Make a Splash: Fun Activities in Mexico

There is something about the beach that is inherently vacationy. Perhaps it's the calming lull of the waves or the invitation to do absolutely nothing. But the beach also calls to action-loving vacationers who jump at the chance to have an active getaway. 

Flanked by the inky Pacific Ocean and the glittering Caribbean Sea, and blessed with one of the world's longest coastlines, Mexico offers plenty of ways for a honeymoon couple to get wet. Liquid adventures range from swimming with some of the world’s largest fish and scuba diving the largest coral reef in the Americas, to boating off Baja, surfing the waves and rafting down secluded jungle rivers. Here’s where to make a splash in Mexico.

Photo courtesy of Iberostar Hotels & Resorts

Surf in Riviera Nayarit
The vibe of the sun-splashed coast north of Puerto Vallarta, a region known as the Riviera Nayarit, is laid-back and beachy, but serious about the surf. In fact, the 10 miles of beachfront include some of the top surfing spots in Mexico. Set at the same latitude as Hawaii, the ocean water hovers between 75 and 85 degrees year round, which means you can leave your wetsuit at home. The coastal villages are rife with après-surf spots including beachside bars and palapa-topped restaurants where the beer is always ice cold and the tequila primo for shots or margaritas.

Punta Mita Surf Shop in the village of the same name stocks everything you need for your own Blue Crush vacation including rash guards, reef shoes, board shorts and bikinis, sunscreen, board wax and rental boards. They also offer beginner surfing lessons and boat trips to some of the best local breaks. The north swell during the winter and spring throws up the most consistent surf, but there are good waves throughout the year. Among the favored breaks are El Faro, Punta Burros, La Lancha and Los Veneros.

Where to Stay: 
The brand new Iberostar Playa Mita, on the coast between Sayulita and Punta de Mita, two of the region’s main beach and surf towns, is set on its own stretch of golden sand. And its position makes it the ideal place to enjoy local water-sports activities — longboarding, windsurfing, scuba diving and sea kayaking.

Iberostar guests have special access to the adjacent Litibu Golf Course. The all-inclusive resort boasts five restaurants and eight different bars, plus around-the-clock room service. The 452 rooms are about equally split between garden view and ocean view, and all are equipped with balconies. Splurge on one of the 18 spa rooms,or access to a private, sun-filled sanctuary and a secluded relaxation garden with two whirlpools (room rates start at $242 a night and are all-inclusive; iberostarpuertovallarta.com).