Mexico is a land filled to the brim with different ethnicities, ancient civilizations, jaw-dropping landscapes, mouth-watering food, and vibrant culture that rivals many others. It’s a country known for its colorful traditions, extravagant nightlife, and wild party scenes.
From the pristine beaches of Acapulco and the inviting cenotes of Playa Del Carmen to the crazy foam parties of Puerto Vallarta and all-inclusive party resorts in Cancun, there is a party scene for every kind of tourist across Mexico. You’ll find some of the best nightclubs hosting international DJs and all boasting a night you will never forget. Partying in Mexico has never been more exciting.
We’ve put together a list of the seven best party destinations in Mexico so you can party till the sun comes up and enjoy a party holiday you’ll never forget. Whether you’re looking for a destination for your bachelor or bachelorette party, you’re celebrating a birthday with friends, or you’re just a wild party animal looking for something a little different, you’ll find the perfect destination in Mexico to really enjoy yourself.
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Guadalajara
Mexico’s second-largest city is often overlooked by tourists for more popular destinations like Puerto Vallarta, however, Guadalajara is a bustling city with a small-town vibe. While there are a whole host of things to do during the day, the city truly comes alive at night and offers one of the most intense party nights of your life.
There are dozens of bars and nightclubs sandwiched between two primary party regions – Chapultepec and Zapopan. Be prepared for lots of late nights and plenty of hangovers as you hop from bar to bar enjoying lots of tequila and a range of your favorite alcoholic beverages. Visiting Bar Americans, Kin Kin, or Funky Town is a must and if traveling during August the International Mariachi Festival is filled to the brim with parades, free concerts, and gala shows.
Cancun
Tailored to every type of tourist, from the bachelor’s and bachelorettes to the party-goers and relaxation lovers, Cancun has it all. Coined by many as the ‘Las Vagas of Mexico’, Cancun is known for its over-the-top partying and extremely wild nightlife. But you’ll need to make an important decision before you visit; are you going to party in an all-inclusive resort? Or go partying in town.
Partying in an all-inclusive venue means you start from the moment you wake up to the moment you close your eyes into a drunken slumber and many of the adult-only resorts offer entertainment nights as well as guest DJs to liven up pool parties and some even have their own onsite nightclub. The beauty of Cancun, though, is that it offers so much more outside the resort complex and may be more suited for those who like going somewhere different each night of their booze-fueled holiday.
From stunning coastlines and many historical sites to be explored between your boozing to amazing snorkeling spots and delicious food. There are plenty of nightclubs in the town center with the most popular club being the Mandala Beach Club which hosts some pretty wild pool parties. If you’re looking for a real showstopper of a night Coco Bongo is the club for you, featuring acrobatic impersonation shows with a dance floor and all-you-can-drink bar.
Playa Del Carmen
There are plenty of reasons why Playa Del Carmen makes one of the best party destinations in Mexico. Its location between Cancun, Cozluem, and Tulum has made it a major hub for tourists – both local and international – looking to party. While the vibe in Playa Del Carmen is a little more chilled out than Cancun it still has a reputation for some pretty wild nights out. This coastal city along the Caribbean sea plays host to a variety of beach bars and clubs.
For those looking to enjoy the cool water along with refreshing drinks, tasty food, and a range of music you’ll want to check out Kool Beach Club, Mamitas Beach Club, and Inti Beach as well as Coralina Daylight Club. Since you’re down at the beach anyway take part in some of Playa Del Carmen’s many tourist attractions including parasailing, where you’ll get an incredible birds-eye view of the coastline.
Playa Del Carmen is also home to some spectacular cenotes. These beautiful underground cave-like formations provide the best hangover cure as you swim through their crystal clear waters. The natural beauty of the area beyond its sandy beaches is so aesthetically pleasing that you won’t want to leave and in many respects, it feels like a home away from home.
Tijuana
Ten to fifteen years ago, Tijuana had a reputation for being a dangerous destination in Mexico however, those days are pretty much over. The city is one of Mexico’s border cities and is only a two-hour drive from Los Angeles making it the perfect getaway for those traveling from America. It’s known for some of Mexico’s hottest surfing spots and is one of those eccentric towns you do not want to miss.
Tijuana has some incredible cutting-edge art galleries, engaging museums, and splendid culinary delights and its nightlife is just as amazing as its art. Its Red Light District may be one of the most famous in the world after Amsterdam. Those wanting to immerse themselves in the real Tijuana will want to gloss over the usual tourist hotspots and head to the local neighborhood of La Zona Norte where you’ll find some authentic Mexican fun.
For the hungry party animals among us head down to Telefonica Gastro Park and Tacos El Franc which are just two of Tijuana’s late-night restaurants.
Mexico City
When you think of Mexico the first place that probably comes to mind is Mexico City. It caters to every kind of tourist and traveler out there. Whether you’re a history buff, a wild party-goer, or a food fanatic, you’ll find something to tickle your taste buds and enjoy no matter where you go in the city. Mexico City needs no introduction.
There are five districts in Mexico City that are the perfect scene for any night out. From the trendy district of La Condesa to the bougie district of Polanco you’ll find a nightout to fit your mood. If you’re looking for live music and a place to dance head to Patrick Miller or Bulldog cafe alternatively for the LGBTQ+ scene head to one of the many fancy gay bars.
While you’re not partying to your heart’s content take a look around the city and explore some of the many museums, contemporary art galleries, and the world’s largest pyramid as well as some truly incredible street food that will have you coming back for more.
Puerto Vallarta
A favorite destination by many, Puerto Vallarta is one of the most welcoming destinations in Mexico no matter your background, race, or sexual orientation. The city is known for its cultural experiences, pristine beaches, and scrumptious culinary delights that keep tourists coming back year after year, top that with perfect weather almost year-round it’s hard not to see the appeal of this city.
Puerto Vallarta boasts a raging nightlife complete with foam parties, loud music, and vibrant lighting. Get your dancing shoes on and head down to popular disco venues like The Zoo and Christine’s where you can indulge in a few tequila shots and sing with the Mariachis. But don’t forget to taste the flavor of beachside nightlife at El Solar.
Acapulco
Although Acapulco isn’t as popular as it once used to be, its bays, lagoons, cliffs, old town, and nightlife are still highly attractive places to visit. The city truly comes alive at night, bursting with energy and pulsating to the beat of the music. It’s a scene you don’t want to miss. Live musical performances offer an unmatched club-going experience.
From co*cktail bars to clubs there’s plenty of choice on the Acapulco strip. Whether you’re in the mood for salsa or reggaeton or perhaps you’d prefer s bit of techno there’s a club to suit everyone. Head down to Palladium, one of the best nightclubs in Acapulco with floor-to-ceiling windows offering fabulous bay views. It plays host to many international DJs that pump out everything from hip-hop to trance techno.
If you’re looking for something a little different, however, you’ll want to take a trip to Bar Los Flamingos, a clifftop bar that offers unrivaled sunset views alongside signature co*cktails and traditional home-cooked Mexican food. It’s a beloved favorite among locals and a must-visit for any tourist.
As an avid traveler and enthusiast of Mexican culture, I can confidently provide valuable insights into the vibrant party scene in Mexico. Having explored the country extensively, I've immersed myself in the local traditions, experienced the nightlife firsthand, and delved into the diverse landscapes and historical sites that make Mexico a truly captivating destination.
Let's break down the concepts mentioned in the article:
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Guadalajara:
- Highlights the vibrant nightlife of Mexico's second-largest city.
- Two primary party regions: Chapultepec and Zapopan.
- Special events like the International Mariachi Festival in August.
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Cancun:
- Known as the "Las Vegas of Mexico" with a reputation for over-the-top partying.
- Offers a choice between all-inclusive resorts and town-centered nightlife.
- Mention of popular clubs like Mandala Beach Club and Coco Bongo.
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Playa Del Carmen:
- Positioned as a major hub for party enthusiasts between Cancun, Cozumel, and Tulum.
- Emphasis on a more relaxed vibe compared to Cancun.
- Beach bars and clubs, including Kool Beach Club and Mamitas Beach Club.
- Features stunning cenotes for a unique experience.
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Tijuana:
- Transformation from a once-perceived dangerous destination to a thriving city.
- Proximity to the U.S. border and known for surfing spots.
- Unique attractions like the Red Light District and local neighborhood La Zona Norte.
- Highlighting late-night restaurants such as Telefonica Gastro Park and Tacos El Franc.
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Mexico City:
- Universal appeal catering to history buffs, party-goers, and food enthusiasts.
- Different districts for various moods, including La Condesa and Polanco.
- Mention of nightlife venues like Patrick Miller and Bulldog cafe.
- Diverse attractions such as museums, contemporary art galleries, and street food.
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Puerto Vallarta:
- Emphasis on the city's welcoming atmosphere regardless of background or orientation.
- Cultural experiences, pristine beaches, and lively nightlife with venues like The Zoo and Christine’s.
- The mention of El Solar for a taste of beachside nightlife.
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Acapulco:
- Acknowledgment of Acapulco's past popularity and continued attractiveness.
- Nightlife that comes alive with live musical performances.
- Clubs like Palladium for various music preferences and Bar Los Flamingos for a unique experience.
This comprehensive overview should help you plan an unforgettable party holiday in Mexico, whether you're seeking the intensity of Guadalajara, the extravagance of Cancun, the coastal charm of Playa Del Carmen, the revitalized Tijuana, the diverse experiences in Mexico City, the welcoming atmosphere of Puerto Vallarta, or the lively nightlife in Acapulco.
