to do:
A private sunset sail around El Arco is non-negotiable on our potential itinerary. The idea of the sky exploding into shades of pink and orange while we hopefully spot sea lions playing in the water sounds like pure, unadulterated magic.
- 🏨 Where we’d stay: For ultimate luxury, the Grand Velas Los Cabos or The Resort at Pedregal look unparalleled. For a trendy adult-only vibe, Marquis Los Cabos is also a fantastic choice on our shortlist.
- 💡 Pro tip I’ve learned: The waves and riptides are very strong in Cabo. Everyone says to swim only in designated safe areas or enjoy the stunning pools at your resort.
- 🍽️ Must-do dining: Flora Farms is an absolute must for us. This 25-acre organic farm in the foothills offers a magical farm-to-table dining experience that sounds right up our alley.
Top Attractions in Los Cabos
Discover the top attractions, tours, and experiences — plan your trip easily.
The Cabo sun looks intense from every video I’ve seen. A high-quality, reef-safe sunscreen is non-negotiable to protect our skin. I’m planning to pack this reef-safe sunscreen spray for easy reapplication over the day.
3Puerto Vallarta: The authentic coastal gem
Nestled between the sparkling Bay of Banderas and the lush Sierra Madre mountains, Puerto Vallarta seems to offer a perfect blend of traditional Mexican charm, vibrant culture, and modern luxury. The iconic Malecón boardwalk looks like a bustling hub of art, music, and energy, while the Romantic Zone (Zona Romántica) appears full of cobblestone streets, cute cafes, and a relaxed atmosphere.
The vibe we’re seeking:
It looks warm, authentic, and full of life. It feels like a real Mexican city that also happens to have a beautiful beach. It’s perfect for us because we want to experience culture, art, and amazing food alongside our beach time.
What we’d love to do:
Getting lost hand-in-hand in the colorful streets of the Zona Romántica, discovering hidden art galleries, and stumbling upon a tiny family-run restaurant for the best tacos al pastor of our lives is exactly the kind of authentic experience we’re craving.
- 🏨 Where we’d stay: The Hotel Mousai looks incredible—an adults-only, ultra-luxury tower with breathtaking infinity pools and views. For a more intimate boutique experience, Casa Kimberly (once Elizabeth Taylor’s home) looks incredibly romantic.
- 💡 Pro tip I’ve learned: Taking a day trip to the secluded beaches of Sayulita or San Pancho seems highly recommended for a more bohemian surf-town vibe.
- 🍽️ Must-do dining: Café des Artistes seems to offer an unforgettable fine-dining experience in a gorgeous garden setting.
Top Attractions in Puerto Vallarta
Find top tours and experiences to enjoy your trip with ease.
The cobblestone streets, while charming, look like they can be tough on your feet. A stylish yet comfortable pair of sandals is essential. These arch support sandals look like a lifesaver for exploring all day without sacrificing style.
4Riviera Maya: The ultimate all-inclusive playground
Stretching south from Cancun to Tulum, the Riviera Maya looks like a corridor of pure indulgence. This appears to be the heartland of the world’s most luxurious and romantic all inclusive resorts. If our dream honeymoon involves never needing our wallet, having 24/7 gourmet food and drinks, and enjoying pristine beaches with every possible amenity, this might be our place.
The vibe we’re seeking:
It looks like the ultimate in pampering, convenience, and effortless romance. We could choose a resort that matches our style: from ultra-modern and chic to lush, jungle-hidden and eco-friendly. It’s the ultimate “do nothing but relax” destination.
What we’d love to do:
The idea of spending an entire day moving only between a private plunge pool, a resort’s incredible swim-up bar, and the white-sand beach sounds like the total disconnect from the outside world we might need after the wedding chaos.
- 🏨 Where we’d stay: Unico 20°87° is high on our list as it’s adult-only and focuses on local experiences. Secrets Maroma Beach is consistently rated one of the most romantic resorts globally. For unparalleled luxury, Rosewood Mayakoba is a dream we’re considering.
- 💡 Pro tip I’ve learned: Venturing out to explore the incredible Rio Secreto underground river or the ruins at Coba is supposedly well worth it, even from an all-inclusive.
- 🍽️ Must-do dining: While the resort food is supposed to be amazing, making a reservation at Alux Restaurant, a breathtaking dining experience inside a cavern, looks unforgettable.
Unforgettable tours in the Riviera Maya
Explore hidden gems and must-see experiences with ease and comfort.
A large, stylish beach bag is essential for carrying sunscreen, books, and cover-ups to the pool and beach. I love the look of this oversized waterproof beach tote for its durability and style.
5Isla Holbox: The barefoot island escape
For us as a couple who truly want to get away from it all, Isla Holbox looks like a car-free slice of paradise. This narrow island located north of the Yucatán Peninsula seems to be all about sandy streets, golf carts, flamingos, and some of the most stunning sunsets you will ever witness.
The vibe we’re seeking:
It looks rustic, relaxed, and unpretentious. This is not a place for five-star resorts; it’s for beachfront palapas, hammocks in the water, and disconnecting completely. The vibe seems deeply bohemian and peaceful.
What we’d love to do:
Taking a three-wheeled taxi to the very end of the island to experience the “three islands” sunset is a top activity for us. The idea of wading into the waist-deep, warm water with a drink in hand and watching the sky put on a show is the definition of romance in my book.
- 🏨 Where we’d stay: Hotel Mawimbi offers chic bungalows right on the beach that look perfect. Casa Las Tortugas is another beautiful, design-focused option we’re considering.
- 💡 Pro tip I’ve learned: Visiting between June and September offers a chance to swim with the majestic but gentle whale sharks that feed near the island—an experience of a lifetime!
- 🍽️ Must-do dining: Roots Pizza looks like a fun spot—serving delicious wood-fired pizzas right on the beach, perfect for a casual, romantic dinner.
Romantic tours in Holbox Island
Enjoy peaceful escapes, sunsets, and unique island experiences.
With a focus on outdoor adventure and water, a good dry bag is essential to keep our phones and valuables safe on boat trips and while wading. This universal waterproof dry bag is inexpensive and looks incredibly useful. I’ve also added a pair of these comfortable walking sandals to our wish list: they’re perfect for strolling through colonial towns and exploring ancient ruins without sacrificing style or comfort.
6Oaxaca City: A feast for the senses
When we think about cultural immersion, Oaxaca City stands out as arguably the most captivating of all Mexico’s inland destinations. This UNESCO World Heritage site in the southern highlands is a dazzling display of colonial architecture, indigenous culture, and a culinary scene that food enthusiasts celebrate as the nation’s finest. The city’s vibrant energy, manifested through its colorful markets and constant festivals, creates an atmosphere that’s both authentic and romantic.
Why it captivates us:
The opportunity to experience Mexico’s rich cultural tapestry firsthand is incredibly appealing. We’re drawn to the idea of exploring local markets, learning about traditional crafts, and most importantly, diving deep into the famous Oaxacan cuisine. The city’s compact size makes it perfect for wandering aimlessly, discovering hidden courtyards and charming cafes.
Our planned experience:
Taking a cooking class together is at the top of our Oaxaca wishlist. The chance to learn how to make complex moles from scratch with a local chef seems like the perfect way to connect with the culture and each other. We can already imagine bringing these recipes home as a delicious souvenir of our honeymoon.
- 🏨 Accommodation dreams: Quinta Real Oaxaca, a breathtaking convent-turned-hotel with a stunning courtyard pool, looks incredibly romantic. Hotel Escondido Oaxaca offers a more minimalist, chic retreat that also appeals to our tastes.
- 💡 Insight from research: The Guelaguetza festival in July is a spectacular cultural celebration of indigenous dance and music. While our dates might not align, it’s worth considering for future anniversary trips!
- 🍽️ Culinary musts: We’ve marked Criollo for innovative Oaxacan cuisine and plan to sample all seven classic moles at a traditional market restaurant.
Top tours and adventures in Oaxaca
Explore stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and unforgettable activities.
The highland evenings can get surprisingly cool. A beautiful, warm embroidered kimono robe seems perfect for cozying up in our hotel room after days spent exploring.
7San Miguel de Allende: The romantic’s canvas
San Miguel de Allende appears like something from a fairy tale – a perfectly preserved colonial town known for its Baroque Spanish architecture, thriving arts scene, and cobblestone streets that beg to be explored. The stunning pink Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel church dominates the skyline, and the overall feeling is one of sophisticated, old-world elegance that seems tailor-made for romance.
The artistic allure:
What draws us to this destination is its reputation as an artist’s haven. We’re excited by the prospect of browsing numerous galleries, attending workshops, and perhaps even commissioning a piece of art to commemorate our marriage. The city’s large expat community means there’s a fascinating mix of international and traditional Mexican influences everywhere.
Imagining our time there:
We picture evenings spent on rooftop terraces, watching the sunset paint the Parroquia church in golden light. The idea of enjoying craft cocktails while mariachi music floats up from the streets below sounds like the perfect romantic atmosphere for celebrating our new life together.
- 🏨 Preferred stays: Casa de Sierra Nevada‘s beautiful, historic accommodations look perfect for history lovers. Rosewood San Miguel de Allende boasts what appear to be the best rooftop views in the city from its Luna Bar.
- 💡 Local knowledge: Visiting the Fábrica La Aurora is essential – a converted textile factory that now houses dozens of art galleries, studios, and cafes where we could easily spend a full day.
- 🍽️ Dining highlights: The Restaurant offers incredible international fine dining in a stunning setting that seems perfect for a special celebration dinner.
Top Attractions in San Miguel de Allende
Enjoy local flavors, history, and unique traditions on every tour.
The sun is strong at high altitude, and the cobblestone streets demand comfortable yet stylish footwear. These arch support walking shoes look ideal for exploring the city’s charming but uneven streets in comfort.
8Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo: Two experiences in one
This Pacific coast destination offers what appears to be the best of both worlds, making it an intriguing option among honeymoon destinations in Mexico. Ixtapa represents the modern, planned resort area with beautiful beaches and large, lush hotels. Just around the corner lies Zihuatanejo (“Zihua”), a charming, traditional fishing village with a picturesque pier and relaxed, authentic atmosphere that feels worlds away.
The dual appeal:
We’re attracted to the flexibility this destination offers. The possibility of enjoying resort amenities while having easy access to authentic local experiences is exactly the balance we’re seeking. The area seems less crowded and developed than other Pacific spots, which appeals to our desire for a more intimate experience.
Our vision for this stay:
We imagine mornings spent enjoying resort luxuries, followed afternoons exploring Zihua’s colorful fish market and charming streets. The thought of ending days with barefoot dinners on Playa La Ropa, one of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches, sounds like pure honeymoon perfection.
- 🏨 Resort considerations: Thompson Zihuatanejo looks fantastic as a chic, adults-only boutique hotel right on the beach. Capella Ixtapa and its stunning private villas with pools are also tempting for ultimate privacy.
- 💡 Not-to-miss experience: Taking a water taxi to the secluded Playa Las Gatas for fantastic snorkeling in a protected cove appears to be a highlight for visitors.
- 🍽️ Local flavor: Cenaduria La Pacanda in Zihua’s town center comes highly recommended for delicious local antojitos (small dishes) served in a lovely courtyard setting.
A compact, powerful portable speaker would be perfect for private balcony evenings or beach picnics. The JBL Flip 6 offers amazing sound in a small, waterproof package that seems ideal for travel.
9Mérida: Gateway to Mayan wonders
The vibrant, elegant capital of the Yucatán state has captured our imagination as both a cultural destination and a base for exploration. Known as the “White City,” it’s famed for its safety, cleanliness, and stunning colonial architecture. It appears to be the perfect launching point for exploring nearby cenotes, Mayan ruins like Uxmal, and flamingo-filled lagoons.
Cultural immersion:
We’re drawn to Mérida’s rich cultural offerings, from free nightly music and dance performances in the main plaza to its fascinating blend of Mayan, Spanish, and Lebanese influences evident in both architecture and cuisine. The city’s reputation as a food destination particularly excites us.
Our planned adventures:
We would use Mérida as a base for exploring the Ruta Puuc, a series of less-crowded Mayan archaeological sites. The opportunity to swim in sacred cenotes and visit flamingo colonies at Celestún or Río Lagartos sounds like the perfect mix of culture and nature.
- 🏨 City accommodations: Rosas & Xocolate looks incredibly romantic—a stunning boutique hotel and spa. Wayam Mundo Imperial offers modern luxury right on the elegant Paseo de Montejo.
- 💡 Special timing: Sundays are particularly magical in Mérida when the main avenue, Paseo de Montejo, closes to cars and fills with families biking, skating, and enjoying the day.
- 🍽️ Culinary journey: Trying cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork) and sopa de lima (lime soup) at traditional eateries like La Chaya Maya is essential.
Top Attractions in Mérida
Discover cenotes, history, and unforgettable adventures with ease.
Exploring the Yucatán involves considerable driving between sites. A comfortable travel neck pillow would make those road trips more comfortable and restful.
10Huatulco: The eco-conscious choice
Huatulco represents a different approach to Mexican beach destinations—a planned development focused on sustainability that encompasses nine beautiful bays and 36 beaches. It appears to be a haven for nature lovers, with a significant portion of its land designated as an ecological reserve. This commitment to preservation makes it stand out among Mexico’s Pacific coast options.
Natural appeal:
We’re attracted to Huatulco’s promise of pristine natural beauty and more secluded beach experiences. The opportunity to enjoy water activities in clean, protected waters while supporting sustainable tourism practices aligns with our values as travelers.
Our ideal itinerary:
We would love to take a boat tour to explore the different bays, jumping off to snorkel in secluded coves, and enjoying fresh seafood lunches prepared on pristine, nearly empty beaches. The possibility of visiting between December and March to see sea turtles nesting sounds particularly magical.
- 🏨 Bayfront stays: Camino Real Zaashila, set on a cliff with stunning views and a private beach, looks incredible. Quinta Real Huatulco also appears to offer a beautiful, romantic atmosphere perfect for honeymooners.
- 💡 Nature connection: Visiting the Hagia Sofia ecological park for hiking through jungle trails and swimming in natural waterfalls seems like a wonderful way to connect with the region’s natural beauty.
- 🍽️ Fresh catches: Enjoying the day’s fresh catch at El Sardinero in Santa Cruz Bay, right on the marina, sounds like the perfect way to end days spent on the water.
Must-do experiences in Huatulco
Enjoy stunning bays, beaches, and unforgettable coastal experiences.
Protecting the delicate ecosystem is crucial. A reusable water bottle is essential for staying hydrated while reducing plastic waste. The Brita Premium Filtering Water Bottle would let us fill up safely anywhere.
Making your decision: How to choose
With so many incredible options, choosing the perfect honeymoon destinations in Mexico can feel overwhelming. Here’s how we’re approaching our decision:
- For ultimate relaxation: The Riviera Maya‘s all-inclusive resorts or the laid-back vibe of Isla Holbox promise maximum relaxation with minimal planning required.
- For culture and cuisine: Oaxaca City and San Miguel de Allende offer incredible culinary experiences and deep cultural immersion in stunning settings.
- For variety and adventure: Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo provides the perfect blend of resort luxury and authentic fishing village charm, while Huatulco offers eco-adventures in a pristine setting.
- For dramatic landscapes: Los Cabos delivers stunning desert-meets-ocean vistas and luxurious amenities.
- For boho chic: Tulum remains the undisputed choice for stylish couples seeking wellness, culture, and beautiful beaches.
Final thoughts for your planning
As we continue planning our own honeymoon, several key considerations have emerged:
- Seasonality matters: Research the best time to visit your chosen destination—weather patterns can significantly impact your experience.
- Balance your itinerary: Mix relaxation with exploration to create a pace that feels rejuvenating rather than exhausting.
- Budget realistically: Remember to account for activities, dining, and transportation beyond just accommodation costs.
- Learn basic Spanish: Even a few phrases can enhance your experience and connection with locals.
- Embrace flexibility: Some of the best moments happen when you wander off itinerary.
The search for the perfect honeymoon destinations in Mexico has been an adventure in itself—one filled with beautiful possibilities and the excitement of what’s to come. Each destination offers its own unique magic, whether it’s the culinary wonders of Oaxaca, the artistic beauty of San Miguel, or the pristine bays of Huatulco.
What makes Mexico so special for honeymooners is this incredible diversity—the ability to find exactly the experience you’re dreaming of, whether that’s complete relaxation, cultural immersion, or adventurous exploration. The common thread through all these destinations is the warmth of Mexican hospitality, the incredible flavors, and the stunning landscapes that create the perfect backdrop for beginning your life together.
As we finalize our own plans, we’re leaning toward splitting our time between two different destinations to experience both cultural immersion and beach relaxation. Wherever you choose, Mexico promises to fill your first days of marriage with beauty, romance, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Which of these destinations speaks to your dream honeymoon experience? Are you leaning toward beach relaxation, cultural immersion, or a mix of both? I’d love to hear which place captured your imagination in the comments below!