A honeymoon may be the perfect get-out-of-jail-free card with your boss that lets you take a longer vacation than usual, but sometimes life gets in the way and that epic trip just has to wait. That needn’t mean giving up on the idea altogether, though.
Consider a ‘minimoon’ – an abbreviated version of your ultimate getaway. If you’re short on time but big on ideas, this could be the trip for you.
There are several reasons why a minimoon might work best for you. Some spouses-to-be plan a short getaway before the wedding. This growing trend in some parts of the world is like a palate cleanser in advance of the big day: you’ve worked really hard to plan the ceremony and the party, and want to step back and find your Zen before saying ‘I do’. The more classic reason for condensing your time away is that it’s simply not possible to take a long trip right after the nuptials – perhaps work commitments are biting, or you’ve got kids. In cases such as this, a minimoon can become the main event or, for some, the stopgap before a more traditional honeymoon further down the road.
Typically, a minimoon could be anything from a weekend to a week away. When planning your trip, consider following this simple rule: the number of hours you travel should not be greater than the number of days of your trip. So, for a four-day trip, for example, you should ostensibly book a flight no longer than four hours. This equation essentially safeguards against two things: crippling jet lag and spending too much time of your short trip travelling. Ask yourself the following two questions when deciding what destination will work best for your trip:
Is my destination of choice different enough from where I live and my everyday life that I’ll feel the full effect of travel’s magic?
Is my destination of choice different enough from my ‘real’ honeymoon down the road (should you be planning one) that it will feel like a special trip in itself?
For some travellers, a minimoon is the only way to climb up to the next price bracket. By shortening a stay, a dream hotel may suddenly come into reach. If there’s a super-special resort on your Pinterest board, now’s the time to book it! In general, time is extra valuable on a minimoon so it’s best to stick to one accommodation and avoid additional hours wasted on transferring hotels and falling into that awkward post-check-out/pre-check-in vacuum between 11am and 2pm. Travellers wanting two stripes to their minimoon (beach and city, say) should target a destination that offers both, like Cartagena in Colombia or Lisbon in Portugal, rather than moving between two stops on one trip.
Like a regular honeymoon, an itinerary for a shorter foray should read like a story. The action should gradually crescendo – you’ve just left the hectic rhythm of your life behind and need a moment to click into vacation mode. The middle of the trip functions like the meat of the sandwich. Get out there and explore, do everything on your checklist (leaving room for serendipity, of course) and joke about needing a vacation from the vacation. Then, push the brakes as you approach the end of the trip.
The last piece of the itinerary – even if it’s just one day – is the happy ending. Does the hotel have a spa? Great – soothe those walking legs in the jacuzzi. Is there an incredible restaurant around the corner? Wonderful – enjoy a long, luxurious dinner. This is the time to remember the trip’s raison d’être: celebrating each other. The last slice of the vacation should leave you feeling refreshed and poised to return home to brag to your friends.
Denver, three days – Natalie Nicolson, Senior PR and Communications Manager
My husband and I rented a Volkswagen van for our wedding and were planning on a big road trip down the California coast to New Mexico, but since we wanted to spend more time with relatives in town, we opted for a quick, easy trip instead, to unwind together for a few days post-wedding.
We got an inexpensive flight from Oakland to Denver, where we had never been, and had a great time taking in the city: staying in a high-rise apartment, hiking near Red Rocks Amphitheater, going on a brewery tour through LoDo and RiNo neighborhoods, listening to live music, and lots and lots of eating. One of the (surprisingly romantic) highlights of the trip was the Denver Museum of Nature and Science with its stunning views of downtown and the mountains beyond.
Paris, four days – Helen Elfer, Content Sources Manager
We weren’t planning to take a proper honeymoon any time soon, but wanted a short break to relax after all the wedding excitement. Our friends had come to London for our wedding from NYC and Shanghai, and it seemed such a missed opportunity to not be able to spend a decent amount of time with them when they’d travelled so far, so we arranged to all meet in Paris a few days later.
I guess it’s not very traditional to bring four friends and baby along on a honeymoon! We strolled round Belleville to check out the street art and hit up any bars we could find with ‘coupe de champagne’ on Happy Hour special offer. We had heaps of fun and it definitely helped soften the post-wedding comedown.
Scotland, four days – Dan Fahey, Destination Editor for Western Europe
We had four days between us tying the knot and our friends walking down the aisle the following weekend, so we decided to grab a quick break in-between – primarily to avoid the post-wedding clean up. I imagined a traditional honeymoon would feature a little more relaxation, perhaps a sun lounger and a cocktail. This was Scotland in October, though. So gale-force winds and Tennant’s lager it was.
Each morning we’d drive to a new hiking spot to splash foolhardily through lashing elements as our cagoules inflated and flapped about in the wind like brightly-coloured carrier bags. Then it was back to the hotel for a hot bath, whiskies in front of the crackling fire in the hotel bar and a three-course dinner. Pure bliss. Maybe we should renew our vows and go back?
Wedged between Brazil and Argentina is a country no bigger than the US state of California – with the largely inaccessible Gran Chaco region accounting for about 60% of its land mass. Perhaps that’s why even ambitious travelers often overlook Paraguay. (It doesn’t help that there’s no dedicated Lonely Planet guide to the country.)
Yet visitors who do make it to this subtropical, landlocked South American country find ample rewards: quirky cities, rich cultural sites and natural beauty. And no chance of overtourism.
If you’re among the many who have never been, here’s what you need to know before your visit to Paraguay.
Paraguay is one of the best countries to visit next year. See our full list of Best in Travel 2025 winners.
When should I go to Paraguay?
Most areas of Paraguay have a subtropical climate, so expect hot, humid and rainy conditions year-round. Temperatures are especially high during the South American summer months (December through February), with rain more likely during winter months (June through September). Unlike countries with high numbers of tourists, high and low seasons aren’t really a thing in Paraguay, and prices remain largely affordable, with few seasonal price bumps, no matter what time of year you choose to visit.
How much time should I spend in Paraguay?
Since much of the west of the country is inaccessible, top destinations in the east are relatively close together. Yet public-transportation options are limited (see below). If you’re only interested in a few top sites and a city or two, count in a week-long visit. If you’re interested in seeing all of the top destinations across Paraguay – such as touring the Itaipu dam, visiting Jesuit missions and exploring the country’s parks and waterfalls – allow at least two weeks. If you also plan to do ambitious hiking and camping, and/or spend time exploring more-remote areas such as the Chaco region, add on additional days.
For maximum ease and comfort, you should consider renting your own vehicle in Paraguay. Max Maximov Photography/Shutterstock
Is it easy to get in and around Paraguay?
International flights land at Silvio Pettirossi International Airport in the capital of Asunción. But a flight isn’t required to get here: since Paraguay is part of the so-called Tri-Border Region, overland crossings are available and easy to and from southern Brazil and northern Argentina. Once in Paraguay, you’ll find that cities are walkable and taxi services readily available. Short- and long-distance buses traverse Paraguay – but don’t expect comfort or ease of booking, especially if your Spanish is not strong. Consider renting a vehicle for travel between destinations: many major international rental companies have vehicles for hire from the international airport in Asunción. Local car rental companies also exist.
Top things to do in Paraguay
Not far from Iguazú, roaring Monday Falls does not disappoint. Jan-Schneckenhaus/Getty Images
The best way to stay connected.
Saily provides a hassle-free solution to travel data — just choose your data plan and prepare for your trip. When you get to your destination, you can go online right away.
Get your eSIM
Go chasing waterfalls
In a country crisscrossed by water channels, Paraguay has some dazzling waterfalls, including Monday Falls, and national parks with waterfalls within their borders. Ñacunday National Park, for example, is home to the Ñacunday Waterfall as well as a few short trails and a basic camping area near the falls.
Take a dam tour
One of the world’s largest hydroelectric dams and power plants is located in Paraguay (all that water!). Located on the mighty Paraná River and shared with Brazil, the Itaipu Binacional Hydroelectric Center provides all of the electricity needed within Paraguay. Free guided tours are offered to the public, which include a visit to the massive dam. Time it just right and you might see the enormous floodgates open, a dramatic event that only happens a few times each year.
The ruins of former missions in Paraguay show the ambition of the Jesuit priests who sought to spread Christianity. Aleksandra Kossowska/Shutterstock
Explore the missions route
Jesuit missionaries had a short but pivotal presence in Paraguay, where they established a string of seven missions, each anchored by a church and a settlement. The remains of these missions are today collectively protected as a UNESCO site. Visiting these sites – which include Jesús de Tavarangüe and La Santísima Trinidad de Paraná – conveys both the architectural and engineering prowess of the Jesuits, as well as their quest to convert locals to Christianity. La Santísima Trinidad (the Holy Trinity), for example, sprawls over nearly 20 acres and is anchored by an enormous church where visitors can still see what remains of elaborate decorative elements.
Enjoy tasty Asian food (really!)
In the 20th century, immigrants from China, South Korea and Japan began arriving in Paraguay in sizable numbers – thankfully bringing their cuisines with them. Today, you can find many restaurants serving Asian food in Paraguay’s largest cities, and even in smaller towns. Hiroshima is an enormous institution favored by locals looking for quality Japanese food in Encarnación. Head to Sawasdee in Asunción for satisfying Thai and Indian dishes.
A youthful population and a lively arts scene give Asunción, the Paraguayan captial, an up-and-coming vibe. María Magdalena Arréllaga for Lonely Planet
My favorite thing to do in Paraguay
Give the capital its due. While there are plenty of natural and cultural areas to explore in Paraguay, its capital Asunción (enticingly nicknamed the “World’s Capital of Friendship”) deserves some of your travel time as well. The city of 2 million is filled with a range of hotels, craft-beer producers and a growing roster of notable restaurants. Museums and street art add to a creative flair, with a youthful population and an entrepreneurial spirit giving the city a major up-and-coming vibe.
Hotel Bristol in central Asunción is a budget winner offering more than most at this price point. Diners will find creative dishes from a talented chef/sommelier couple at Pakuri. And Museo del Barro offers a well-curated mix of contemporary, colonial and European art (including paintings by Matisse and a Monet); pottery and textiles from around Paraguay; and many examples of the larger-than-life work of artist Ricardo Migliorisi (who was born in Asunción).
I found so much to see and do in Asunción that I extended my stay in the city.
How much money do I need for Paraguay?
Generally speaking, prices at hotels, restaurants, national parks, museums and other destinations and attractions are quite affordable because they are set with the locals’ limited budgets rather than tourist dollars in mind. Though credit cards may be accepted, it’s best to have local currency on hand at all times. Like its neighbors, the Paraguayan economy and currency (called the guarani) is subject to sometimes dramatic fluctuations, affecting prices.
Basic private room for two: 180,000–250,000 guarani (US$23–32)
Simple two-course set lunch: 30,000–40,000 guarani (US$4–5) per person
More tips for enjoying Paraguay
Be prepared to speak Spanish with vendors and locals in Paraguay. María Magdalena Arréllaga for Lonely Planet
Be ready to speak some Spanish
While some English is spoken in Paraguay, it’s nowhere near as common as it is in better-touristed South American countries. If your language skills are limited, bring a phrase book or brush up on your Spanish before you travel here. You will likely hear Paraguayans speaking Guarani (or a mix of Spanish and Guarani) – an Indigenous language that is proudly maintained as the country’s second official language.
Stay alert
Like most border towns, gritty and bustling Ciudad del Este is a bit rough around the edges. Pack your common sense and remain aware of your surroundings. And don’t be surprised to see guns: on more than one occasion, I witnessed uniformed men as well as locals openly carrying firearms.
Pack for hot and wet weather
The weather in Paraguay is likely to be hot, humid, and rainy no matter when or where you visit – so pack accordingly. While shorts, short-sleeve shirts and even tank tops are worn by locals, short-shorts or any other type of revealing clothing is best left at home.
With coasts on both the Pacific and Caribbean and seemingly endless miles of coastline, narrowing down a list of the best beaches in Mexico is a challenge. The diverse array of shoreline experiences – from surfing the waves of Puerto Escondido to relaxing in blue waters in Puerto Vallarta – assures there is an exotic beach that will meet anyone’s desire to sink their toes in the sand.
On the Pacific Coast, among the favorite local spots in Mexico are intimate coves lined with fresh fish taco stands. Looking for the best beaches in Cancun? Head to the Caribbean side, beckoning with calm, turquoise waters that are excellent for snorkeling, fishing and boating. Take advantage of its rich history, Mayan archaeological sites, uniquely delectable cuisine and beachside abodes. Still more of the best beaches in Mexico are in remote areas of Baja California, where you can live your beach bum life in a camper van and get up close and personal with an occasional gray whale.
Here at Lonely Planet, we appreciate every kind of beach day, so we’ve put together a list of the best of the best, whether you’re looking to stay far from the crowds, get active, or join the party.
This stretch of hidden coves south of Mulegé in Baja California Sur is one of the most stunningly beautiful stretches of coast in Baja, if not all of Mexico. Bahía Concepción is a stop for outdoorsy road trippers, who often stay for weeks. The milky, blue-green water, funky rock formations and marine wildlife make it a top stop for kayakers. And the protection of the coves make for great swimming.
There are a number of budget-friendly, water-front camping areas throughout the coves, and we recommend you settle in before nightfall if you’re planning to stay a while.
Looking for a truly remote stay but need lodging? Check out Todos Santos Eco Adventures (TOSEA). They have three glamping options tucked away so well, you may forget the rest of the world even exists. Camp Cecil de la Isla is in a protected cove on Espiritu Santo. Their few luxury glamping tents come with an amazing chef and all the swimming, kayaking, snorkeling and paddle boarding you can handle. Or swim with sea lions – an unforgettable adventure – as you learn about the island’s ecology from a certified naturalist and guide.
And you can rest easy, TOSEA works hard to create sustainable experiences for guests. Working in tandem with naturalists, conservationists and the residents of Baja California, they’ve managed to help reduce plastic pollution in Todos Santos while creating a glamping experience, where “leave no trace” is the norm.
While Mexico is flush with tourist beaches that all have their charms, Tulum is our favorite. Many visitors to Tulum bike or walk the 3-mile (4km) paved path from downtown to reach the sand – among them Playa Paraiso, one of the best beaches in Tulum. Its spectacular coastline – with its sugary sands, cobalt water and balmy breezes – makes it one of the best beaches in Mexico. Plus where else can you get all that and a dramatically situated Mayan Ruin?
Stay in lush digs and dine in stylish restaurants with instagram-worthy views, especially on the sandy stretch known as Playa Paraiso. There are also plenty of activities around to keep you busy if you choose to pry yourself out of your rented lounge chair for the afternoon.
You can stay near the beach, where the prices are a little heftier, but for the budget-conscious there are hotels near the old town. For our money, we like the eco-oriented La Posada del Sol near the beach. And hot tip – head to Taquería Honorio for the best classic cochinita pibil, a roasted pork dish in a succulent marinade.
Oaxaca’s beautiful Pacific coast is home to several varied, relaxed beach destinations and a near-empty shoreline strung with long golden beaches and lagoons full of wildlife. Playa Salchi, halfway between the western edge of Parque Nacional Huatulco and Puerto Ángel, is some of the most precious coastline in Oaxaca.
The water can be somewhat rough on the main beach, but there are several swimmable beaches nearby. The nearby town of Huatulco was developed in the late 1980s with a more ecological bent than some of the bigger resorts in Mexico. More than 100 dive sites and 45 hectares of coral reefs in the surrounding waters make this the ideal low-key destination for all things below the surface. Dolphins, turtles and humpback whales all cruise through this coastline.
For the best tours head to Huatulco Salvaje, a group of certified tour guides local to the area. Many of them are from families that were displaced after the creation of Parque Nacional Huatulco in the 1990s and they know their stuff when it comes to nature tours.
Puerto Vallarta fell out of favor for a while as Cancún rose to prominence, but this enticing coastal destination is stretched around the sparkling blue Bahía de Banderas and backed by lush palm-covered mountains. It’s also known for a popping nightlife and with numerous LGBT-friendly options, it has become the gay beach capital of Mexico.
The best beach near Puerto Vallarta is Yelapa. It’s the furthermost of the southern beaches from town tucked into a secluded and beloved bay. It’s home to a small community that fishes off the pier. It can be a bit busy with day-trippers, but it empties out in the afternoon and has several comfortable places to stay if you prefer quiet evenings.
Riviera Nayarit is all the rage with families these days and it’s really no wonder. Punta Mita and Sayulita are both charming little surf towns with clear, aquamarine water, white sand, great food and tons of wildlife excursions into the stunning, jungled mountains. But head to the peaceful, drowsy backwater of San Blas for the perfect laid back charm.
The beaches here, Playa Los Cocos, Playa Miramar and our favorite Playa Las Islitas are popular for surfing and have palapas under which you can lounge and drink fresh coconut water. Playa Las Islitas is wonderfully swimmable with a very gentle surf, just perfect for beginners.
If you’re searching for surf though, head to Troncones, where the world-class surfing has been attracting ex-pats for a few years now. There’s also good mountain biking in the hills and day trips to check out petroglyphs in a nearby cave and a local hot spring to soak sore surfer muscles.
Cozumel remains Mexico’s number one stop for diving and snorkeling. The surrounding reefs are world-renowned and for good reason. The jaw-droppingly impressive variety of marine life is visible year-round and includes spotted eagle rays, moray eels, groupers, barracudas, turtles, sharks, brain coral and some huge sponges.
The beach at El Cielo, living up to its heavenly name, has shallow turquoise waters that are ideal for snorkeling and swimming among starfish, stingrays and other small, bright fish. It’s only reachable by boat, and tour operators are readily available for the half–mile journey from Cozumel. Book a trip with Aldora Divers, one of the best dive shops in Cozumel. They’ll take you to the windward side of the island when the weather is bad on the western side and have full-day excursions to caves with sleeping sharks. September and October offer the best weather conditions for diving.
More than 60km long with a bottom of sparkling white sand, the crystal-clear Laguna Bacalar offers opportunities for camping, swimming, kayaking and simply lazing around amid a color palette of blues, greens and shimmering whites — as if you’ve left real life behind and stepped into a filter-perfect world.
The small and sleepy town has enough tourism to give you things to do and places to eat, but let’s be honest, it’s the quiet opportunity to soak in all the beauty that is the draw here.
To live out your cabana-over-turqouise-water dreams head to Rancho Encantado. A day at this striking hotel consists of wake up, have breakfast on the lagoon, kayak or swim in calm, translucent waters and then unwind in the Jacuzzi.
Playa Los Algodones
Near the under-the-radar beach retreat of San Carlos, in the state of Sonora, Playa Los Algodones is arguably the most beautiful beach in northern Mexico. The sand is fine and white, the water blue and calm and the view is of dramatic mountains.
The low-key San Carlos is presided over by the majestic twin peaks of Cerro Tetakawi which glow an impressive red-earthed hue as the sun descends. Kayaking is the main activity other than beach lounging, but there are hikes up the mountains and horseback riding in the desert.
Northern Mexico isn’t often traveled by visitors holding passports from outside of Mexico, but it can get packed with weekend warriors from nearby Hermosillo. Even so, Sonora sees far fewer travelers, especially foreigners, than its myriad attractions and drop-dead beauty would suggest.
The beach at Zipolite is huge, running for a good 1.5km and dispatching massive waves. It’s famous for nudity, so you’ll see people randomly swimming, sunbathing or happily walking across the wet sand minus their clothes at any time of day. It is more common in a couple of coves at the western end of the beach and in the small bay called Playa del Amor.
The town of Zipolite is a chilled-out strip of palapas, beach shacks and intentionally rustic boutique hotels. It’s the largest of the three beach towns that decorate the coast west of Puerto Angel and it’s well known for surfing, an unashamed ‘do nothing’ vibe and a touch of bohemian magic.
The essence and glory of Zipolite is that organized activity is minimal. This is a place for hanging out and doing just as little as you like. But you need to eat so head to the outstanding La Providencia, a contemporary Mexican treat with a perfect open-air lounge.
Ahhh Puerto Escondido. Is this where surfers go when they die? Many places claim to be the world’s best surfing beach, but Puerto Escondido’s Playa Zicatela – 3.5km of golden sand and crashing waves – makes many wave-rider’s top 10 for good reason. The heart of the action is the Mexico Pipeline at the northern end. But, if you’re looking to learn among the best, head to Playa Carrizalillo.
This small, beautiful sheltered cove west of the center is a superstar of Mexico’s beaches and a gorgeous place to hang out, swim and live vicariously as a surfer dude. In fact, it is the place for beginner surfers. Book a lesson and you’ll probably end up here making a splash or three. There is a mellow line of palapa beach bars when you finish.
Around town you’ll find that the Rinconada quarter is emerging as a culinary hot spot and the beach bars in Zicatela host spirited dance parties for late-night mischief.
Playa del Caballo
Playa del Caballo is adjacent to Playa las Ánimas, a popular tourist beach getaway for the locals of Puerto Vallarta that is accessible by water taxi.
At the teeming shores of Playa las Ánimas are rows of beach chairs and crowded bars. But a short walk to the north, on a path that winds behind a few small bungalows, opens to Playa del Caballo. A true paradise with electric blue water and towering palm trees, this beach is like your own private discovery, where the bevy of crabs that scuttle up to shore make up most of the fellow travelers.
Playa Delfines
Ask any local about the best beach in Cancún, and you’re sure to hear about Playa Delfines. Running south of the Zona Hotelera across the street from Cancún’s most important ancient archaeological site – El Rey – Playa Delfines is one of the few beaches in Cancún not dominated by an imposing resort.
You won’t be alone here as it’s hugely popular, but there’s plenty of powdery sand for everyone to spread out. This sweeping beach is one of the rare surfing spots in Cancún, so bring your board or simply play in the waves. Plenty of parking, public restrooms, lifeguards, rows of thatch-roofed palapas that are free to use, and even a playground make this an ideal spot for families. Enjoy the churros and mango-on-a-stick sold by the vendors.
Playa Mujeres
Visitors to the Cancun area have discovered Playa Mujeres, what was once a secret, to the north of the Zona Hotelera. Home to several adults-only resorts and the Playa Mujeres Golf Club, Playa Mujeres tends to appeal to a mature, well-heeled crowd looking to unwind. Still it remains relatively quiet and unvisited. You won’t find thumping beach clubs or imposing mega-resorts here – just elegant boutique hotels and miles of pristine sand.
Holbox
Located on Holbox Island, north of the Yucatán Peninsula in the Yum Balam nature reserve, Holbox beach (hol-bosh) is known for its fine white sand, turquoise waters and colorful Caribbean buildings.
Known in Mayan as “black hole,” several spots around Holbox are worth exploring, like Bird Island (Isla Pájaros), Passion Island (Isla Pasión) and the Yalahau freshwater pool.
Playa Norte
Ten miles off the coast of Cancún, Playa Norte is located on Isla Mujeres, famous for having the largest concentration of whale sharks on the planet.
Compared to Cancún, Playa Norte is significantly quieter than Cancun, and both locals and tourists use golf carts, bikes and scooters to move around the beach and the island. Once you reach Playa Norte, you won’t want to leave.
Melaque
Melaque, Jalisco is a classic Mexican beach town where front doors are kept open for the breezes, and mom-and-pop stores overflow with tropical fruits, glass bottle sodas, and portable coolers filled with freshly made tortillas.
Just steps from the cobblestone streets is a five-mile-long (8km) bay dotted with whitewashed buildings and palm trees. The surf attracts boogie boarders and the sand is gloriously empty most of the year. It’s a popular spot for nesting sea turtles, and snorkeling and fishing are popular nearby. For beachfront eats, there’s a clutch of thatched-roof restaurants on the north side of the bay where freshly caught fish is served by the kilo, whole and fried.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which part of Mexico has the nicest beaches?
Since it has beaches to suit every taste – from remote islands to romantic coves to kid-friendly resorts, it’s hard to pin down a particular area where you’ll find the best beaches in Mexico. However, for easy access to soft, sugar-white sands and bonafide beautiful blue seas, many people tend to gravitate toward beaches along the Yucatan Peninsula and Quintana Roo.
Which beach has the clearest water in Mexico?
With thousands of miles of coastline, Mexico boasts many beaches with crisp, clear, turquoise water. But if we had to narrow down our list to the top three beaches providing the greatest water clarity would be Tulum, Playa Norte and Isla Mujeres.
What is the safest beach destination in Mexico?
Although there is no official safety designation for Mexico’s beaches, the US State Department has issued no recent travel advisories for Puerto Vallarta. But Mexico’s miles of coastline offer many safe places to visit. And just as you would while traveling anywhere, use good judgment, stay aware of your surroundings, and avoid illicit activities.
What is the nicest part of Mexico to vacation in?
From exploring jungle wildlife to climbing Mayan ruins, and from flip-flopping along remote sandy paths to immersing yourself in vibrant culture and crafts, Mexico has a host of vacation spots to satisfy anyone’s dream of the perfect vacation.
Which coast is better in Mexico?
Magical beach destinations with diverse sea and land activities exist on both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts and the Sea of Cortez. It all depends on what you want to do. For excellent snorkeling and diving along with fantastic beaches, many people prefer the Caribbean side. The pristine sands and surf draw many loyal fans to the Pacific, where the water is a bit cooler. On either side there are opportunities to explore quaint towns that capture the spirit of Mexico’s unique history and culture.
You might also like:
Disconnect on the best off-the-grid beaches in Mexico Secret swims: the cenotes of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula Under-the-radar beach towns on Mexico’s Central Pacific Coast
Stretching from the Eastern Plains to the Rocky Mountains, Colorado is rightly famous for its breathtaking landscapes. Crossing this rugged state will take you past soaring mountains, sun-drenched plains, red rock mesas and high-altitude deserts – all of which look especially fetching through a car or RV windshield.
Fans of road trips are in for a treat. In between extraordinary vistas, tempting stops invite you to pull over – charming Colorado towns, scenic lakes, unexpected historic sites and outdoor recreation opportunities of every kind, including some fabulous hikes. And endless miles of well-maintained Scenic and Historic Byways provide easy access to the state’s diverse attractions.
Do some planning to make sure you catch Colorado at the best time of year, then grab your keys and pull onto the highway… Here are the best road trips in Colorado.
The hike up Mt Elbert is just one of the delights waiting along the Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway. Patrick Poendl/Shutterstock
1. Over Independence Pass
Best for road-trippers in a rush
Twin Lakes–Aspen; 27 miles
The ribbon of road between the historic township of Twin Lakes and the swanky mountain town of Aspen forms the backbone of one of Colorado’s most epic drives. Along this part of the Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway, the vistas are cinematic in scale. Swatches of snow are often visible along the ridges, just below the knife edge of peaks, and tundra vegetation flourishes at the top of the pass. Peaking at 12,095ft, you’ll be on the edge of the Continental Divide, facing views like real-life IMAX moments.
The pass is closed in the winter, from October to May, but for the rest of the year, the drive is short and sweet – and we recommend taking your time. Check out Twin Lakes Reservoir, an angler’s and paddleboarder’s dream. The lakeshore is dotted with historic ruins, including the remains of Interlaken, once Colorado’s largest resort, built in 1879.
And don’t miss dropping into Independence near Aspen – a ghost town dotted with weathered wood cabins. This was the first mining site in the Roaring Fork Valley, and it offers an evocative window back in time.
Detour: For added endorphins, go for a hike on 14,440ft Mt Elbert. This is one of the “easier” fourteeners in the state but start your hike early to make it to the summit and back in one day.
The Top of the Rockies route is at its most dramatic in fall, just before Independence Pass closes. Getty Images
2. Top of the Rockies
Best for big mountain views
Minturn–Aspen; 115 miles
If you liked the drive over Independence Pass, extend the journey to take in the rest of this Scenic Byway. One of the highest roads in the US, the route seldom drops below 9000ft as it follows the mountaintops. You’ll go through three spectacular mountain passes, cross the Continental Divide, take in two Colorado giants – Mt Elbert and 14,428ft Mt Massive – and roll through historic towns in central Colorado.
And if outdoor recreation is your thing, the route passes through three National Forests offering countless opportunities to hike, climb, fish and ski. Not bad for a single day’s drive! Along the way, tiny Minturn is big on small-town charm, while historic Leadville offers the chance to learn all about Colorado’s rags-to-riches mining beginnings at the National Mining Hall of Fame.
Twin Lakes, meanwhile, offers the chance to wander through a historic mining camp that once produced gold, silver and other metals. At the end of the tour is Aspen, one of the state’s poshest and most cultured mountain towns – and a must-visit, even if you don’t consider yourself part of the Aspen set.
Planning Tip: In the summer, from June to September, pick up provisions to munch on the drive at Minturn’s bustling farmers market (the kids can pet goats while you shop).
Feel nature on all sides on the Trail Ridge Road. Bob Pool/Shutterstock
3. Trail Ridge Rd across the Continental Divide
Best for tundra scenery
Estes Park–Grand Lake; 47 miles
Rocky Mountain National Park’s signature drive, the Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuously paved through-road in North America, climbing to 12,183ft. It follows the same path that generations of Ute, Arapaho and Apache people used as a trade route to traverse Milner Pass, crossing the Continental Divide.
Expect outrageous views of snow-capped peaks, meandering streams, tight switchbacks across the Continental Divide, high-country meadows, wildflowers galore and (with luck) some Rocky Mountain wildlife. Be sure to stop at some of the countless turnoffs to explore tundra trails or, at the very least, take selfies from the top of the world. Note that the road is closed by snow from October to May.
Planning Tip: For a short but steep leg stretch, walk the mile-long Alpine Ridge Trail, for giddying views of the Never Summer Mountains.
The dog won’t be the only one gazing out of the window on a drive through Colorado. Getty Images
4. Peak to Peak Hwy
Best year-round road trip
Estes Park–Nederland; 42 miles
Colorado’s first Scenic Byway, the Peak to Peak Hwy is a year-round hit, winding past towering mountains such as 14,255ft Longs Peak and lush alpine valleys, plus a handful of appealing one-horse towns. The road is especially stunning in the fall, when the mountains become a quilt of gold, yellow and orange. This season also brings bugling elks searching for mates and carloads of leaf-peepers.
Set aside a couple of hours for the drive. Before leaving Estes Park, follow the riverwalk or take a spooky ghost tour of the historic Stanley Hotel, reputedly the inspiration for Stephen King’s The Shining. Along the route, consider stopping in Ward, a former boom town and bohemian magnet that has settled into an artfully ramshackle state of disrepair, or Peaceful Valley, notable for its little onion-domed church perched on a hillside. At the end, stroll through Nederland, a hippie holdout known for its quirky shops and colorful cafes.
Planning Tip: Loads of hikes are possible in the national forests and wilderness areas along the route, including trails around Arapaho Peak, Roosevelt Peak and Indian Peak.
Old West history comes alive at Bent’s Old Fort Historic Site. Eric Foltz/Getty Images
5. Santa Fe Trail
Best for history
Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site–Trinidad; 116 miles
History buffs will love this day-long drive along the Santa Fe Trail, the Old West’s first wagon “highway,” which once extended all the way from Missouri to New Mexico. Views of sun-drenched prairies and wheat fields, sugar-beet farms and railroad yards unfurl on this wide-open two-lane highway, providing a rich mix of history and uplifting backcountry scenery.
The route’s signature sight is the phenomenal Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site, set beside the Arkansas River. Perched on the erstwhile US-Mexico border, the fort marked a cultural crossroads where Arapahoe, Cheyenne, Mexican and American traders met, mingled and coexisted.
While initially built for trade, the fort was later seized by the US Army – the start of a military presence that remains strong in Colorado to this day. Trade declined as thousands of settlers poured into the frontier following the Louisiana Purchase and a notorious cholera epidemic that greatly affected the region’s Indigenous communities.
In nearby Comanche National Grassland, homestead ruins and original wheel ruts from wagons on the Santa Fe Trail are still visible. Take time to check out the town of Trinidad, too – tucked into a chimney-top mesa, the town was once an important stop on the Santa Fe Trail.
Detour: Another highlight of the Comanche National Grassland is Picketwire Dinosaur Tracksite, the largest documented dinosaur track site in North America. You can see more than 1500 dinosaur footprints, but you’ll need to book a 4WD tour or hike to reach the site.
Dramatic landscapes are guaranteed on Colorado’s Highway of Legends. Dan Ballard/Getty Images
6. The Hwy of Legends
Best for mining memories
Trinidad–Walsenburg; 82 miles
Steeped in mining folklore and Native American legends, the sleepy towns and majestic mountain passes of the Hwy of Legends provide a beautiful detour from the I-25 throughway, linking Denver to cities to the north and south. You’ll pass through some of southeastern Colorado’s most glorious countryside; budget two hours to drive the route, more if you stop to take in the sights.
Historic Trinidad is one of the shining stars of the route. Its Main Street was an important stop on the Santa Fe Trail, and the spot where Mother Jones later led marches with striking miners. The Trinidad History Museum offers an excellent primer on the town’s backstory.
Standing like forgotten sentinels along the road, you’ll spy rows and rows of coal ovens in Cokedale, which once produced coke for the steel industry. Also stop in Cuchara for its views of the Spanish Peaks and the Great Dikes that jut from meadows to mountains, and La Veta, where there are more churches than paved roads.
This being Colorado, there are plenty of recreational activities to enjoy as well. The Cucharas River offers terrific fishing, while the hiking in the Spanish Peaks Wilderness is some of the best in the state.
Mesa Verde National Park is one of the most fascinating stops on the Trail of the Ancients. Thomas Trompeter/Shutterstock
7. Trail of the Ancients
Best for Indigenous culture
Mesa Verde National Park–Ute Mountain Tribal Park; 116 miles
The Trail of the Ancients is the only National Scenic Byway dedicated to archaeology. This beautiful and eye-opening route winds through the canyons, mountains and plains once inhabited by Ancestral Puebloans and later nomadic Navajo, Apache and Ute people. Though the route covers just 116 miles, the sites it passes are fascinating and worth lingering over, making this a good multi-day trip.
Mesa Verde National Park is the crown jewel of the route, home to over 5000 archaeological sites, including 600 Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings – a guided ranger tour is highly recommended. Just north, the Anasazi Heritage Center has interesting films, hands-on exhibits and artifacts dating to 400 CE.
Elsewhere, the Canyon of the Ancients and Hovenweep National Monument are Ancestral Puebloan treasures that have been largely left alone and are perfect for DIY exploration. And Ute Mountain Tribal Park houses a number of lesser-known cliff dwellings.
Planning Tip: If you visit Ute Mountain Tribal Park, petroglyphs and shards of Native American pottery can seen scattered over the site, but an official guide must accompany all visitors.
You don’t know it yet, but St Thomas is the tropical paradise of your dreams. Sugar-white sands line this US Virgin Island, and swaying green palms provide gentle shade when you’re not floating dreamily in the Caribbean Sea.
Whether you want to stretch out on the beach and relax, snorkel amidst the rich marine life or park yourself at a beach bar, St Thomas has the ideal beach to suit your needs. These are seven of our favorites, from the heavy hitters that keep travelers coming back for more to the tucked-away coves locals love.
1. Magens Bay
Best beach for families and facilities
A frequent inclusion on lists of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Magens Bay really is worth the hype. Yes, you will have to pay a fee to enter (US$7/21, day/month for non-residents). And yes, it does get packed with tourists (especially when cruise ships are in port). But there’s no other beach on St Thomas quite like it – it’s tucked at the end of a deep horseshoe-shaped cove with green hills snaking off into the horizon on either end. Changing facilities, restaurants, water sports rentals, picnic tables and lifeguards all make it a great choice for families.
Low-key and laidback, Honeymoon Beach is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Shutterstock
2. Honeymoon Beach
Best beach for laidback adventures
Take a 15-minute ferry from the Crown Bay Marina to the dock on nearby Water Island, hike for 10 minutes over a small hill, and you’ll find yourself at a picturesque cove lined with towering palms known as Honeymoon Beach. Blessed with incredibly calm waters, it’s a great place to rent a kayak or paddleboard for a leisurely mid-morning adventure. It’s also dotted with the umbrellas of low-key beach bars, making it an ideal spot for one of those lunches that accidentally turns into an early happy hour.
3. Lindbergh Bay
Best beach for budding aviators
Plane spotters love Lindbergh Bay – as you lay back on a towel basking in the tropical sun, you can watch jets descend into the neighboring Cyril E. King Airport. Named after the pioneering American aviator Charles Lindbergh – who landed here on a victory tour in 1928 after completing the first solo transatlantic flight – this long, broad beach shaded by seagrape trees is great for strolls or swimming laps. Anyone flying out early should consider the two hotels on either end, Lindbergh Bay Hotel and Emerald Beach Resort, which make convenient final-night stays.
4. Lindquist Beach
Best beach for photo opportunities
Nestled in the protected Smith Bay Park, Lindquist Beach is a true vision of paradise, with soft white sands leading out to calm aquamarine waters. Off in the distance, emerald green cays roll across the horizon, making it a favored backdrop for both island weddings and American commercials. Families love the place, too, because there’s always a lifeguard on duty, picnic tables for lunching and a bathhouse with showers where you can rinse off the salty sea.
Brewers Bay is often quiet on weekdays and makes the perfect spot for travelers on a budget. Getty Images
5. Brewers Bay
Best beach for budget travelers
Sea turtles and stingrays are frequently spotted ambling through the seagrass of this wide bay behind the airport, which is a favorite with students from the nearby University of the Virgin Islands. Despite being one of the best places on the island for sea life, Brewers Bay sees far more locals than tourists, who often come for picnics and gatherings on the weekend, chowing down on pates (meat pies) or johnnycakes (fluffy fried bread). On weekdays, it’s often deserted. With snack vans, restroom facilities and easy access by public bus, it makes a great destination for travelers on a budget.
6. Sapphire Beach
Best beach for windsurfing
It may be called Sapphire Beach, but the water here is so turquoise that you’ll think your eyes are tricking you. Visitors often base themselves in the condo rentals and resort hotels that encase this East End beach for its sweeping views over St John and offshore cays that are as spectacular as the snorkeling at the reef near Pettyklip Point. Yes, it’s unabashedly touristy, but it never feels overrun with day-trippers. And with a steady breeze, it’s also the best spot on the island for windsurfing.
Take in the beautiful turquoise waters of Sapphire Beach. Elijah-Lovkoff/Getty Images
7. Neltjeberg Bay
Best beach for privacy and peace
Pristine sand lines and a perfect half-moon bay are the rewards at the end of a 20-minute hike out to St Thomas’s finest secret beach. Neltjeberg Bay lies on the far side of a thick tangle of bush – including wild-growing pineapple and guava – to the west of the more accessible Dorothea Beach. The only sign of civilization is a solitary – and quite opulent – house atop Ruy Point, as well as the vine-clad ruins of an old sugar plantation. BYO everything (and cart it back out) as there are zero facilities; it’ll just be you, the sand and a few curving coconut palms!
8. Coki Beach
Best beach for snorkeling
If you want to snorkel right off the coast of St Thomas, just about everyone will point you in the direction of Coki Beach. While the corals here aren’t what they used to be – and the scene is anything but serene – most visitors do encounter plenty of tropical fish (thanks, in no small part, to the controversial practice of fish feeding). Keep in mind that because it lies adjacent to the flashy theme park, Coral World, this narrow strip of sand can get absolutely slammed with tourists.
9. Mermaid’s Chair
Best beach to paddle from the sea to the ocean
The chance to put one foot in the Caribbean, then another in the Atlantic, is what lures intrepid travelers to the remote double-sided beach known as Mermaid’s Chair. This small strip of sand on the wild western tip of St Thomas is best viewed at low tide. To reach it, plan to hike about 1.3 miles (2km) downhill from The Preserve at Botany Bay on a mostly paved road with extensive views over the westerly cays.
