Mexico Cruise Excursions
The shore excursions worth booking across the Mexican Riviera and Baja.
Cabo
El Arco Boat Tour
A short glass-bottom or snorkel boat trip out to Cabo’s iconic rock arch and sea lion colony.
Puerto Vallarta
Sierra Madre Zipline
Jungle canopy ziplining in the mountains above Puerto Vallarta.
Cabo
Whale Watching (Dec-Apr)
Seasonal gray and humpback whale watching tours from the marina.
Mazatlan
Old Town Walking Tour
A guided walk through Mazatlan’s historic center and cathedral district.
Top Mexico Excursions by Port
| Port | Excursion | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Cabo San Lucas | Glass-bottom boat to El Arco and Lover’s Beach | First-timers, families |
| Cabo San Lucas | Snorkel cruise to Santa Maria or Chileno Bay | Snorkelers |
| Cabo San Lucas | Whale watching (Dec–Apr) | Wildlife lovers |
| Cabo San Lucas | ATV or camel rides in the desert | Adventure |
| Puerto Vallarta | Food and tequila tasting tour | Foodies |
| Puerto Vallarta | Sierra Madre zip-line canopy tour | Thrill seekers |
| Puerto Vallarta | Marietas Islands snorkel and boat trip | Couples, nature |
| Mazatlan | Historic Old Mazatlan walking tour, cliff divers | Culture |
| Mazatlan | Stone Island beach day | Relaxation |
| Ensenada | Valle de Guadalupe wine tasting | Wine lovers |
| Ensenada | La Bufadora blowhole and market | Families |
Ship Tours vs. Going Independent
Puerto Vallarta’s malecon and Mazatlan’s old town are easy to explore on foot or by taxi. For farther trips, such as the Marietas Islands, Valle de Guadalupe wineries or anything in Cabo where tendering adds time, a ship excursion offers the return-time guarantee.
Tips
- Cabo is a tender port; book late-morning excursions or allow a buffer.
- U.S. dollars are widely accepted, but small bills and some pesos help in markets.
- Use licensed taxis or the official taxi stands at the port.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and water; afternoons get hot.