With its world-class wine scene and award-winning beaches, the Mexican Riviera should top your wander list.
A Mexican Riviera cruise is the perfect getaway for all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re a foodie craving delicious local flavors, a wine enthusiast eager to sip unique varietals or a sun-seeker scoping out some of the world’s best beaches, you’ll find everything you’re looking for and more along Mexico’s beautiful western coast. Cruise from Los Angeles or San Diego and explore some of the Mexican Riviera’s most popular ports, like Ensenada, Cabo San Lucas, La Paz and Puerto Vallarta.
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Explore Cruises from California to Mexico
Bask in the wild natural beauty of Cabo San Lucas, with its windswept cliffs plunging into the Pacific. Sip local craft beers beachside in vibrant Puerto Vallarta. And embark on a wine- and food-tasting adventure while visiting cosmopolitan Ensenada. Or take a swim in the beautiful blue waters in La Paz and snorkel with gentle whale sharks.
La Paz
La Paz is a relaxed Baja California Sur escape on the Sea of Cortez, known for clear, calm water and a scenic malecón. Get closer to Baja’s nature with guided snorkel and swim tours, where you can float alongside sea lions and vibrant marine life, with seasonal chances to swim with whale sharks.
Cabo San Lucas
Things to Do Near the Port in Cabo San Lucas start on the Sea of Cortez: relax at Medano Beach, then hop on a water taxi to see El Arco at Land’s End. In season, book whale watching for unforgettable views of migrating humpbacks just offshore.
Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta blends beach town energy with vibrant culture just minutes from the cruise pier. Stroll the Malecón to spot street art and ocean views, browse local galleries, then head inland for tequila tasting and regional flavors. It’s an easy, feel-good port day with plenty to explore close by.
ADVENTURES FROM CALI TO CABO
If you’re looking for a vacation that’s equal parts beautiful scenery, rich culture and thrills the whole family will love, nothing beats Mexico cruises from California. Win the weekend with 3-night cruises to Ensenada. Wander longer with 4-5 night short vacations. Or go all-out for the week on 7 night Mexican Riviera cruises..
WHAT TO KNOW
BEFORE YOU GO
Ready for Adventure Year-Round
Mexico’s Baja Peninsula is bursting with things to do. And if you think you already know the region, think again — there are endless new discoveries to be made. From Ensenada to Puerto Vallarta to Cabo and La Paz, each city has its own distinct food scene well worth exploring. And Baja is rich in arts and culture, whether galleries or some street murals are more your scene. As for the great outdoors, warm days and breezy nights make it a perfect place to get away year-round.
Best month to cruise the Mexican Riviera — while the region is enjoyable year-round, many travelers favor January through March for cooler temperatures and peak whale migration season, while summer brings sunny beach days and prime surf conditions. And if you’re looking to venture away from the beaches, the rugged mountainsides and canyons make for some eye-opening hikes. Whether you prefer getting physical or unwinding and soak up some rays, dining, going for a drink or expanding your horizons, you really can have it all on a Mexican Riviera cruise.
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Mexico’s national currency is the Mexican Peso, but U.S. dollars are accepted everywhere.
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Many west coast locals will be acclimated to the water, but for the uninitiated, it can feel brisk, particularly outside the summer months. Consider a rash guard or similar coverage if you’re not used to cooler waters.
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Negotiating prices is common in many parts of Mexico, especially at local markets, beach vendors and for taxis or water taxis. It’s best to agree on a price before purchasing or starting a ride, keep conversations friendly and polite, and be prepared to walk away if something doesn’t feel right.
BOLD FLAVORS
ALONG THE BAJA COAST
Mexican cuisine is beloved around the world, and the food you’ll find along the Mexican Riviera has a flavor all its own. From Sonoran specialties like machaca stew to Baja beach-day classics like shrimp and fish tacos, you’ll find plenty of crave-worthy flavors to savor during your Mexico cruise.
SAVOR THIS STEW
A staple of the Sonoran cuisine popular in northern Mexico, machaca guisada is a stew that spotlights spiced beef or donkey. The meet is dried like jerky, pounded and simmered in spiced liquid until it’s tender again. It’s best enjoyed with flour tortillas.
LET’S TACO ‘BOUT IT
Even if you’ve never visited Mexico, chances are you’ve tried shrimp or fish tacos before. That said, nobody does them like they do along the Baja coast. Locals in the region typically serve tacos with grilled or fried seafood topped with lettuce or cabbage, pico de gallo and a sour cream or citrus mayonnaise.
TAMALE TIME
Though tamales are popular throughout central and south America, the ones you’ll find along Mexico’s western coast are unique. These are typically stuffed with pork (called guemes tamales) or chicken (tamales fajados de pollo) along with simmered olives and raisins.
RELATED PORTS
Where does a Mexican Riviera cruise go — Mexican Riviera cruises visit standout ports along Mexico’s Pacific coast, including Ensenada on the Baja Peninsula and Cabo San Lucas farther south. Many sailings from the California also stop at Catalina Island, Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlán.
