A masterclass in reinvention, Mazatlán is a low-key Mexican resort on the Pacific with beaches as far as the eye can see, and a seemingly never-ending boardwalk running alongside the waves. Impressive landmarks in the sensitively revamped old town include the 19th-century Teatro Ángela Peralta and the towering Immaculate Conception Basilica. The historic center has been modernized and offers alluring bars and restaurants, as well as art galleries to browse. Don't miss the opportunity to taste classic handmade tequila at venerable blue agave plantations and small-scale distilleries.

Flanked by the lush Sierra Madre mountain range on one side and the golden shores of Bahía de Banderas on the other, Puerto Vallarta is the pearl of Mexico's Pacific Coast. With its sandy beaches, jungle trails, and clear waters rich with marine life, the sun-soaked beach town is a hit with outdoor enthusiasts. It's also a thriving cultural hub: don't miss a visit to the vibrant, LGBTQ+-friendly Zona Romántica, where the cobblestoned streets are lined with quaint boutiques, independent art galleries, and taco stands.

Located on Mexico's Pacific coast, Manzanillo is a small city that derives its name from the manzanilla trees that thrived, laden with poisonous tangerine-colored fruit, beside its original wharves. Searching for Chinese treasure in the Pacific during 1522, Hernán Cortés and his minions dropped anchor in the Bay of Salagua, which is located just north of Manzanillo, while looking for safe harbors and good shipbuilding sites. Shortly thereafter navigator Alvaro de Saavedra discovered the Bay of Manzanillo and christened it Santiago de la Buena, or Santiago's Bay of Good Hope. It became a principal departure point for important expeditions and twice sheltered Cortes' galleons from marauding Portuguese pirates. Over the next 300 years, the Pacific Coast's history is filled with accounts of pirates from Portugal, England, France and even Spain assaulting, looting and burning ships for their rich cargos. In recent times, the harbor has been modernized and deepened to allow access to all major shipping lines from around the world.

Located on the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, find Cabo San Lucas, the famed beach destination known for its atmospheric scene and idyllic setting. Step into the beating heart of Baja Peninsula, where the Sea of Cortez meets the Pacific Ocean in a spectacular panorama of azure water, rugged cliffs, golden sands, and dramatic desert landscapes. Beyond the idyllic landscapes and famed night-life scene, find a community where history and tradition blend seamlessly with contemporary culture. Soak up the laid-back surfer atmosphere as you learn about ancient civilization, admire colonial style buildings, and discover the ocean wildlife. Visit artisans upholding the region's cultural heritage, and indulge in savory Mexican cuisine with a fresh pacific seafood twist as you take in this pacific coastal jewel.

Close to the U.S. border, Ensenada offers a fun introduction to Baha California, a laid-back beach resort renowned for its Baha-Med flavors as well as fish tacos created from the catch of the day in the Mercado Negro. Stroll the seaside promenade, the Malecon, to the strains of ranchera music played by mariachi bands and, if there's time, head an hour out of town to the wineries of the Valle de Guadalupe, which open their vineyards and cellar doors for tours. Back in town, the tastings on offer are of Mexico's favorite spirit at the Tequila Room.