Looking for an adventure off the beaten path in Mexico? Skip the hot spots like Cabo and Tulum, and head to these Mexico hidden gems instead. From Guanajauto to Chiapas, you’ll have an amazing trip exploring the hidden gems of Mexico.
The Best Hidden Gems of Mexico
These hidden gems of Mexico offer everything from vibrant cities to outdoor adventures to historic sites and so much more. Explore Mexico off the beaten path at these awesome destinations:
- Bacalar (Quintana Roo)
- Merida (Yucatán)
- San Miguel de Allende (Guanajuato)
- Guanajuato (Guanajuato)
- Morelia (Michoacán)
- Chiapas State
- Todos Santos (Baja California Sur)
- La Paz & Isla Espíritu (Baja California Sur)
- Isla Holbox (Quintana Roo)
- Valle de Guadalupe (Baja California)
- Las Colorados (Yucatán)
Things to Do in Bacalar (Quintana Roo)
If you love the water, you must visit the tropical paradise of Bacalar, which is home to the second largest freshwater lake in Mexico.
Go for a Boat Ride on Lake Bacalar
Known as the “Lagoon of Seven Colors,” Laguna Bacalar is a gorgeous lake with a gradient of greens, blues, and white sand beaches. You can take a speedboat ride, float on a pontoon boat, or sail around the lagoon to soak in the beauty.
Snorkel at Cenote Azul
Right next to Bacalar Lagoon you’ll find the deep blue Cenote Azul. This open cenote is one of the largest in Mexico and is perfect for swimming or snorkeling in the crystal clear water. You can also rent a kayak to paddle around the cenote.
Check Out Fort San Felipe
Located in a picturesque perch atop a hill which overlooks Laguna Bacalar, Fort San Felipe was built in the 1700s to defend the town from pirates. Now it features a museum showcasing the Mayan and colonial history of the area.
Things to Do in Merida (Yucatán)
The capital of the Yucatán, Merida is the place to be to immerse yourself in the heritage and culture of Mexico.
Marvel at Chichen Itza
Probably the most popular day trip from Merida is a visit to the Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and its iconic pyramid. One of the Seven New Wonders of the World, Chichen Itza is just an hour and a half from Merida, and you can drive on your own or book a tour to get there.
Wander Through Plaza Grande
Plaza Grande is Merida’s beautiful and bustling central square. You can walk around and explore then rest on the plentiful benches which are shaded by laurel trees. Interesting events take place often, including a popular Sunday market.
Stroll Paseo de Montejo
The main boulevard in Merida, Paseo de Montejo, makes for a lovely walk. The boulevard runs north-south through the city and is lined with architecturally stunning colonial mansions. Many historical monuments are also located along Paseo de Montejo.
Things to Do in San Miguel de Allende (Guanajuato)
The historic town of San Miguel de Allende will make you fall in love with its cobblestone streets, creative energy, and culinary delights.
Stare at La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel
The architectural spectacle of La Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel is the centerpiece of San Miguel de Allende. The pink towers of the famous parish church rising above Jardín Allende will truly take your breath away.
Soak in the Hot Springs
While there is so much to explore in San Miguel de Allende, you should spend some of your time in town relaxing in one of the several hot springs nearby. Choose from the popular oasis of La Gruta, the tranquility of Escondido Place, or the luxurious Mayan Baths.
Savor the Foodie Scene
San Miguel de Allende is known as a world-class dining destination. Don’t miss Moxi for its unique take on local ingredients or one of the taco carts along the Jardín for a more casual meal. Satisfy your sweet tooth with the pastries from Panio.
Things to Do in Guanajuato
Guanajuato is one of the most gorgeous cities in Mexico with colorful alleyways and views that will take your breath away.
Wander the Alleys
Guanajuato is a city of interesting alleyways to wander through. The most famous is Callejón del Beso, where you can join the line to kiss your lover from across the balcony and snap a photo.
Mirador Panorámica
You can take to the funicular or walk up the hill to find the best view of the colorful city of Guanajato from Mirador Panorámica. From here, you can see the whole town with the foothills of the Sierra de Santa Rosa in the distance.
Things to Do in Morelia (Michoacán)
While Morelia flies under the radar,, this town has a little bit of everything to make it one of the best hidden gems of Mexico.
Catch the Light Show at Morelia Cathedral
While the Morelia Cathedral is gorgeous during the day, it’s extra special to see it illuminated at night. Saturday night is your chance to watch the light, sound, and fireworks show here.
Make Your Way to the Monarch Butterfly Reserve
A couple hours outside of Morelia is the Monarch Butterfly Reserve where the monarchs spend the winter after migrating from the US and Canada. From December to March, you can visit the reserve for a magical experience among the butterflies.
Things to Do in Chiapas State
From incredible ruins to stunning waterfalls, the southern state of Chiapas is full of wonders that make it one of the hidden gems of Mexico.
Visit the Palenque Ruins
Set in the jungle of the Tumbalá mountains of Chiapas, the Palenque ruins feature incredible Mayan temples. You can spend most of the day wandering through this archaeological site along the meandering paths.
Splash in the Waterfalls
The lush natural beauty of Chiapas is home to many stunning waterfalls that are a must-visit in this state. El Chiflón is made up of 5 cascading waterfalls, Agua Azul features turquoise water in a jungle setting, and Misol-Ha stands tall at over 100 feet.
Things to Do in Todos Santos (Baja California Sur)
If you’re an outdoor adventure lover, Todos Santos should be at the top of your list of Mexico hidden gems to visit.
Catch a Wave While Surfing
Todos Santos is surfing paradise for everyone, with multiple beaches to enjoy. Playa Cerritos is best for beginners, and Playa Pescadero, Playa San Pedrito, and Playa La Pastor offer even more waves.
Go Whale Watching
In the winter, you can take a tour from Todos Santos to spot the gray and humpback whales that migrate to the area. You might even spot them from shore, especially from the cliffs of Punta Lobos.
Things to Do in La Paz & Isla Espíritu Santo (Baja California Sur)
Relax on the water in the Baja California Sur beach town of La Paz, one of the hidden gems of Mexico that feels like paradise.
Take a Trip to the Island
A day trip to Isla Espíritu Santo is an absolute must to see the marine life and so much more. If you take a tour with a stop at Los Islotes, you can even swim with sea lions.
Stroll the Malecón
The La Paz Malecón or boardwalk runs for 5km along the waterfront and features a number of fun sculptures along the way. It is a favorite of locals and tourists alike and is the ideal place to watch the sunset.
Relax at Playa Balandra
On the north side of La Paz, you’ll find the tranquil escape of Balandra Beach. The turquoise waters are calm and the soft white sand is perfect to sunbathe on.
Things to Do in Isla Holbox (Quintana Roo)
Escape off the coast of the Yucatán peninsula to Isla Holbox, one of the best hidden gems of Mexico if you’re seeking sand and sea.
Enjoy the Beautiful Beaches
The beaches of Isla Holbox – from Punta Mosquito & Punta Cocos – are so inviting, you might just want to spend all day in one of the seaside hammock. If you get hungry, sample the local specialty, lobster pizza.
Swim with Whale Sharks
From late May to mid-September, you can book a tour to swim with the whale sharks off Isla Holbox for a truly special experience with these cool creatures.
Things to Do in Valle de Guadalupe (Baja California)
Head to the vineyards of Valle de Guadalupe and explore wine country at this hidden gem in Baja.
Visit the Vineyards
Valle de Guadalupe is the main wine region of Mexico, so wine tasting at the many vineyards along La Ruta del Vino (The Wine Route) is what you come here for. Visit in August to attend the annual Wine Harvest Festival.
Things to Do in Las Colorados (Yucatán)
Find a unique and stunning pink lake off the beaten path in Mexico in Las Colorados.
See the Pink Lagoon
The main attraction in Las Colorados is the incredible pink lagoon. This rose-tinted lake gets its color because the extra salty water is home to red algae, brine shrimp, and plankton. To access the unique pink lagoon, a guided tour is required.
Read More: 20 Amazing Things to Do in Oaxaca – From Mitla to Mole to Mezcal
Offering a little something for everyone, I hope this list of the best-hidden gems of Mexico helps you find your perfect escape!
