Mazatlán is the most populous cruise port visited in the Mexican Riviera. Known for its historic city center, beachfront boardwalk, and seascapes, this coastal city offers plenty of activities for any budget and interest.

Unlike other Mexican Riviera cruise ports like Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas, you may not have even heard of Mazatlán before booking a cruise. Located directly across from the Sea of Cortez in the state of Sinaloa, Mazatlán can offer a more authentic experience than some of Mexico’s busiest resort towns.

Offering a mix of nature, city, history, and culture, here’s our list of the top 10 things to do in Mazatlán, Mexico on a cruise.

Visit Old Mazatlán

Mazatlán’s most historic district, Centro Histórico, is a walkable district with public squares, monuments, and colorful streets.

The architecture of Mazatlán’s historic district is diverse with Spanish, French, British, and German influences. Colorful buildings line the streets with an abundance of cafes, bakeries, bars, restaurants, art galleries, and museums.

One of the main squares in the Centro Histórico of Mazatlán is Plaza Machado, which is a hub of activity during any day in Mazatlán as both tourists and locals alike spend time relaxing and taking in the culture around them.

Related: Mexican Riviera cruise guide

Hike El Faro

Some of the best views of Mazatlán can be found from El Faro, a lighthouse on the peak of Cerro del Crestón, located over 500 feet above sea level near downtown Mazatlán.

Hiking El Faro is doable for all fitness levels, as you’re able to hike at any pace, although it can be a bit steep. The hike is free, takes around 15-30 minutes to reach the top, and includes about 350 steps! 

It’s recommended to begin the hike in the morning to avoid strong heat. Once at the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of Mazatlán and the Pacific ocean.

Walk the Malecón

Mazatlán’s malecón (boardwalk) is massive, spanning several miles along the waterfront. The boardwalk makes an excellent place to enjoy a peaceful stroll while taking in local culture and scenery.

Along the malecón are restaurants, bars, monuments, shops, and beaches. Visitors can easily spend an entire day strolling along the boardwalk and stopping to taste local cuisine, grabbing drinks, or relaxing on the beach.

Visit Angela Peralta Theater

Visiting a theater may not be the first activity that comes to mind when planning a port day in Mexico, but for culture aficionados, the neo-classical Angela Peralta Theater is not to be missed.

The theater originally opened in 1874 and has been home to a variety of performances since, from operas to burlesque shows, Carnival events, comedy shows, movies, and more.

While it’s not guaranteed that there will be a performance available at the theater while your ship is in port, the theater is open to the public during the day for around $1 per person. While visiting, you’ll be able to explore the intricate design of the opera house while learning more about Mazatlán’s artistic history (and you’ll get a break from the sun!).

Visit Mazatlán’s cathedral

Located in Centro Histórico’s Plaza de la República is La Cathedral Basílica de la Inmaculada, the main religious building in Mazatlán.

This baroque style cathedral is worth a visit when walking through Mazatlán’s historic neighborhood, as visitors can admire the ornate, beautiful architecture both inside and outside the cathedral.

Watch the cliff divers of Mazatlán

Something unique to check out in Mazatlán are the local clavadistas (cliff divers) jumping off a 45 ft. platform into a small, shallow area of water.

Located in downtown Mazatlán, these impressive divers put on a show for visitors as they skillfully leap from the cliffs into the ocean below. It is customary to tip the divers when watching their spectacular skills.

Take a boat tour of the coast

While it might seem silly to disembark a cruise ship and immediately get on another boat for a shore excursion, exploring Mazatlán on the water can actually be an amazing way to spend your day.

Boat tours offer a stress-free, no-planning-needed way to experience Mazatlán with the added bonus of being able to swim, kayak, snorkel, and relax at the beach.

Related: When is the best time to cruise the Mexican Riviera?

Relax at Stone Island

Stone Island is a peninsula located off the south coast of Old Mazatlán and is a wonderful getaway from the hustle and bustle of Mazatlán’s city center.

Stone Island has long stretches of sandy beaches that are much quieter than the city beaches just a short distance away. A few hotels and restaurants are found on the island, but with far fewer people and amenities, expect a more rustic, relaxed feel than a busy resort town.

The beach at Stone Island is relatively calm, making for a nice place to swim, rent water sport equipment, or just relax under a beach umbrella. Be sure to enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants located on the beach, too, where you can taste fresh seafood and other Mexican specialties.

Swim in the natural pool

Another unique activity to enjoy in Mazatlán is La Carpa Olivera, a saltwater swimming pool built into Mazatlán’s coastline. Surrounded by rocks and choppy waters, the swimming pool provides a safe swimming environment while maintaining a feeling of swimming in the surrounding ocean.

The pool originally opened in 1915, although it was damaged by a hurricane in the mid 20th century prior to being reconstructed in the 21th century. Today, just like in the early 1900s, the pool is a popular attraction on the malecón in Mazatlán for both locals and visitors.

Eat your way through Mazatlán

While “tasting local cuisine” is included on most of our Top 10 lists, it is always one of the best activities you can do while visiting a new country or port on a cruise.

Mazatlán has no shortage of restaurants, street food, and cafes to choose from during your day in the city. Be sure to try aguachiles, a shrimp cocktail similar to ceviche, and chorreadas, which are thick, fried tortillas with meat, onions, and cheese.

Signing up for a food tour can be another great way to experience Mazatlán’s culinary scene. Both Royal Caribbean and independent tour operators offer food and walking tours where you’ll be able to learn more about Mazatlán while tasting food from a variety of local restaurants and vendors.

Ensenada is a cruise port on Mexico’s Baja California coast most commonly visited on 3 and 4-night cruises departing from Los Angeles on Navigator of the Seas.

If you’ve cruised to ports on the Caribbean side of Mexico, you’ll undoubtedly notice a change in scenery when docking in Ensenada. Baja California has a dry, almost Mediterranean climate with a rocky and mountainous landscape.

Due to its rugged landscape and sunny, dry weather, you’ll find an abundance of outdoor adventures to enjoy in Ensenada, from wine tasting to hiking and off-roading. If culture is more your style, don’t hesitate to spend the day sampling Mexican cuisine and shopping at local markets.

With just one day to spend in Ensenada, you’ll want to make the most of it. Here’s our list of the top 10 things to do in this Mexican coastal city.

Wander along the Malecón and downtown streets

The Malecón (boardwalk) is an integral part of downtown Ensenada. This waterfront boardwalk overlooking the port is the perfect place for a relaxing stroll. Street vendors and food stalls dot the boardwalk, which congregates at Ventana al Mar, a public park home to one of the largest Mexican flags in the country.

Once in downtown Ensenada, browse storefronts, restaurants, and bars on the main tourist street of Avenida López Mateos. Souvenir shops, artisan markets, and jewelry stores can be found here, and you’ll be able to taste delicious local food as well.

Before getting back onboard, be sure to head to one of Ensenada’s food stalls for fresh churros with your choice of dulce de leche or chocolate filling.

Related: Mexican Riviera cruise guide

Wine tasting in Valle de Guadalupe

The Valle de Guadalupe is the premiere wine region in Mexico, producing around 80% of Mexican wine. This region is around 30 miles from Ensenada’s port, making visiting the valley a popular activity to do while docked in Ensenada.

Excursions to the valley typically include tours of local wineries and a wine tasting. Some excursions may also include a three course meal at a winery overlooking scenic views of vineyards and the Mexican countryside.

Visit La Bufadora

La Bufadora is the second largest blowhole in the world and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Ensenada area. Visitors to La Bufadora will be impressed as the sea cave explodes water up to 100 feet in the air. Water “eruptions” occur every few seconds to every few minutes.

Because of its popularity, there are plenty of shore excursions to choose from that visit La Bufadora, both from Royal Caribbean and third party tour operators. Some excursions will combine a visit to the blowhole with other activities such as kayaking or cultural performances.

Related: 5 quick and easy tips for finding a great shore excursion on your own

Visit a local market

If you’re interested in exploring local culture further from the port, consider a visit to Mercado Los Globos, the largest outdoor market in Ensenada. At the market you’ll find food and drink stalls, fresh produce and fruit juices, antiques, and thrift stores.

Tasting local cuisine is a must while at the market, and there are a variety of casual food stalls offering dishes like chilaquiles, stuffed chilis, seafood dishes, and gorditas. 

Related: Visiting Mercado Los Globos in Ensenada

You’re unlikely to find many other tourists at the market, offering you a glimpse of local life and culture that will be harder to encounter on Ensenada’s main tourist streets.

Walking to the market takes around 45 minutes from the port, so you may want to call an Uber or taxi there instead.

Off-roading in Ensenada’s countryside

ATV or road buggy tours are popular excursions in many cruise ports due to the adventurous nature of driving these vehicles, which can take you far away from busy tourist streets and into nature. Ensenada is no different, with plenty of ATV and road buggy tours offered throughout the surrounding area.

These tours tend to visit the Guadalupe Valley, where visitors can ride off-road through the valley’s vineyards and mountainous countryside. Due to the valley’s abundance of wineries, some tours may include a wine tasting paired with local food products.

Try ceviche at La Guerrerense

Photo credit: T.Tseng (no changes made)

While walking the main street in downtown Ensenada, you’ll come across an unassuming street food stall that will very likely have a line of hungry customers.

This street food stand is La Guerrerense, a restaurant specializing in seafood tostadas that opened in 1960. The most famous item at La Guerrerense is the ceviche de erizo con almeja, a sea urchin and clam ceviche tostada.

If sea urchin ceviche sounds a little too adventurous for you, there are plenty of other menu items available, from cod fish ceviche tostadas to seafood cocktails.

If you’re a seafood lover, you’re sure to be impressed at La Guerrerense. In fact, Anthony Bourdain even proclaimed their seafood tostadas to be among the best street food in the world!

Zip Line

Adrenaline seekers are in luck in Ensenada, especially those open to flying through the air! Desert Nest Zip Line Baja is an adventure park with over two miles of high-speed zip lines.

The park’s five zip lines take thrill seekers over Baja California’s vineyards and rolling hills, offering unbeatable views of Ensenada’s surrounding scenery.

Visit the beach

While Ensenada may not be known for an abundance of local beaches, there are still several ways to enjoy a beach day while visiting this Baja California port.

The beach nearest to the port is Playa Hermosa, although it is a 45 minute walk from the cruise ship dock to the beach. Uber service is available and convenient in Ensenada, though, so traveling to the beach via car should not be a problem.

Royal Caribbean offers excursions to Rosarito Beach, which offers more of a beach town atmosphere compared to Ensenada. Rosarito is known for its party atmosphere and large beach, making it a nice option for those who don’t mind the one hour drive to town.

Horseback riding tours are available to book on La Misión Beach for those interested in exploring Baja California’s beaches in a more unique way.

Sail Ensenada’s coastline

If you’re looking for a day spent on the water, consider a yacht cruise along Ensenada Bay. The bay is home to wildlife including dolphins, sea lions, and whales, as well as picturesque rugged mountain scenery.

A yacht tour is offered by Royal Caribbean on the “Bay Cruise on a Yacht and Wine Tasting” excursion. This 2 hour 30 minute tour also includes a wine tasting with wines from the Valle de Guadalupe as well as a guide giving information on the nature and history of Ensenada’s coastline.

You may also want to consider a boat ride to Todos Santos Island, located 12 miles off the coast of Ensenada. Snorkeling tours are available on the island, where you’ll find unique rock formations and an underwater kelp forest.

Hike El Salto Canyon

Located northwest of Ensenada is El Salto Natural Park, home to the El Salto Canyon, hiking trails, and a waterfall. A drastic difference from the lush jungle you’ll find in Mexico’s Caribbean cruise ports, a visit to El Salto Canyon will bring you through rocky, steep, and dry landscapes.

Royal Caribbean offers the “El Salto Canyon Hiking Tour & Craft Beer” excursion, which first takes guests on a guided hike of the canyon, where they’ll traverse Baja California’s hills. The hike ends at an ocean-front brewery, where cold beers and snacks will be well-appreciated after a day in the mountains.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico is commonly visited on Mexican Riviera cruise itineraries. Located on the southernmost point of Baja California, Cabo San Lucas offers plenty of activities for all ages, from relaxing beach days to adrenaline-filled excursions.

With its unique geography of desert landscapes mixed with sandy beaches, you can find a mix of land and sea-based activities in Cabo San Lucas. Here’s our list of the top 10 things to do when visiting this vibrant cruise port.

Visit Land’s End and its beaches

The first thing you’ll see when your cruise ship arrives in Cabo San Lucas is Land’s End, a rock formation that rises dramatically from the ocean at the southernmost tip of Baja California.

While your ship will sail past the formation on the way to Cabo, you can also take an excursion to get up close and personal with this impressive geographic landmark.

There are two beaches located at Land’s End: Lovers Beach and Divorce Beach. Lover’s Beach is ideal for swimming, as it’s nestled in a cove, whereas Divorce Beach is prone to rough waters due to its position on the open Pacific.

It’s recommended to take a local water taxi to reach the beaches, as they are only accessible by boat. Some boat tours may include the beaches in the excursion’s itinerary.

Go whale watching

Some of the best whale watching in Mexico, and perhaps even the world, is found off the coast of Cabo San Lucas. Humpback whales and gray whales are common to spot between the months of December to early April as they enjoy the warmer Pacific waters before making their way back to Alaska for the summer months.

Related: Whale watching in Cabo San Lucas

Snorkel or scuba dive in Chileno Bay

While some beaches around Cabo San Lucas are not recommended for swimming due to strong currents, the beach of Chileno Bay makes for excellent swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

Snorkeling tours to Chileno Bay start and end with a scenic catamaran ride, which allows you to cool off in the Pacific ocean breeze and take in Baja California’s coastal views.

Upon arrival at Chileno Bay, you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel amongst angelfish, manta rays, parrotfish, and other marine life.

Additionally, if you have an open water scuba diving certification, you’ll find that Chileno Bay offers some of the best diving opportunities in Cabo San Lucas.

Day trip to San José del Cabo

If you’ve been to Cabo San Lucas before or are looking to try something new, consider a day trip to San José del Cabo, located just 30 minutes from downtown Cabo San Lucas.

San José del Cabo is a more laid-back, artsy town compared to Cabo San Lucas, which is famous for its party atmosphere and beach resorts.

In San José del Cabo, you can spend the day wandering the town’s colonial-influenced streets, browsing local art galleries, relaxing at the town square, dining at a local restaurant, and enjoying a slower pace of life.

Taste local cuisine

Tasting local cuisine is a must when visiting any cruise port in Mexico, and Cabo San Lucas is best known for an abundance of fresh seafood.

While the name may seem a bit odd, don’t hesitate to taste chocolate clams while in port. While the clams do not contain chocolate, they are roasted on a stone bed and covered with rosemary, adding a unique flavor to this local delicacy.

You can’t go wrong with fish tacos, either, and you’ll find many restaurants and bars offering fish tacos made with marlin, which is a very common fish caught around the coast.

If you’re not keen on seafood, try guemes tamales, which are pork and chicken tamales commonly found in Baja California.

4x4 through desert landscapes

Cabo San Lucas is surrounded by dry, rugged landscapes along the coast of Baja California. If you’d prefer to escape the crowds and party scene found in town, consider a 4x4 tour to the “outback” of Cabo San Lucas.

4x4 tours take you off-road through scenic coastal paths, where your adrenaline is sure to get pumping as you drive along rocky trails and take in the dramatic change from desert to sea along the way.

Take a boat tour

Excursions on the water always make for a fun way to spend time in port, especially on warm, sunny days. The unique geography around Cabo San Lucas can make boat tours even more intriguing, allowing you to get closer to places like Land’s End and small coves along the coast.

If your cruise includes an overnight stop in Cabo San Lucas, you may want to consider an evening cruise for spectacular views of Cabo at sunset. Some tours may even include dinner, making it a romantic and beautiful excursion option.

Salsa, Salsa, and Margaritas

A fun shore excursion opportunity in Cabo San Lucas is “Salsa, Salsa, and Margaritas”, which combines two types of salsas (the kind you eat and the style of dance) with authentic margaritas.

The excursion starts with a hands-on instruction during which you’ll have the chance to make seven different types of salsas, from spicy red and green salsas to guacamole and pico de gallo. Salsas will be enjoyed with quesadillas, taquitos, and tortilla chips along with agua de jamaica (hibiscus tea) and all-you-can-drink margaritas.

Once filled up on fresh food and drinks, you’ll get the chance to put your dancing skills to the test with a salsa dancing lesson taught by a local expert.

Visit El Médano Beach

Another beach day option closer to downtown is El Médano Beach, one of the most popular beaches in all of Cabo San Lucas. Playa El Médano stretches several miles down the sand and is where you’ll find many of Cabo’s all-inclusive resorts and hotels.

The beach has relatively calm waters, as it is located in a small bay away from the open Pacific waters. Therefore it makes a nice swimmable beach option for visitors of all ages.

Playa El Médano can be accessed on foot from the Cabo San Lucas marina or via water taxi.

Spend the day at a resort

If you’re planning to have a beach day in Cabo San Lucas but want to be spoiled with amenities, consider purchasing a day pass at a local resort.

Resort For A Day offers all-inclusive day passes to two resorts in Cabo San Lucas: RIU Palace and Solmar Resort Cabo San Lucas.

Day passes cost around $100-130 and are all-inclusive, so you can enjoy unlimited food and drinks while at the resort. As a day guest, you have access to the resort’s amenities, including pools, whirlpools, beach access, towels, umbrellas, and chairs.

More Mexican Riviera cruise information:

• Mexican Riviera cruise guide
• When is the best time to cruise the Mexican Riviera?

Puerto Vallarta is a common port on Mexican Riviera cruise itineraries, and there’s plenty to discover and experience in this bustling resort town.

Located on the Pacific coast of Mexico, Puerto Vallarta offers beaches, jungles, excellent cuisine, and trendy downtown neighborhoods to enjoy.

While it’s possible to disembark your cruise ship in Puerto Vallarta and explore without a plan, it’s always helpful to have an idea of what activities are available in port. From whale watching to snorkeling, shopping, and lounging at the beach, here’s our list of the top 10 things to do in Puerto Vallarta on a cruise.

Discover downtown Puerto Vallarta

While there are endless tours and activities to book for your port day in Puerto Vallarta, spending extra on an excursion is not entirely necessary. While excursions can offer unique opportunities, such as boat tours and snorkeling, you can have just as much fun wandering around Puerto Vallarta on your own.

The main thoroughfare in Puerto Vallarta is the malecón (boardwalk). A promenade between the sea and city, the malecón is a car-free walkway where visitors can enjoy views of the ocean, street art, shopping, restaurants, and bars.

One neighborhood you’ll want to visit while in Puerto Vallarta is Zona Romántica, the city’s “romantic zone”. Zona Romántica is home to boutiques, restaurants, bars, and shops along narrow cobblestone streets.

Make it a beach day

Puerto Vallarta is arguably the best Mexican Riviera cruise port for swimming. Cabo San Lucas is prone to strong currents due to its position on the Baja peninsula, and while Mazatlán offers nice, long beaches, Puerto Vallarta’s beaches tend to be calmer due to its position in the Bay of Banderas.

One of the most conveniently-accessed beaches in Puerto Vallarta is Playa de Los Muertos, located near the Zona Romántica neighborhood downtown. Shops, restaurants, and bars are all located next to the beach, making it an easy option for a beach day combined with time exploring town.

Located at the end of Playa de Los Muertos is Conchas Chinas Beach, a natural cove with soft sand and calm, clear waters.

You may also want to consider purchasing a day pass to a resort in Puerto Vallarta. Day passes can be nice options for those looking to relax in an all-inclusive environment where they can enjoy unlimited food, drinks, and access to resort amenities at a set cost.

Related: A day spent in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico on a cruise

Horseback ride through the countryside

Get up close and personal to Mexico’s rugged beauty on a horseback riding excursion, which will take you through the countryside and into the Mascota River canyon.

Horseback riding tours are led by an experienced guide and tend to visit destinations not as easily accessible by road, meaning you’ll be able to experience Puerto Vallarta in a way many tourists won’t.

Depending on the tour, horseback riding excursions may also visit tequila factories and/or local restaurants, allowing you to learn more about local culture while riding through the countryside.

Visit a tequila distillery

Puerto Vallarta is located in Mexico’s state of Jalisco, which is known for being the birthplace of tequila. In fact, tequila is named after the town of Tequila, Mexico, located just 175 miles from Puerto Vallarta.

Visitors to Puerto Vallarta will have the chance to discover Jalisco’s rich tequila culture and tradition with a visit to a tequila farm. While the town of Tequila itself is a bit too far for a port day excursion, there are many tequila distilleries nearby where you can taste and learn more about Mexico’s most famous liquor.

Whale watching

Whale watching is a popular shore excursion on any Mexican Riviera cruise, and Puerto Vallarta is one of the best ports to book a tour to spot these magnificent animals.

The best time to spot whales off the coast of Puerto Vallarta is from December through March, with January and February providing the best wildlife viewing opportunities. Humpback whales are the most common whales to spot near Puerto Vallarta.

Sail along the Bay of Banderas

Puerto Vallarta is situated in the Bay of Banderas, which boasts excellent scenery of the Sierra Madre Mountains and turquoise Pacific waters.

Yacht cruises are available to book along the bay, where you’ll spend the day cruising along the coast, swimming, snorkeling, paddle boarding, and spotting wildlife like dolphins, whales, turtles, and manta rays.

Relax at La Caletas

Las Caletas is a private beach and tropical hideaway far from the hustle and bustle of Puerto Vallarta’s downtown beaches.

You’ll arrive at Las Caletas via boat, during which you’ll have the chance to enjoy the Pacific breeze and maybe even spot wildlife along the way.

Once at Las Caletas, enjoy relaxing on the beach, snorkeling, kayaking, or paddle boarding on the water. If you prefer to explore on land, walk along the area’s nature trails and spot parrots, macaws, and other animals as you enjoy this secluded paradise.

Visit Sayulita and San Pancho

If you’ve been to Puerto Vallarta before or are looking to try something a bit different, consider a day tour to both Sayulita and San Pancho, Mexico.

These two towns are located around an hour from port and offer a more laid-back feel than bustling Puerto Vallarta. While the towns are still fairly touristy, they're much smaller and less crowded than Puerto Vallarta. 

Sayulita is known for surfing whereas San Pancho has a more bohemian, eco-conscious vibe. Many tours combine visits to both towns in one excursion, so there's no need to choose one town over another!

Get your adrenaline pumping

If you’re hoping for a high-energy excursion in Puerto Vallarta, you’ll find plenty of tour opportunities that will surely get your adrenaline pumping.

Puerto Vallarta is surrounded by the Sierra Madre Mountains, where you can find ATV tours, zip lining, speedboats, and rappelling tours down waterfalls and cliffs.

Getting out into the jungle is one of the best ways to experience all that Puerto Vallarta’s surrounding area has to offer, and it is guaranteed to be fun and thrilling experience!

Enjoy a traditional lunch

You can’t cruise to Mexico without tasting local cuisine, which is both affordable and delicious, and Puerto Vallarta has plenty of local specialities to enjoy.

While at the beach, be sure to try pescado embarazado, which is fresh grilled fish marinated in lime and served on a stick.

If you’re in the mood for comfort food, try birria, a spicy stew that originated in the Mexican state of Jalisco. The stew is made with goat meat, beef, or chicken and served with tortillas and chilis.

Ceviche tostadas, tamales, chilaquiles, tortas, gorditas, and elotes can also be found in Puerto Vallarta. Needless to say, you won’t go hungry while visiting this city!

More Mexican Riviera cruise information

• When is the best time to cruise the Mexican Riviera?
• Mexican Riviera cruise guide

Cruising the Mexican Riviera along the country’s Pacific coast is a unique cruise experience that combines rich cultures with mouthwatering cuisine and beautiful beaches.

A Mexican Riviera cruise is a year-round destination. While the cruising experience will remain similar no matter the time of year you sail, you can expect slight differences in weather, crowds, and price throughout the year.

Best time to cruise the Mexican Riviera for weather

Whereas weather on the Caribbean side of Mexico stays warm year-round, the Pacific coast can encounter chillier temperatures depending on the time of year you sail. There’s also a rainy and dry season along the Mexican Riviera, each of which comes with their own pros and cons.

Temperatures

Ports along the Mexican Riviera vary quite a bit in latitude, so you’ll see lower temperatures in ports like Ensenada and Catalina Island compared to Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán, and Puerto Vallarta. Puerto Vallarta tends to have the warmest temperatures as it is the furthest south of the ports.

The winter months of December, January, and February bring the chillest temperatures, although you can still expect highs around 75-80 degrees. The ports of Ensenada and Catalina, however, are more northerly, and daily highs are around 70 degrees. Expect chilly mornings and evenings onboard during these months.

Temperatures begin to rise in the spring, with highs in the low to mid-80s and sunny skies. Temperatures remain in the mid-80’s throughout summer, although the ports of Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta can see highs in the low-90s.

Because cruises start and end in Los Angeles, it’s recommended to pack a jacket at any time of year. Temperatures will always be colder the further north you travel along the coast of Baja California and Southern California, and the Pacific is prone to chillier temperatures from what you’ll experience while at sea in the Caribbean.

Dry vs rainy season

The dry season in the Mexican Riviera runs from November through June whereas rainier weather should be expected from late July to October. The rainiest months are August and September, although rainfall typically lasts just a few hours in the afternoon, with most rainfall occurring at night. More arid ports like Cabo San Lucas may encounter less rainfall.

June through September will come with the highest, most humid temperatures in the Mexican Riviera, although humidity levels will be lower than what you would experience in Caribbean ports like Cozumel and Costa Maya.

Best time to cruise the Mexican Riviera for fewer crowds

Peak season in the Mexican Riviera ports of Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Mazatlán is during the dry season from December to April. This is where you’ll find the most people in port, as many tourists flock to the sunny skies of Mexico during North America’s coldest months of the year.

With the exception of Christmas and spring break, however, you may find fewer crowds onboard a cruise ship during these months. While land-based vacation is at a high in the winter months, you may find fewer guests onboard since school is in session.

During summer, on the contrary, you can expect more guests onboard a cruise ship due to school holidays.

Spring break crowds

Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta in particular are busy cities for spring breakers, leading to a heightened party atmosphere in these ports. Bars, beaches, and restaurants may be busier than what you will see during other months.

You may also find more spring break crowds onboard the ship itself during March and April. College students often book cruises during spring break for the value and party atmosphere, so it’s not uncommon for spring break cruises to have a higher percentage of college students onboard.

You shouldn’t necessarily avoid the Mexican Riviera during spring break, but be prepared for more crowds.

Best time to cruise the Mexican Riviera for whale watching

If booking a whale watching tour is a must for you while in the Mexican Riviera, be sure to cruise between the months of December and March/early April for the highest chances of spotting whales. Humpback and gray whales are the most common to spot along the Mexican Riviera.

During the summer months whales are in northern Pacific waters near Alaska, so the odds of spotting whales off the coast of Mexico are slim to none.

Cheapest time to cruise the Mexican Riviera

A cruise to the Mexican Riviera can offer competitive pricing, especially when compared to a land-based vacation in one of the resort towns along the coast.

Certain times of the year are more affordable than others, which can save you hundreds of dollars per person in cruise fare.

You’ll typically see the lowest prices during these times of year:

• January and February
• Last week of April (after spring break season ends)
• End of August through mid November
• First 2 weeks of December

Pricing is higher during spring break, summer, and around Thanksgiving and Christmas.

More Mexican Riviera cruise information:

• Mexican Riviera cruise guide

Cruising the west coast of Mexico along the Mexican Riviera makes for an excellent vacation, with dramatic landscapes, world-class cuisine, and culturally-enriching ports at your fingertips.

Understanding the ins and outs of cruising the Mexican Riviera is important before embarking on your cruise. If you’ve cruised the Caribbean side of Mexico before, you might be surprised by just how different the Pacific side of the country can be, so it’s helpful to know what to pack, what to do in port, and how to best prepare for your sailing.

Here’s our guide to cruising the Pacific coast of Mexico along the Mexican Riviera.

What is the Mexican Riviera?

The Mexican Riviera refers to cities and towns situated on the western coast of Mexico known for picturesque oceanfront resorts and tourist attractions.

The phrase “Mexican Riviera” was originally coined by Princess Cruise Line and has since been adopted throughout the cruising industry to describe the beauty and cultural enrichment visitors can expect on Mexico’s Pacific coast.

Mexican Riviera Cruise Ports

Cabo San Lucas

Located at the southernmost point of Baja California is Cabo San Lucas, which is among the most popular tourist destinations in all of Mexico and known for its party atmosphere, abundant wildlife, and unique rock formations.

As your cruise ship sails into Cabo San Lucas, you’ll pass by Land’s End, a rock formation and iconic landmark of the city. The most well-known of the rock formations is El Arco, a 200-foot granite rock in the shape of an arch.

Related: A day in Cabo San Lucas

If you’re hoping to get away from the more touristy, beach resort vibes found in Cabo San Lucas, make the 30-minute trip to San Jose del Cabo. San Jose del Cabo is a more relaxed, artsy town with fewer crowds offering a local-feel.

Cabo San Lucas is a tender port, so be sure to collect your tender ticket early so you can disembark and get the most out of your time in port.

Puerto Vallarta

Once a quiet fishing village, Puerto Vallarta has grown exponentially to be among the busiest resort towns in Mexico. More lush and hilly than other Mexican Riviera cruise ports, Puerto Vallarta offers the perfect blend of calm beaches and hip city streets.

You’ll want to visit the Zona Romántica (Romantic Zone) in Puerto Vallarta, a historic, waterfront old town neighborhood that is home to boutique shops, bars, restaurants, homes, and condos.

Related: A day in Puerto Vallarta

History lovers can make a trip to the Xihuacan Museum and Archaeological Site, which was home to various tribes throughout history including the Aztecs, Olmecs, and Toltecs.

Mazatlán

Crossing the Gulf of California from Cabo San Lucas will bring you to Mazatlán, a resort town known for its wide white sand beaches and charming Centro Histórico. Mazatlán is the most populous of the Mexican Riviera cruise ports, with around 500,000 people calling the city home.

Related: A day in Mazatlán

Mazatlán is split into three main areas: the Marina, Golden Zone, and Centro. Most visitors will spend the day along Centro Histórico, Mazatlán’s Old Town. The historic city center is a walkable, cobblestoned neighborhood lined with colonial buildings where you’ll find a variety of museums, restaurants, and plazas.

Don’t forget to take a walk on the Malecón (boardwalk) of Mazatlán, which is a whopping 13 miles. The boardwalk covers the length of the waterfront from Mazatlán’s most historic neighborhoods to the newest.

The cruise port in Mazatlán is located within a shipping port, so visitors will have to take a quick shuttle to town before exploring.

Ensenada

Ensenada is located just 2 hours driving distance from San Diego in the most northerly part of Baja California. Ensenada is a port city surrounded by the “Napa Valley of Mexico” and is known for its rocky geography, fresh seafood, fantastic surfing, and local wines.

Related: A day in Ensenada

Cruising to Ensenada offers plenty of activities to choose from, including wine tastings, shopping at local markets, enjoying fresh cuisine, and visiting the second largest blowhole in the world.

Catalina Island

While not technically in the Mexican Riviera (or in Mexico for that matter), Catalina Island is a port you’ll see on shorter cruises to Mexico out of the Port of Los Angeles. The island is located just 22 miles off the coast of Southern California and is best traveled via golf cart or bicycle.

A small paradise of beaches, wildlife, hiking trails, resort villages, and shopping, Catalina Island is sure to offer a fun-filled port day while on a cruise.

What to do in Mexican Riviera cruise ports

Whale watching

If you thought you had to take a cruise to Alaska in order to book a whale watching excursion, think again. The Mexican Riviera is one of the best destinations in the world to spot these magnificent mammals. In fact, the Sea of Cortez (Gulf of California) has been called the “World’s Aquarium” due to the abundance of diverse sea life calling the area home.

Whale watching on Mexico’s Pacific coast is best from mid-December through late March/early April, when whales make their way south from Alaska and the Arctic. The most common whales you’ll spot in Mexico are humpback and gray whales. While blue whales, sperm whales, orcas, and fin whales pass through the area on their migration route, they are much rarer to spot.

Exploring Pueblos Mágicos

One of the best parts of cruising the Mexican Riviera is walking around the historic, cobblestone-street towns you’ll find in this region of Mexico.

Pueblos Mágicos (Magic Towns) are small towns recognized by the Mexican government for their culture, history, and charm. There are currently 132 pueblos mágicos in Mexico, several of which are located nearby cruise ports in the Mexican Riviera, including Sayulita and Todos Santos.

Visiting a Pueblo Mágico will connect a visitor with a small town’s unique roots, history, and traditions, all while admiring the colorful, intricate architecture and natural beauty that makes these towns so unique.

Take a stroll around port

If you’re the type of cruiser who prefers wandering around port instead of taking excursions, you’ll find plenty to do in each Mexican Riviera port.

Be sure to grab a coffee, beer, or meal in a local Plaza. These town squares are the perfect place to watch and observe local culture and lifestyle. While some are more touristy than others, relaxing in a shady plaza can help break up a busy port day in Mexico.

Beach day

While the Mexican Riviera offers plenty of history, culture, and cuisine to discover, sometimes a day in port is best spent relaxing on a sandy beach. Luckily, the main Mexican Riviera cruise ports of Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán, and Puerto Vallarta can make for an excellent beach day.

At the ever-popular Land’s End in Cabo San Lucas are two beaches: Lover’s Beach and Divorce Beach. Both beaches are only accessible via boat, but Cabo San Lucas has plenty of water taxis available to get you from place to place. 

Snorkeling and diving are also popular along the Mexican Riviera, which has an abundance of marine life to discover, from pufferfish to butterfly fish, octopi, sea turtles, and even sharks!

If you can’t decide on one of the many beaches along the coast, consider a catamaran or boat tour! While cruising along the coast, you’ll be able to visit several destinations and attractions while spotting wildlife and swimming along the way.

Keep in mind that some ports offer better swimming opportunities than others. Cabo San Lucas and Mazatlán tend to have stronger currents and conditions than Puerto Vallarta, which is located in a small bay as opposed to the open Pacific.

Resort For A Day

There are several all-inclusive beach resorts offering day passes to cruise guests through Resort For A Day. These can make a nice, stress-free option for those interested in a relaxing beach day.

In Puerto Vallarta you’ll find RIU Palace Pacifico, RIU Jalisco, and Hotel RIU Vallarta, all of which offer unlimited drinks and food along with pool and beach access.

In Cabo San Lucas are two resort day passes: the Solmar Resort Cabo San Lucas and RIU Palace. Just like in Puerto Vallarta, you can purchase a day pass to the resorts and enjoy unlimited dining, drinks, and access to resort amenities like the sauna, beach, and pools.

Adrenaline-filled adventures

Adrenaline-seekers will find plenty of adventurous activities to keep them occupied on a Mexican Riviera cruise. From zip lines to kayaking and off-roading through the countryside, you won’t go bored while in port.

ATV tours are popular along the Mexican Riviera, allowing visitors to experience the countryside around ports by off-roading through vineyards, canyons, and deserts.

If you’re in for a challenge, consider a hike to the El Faro Lighthouse in Mazatlán. This 1.5 mile out-and-back hike takes around 45 minutes and offers the best views of Mazatlán and the nearby Sierra Madre mountains.

Mexican Riviera Cruise Itineraries

Royal Caribbean offers several different itinerary options to the Mexican Riviera, from short weekend getaways to 7-night sailings and repositioning cruises.

Ports visited will depend on itinerary length due to the travel time required to reach certain destinations along the Mexican Riviera.

3-night cruises

Typically offered over the weekend, 3-night cruises visit Ensenada, the northernmost port in the Mexican Riviera. These cruises include one sea day and a 10 hour stop in Ensenada.

Related: Guide to weekend cruises: Tips for taking a 3-night Royal Caribbean cruise

4-night cruises

4-night Mexican Riviera cruises visit the ports of Ensenada and Catalina Island. They also include one sea day. These cruises are offered from Monday to Friday.

5-night cruises

Sailing on a 5-night Mexican Riviera cruise gives just enough time to reach the port of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. There are two 5-night itineraries available:

• 5-night Cabo & Ensenada cruise, with port days in both Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada along with two sea days
• 5-night Cabo Overnight cruise, with an overnight stop in Cabo San Lucas and two sea days

5-night cruises are not offered as often as 3, 4, and 7-night cruises, but they can be found periodically throughout the year.

7-night Mexican Riviera cruise

A weeklong cruise to the Mexican Riviera allows ample time to travel to several ports further south along Mexico’s Pacific coast, allowing for more diversity in terms of scenery, culture, and activities.

7-night Mexican Riviera cruises visit the ports of Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán, and Puerto Vallarta. They have three sea days.

Repositioning cruises

In addition to regularly-scheduled Mexican Riviera cruises on Navigator of the Seas are repositioning cruises along the Mexican Riviera. As cruise ships make their way from Alaska to the Caribbean (and vice versa) during the change of seasons, they’ll pass through the Pacific coast of Mexico, visiting several ports along the way.

These cruises tend to be between 11-16 nights, departing from either Los Angeles or San Diego and ending in Florida. Repositioning cruises often visit Huatulco, Mexico, a port located in the state of Oaxaca, which is not visited on shorter Mexican Riviera cruises.

What cruise ships sail to the Mexican Riviera?

Navigator of the Seas is the Royal Caribbean ship offering year-round cruises to the Mexican Riviera from the Port of Los Angeles. As a recently amplified Voyager Class cruise ship, Navigator of the Seas boasts plenty of amenities, restaurants, lounges, and onboard activities to keep cruisers busy.

Highlights of Navigator of the Seas include the longest waterslide found at sea, ice skating, the Bamboo Room tiki bar, Hooked Seafood restaurant, and a resort-style Caribbean pool deck.

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Related: Navigator of the Seas guide & review

There will occasionally be other Royal Caribbean ships stopping at ports along the Mexican Riviera. However, this only happens during longer repositioning cruises as ships make their way from the Caribbean to Alaska (and vice versa). These ships are in Royal Caribbean’s Vision or Radiance Class.

Mexican Riviera cuisine

Mexican cuisine is one of the most beloved in the world, and arguably one of the best aspects of cruising to Mexico is sampling fresh, local food.

Seafood is by far the most popular choice for those cruising the Mexican Riviera, as many of the cruise ports along the coast are known for their abundance of fresh seafood. With savory ceviches, endless shrimp, and grilled fish with chili marinade, you won’t go hungry if you love seafood.

Non seafood-lovers will also be impressed by the cuisine found in the Mexican Riviera, with birria (meat stew), tacos al pastor, and chilaquiles popular throughout the region.

Don’t forget to enjoy your meal with a cold glass of an agua fresca, a fresh fruit juice found all around the country.

What to bring on a Mexican Riviera cruise

Packing for a Mexican Riviera cruise can seem complicated due to the different weather patterns you’ll experience throughout the cruise. While you’ll be visiting warm beaches and jungles, you’ll also be sailing up the coast of Baja California and Mexico, which can be prone to chillier temperatures, especially in the winter months.

Related: The Ultimate Cruise Packing List

If you’re traveling the Mexican Riviera in the summer months, packing won’t be too different from what you’ll pack for a Caribbean cruise, outside of an emergency lightweight jacket and jeans for chilly sea days.

The winter months will likely encounter nice beach weather while in port, but you’ll want to pack a few long sleeve shirts and jackets during this time of year for sea days.

As far as footwear is concerned, be sure to pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes, whether tennis shoes or sturdy sandals. If you plan on visiting the beach, flip flops are preferred, and you’ll also want to pack formal shoes for dinners and events onboard.

Mexican Riviera cruise packing list:

• Swimsuit
• 6-8 t-shirts
• 3-4 shorts
• 1-2 pairs of jeans
• 3-4 semi-formal outfits for evenings onboard
• 2-3 sundresses
• 2-3 long sleeve shirts
• 1 lightweight coat
• 1-2 pairs pajamas
• Flip flops
• Sturdy sandals
• Tennis shoes
• Formal shoes
• Water-resistant daypack

Related: The worst cruise packing mistakes to avoid

Cost of a Mexican Riviera cruise

Booking a cruise to the Mexican Riviera can be an affordable way to discover Mexico’s Pacific coast, culture, and beaches. You’ll often find competitive prices on a cruise to the Riviera, especially when considering the cost of flying to Mexico yourself and staying in a resort for a week.

Related: How much does a cruise cost?

You can expect to see the total price of a 7-night Mexican Riviera cruise on Navigator of the Seas between $900 and $2000 for two people in an interior cabin. Total costs will depend on the time of year, with summer months and holidays much more expensive than the off-season.

You’ll usually find cheaper Mexican Riviera cruises from January through April (excluding spring break), during fall (excluding Thanksgiving), and in the first two weeks of December.

The best time to cruise the Mexican Riviera will depend on if you want low crowds, better weather, or cheaper prices. Often, the best weather may be opposite when the lowest crowds or lowest prices tend to fall.

Additionally, you may find that excursions along the Mexican Riviera are often more affordable compared to excursions in more expensive destinations like Alaska and Europe.

Mexican Riviera cruise FAQ

Do I need a passport to cruise the Mexican Riviera?

Royal Caribbean’s Mexican Riviera cruises are closed-loop sailings departing from the Port of Los Angeles. Because the cruises start and end in the United States, a passport is not required. Guests without a passport must bring a state-issued ID and birth certificate in order to board the ship.

However, cruising with a passport is always recommended even when not required. On the chance of any unexpected problems (missing the ship in port, emergency evacuation, etc.) it’s always better to have a passport than be stuck in a foreign country without one.

What kind of currency should I bring?

US dollars will be widely accepted at ports along the Mexican Riviera, although you may choose to get pesos from an ATM once in Mexico. If you choose to pay with US dollars, make sure to have an idea of the current exchange rate to avoid being overcharged.

When paying with US dollars, you’ll receive change back in Mexican pesos. It’s a good idea to have small bills with you (i.e. don’t pay for a $5 meal with a $50 bill).