For many students, spring break in Mexico is the perfect time to let loose and relax a bit before the stress of finals and graduation. Mexico offers all the makings of a quintessential spring break getaway and is quite popular among the college cohort. From pristine beaches to stunning mountain cities and budget-friendly lodgings, you’ll find everything you possibly need for a great stay.
Being Safe on Spring Break in Mexico
Safety is a top priority. You want to take extra measures to ensure you enjoy a safe and fun trip. Before your trip, take the time to research the destination you would love to visit and check recent trip reports online for additional information on safety. Once in town, behave normally and obey all laws, just as you would at home. This includes not wandering alone after dark or overindulging in alcohol that you can’t function or hanging around dangerous neighborhoods. Your safety depends a lot on your actions, just as it would be in any other destination.
Spring Break Mexico: Baja and Sonora Hot Spots
There are many places to hang in and around Baja and Sonora for the perfect spring break getaway. You can spend your days soaking up the sun and splashing at Rocky Point. Or, enjoy all of the scenic and cultural attractions at the Baja Peninsula. These amazing vacation destinations offer tons of things to see and do. Ensenada has beautiful beaches, vineyards, nightlife, and shopping. Rocky Point has a lot of the same. Both regions offer a proper taste of Mexican culture at a location close to home.
Spring Break Mexico with Group of FriendsYou can choose to explore the city of Ensenada or relax on its beaches and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere. For a more adventurous experience, head over to El Pinacate. El Pinacate is an intriguing volcanic region with amazing sand dunes and dramatic landscapes. Another option is San Jorge Island for some scuba diving and snorkeling fun. There are also lots of options for other nature activities.
Drinking and Driving Illegal in Mexico, as is Marijuana for Recreational Use
Just as in the U.S. and many other countries, drunk driving in Mexico is a criminal offense. Even if you have premium insurance from a company like MexInsurance®, you may still be detained. The national limit for blood-alcohol level is 0.8, although, in some states like Hidalgo, Jalisco, Michoacán, Tamaulipas, Veracruz, Chihuahua, the limit is even lower. Foreigners with drunk driving convictions in the last ten years may even be denied entry to Mexico. That said, one is legally allowed to drink at 18 years old. Recognizing that most teenagers choose marijuana over alcohol these days, it’s important to note that the recreational use or possession of Marijuana is still illegal in Mexico. There is a bill passing through the Mexican government that would allow up to 28 grams of marijuana for recreational use, but this is not a done deal yet. In 2017 Mexico approved marijuana for medicinal use only. Cuidado.
Timing and Schedule
Spring break varies from year to year and school-to-school. But, still, this is a very busy time for travel to Mexico. If you want to avoid big crowds, take some time to plan your trip for the best places and schedules. Consider looking into some of Mexico’s lesser-known beach destinations. Alternatively, you might engage in community or nature projects that offer a different type of experience.
Border Crossing Requirements
There are requirements that you should be aware of when crossing south into Mexico, and for your return trip back into the United States. See these links for more information and the helpful checklist.
Spring break in Mexico isn’t all parties and sunbathing. There is definitely a lot to enjoy!
