Driving Distances to Top Mexico Destinations

Mexico is a country that covers a vast amount of land area and has everything from pristine tropical beaches, to dense lush jungles, to ancient ruins, and some of the best resorts in the world. Regardless of what you're looking for or what time of year you plan to travel, there are exciting destinations throughout Mexico. For road travelers the entire country is accessible by a highway system, if you know where to start.

Below you'll find information on popular destinations to drive to, what to see, which border crossing to use, and how far it is from the border in miles. Additionally, we provide a chart with all this information. Now, let's get going.

Ensenada

About 65 miles due south of Chula Vista, if you cross at the Tijuana border, Ensenada is a Pacific coast port city on the Baja California Peninsula with a heavy focus on culture and local wildlife. Visitors can seek out the Museo de Historio on the waterfront or enjoy shopping at popular stores along Ave Adolfo López Mateos near the port. Ensenada is also a popular point to see migrating gray whales. And it's just an hour from the largest wine producing region of Mexico, Valle de Guadalupe. This is a great day trip from southern California to experience a taste of what Baja is all about.

Loreto

From Tijuana, you'll drive 720 miles south to get to Loreto. This unique coastal town sits on the Sea of Cortez, near the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula. You'll get fantastic views of Bahía de Loreto National Park which is home to five large islands and 800 square miles of ocean (the Sea of Cortez), and an abundance of sea life including whales, dolphins, seals, and pelicans. Loreto is bordered by the Sierra de la Giganta mountain range where adventurous travelers can follow trails to prehistoric cave paintings.

Todos Santos

A travel destination popular with artists, featuring a number of impressive galleries, Todos Santos is about 1000 miles south of the U.S. border with Tijuana. Flanked by the Sierra de Laguna mountains, nearby beaches offer world class surfing. From hiking to hitting the waves, the options are endless.

San Felipe

San Felipe, on the eastern coast of the Baja Peninsula, is only a short drive from several national and state parks such as the Alto Golfo Biosphere Reserve that protects the habitats of shorebirds and harbor porpoises. Parque Nacional Sierra de San Pedro Mártir, at an elevation over 10,000 feet, is home to Mexico's second largest astronomical telescope. San Felipe is a sleepy town where you can enjoy the gulf of California and Sea of Cortez, and may even spot a rare California condor. During the winter months, the temperatures are usually mild and San Felipe is located only 125 miles from Mexicali.

Rocky Point (Puerto Peñasco)

Known as Rocky Point, the resort town of Puerto Peñasco is both a fishing village and a first class tourist destination. It's also known as Arizona's beach because it is only 60 miles southwest of Lukeville, Arizona. It is famous for it's dune backed beaches that front the Sea of Cortez, it's shrimp, and laid back feel. Enjoy fresh seafood, shopping, beach strolls, and the tidal pools of Bahía la Choya's (Cholla Bay) in this quaint Mexican town.

Guaymas

Guaymas is located 265 miles to the south of Nogales, Arizona, in the southwestern side of the state of Sonora. Sitting on the eastern side of the Sea of Cortez, the city is nestled in a valley. A wide variety of seafood comes in daily, including the giant shrimp the region is known for. More relaxed than other destinations, Guaymas has a less touristy feel and is popular with retirees. Popular sights include San Fernando Church built in 1850, and Thirteen of July Square, designed by Gustave Eiffel, best known for the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

Puerto Vallarta

A popular resort town on the Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta is known for its pristine beaches and abundant nightlife. The scenic seaside promenade (or malecon) sits alongside an active cobblestone downtown area, where you can find lots of shopping, art, and fabulous food. Puerto Vallarta has plenty to see and do. Located 1,010 miles south of El Paso, you will see much of the country along the way. It's well worth the driving distance.

San Miguel de Allende

Nestled in the central highlands, San Miguel De Allende was named the best city in the world by Travel + Leisure. It is well known for it's thriving arts community, a vibrant local culture and colorful traditions. The neo-Gothic church Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel features looming pink towers that draw visitors worldwide. Located 550 miles south of the Laredo, Texas crossing, a trip to San Miguel will take you straight through the heart of Mexico.

Mexico City

The capital city of Mexico, the high altitude grandeur of Mexico City needs to be seen to be appreciated. At 7,382 feet, it is even higher than Denver. The valley sits between two volcanoes reaching up to 16,000 feet including the massive snow capped Popocatepetl, which is still quite active. Major attractions include the ancient temple of Teotihuacan just northwest of the city, Baroque cathedrals and original art by Diego Rivera. The city has many deep rooted traditions including the Día de Muertos and pre-Christmas Las Posadas activities. The city is 750 miles south of the Laredo/Texas border, and you will drive through Monterrey to get there.

Puebla

Situated to the southeast of Mexico City, Puebla is 770 miles to the south of the Laredo, Texas border with Mexico. It has an eclectic mix of offerings for visitors. At first glance you'll notice an abundance of churches. Locals say there are 365 - one for every day of the year.

Puebla has a rich culinary history, claiming to be the origin of mole (a sauce made of chili peppers, chocolate, cinnamon, cumin and other ingredients), so it is a popular dish there. Shredded beef Pelonas are also a popular meal. The painted Talerva tiles that give Puebla its unique look are locally made. Uriarte located downtown is the best place to shop for them. As the origin of the Cinco de Mayo tradition and a UNESCO World Heritage sight, Puebla is a historically rich destination.

Oaxaca

About 975 miles south of Laredo, Texas, Oaxaca is a destination for history fans that will take you through Monterrey and Mexico City, as well. Colonial buildings made from green volcanic stone are a huge draw. There are colorful murals and the area is very popular for it's mole, a delicious sauce with a hint of chocolate. Due to the isolated nature of the city, the native mestizo culture has been preserved. The original inhabitants of Oaxaca are artisans and you can purchase their goods, as well as watch them being made. Travelers to Oaxaca often come in search of fine handmade items such as leather work, pottery, and jewelry.

A road trip from the U.S. to Mexico can be an exciting and fulfilling experience provided you plan ahead and keep a few basics in mind. Always plan for fuel stops. It's easy enough to pinpoint cities along the way with petrol stations and manage fuel consumption. And, never drive at night. When possible use toll roads, which are better maintained and easier to navigate. Acquiring travel insurance can help mitigate unforeseen circumstances. As well, Mexico liability insurance is a requirement.

Whether going for a day trip or making a once-in-a-lifetime road trip, Mexico has a lot to offer. Four separate coastlines, a vast and mountainous center region, and other hidden gems offer a rich history, culinary delights, and a lot of friendly faces.