Mexico CRE News

We produce and curate the most relevant updates on industrial real estate developments, regional market shifts, and nearshoring opportunities throughout Mexico—information that directly impacts your business decisions.

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Our Insider Perspectives

Dive into our founder's expert analysis and firsthand insights on Mexico's evolving commercial-industrial real estate market.
Discover market-moving trends, opportunities, and strategic considerations you won't find in mainstream coverage.



 

June 8, 2025 MexicoCRE - MexicoFDI - Newsletter Edition

With a global trade war in the offing, manufacturing options closer to home are looking more compelling to U.S. companies. Luis Miranda, founder and managing director of Guadalajara-based tenant representation firm Discovery CRE, cites numerous factors in favor of nearshoring operations to Mexico. Not least of these is the fact that the proximity between the U.S. and Mexico offers logistical advantages.

Compared to China, which Mexico surpassed two years ago as the United States’ leading trading partner, transportation from Mexico simply requires less time. “If you see the distance from port to port between China and the U.S., it’s at least three to four weeks,” Miranda told Connect CRE. “Depending on where you are in Mexico, it could be on the same day or in two or three days.”

https://www.connectcre.com/stories/discovery-cre-provides-nearshoring-guidance/


☎ CONTACT US

DiscoveryCRE is Mexico's Premier Commercial Real Estate Liaison Specializing in Nearshoring and Industrial Tenant Site Selection. We help companies make informed SITE SELECTION decisions. Manufacturing and Logistics Operations.

When nearshoring to Mexico, having the right partner makes all the difference. Our team primarily represents industrial tenants and buyers providing expert site selection and facility acquisition for manufacturing and logistics companies across Mexico.

Ready to simplify your Mexico expansion?

USA and Canada Toll free number 1 (800) 603-3460
Mexico Toll Free number 800 099 1437
Guadalajara Telephone number +52 33 3348 2317
Luis@DiscoveryCRE.com


Thank you for reading our edition of the MexicoCRE Newsletter. Stay tuned for more updates and investment opportunities! 🙏

May 22, 2025 MexicoCRE - MexicoFDI - Newsletter Edition

Mexico®s Top Export States: 2024 Highlights & Q1 2025 Trends 📈
Mexico continues to strengthen its position as a global manufacturing and export powerhouse! Here’s a snapshot of the ten most important export states in 2024 and key insights from the first quarter of 2025.

🔝 Top 10 Export States in Mexico (2024)
Rank State % of Total ExportsKey Export Sectors
1 Chihuahua 13% Automotive, Electronics
2 Coahuila 12% Automotive, Manufacturing
3 Nuevo LeĂłn 11% Automotive, Machinery
4 Baja California 10% Electronics, Manufacturing
5 Tamaulipas 6% Automotive, Electronics
6 Guanajuato 6% Automotive
7 Jalisco 5% Electronics, Computer Products
8 Sonora 5% Manufacturing
9 San Luis PotosĂ­ 4%Manufacturing, Industrial Investment
10 México (State) 4% Diverse Manufacturing Sectors

📊 Key Export Figures for 2024
Total exports reached $299.4 billion USD in the first half of 2024.
95% of exports were non-oil, with 93.6% coming from manufacturing.
The automotive sector led the way:
Passenger cars exports hit nearly $29 billion USD in H1 2024.
Other top export products:
Vehicle parts, trucks, computers, crude oil, electrical conductors, medical devices, tractors, and spark plug wire sets.
States excelling in electronics and computer exports include Mexico City, Jalisco, Chihuahua, Tamaulipas, and Baja California.


📈 Trade surpluses with the US (2024):
Chihuahua: $53.8B
Nuevo LeĂłn: $32.6B
Baja California: $32.4B

🚀 Export Performance in Q1 2025
Mexico exported $131.29 billion USD worth of goods to the US — a 9.5% increase compared to Q1 2024. Mexico remains the largest exporter to the US globally.

Top export categories in March 2025:
Vehicles: $14.1B
Nuclear reactors & machinery: $11.8B
Electrical & electronic equipment: $8.84B
Leading export states continue to be:
Jalisco, Querétaro, San Luis Potosí, Nuevo León

Mexico’s trade surplus with the US grew by 19% in Q1 2025 to $47.25 billion USD.

🔍 What This Means
Strong nearshoring trends and industrial investments are fueling growth in key states.
Mexico’s robust trade relationship with the US continues to be a major growth engine. Mexico’s export story is one of innovation, resilience, and strategic growth. Whether you’re in manufacturing, logistics, or international trade, these trends highlight exciting opportunities ahead!


🚀 MexicoCRE - Guadalajara New Office Boom from Agribusiness, Logistics, Pharma and Tech companies - 20,000 mÂČ (215,280 sq ft) of New Office Space Coming in 2025!

📊 Key Market Insights: ‱ Guadalajara is adding 20,000 mÂČ of prime office space by 2025

💡 Market Projection: The Mexico Commercial Real Estate market is set to grow from USD 269.62B (2023) to USD 355.03B by 2031 , representing a robust 3.5% CAGR and USD 85.4B total growth.

🎯 Why This Matters: This expansion signals strong confidence in Mexico's tech ecosystem and demonstrates the growing demand for modern office spaces in key tech hubs. The historically low vacancy rates and substantial commitments from tech companies indicate a thriving market with tremendous potential for continued growth.

đŸ’Œ Looking Forward: As we witness this remarkable transformation in our real estate landscape, it's clear that Mexico is cementing its position as a leading destination for tech companies and real estate investment.


Mexico has secured the fourth spot globally among retirement destinations, as per the Global Retirement Index 2025. This comprehensive report by research firm Mercer assessed over 40 countries to identify the most favorable retirement environments. Mexico shines for its blend of affordable living costs, quality healthcare access, delightful climate, and seamless integration into local communities.

In my experience, I have assisted numerous companies from diverse nations in their transition to Mexico. It's truly remarkable to witness many of these executives, now close friends, that came for business now are choosing to settle down in Guadalajara for their retirement.

Besides Mexico, the top 10 of the best countries to retire include PanamĂĄ (No. 1) Portugal (No. 2), Costa Rica (No. 3), France(No. 5), Spain (No. 6) Malaysia (No. 7), Greece (No. 8), Italy (No. 9) and Thailand (No. 10).


https://internationalliving.com/the-best-places-to-retire/


🏭 Alpura Mexican dairy giant unleashes $10 billion peso expansion revolution. Here's how this massive investment will reshape the industry:

Transform production capacity with state-of-the-art automated systems across 5 manufacturing facilities, boosting daily output by 40% within 24 months.
Revolutionize distribution networks by establishing 3 new strategic logistics hubs in Central Mexico, enabling same-day delivery to 85% of the national market.
Implement cutting-edge sustainability initiatives including water recycling systems and solar power integration, reducing environmental impact by 30%.
Create 2,500 direct jobs and support 15,000 local dairy farmers through modernized collection centers and fair-trade partnerships.
Develop innovative product lines targeting health-conscious consumers, including lactose-free and plant-based alternatives.


 "A New Era for North American Trade: How Mexico and the U.S. Are Shaping the Future of the USMCA (T-MEC)"

Big changes are ahead for North American trade!🚹 
The Mexico-U.S. commercial relationship is undergoing a significant transition that could redefine the future of the USMCA (T-MEC). While tariffs on key industries like steel, aluminum, and automotive remain a challenge, over 80% of trade between Mexico and the U.S. continues tariff-free, demonstrating the resilience of this pivotal trade agreement.

As shared by Secretary Marcelo Ebrard, there’s promising news for the North American automotive industry:
âžĄïž A new U.S. decree will likely grant preferential treatment to Mexican and Canadian automakers, cutting tariffs by 40-50% compared to other regions.
âžĄïž By incorporating assembly into the rules of origin, Mexican manufacturers—heavily reliant on exports to the U.S.—are positioned to benefit significantly.

But it’s not just about cars! The future of the T-MEC will focus on:
✅ Boosting regional competitiveness in AI, semiconductors, minerals, and data centers.
✅ Aligning trade laws across Mexico, the U.S., and Canada to create a stronger, united economic region.
✅ Reducing reliance on imports from Asia and developing strategic production capacities within Mexico.

This transition is more than just policy—it’s a new economic reality for the region. As Ebrard noted:
*"Regional integration will become much more important—it’s a matter of costs and geopolitical efficiency."*

With the T-MEC review process slated for 2026 (but increasingly likely to start earlier), businesses and policymakers must prepare now to navigate these shifts.


🌟 Why Mexico Remains a Top Nearshoring Destination! 🌟

In the ever-evolving landscape of global business, Mexico continues to shine as a prime nearshoring destination. Despite recent challenges stemming from U.S. tariff policies, which have temporarily paused some investments, the potential for growth remains robust.

CitiÂŽs latest insights reveal that while uncertainty surrounds the profitability of new projects, clarity on "the rules of the game" will empower companies to make informed decisions.

With at least 30 multinational companies eager to relocate to Mexico, the country’s solid infrastructure and security measures are crucial for attracting these investments.

As we move forward, it’s imperative that we ensure the necessary infrastructure and security are in place to support this influx of businesses. Together, we can build a thriving environment for innovation and economic growth in Mexico!


🔎 Walmart Mexico - Investment in Yucatam
Major Retail Expansion - $98.3 Million Investment Announced in Mexican Market.
A strategic move that signals robust growth in the retail sector.

Discover how retail giant Walmart Mexico and Central America is transforming the Yucatan market through strategic expansion:

Transform local retail landscape through establishment of 27 new stores across multiple formats including Bodega Aurrera, Sam's Club, and Walmart Supercenter, creating significant market presence in the region through 2027.

Generate substantial economic impact with investment of 1,900 million pesos, building upon existing network of 61 stores and strengthening the company's position as leading retailer in Yucatan since their first Sam's Club opening in 1995.

Create meaningful employment opportunities by adding to their current workforce of 3,600 direct permanent jobs, demonstrating long-term commitment to regional economic development and community growth.

Expand omnichannel shopping experience to meet evolving consumer needs, ensuring customers have access to products and services through multiple touchpoints when and how they prefer to shop.

Build upon existing 5,400 million peso investment foundation in the region, showcasing sustained commitment to market development and customer service excellence in Yucatan state.


☎ CONTACT US

DiscoveryCRE is Mexico's Premier Commercial Real Estate Liaison Specializing in Nearshoring and Industrial Tenant Site Selection. We help companies make informed SITE SELECTION decisions. Manufacturing and Logistics Operations.

When nearshoring to Mexico, having the right partner makes all the difference. Our team primarily represents industrial tenants and buyers providing expert site selection and facility acquisition for manufacturing and logistics companies across Mexico.

Ready to simplify your Mexico expansion?

USA and Canada Toll free number 1 (800) 603-3460
Mexico Toll Free number 800 099 1437
Guadalajara Telephone number +52 33 3348 2317
Luis@DiscoveryCRE.com


Thank you for reading our edition of the MexicoCRE Newsletter. Stay tuned for more updates and investment opportunities! 🙏

May 15, 2025 MexicoCRE - MexicoFDI - Newsletter Edition

Over $6.5 Billion in New Investments

🌟 Nearshoring To Mexico Continues to Surge

As global supply chains continue to evolve, Mexico's strategic position as a nearshoring destination is reaching new heights. The first quarter of 2025 has witnessed new investments across multiple sectors, with particular strength in automotive, industrial real estate, and infrastructure development. This surge is backed by significant foreign direct investment, especially from USA, Asian and European manufacturers seeking to establish or expand their North American presence .


🏭 Automotive Sector Leading the Charge

Major Investments Across Key Manufacturing States

The automotive sector continues to demonstrate robust growth with several significant investments:

  • Guanajuato's Automotive Powerhouse:

    • SK TEC announced a $380 million MXN expansion of their automotive plant in Irapuato

    • Japanese manufacturer Senyo committed $22 million for a new facility

    • Mazda reaffirmed their investment commitment during the Governor's visit to Japan

    • The state secured $48.1 million in automotive investments during Q1 2025

  • San Luis PotosĂ­'s Industrial Expansion:

    • Kingfa Science & Technology announced an $84 million investment for a new plant

    • A major steel group is establishing a new steel mill with 1.25 million tons capacity

  • Puebla's Resurgence:

    • The region is experiencing renewed automotive investments following U.S. tariff relief

    • Multiple OEMs are considering expansion plans in the region


đŸ—ïž Industrial Real Estate Market Dynamics

Record-Breaking Development Activity

The industrial real estate sector is experiencing unprecedented growth :

  • State of Mexico (EdoMex) Boom:

    • AMEFIBRA announced $5.63 billion in new projects

    • The region has attracted $3.7 billion in industrial and logistics investments

    • Vacancy rates remain at historic lows of 8.5%

  • Valley of Mexico Demand Surge:

    • Industrial warehouse demand continues to rise

    • E-commerce driving significant space requirements

    • Average industrial rents reached $8.44 per square foot, up 6.7% year-over-year

  • Monterrey Market Dynamics:

    • Strong start to 2025 with industrial and financial sector growth

    • Office market showing stability with increased demand from manufacturing companies


🚱 Infrastructure & Regional Development

Strategic Port Expansion and New Industrial Projects

  • Progreso Port Expansion:

    • Major infrastructure project to create a deep-sea port

    • Channel widening to over 500 feet and depth increase to 47 feet

    • $367 million government investment as part of $1.6 billion national ports initiative

    • Expected to handle increased cargo volumes and larger vessels

  • New Manufacturing Facilities:

    • Grupo EPTA announcing new plant construction in QuerĂ©taro

    • Foxconn exploring investment opportunities in Ciudad ObregĂłn

    • ATECS establishing new facility in LeĂłn for electric vehicle components


📊 Market Analysis & Future Outlook

The current investment landscape reflects strong confidence in Mexico's manufacturing and logistics capabilities:

  • Investment Trends:

    • Continued shift of manufacturing from Asia to Mexico

    • Strong focus on EV and sustainable manufacturing

    • Rising industrial rents across key markets

  • Regional Highlights:

    • BajĂ­o region (including Guanajuato, QuerĂ©taro, SLP) leading in automotive investments

    • EdoMex emerging as prime industrial real estate market

    • YucatĂĄn positioning for increased trade through Progreso port expansion

  • Nearshoring Impact:

    • Supply chain resilience driving location decisions

    • USMCA benefits attracting more Asian and European manufacturers

    • Infrastructure investments supporting growing industrial demand


🔼 Looking Ahead

As Mexico continues to capitalize on nearshoring opportunities, the industrial real estate and manufacturing sectors are poised for sustained growth. The combination of strategic infrastructure investments, automotive sector expansion, and robust industrial real estate development creates a strong foundation for continued economic development. With over $6.5 billion in announced investments this quarter alone, Mexico's position as a prime nearshoring destination continues to strengthen.


DiscoveryCRE is Mexico's Premier Commercial Real Estate Liaison Specializing in Nearshoring and Industrial Tenant Site Selection. We help companies make informed SITE SELECTION decisions. Manufacturing and Logistics Operations.

When nearshoring to Mexico, having the right partner makes all the difference. Our team primarily represents industrial tenants and buyers providing expert site selection and facility acquisition for manufacturing and logistics companies across Mexico.

Ready to simplify your Mexico expansion?

USA and Canada Toll free number 1 (800) 603-3460
Mexico Toll Free number 800 099 1437
Guadalajara Telephone number +52 33 3348 2317
Luis@DiscoveryCRE.com


Thank you for reading our edition of the MexicoCRE Newsletter. Stay tuned for more updates and investment opportunities! 🙏

May 7, 2025 MexicoCRE - MexicoFDI - Newsletter Edition

📈 Mexico was again the world®s largest exporter to the US

As Mexico maintains its position as the United States' top trading partner, the country's industrial and commercial real estate sectors are experiencing growth driven by nearshoring trends. With over $500 million in newly announced investments across strategic locations, including Jalisco, Querétaro, San Luis Potosí, and Nuevo León, the first quarter of 2025 demonstrates Mexico's strengthening position as a prime destination for manufacturing and logistics operations .

Mexico exported goods worth US $131.29 billion to the world’s largest economy in the first quarter, up 9.5% compared to the same period of 2024. In the first three months of 2025, Mexico was again the world®s largest exporter to the United States according to data published by the U.S. Census Bureau on Tuesday. Mexico beat out Canada and China to retain its position as the top exporter to the United States. Canada’s earnings from exports sent to the U.S. increased 7.9% annually in the first quarter to $108.93 billion, while China’s revenue rose 5.1% to $102.65 billion. Mexico’s share of the United States’ $948 billion market for imports in the first three months of the year was 13.8%.

🏭 Major Investment Highlights

Bulkmatic's $250M Intermodal Terminal in Nuevo LeĂłn

  • Investment: $250 million

  • Location: Nuevo LeĂłn

  • Project Details: Development of a state-of-the-art intermodal terminal

  • Impact: Set to enhance logistics capabilities in Northern Mexico

  • Company Background: Bulkmatic, a leading dry bulk transportation company, continues its strategic expansion in Mexico, leveraging its expertise in bulk trucking, transload, and warehousing solutions .

ODATA's Data Center Investment in Querétaro

Odata, a subsidiary of Aligned Data Centers, has officially launched operations at its new data center campus, DC QR03, located in Querétaro, Mexico. This ambitious project represents an investment of over $3 billion and aims to provide a total capacity of 300 megawatts (MW) once fully completed. The first phase of the campus, which began operations in February 2025, currently delivers 200 MW and includes a facility designed to support cloud services and artificial intelligence, with a capacity of 72 MW .

Querétaro has emerged as a significant hub for digital infrastructure in Mexico, with 15 data centers currently operational and projections indicating that this number could exceed 35 in the coming years, driven by investments surpassing $12 billion since 2009 . Odata's CEO, Ricardo Alårio, highlighted that the campus has already secured three hyper-scale clients and is strategically positioned to serve both national and U.S. markets, particularly in light of energy restrictions in certain U.S. regions .

The project also addresses energy availability challenges in the sector, with plans for an additional 400 MW expansion, marking one of the largest initiatives of its kind in Mexico . Furthermore, Odata has introduced its patented Delta Cube cooling system, which enhances energy efficiency by directly capturing heat from server racks and can be integrated with hybrid cooling solutions .

Overall, the establishment of QR03 reinforces Querétaro's role as a key data center hub in Mexico, complementing investments from major companies like AWS, Google, and Microsoft in the region .

Suacero's Expansion in San Luis PotosĂ­

Suacero, a Mexican company specializing in steel production, is investing 750 million pesos to expand its plant located in Soledad Graciano SĂĄnchez, San Luis PotosĂ­. This expansion aims to double its production capacity from the current 260,000 tons annually. The project is expected to create 550 new jobs, contributing significantly to the local economy .

The CEO of Suacero, José Canales Salazar, emphasized the importance of promoting national production amidst global financial uncertainties and reducing reliance on imports. He highlighted San Luis Potosí's competitive environment, which has attracted over 8.5 billion dollars in investments over the past three years .

Suacero is committed to sustainability, utilizing 100% recyclable scrap as raw material and employing renewable energy sources. The company also engages in environmental initiatives, such as reforestation efforts through its "SUACERO Verde" campaign .

MEOR's Strategic Park Portfolio

Meor, a real estate developer, plans to invest $1.5 billion in acquiring stabilized industrial parks in Mexico over the next five to seven years. This investment aims to capitalize on the growing trend of nearshoring, which involves relocating production closer to the U.S. market. The company intends to add 1.1 million square meters of gross leasable area across key locations.. This initiative is part of Meor's broader strategy to develop eight industrial parks, enhancing logistics and operational efficiency for businesses in the region.

🚗 Auto Parts Industry in Yucatán

The auto parts industry is increasingly establishing a presence in YucatĂĄn, a region not traditionally known for automotive manufacturing. In 2024, YucatĂĄn experienced an 8.1% growth in automotive parts production, the highest in Mexico, indicating a significant shift in the region's industrial landscape . This growth is attributed to investments from companies looking to complement their manufacturing processes and export to Central America .

YucatĂĄn's exports of transportation equipment surged by 81.9% in 2024, reflecting its growing role in the automotive and aerospace sectors . The region has attracted $99.8 million in Foreign Direct Investment for transportation equipment manufacturing since 2006, with a notable portion directed towards the aerospace sector .

Key factors influencing this growth include improvements in infrastructure, energy supply, and the development of human capital through partnerships between industry and universities .

🌎Foreign Direct Investment (Q1 2025)

In the first quarter of 2025, Baja California attracted US$4 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI), accounting for 16% of Mexico's total FDI during this period. This influx of investment has resulted in the creation of over 19,600 direct jobs in the state. The significant interest from global companies is attributed to the region's competitive and stable conditions.

A notable investment announcement came from Sempra Energy, which plans to invest approximately US$3.5 billion in energy infrastructure within Baja California. Overall, the commerce sector led the national FDI attraction with US$11 billion, highlighting Baja California's crucial role in employment and investment dynamics. The state government credits this growth to effective coordination with various government levels and strategic initiatives aimed at bolstering key sectors in the region .

🔼 Future Outlook

The industrial real estate sector in Mexico continues to show strong growth potential, driven by nearshoring trends and strategic advantages. Key challenges include:

  • Need for infrastructure improvements

  • Limited availability of industrial-zoned land

  • Increasing demand for Class A facilities

However, the ongoing investments and development projects demonstrate strong market confidence and suggest continued growth in the sector. The combination of strategic location, competitive labor costs, and strong trade agreements positions Mexico favorably for continued industrial real estate expansion.


☎ CONTACT US

DiscoveryCRE is Mexico's Premier Commercial Real Estate Liaison Specializing in Nearshoring and Industrial Tenant Site Selection. We help companies make informed SITE SELECTION decisions. Manufacturing and Logistics Operations.

When nearshoring to Mexico, having the right partner makes all the difference. Our team primarily represents industrial tenants and buyers providing expert site selection and facility acquisition for manufacturing and logistics companies across Mexico.

Ready to simplify your Mexico expansion?

USA and Canada Toll free number 1 (800) 603-3460
Mexico Toll Free number 800 099 1437
Guadalajara Telephone number +52 33 3348 2317
Luis@DiscoveryCRE.com


Thank you for reading our edition of the MexicoCRE Newsletter. Stay tuned for more updates and investment opportunities! 🙏

Mexico News Daily

Latest News From Around Mexico

Where to Travel in Mexico 2025 Guide: Beach lovers

The beaches in Mexico rank high as some of the world’s best: from windswept strands with big swells to secluded coves where spearmint water laps up on silky white sand. The best part is there’s a beach for every kind of traveler in Mexico – whether you’re a family looking for safe, shallow waters, or a solo traveler seeking to get away from it all, or a digital nomad seeking surf breaks in between meetings.

When I first moved to Mexico with my family, it was the pristine beaches and outdoorsy lifestyle that led us to choose Playa del Carmen as our home base. In the years we spent there, we discovered surprisingly empty beaches and countless secret strands only locals knew of. I learned that no matter how touristy some parts of Mexico may be, you just need to dig deeper to uncover quiet, pristine corners. 

Nellie and her daughter in Playa del Carmen, one of the best beaches in Mexico

With that, I introduce you to the third installment of Where to Travel in Mexico 2025, a series that explores the best locations across Mexico for various groups of travelers: from digital nomads to outdoor adventurers and solo travelers. I’ve traveled extensively throughout Mexico and have seen my fair share of the coastlines; here I’ve hand picked five locations with the best beaches in Mexico for you.

Riviera Maya: For outdoor adventurers

I might be biased, but having lived here for a few years, I believe the Riviera Maya has, hands down, the best beaches in Mexico. Running along the Caribbean, this stretch of coastline from south of Cancun to Tulum is lined with ivory sand beaches that front ancient Maya ruins and vibrant beach towns. Yes, the Riviera Maya is touristy and the area gets busy during peak season, but there are still pockets of lesser-known areas waiting to be discovered.

Just off the shore lies the Mesoamerican barrier reef system, the second longest in the world, starting near Cancun and continuing all the way to Belize. There’s so much to do for underwater adventurers: from exploring the underwater museum MUSA to scuba diving with bull sharks off the reef and snorkeling in freshwater lagoons. Above water, adventure-seekers can get their fix at the numerous eco parks like Xcaret and Río Secreto and ancient Maya ruins; don’t miss the Tulum, Ek Balam and Cobá archaeological sites. Let’s not forget the cenotes or natural sinkholes that dot the Yucatan Peninsula: these beautiful caverns often spot clear cerulean freshwater perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

The best beaches in Riviera Maya, frequented mainly by locals, lie further south — from Xpu-Há to Caleta Tankah — with fine, sugary sand and crystal clear water. One of my personal favorites, Akumal Beach, is a great area to spot turtles, which come to feed on the sea grass that grows on the sandy bottom of the bay. Further south of Tulum sprawls the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, one of the largest protected areas in Mexico, crisscrossed by freshwater canals and lagoons.

Los Cabos and La Paz: For scuba divers and snorkelers 

Baja California Sur is where the desert meets the sea, where cacti-studded craggy mountains form the backdrop to some of the most unspoiled and dramatic beaches in Mexico. While the Pacific-facing beaches are wild and untamed, the shores along the Sea of Cortez tend to be calmer, often dotted with remote hideaways still untouched by large-scale tourism. 

Los Cabos may be a party town by night, but the array of outdoor activities it offers is impressive: from whale-watching to birdwatching in the San JosĂ© Estuary, sandboarding at Migriño Beach to hiking in Cañon de la Zorra. A must-do in Los Cabos is taking a boat to see El Arco, a naturally sculptured rock formation at Land’s End, where the Pacific Ocean collides with the Sea of Cortez dramatically. Only once every four years, sea levels dip low enough to expose a hidden beach beneath the arch.

Just a two-hour drive from the buzz of Los Cabos, La Paz offers a refreshing contrast. The coastal city is lively but unhurried, offering a more grounded Baja experience. It’s also a gateway to the Sea of Cortez, famously dubbed the ”aquarium of the world” by oceanographer Jacques-Yves Cousteau. Its rich waters make it one of the few places in the world where you can snorkel alongside sea lions, glide past gentle whale sharks and spot elusive leatherback turtles in their natural habitat. 

Isla Holbox: For boho islanders

Lying off the northeastern edge of the Yucatan Peninsula, Isla Holbox remains one of Mexico’s most laid-back, low-key destinations. This car-free island, fringed by turquoise shallows and powdery sandbanks, was my family’s favorite place to escape to on weekends while living in the Riviera Maya.

No traffic, no paved roads, no tall buildings — only miles of cerulean water and white sand beach. It’s a paradise for minimalist travelers looking to get away from it all. Once a quiet fishing village, Holbox began attracting curious travelers roughly a decade ago. But despite the rise in interest, local efforts have kept out large hotel chains and protected the island’s no-high-rise rule . You’ll only find rustic beachfront palapas, sandy streets and a pace of life that invites you to unplug — literally and figuratively, as internet access is famously inconsistent.

A flurry of activities are available for those, like me, who can’t sit still: swimming alongside whale sharks, kayaking through mangroves and seeing the bioluminescence at night. Holbox’s main appeal, though, lies in the slow pace of life and tranquility. Spend the day chilling on the sandbank, have street tacos for lunch and catch sunset on the main beach: Holbox invites you to enjoy the little things that matter.

Puerto Escondido: For surfers

Zicatela Puerto Escondido
(Arturo Pérez Alfonso/Cuartoscuro)

Far more untamed than the Riviera Maya, Oaxaca’s Pacific coastline offers a rugged alternative for travelers seeking a wilder beach experience. The landscape here is striking: golden sands edged by cliffs and rocky outcrops, with the roar of Pacific swells echoing through the coves. 

At the heart of it all is Puerto Escondido, a coastal town long embraced by surfers and free spirits drawn to its laid-back rhythm and bohemian energy. Known as one of Mexico’s premier surf destinations, Puerto Escondido has built a reputation around the powerful breaks of Playa Zicatela, often referred to as the Mexican Pipeline. Anyone looking to test the waters can book surf lessons tailored to their skill level.

My favorite beach in Puerto Escondido is tucked into a rocky cove beneath the cliffs: Playa Carrizalillo rewards those willing to take on the 167-step descent and the heart-pumping climb back up with jade waters and rolling waves perfect for beginner surfers. A short distance away, at the windswept stretch of Playa Bacocho,  the non-profit turtle sanctuary Vive Mar runs a turtle release program. Every day at 5 p.m., you can join them in guiding tiny hatchlings toward the waves — a moving experience for both adults and kids alike. 

Take a road trip down the coast to experience Oaxaca’s many beach towns. Nearby San Agustinillo has beautiful bungalows studded on the cliff’s edge, while Mazunte offers a more budget-friendly alternative where you can visit the Centro Mexicano de la Tortuga turtle research center. Zipolite, meanwhile, is a laidback bohemian town well known for its nudist beach. 

Riviera Nayarit: For the offbeat traveler 

Playa la Caleta, Nayarit
(Palladium Hotel Group)

Tucked between the Sierra Madre Occidental and the vast Pacific Ocean, Riviera Nayarit is one of Mexico’s least populated regions, but it has some of the best beaches in the country. Having remained relatively under the radar, this stretch of coastline appeals to those seeking more authentic experiences in low-key enclaves rather than party towns. But get there soon – with the announcements of new direct US-Nayarit flights starting in July, Nayarit will probably start seeing changes. 

Surfers gravitate toward Sayulita and San Pancho, two bohemian beach towns that buzz with laid-back charm and dependable waves. Luxury travelers are drawn more to Punta Mita, with its upscale resorts and polished beaches. Meanwhile, the historic port town of San Blas invites nature lovers to spot migrating humpback whales from December to March and explore its lush mangroves. 

One of the most unique places in Riviera Nayarit lies offshore: the Marietas Islands are home to a hidden beach nestled inside a crater-like formation. Accessible only by swimming, this tiny cove has become one of the coast’s most photogenic destinations.

Nayarit also boasts more Pueblos Mågicos than any other state in Mexico. New additions like Ahuacatlån, Amatlån de Cañas and Ixtlån del Río add historical and cultural depth with their cobblestone streets, thermal springs and archaeological ruins. 

What’s right for each type of traveler?

We’ve put together a table summarizing which destination would suit travelers based on their experience in Mexico.

Beginner travelers are those with limited international experience; maybe this is their first trip to Mexico. Ideal for first-timers who prefer margaritas with training wheels. These travelers stick to well-trodden paths, mastering “¿DĂłnde estĂĄ el baño?” while clutching a phrasebook. They thrive in destinations where guacamole arrives with optional spice and the hotel staff speak Google Translate.

Intermediate travelers are those with some international experience who can handle moderate language barriers and cultural differences. Ready to trade resorts for real-deal experiences, these travelers navigate cobblestone streets without face-planting. They’ve graduated to ordering “tres tacos al pastor” without pointing and can haggle for a sombrero in Oaxaca’s markets
 but still overpay by 20%.

Advanced travelers are those with extensive experience navigating complex destinations independently. These wanderers treat Mexico like a choose-your-own-adventure novel written in Spanglish. They’ve adopted a street dog named Churro, debate the merits of different artisanal mezcals and know which mercado stall has the best tamales oaxaqueños.

​​Nellie Huang is a professional travel writer and author based in San Miguel de Allende with her family. She has contributed to BBC Travel, CNN, International Business Times and National Geographic and co-authored Lonely Planet’s 2025 Mexico guide. Read about her adventures worldwide on wildjunket.com and follow her updates on Instagram @wildjunket.

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