Best Cruise Destinations in Durango, Durango, Mexico

Durango, Mexico, Durango, Destination & Trip Type Pages, Best Cruise Destinations

Best Cruise Destinations in Durango, Durango, Mexico

1. Malecon de Mazatlan

A beautiful oceanfront promenade with sculptures and street performers, offering a vibrant atmosphere for cruise passengers.
  • Rich Cultural Experience: Features local artisans selling handmade crafts and cultural performances.
  • Accessibility: Easy to explore on foot, with numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops nearby.
  • Marine Life Encounters: Opportunities for dolphin watching and turtle releases just offshore.

2. Isla de los Mujeres

A small, picturesque island known for its calm beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and diving.
  • Unspoiled Beauty: Less crowded than other popular tourist destinations.
  • Marine Life Interaction: Encounter sea turtles, rays, and a variety of colorful fish in the clear waters.
  • Authentic Local Culture: Preserves traditional Mayan customs and offers fresh seafood at local restaurants.

3. El Fuerte de San Felipe de Barrio de la Cruz

A historic fortress with stunning views of the ocean, showcasing Mexican colonial architecture.
  • Historical Significance: Built in the late 17th century to defend against pirates.
  • Scenic Beauty: Offers panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding area.
  • Cultural Education: Provides insights into Mexico's colonial history and military architecture.

4. Isla Contoy

A small, uninhabited island with a large bird sanctuary, home to thousands of seabirds.
  • Wildlife Conservation: Supports the conservation efforts for endangered species like the Mexican Reed-Warbler.
  • Natural Beauty: Pristine, untouched ecosystem with pristine beaches and lush vegetation.
  • Peaceful Solitude: A tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of busy tourist destinations.

5. Catedral Basilica de la Inmaculada Concepcion

A stunning Gothic-style cathedral with intricate stained glass and ornate detailing.
  • Architectural Masterpiece: One of the most impressive examples of Gothic architecture in Mexico.
  • Religious Significance: A place of worship and a symbol of faith for the community.
  • Artistic Beauty: Features beautiful stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes.

6. Los Colorados Lagoon

A shallow lagoon where flamingos and other pink-hued birds can be observed up close.
  • Wildlife Observation: Offers unique opportunities to observe flamingos in their natural habitat.
  • Scenic Beauty: Features picturesque landscapes with mangroves and pink-hued water.
  • Environmental Education: Supports the conservation of the lagoon's fragile ecosystem.

7. El Tule Chapel

A unique chapel with a massive cypress tree growing in its courtyard.
  • Natural Wonder: The tree is over 1,200 years old and has a circumference of more than 36 feet.
  • Historical Significance: Built in the 16th century by Franciscan missionaries.
  • Cultural Experience: Offers a glimpse into Mexico's indigenous and colonial history.

8. Isla Espiritu Santo

A stunningly beautiful island with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.
  • Marine Life Interaction: Opportunities to swim with sea lions, snorkel among colorful fish, and explore underwater caves.
  • Natural Beauty: Features pristine beaches, towering cliffs, and secluded bays.
  • Adventure Activities: Offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat tours for thrill-seekers.

9. Las Palmas Beach

A pristine beach with turquoise waters and palm trees, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
  • Relaxation and Rejuvenation: Offers a serene environment to unwind and soak up the sun.
  • Water Activities: Provides opportunities for jet-skiing, parasailing, and water skiing.
  • Scenic Beauty: Features stunning views of the ocean and surrounding cliffs.

10. Cancun Underwater Museum (MUSA)

An underwater museum housing over 500 sculptures, promoting the growth of coral reefs.
  • Environmental Conservation: Helps in the revitalization and protection of marine ecosystems.
  • Artistic Experience: Features life-sized sculptures by renowned artists from around the world.
  • Scuba Diving Opportunities: Provides a unique diving experience for both novice and experienced divers.

11. Isla Holbox

A laid-back island known for its bioluminescent waters and abundant wildlife.
  • Natural Phenomena: Offers a chance to witness the breathtaking bioluminescence in the ocean.
  • Wildlife Observation: Home to whale sharks, flamingos, and numerous bird species.
  • Authentic Local Culture: Preserves the simple, slow-paced lifestyle of a fishing village.

12. Chacchoben Mayan Ruins

A well-preserved Mayan archaeological site with impressive temples and ball courts.
  • Historical Significance: Dates back to the Preclassic period (600 B.C. – 250 A.D.).
  • Archaeological Exploration: Allows visitors to explore hidden chambers and ancient artifacts.
  • Cultural Education: Provides insights into the Mayan civilization and their daily life.

13. Xcaret Eco Park

An eco-archaeological park with cultural performances, wildlife exhibits, and water activities.
  • Cultural Experience: Offers traditional Mayan dances, music, and craft demonstrations.
  • Wildlife Observation: Features jaguars, sea turtles, manatees, and other native species.
  • Water Activities: Offers snorkeling, swimming in underground rivers, and a variety of water sports.

14. Tulum Ruins

A coastal Mayan city overlooking the Caribbean Sea with well-preserved temples and cliffside views.
  • Historical Significance: Was an important trading port during the Pre-Columbian era.
  • Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding jungle.
  • Cultural Education: Provides insights into the Mayan civilization's architectural, religious, and political practices.

15. Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve

A vast protected area with diverse ecosystems, home to numerous wildlife species.
  • Environmental Conservation: Supports the protection of various ecosystems, including mangroves, forests, and coral reefs.
  • Wildlife Observation: Features species like jaguars, manatees, and a variety of bird species.
  • Scenic Beauty: Offers stunning landscapes with crystal-clear lagoons, towering cliffs, and pristine beaches.