Popular Ports in Mexico

The Caribbean is one of the most popular destinations in the world for cruisers, and its western neighbor of Mexico is also becoming extremely popular. This thrilling country boasts incredible beaches, delicious cuisine, loads of history, and some of the best snorkeling in the region. There are dozens of cruise ports up and down the coastlines of Mexico that should definitely be included in your next adventure.

Cruising around Mexico is split between two different options; the western Baja Californias coastline and the Eastern Caribbean coastline. No matter which option you decide to go with, you are bound to have your expectations exceeded and fall in love with Mexico, just like we have!

The island of Cozumel is home to one of the most popular cruise ports in the world and definitely tops the list as one of the most visited cruise ports in the country. However, plenty of other cruise port destinations dotted around the country should be included in your next cruise itinerary. From the white sand beaches of Cabo San Lucas to the Riviera Maya in Coast Maya, we have put together 7 of the most popular cruise ports in Mexico.

The biggest and most popular cruise port in Mexico, and the world, is the beautiful island of Cozumel. While it is large and keeps a steady traffic flow, it’s conveniently located nearby everything you need with easy access. Sitting off the western coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, Cozumel is best known for its excellent snorkeling opportunities and delicious seafood. There are plenty of places to explore and attractions to keep any cruiser busy during their time on the island. It’s a stunning island with beautiful beaches and nude beaches as well, if you are looking for a little something more far-fetched.

Located at the tip of the Baja California Peninsula, Cabo San Lucas is one of Mexico’s most popular cruise ports. Cabo San Lucas is best known for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches, making it a great destination for those who want to relax, or those looking for a little more action. Around the Bay area boasts plenty of wildlife and snorkeling opportunities, and it’s nearby the port and easy to access. There’s a good chance your cruise may have an expedition tour where you are able to snorkel and bond with sea lions and other wildlife in the area.

Sitting a little more inward from the Baja California Peninsula is the gorgeous cruise port of Mazatlan, one of the most popular in Mexico. Known as the “Pearl of the Pacific,” Mazatlan is a little coastal town with incredible seafood and centuries of history and is experiencing a newfound second wave of tourism in recent years. While it’s centrally located near various shops, restaurants, and landmarks, most of the beaches are located north of the cruise ports. But if they are easy to access and just a quick taxi ride away.

The cruise port of Puerto Vallarta is a favorite for history and culture buffs and is one of the most popular cruise ports in Mexico. Its centrally located on the Bay, with beautiful beaches (some of the best in all of Mexico) to both the northern and southern coastlines. It’s within walking distance to the Old Town and plenty of local galleries, cafes, shops, and a short ride away from ancient Aztec ruins.

Costa Maya is located in the Quintana Roo region close to the Belize border, and it is one of the most popular cruise ports in Mexico. It’s extremely popular thanks to everything that the area has to offer, from beaches beaches, jungles, ancient ruins, and plenty of adrenaline-filled activities. There are loads of cruise lines that stop in Costa  Maya in Mexico Caribbean cruises, and thanks to its location, guests have easy access to everything they want to enjoy.

A great alternative to Cozumel, if you are looking for something smaller in size or less crowded, is the cruise port of Playa del Carman. Though small in size, it’s one of the most popular cruise ports in Mexico due to its beautiful beaches and within easy reach of tourist hotspot Cancun. Plenty of shops and restaurants are around the area, with local favorites, fewer tourists, and more hidden Mexican discoveries.

Finally, the beautiful Ensenada cruise port in Baja Mexico is one of the country’s best and most popular cruise ports. If you are sailing from the western United States, this is likely to be one of your first stops. It’s the second largest commercial port in Mexico and allows easy access to the city center and the beauty of the region. Ensenada is most famous for its wine, and there are plenty of tasting opportunities and wineries nearby.

Whether you decide to cruise around the Mexican Riviera and Caribbean, or the beautiful western coastline of Baja California Mexico, you are sure to be blown away by this beautiful country and have a stress-free and safe cruise port pit-stop. We hope this guide to Mexico’s most popular cruise ports helps you plan the ultimate trip.