The Ultimate Spring Break Destinations in Mexico: Party, Play, Indulge

Where, What, and How to Make Your Spring Break in Mexico Unforgettable

Spring break in Mexico is practically a rite of passage, but not all the hotspots are created equal. Whether you're craving beachside revelry, high-end resorts, or a mix of adventure and culture between rounds of margaritas, these Mexico spring break destinations deliver the ultimate getaway. From the iconic energy of Cancun to the underrated charm of Puerto Vallarta, here's your inside guide to the most popular Mexico spring break locations—complete with insider tips to take your trip to the next level.

Cancun's Hotel Zone

Cancun: The OG of Spring Break

Cancun is the heart of spring break in Mexico. The city is packed with beachfront sprawling resorts, all-you-can-drink pool parties, and an electric nightlife that keeps going long after the sun comes up.

What to Do:

• Legendary clubs for night owls: Coco Bongo, The City, and Mandala
• Daytime Escapes:
  • Take a ferry to Isla Mujeres for blissful beach time in crystal clear waters.
  • Cool off in one of the Yucatán's famous cenotes.
  • Or take a day trip to Chichén Itzá to explore the incredible Mayan ruins. Many tour operators will pick you up right from your hotel.

Where to Eat:

• Mar Bella is one of Cancun's best-kept secrets for oceanfront seafood, possibly because it is hidden above a humble grocery store.
• Café Antoinette serves French-Mexican fusion to die for.

Cabo San Lucas: Where Spring Break Meets Luxury

Cabo is where spring breakers and A-listers collide—at infinity pools, oceanfront clubs, and sunset yacht parties.

What to Do:

• Beach bars along Medano Beach are your daytime headquarters (we love The Office).
• If you need an escape, take a boat ride to El Arco to watch an incredible sunset.
• Want to shake off last night's cocktails? Trade the beach for an ATV and race through the Baja desert. Wild Canyon Adventures offers adrenaline-pumping rides on some of the best off-road trails in the area.

Where to Eat:

• Flora Farms is a peaceful organic farm-to-table restaurant that is an absolute must.
• Tacos Guss offers handmade tortillas with flavor-packed fillings and a salsa bar that lets you customize every bite.

Puerto Vallarta: LGBTQ+ Friendly & Wildly Fun

Puerto Vallarta is the darling of Mexico spring break locations, offering a balance of nightlife, adventure, and jaw-dropping Pacific Coast sunsets. It's also one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly destinations in Latin America, with the Zona Romántica's nightlife scene welcoming all.

What to Do:

• Dance all night at CC Slaughters or Mr. Flamingo.
• Detox with a morning hike to Colomitos Beach on a hidden cove with turquoise water and soft sand. The trail starts in the small fishing village of Boca de Tomatlán and winds along the coast, passing quiet beaches along the way. If you're up for a longer trek, continue to Playa Las Animas. The entire hike is about two miles one-way, and you can take the water taxi back to Boca de Tomatlan.
• If you're looking for a real adrenaline rush, try ziplining with Vallarta Adventures. After a quiet boat ride through the bay, your day will be filled with heart-thumping excitement!

Mexpro's Roxanna McDade Ziplining with a Friend in Puerto Vallarta

Where to Eat:

• For something quick and unforgettable, grab a seafood burrito at Tacon de Marlin.
• Tintoque serves beautifully plated Mexican dishes in a cozy patio setting, blending tradition with modern flavors.
• Café des Artistes offers a blend of elegant ambiance, live music, and exquisite cuisine for a dining experience that's both unique and unforgettable.

Playa del Carmen/Tulum: Boho Beaches & Cenotes

Playa del Carmen and Tulum are for spring breakers who want to party and pretend they're on a wellness retreat. You get the best of both worlds—Playa del Carmen's buzzing nightlife and Tulum's jungle-chic beach clubs.

What to Do:

• Spend the day at some of the region's most stunning cenotes: Gran Cenote and Dos Ojos.
• In Tulum, unwind with a mezcal cocktail at Ziggy's.
• In Playa, spend the day lounging at Lido Beach Club. When the sun goes down, head to La Bodeguita del Medio for Cuban beats and great salsa dancing.

Where to Eat:

• Hartwood in Tulum is a must for its wood-fired, ultra-fresh seafood (reserve well in advance).
• In Playa, El Fogón is the go-to spot for legendary al pastor tacos—don't leave without trying them.

Insider Tips

• Book early: Prices spike as spring break approaches, so lock in your flights and hotel as soon as possible.
• All-inclusive vs. boutique hotels: If you plan to stay put and sip piña coladas by the pool, an all-inclusive resort is worth it. But if you're an explorer, boutique hotels give you more flexibility.
• Pace yourself: Tequila is great—until the mix of heat, sun, and dehydration kicks in. Drink water between rounds and pack electrolyte packets to avoid the dreaded vacation hangover.
• Bring sunscreen: A sunburn can ruin your trip faster than a bad hotel. Apply and reapply—future you will thank you.
• Get Mexico Auto Insurance: If you're driving your own car or a rental from the U.S., you'll need valid Mexico auto insurance. Mexpro offers reliable coverage in minutes.
• Get Travel Insurance: From emergency medical to trip cancelation and delay coverage, having travel insurance can save you from unexpected headaches. A little goes a long way.

Spring break isn't just about the destination—it's about the moments that make it unforgettable. Whether dancing until dawn, discovering hidden beaches, or savoring incredible food, Mexico offers a holiday you'll be talking about long after the sunburn fades.