The Mexican Riviera embraces 20 beautiful cities and lagoons, tucked along the western coast of Mexico. These resorts are set a considerable distance from one another, so the most convenient way to uncover these gorgeous havens is by taking a cruise. Some port highlights include bustling Ensenada, the party town of Cabo San Lucas, historic Mazatlán, charming Puerto Vallarta, and of course, famous Acapulco. Mexican Riviera cruises offer wide access to dazzling beaches and water activities, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, SUP, and fishing. And these cruises' variety and flexibility make them extremely popular.
Best time to cruise the Mexican Riviera
Even though the Mexican Riviera is good all year round, the best season to experience this part of the world is during the dry season, November to May. These months boast balmy temperatures, hovering around 70–80+ °F (21–27+ °C). Still, if you decide to embark on a cruise during the off-season, note that the most uncomfortable months are August and September due to the average of 90 °F (32 °C) paired with frequent rains and high humidity levels, not to mention Pacific hurricanes.
Mexican Riviera cruise itineraries
Most Mexican Riviera cruises start on the US West Coast from Los Angeles or Long Beach ports. Other popular departure points are located in San Diego and San Francisco. Alternatively, you can start your adventure from Mexican ports in Puerto Vallarta or La Paz, but these trips are operated only by small or expeditionary cruise lines.
The Mexican Riviera
The most frequent option is a week-long itinerary, which implies some lasting stops with overnights in the most prominent ports of the Mexican Riviera. So you can take your time walking on the cobblestone streets and indulging in the rich food scene of Puerto Vallarta. Another bright stop is Cabo San Lucas, noted for exquisite nightlife, excellent marlin fishing, and winter whale migration. Besides, these cruises stop in Mazatlán, known for the largest port on Mexico's Pacific coast and picturesque Old Town.
Baja California
As for smaller itineraries, you can opt for three- or four-day cruises throughout Baja California, which start in LA or San Diego and end in Ensenada. The main attraction of such tours is Catalina Island, offering premier boutique shopping in the city of Avalon, glass-bottom boat rides, and fashionable dining options. This route will best suit those who have never been on a cruise before.
Sea of Cortez & Panama Canal
Yet, if you crave a longer journey, consider ten- or twelve-day itineraries, cruising between the Sea of Cortez's ports, namely La Paz, Loreto, Guaymas, and Topolobampo. Also, Panama Canal cruises typically make stops in the Mexican Riviera's port cities, such as Manzanillo, Ixtapa, Zihuatanejo, and Huatulco.
Mexican Riviera cruise tips
Some unpleasant incidents can spoil every vacation. To avoid such, we highly recommend leaving all precious things onboard and bring along only the most essential properties while you roam the cities. Remember that Mexico is notorious for petty thieves. Also, it would help if you were extra alert while visiting parties in Cabo San Lucas, especially during the spring break, when local pubs and nightclubs teem with students.
Lastly, if you visit California or Mexico for the sake of a cruise vacation, you will most likely want to stay in the departure city for a while and explore it too. Consider your accommodations in advance—look at our map, showcasing available options in the vicinity of cruise terminals.
Practical info
What are some common departure ports to begin a Mexican Riviera cruise?
Mexican Riviera cruises usually depart from US West Coast ports like Los Angeles, Long Beach, San Diego, and San Francisco. Fewer lines offer the option to depart from Mexican ports like Puerto Vallarta and La Paz. However, they are not as typical. Show more
During which months is the best time for a Mexican Riviera cruise?
The Mexican Riviera’s optimal period for cruising is typically from November to May, when the temperatures vary from pleasant to exceptional, keeping within 21-27+ °C (70-80+ °F). Conversely, the summer months, particularly August and September, may not be the best idea as they are more humid, and there may be hurricanes from the Pacific. Show more
What are some popular routes to take when traveling on a Mexican Riviera cruise?
Mexican Riviera cruise lines offer a range of itineraries. Three- or four-day trips are an option that takes visitors to Baja California, initiating from LA or San Diego, and heading to Ensenada. More frequently, one-week itineraries can be found, including visits to various prevalent ports like Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán, and Cabo San Lucas. Longer excursions, such as ten- or twelve-day itineraries, are also available that travel between ports in the Sea of Cortez. Show more
What activities can one enjoy while on a Mexican Riviera cruise?
Most Mexican Riviera cruise itineraries present several water activities, such as fishing, SUP, kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving. With shore excursions, visitors can discover the charming towns and enjoy the local food scene in Puerto Vallarta, explore Catalina Island through glass-bottom boat rides, and witness whale migration in Cabo San Lucas during the winter season. Show more
What are some safety precautions to follow when exploring the Mexican Riviera?
Visitors are advised to avoid carrying any valuables and take only the most crucial items while figuring out the towns, as petty theft is common in the ports of Mexico. Cabo San Lucas is more inviting to accidents during spring break when students flock the area, intensifying nightlife and potential dangers such as theft, thus being cautious when out in crowded public locations and local night spots. Show more
