Relax on the beach in Mexico (Photo: Shutterstock)
Mexico has quickly become one of the top destinations for kosher travelers—and it’s easy to see why. From stunning beaches to vibrant cities, rich culture to incredible food, Mexico offers something for everyone. And thanks to a growing number of kosher restaurants, hotels, and Chabad centers, it’s more convenient than ever to plan a kosher-friendly getaway.
This guide focuses on some of the most popular coastal destinations for kosher travelers, including Cancun, Riviera Maya, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, and Cabo San Lucas. These spots are known for their beautiful beaches, resort vibes, and well-established kosher infrastructure—perfect for everything from a winter escape to a Pesach vacation.
While Mexico City has a large Jewish community and a wide range of kosher restaurants, this post will concentrate on the beachside towns and islands that attract the most kosher tourists throughout the year.
No matter which coast you choose, expect warm weather, great food, and plenty of sunshine. Just don’t forget your sunscreen and sunhat!
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Explore the coral reef (Photo: Shutterstock)
Jewish History in Mexico: A Brief Look Back
The Jewish story in Mexico goes back centuries—starting with the arrival of conversos (Jews who were forced to convert during the Spanish Inquisition) in the 1500s. Many came to “New Spain,” hoping to escape persecution and practice their traditions in secret. While Jewish life had to remain underground for a long time, it quietly endured, leaving traces that are still part of Mexico’s complex religious history.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Jewish immigrants from Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and the Ottoman Empire (including Turkey) began settling in Mexico more openly. These newcomers built synagogues, schools, and community centers, and brought with them their customs, traditions—and delicious food. Over time, the community grew into a diverse and dynamic part of Mexican society.
Today, Mexico’s Jewish community is centered mostly in Mexico City, where there are dozens of synagogues, schools, kosher restaurants, and Judaica shops. You’ll find a mix of Sephardic, Ashkenazi, and Mizrahi influences, and a warm, welcoming vibe.
As for tourist hotspots like Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Cabo San Lucas—these don’t have deep Jewish roots, but thanks to the steady stream of kosher travelers, they now boast thriving Chabad houses, kosher restaurants, and even kosher-friendly hotels. In short, Mexico is not just a beautiful destination—it’s also a convenient one for Jewish travelers.
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Mayan ruins in Tulum (Photo: Shutterstock)
Kosher food & things to do on the Riviera Maya - Playa del Carmen and Tulum
Looking for a kosher beach getaway with great food, stunning views, and plenty to do? The Riviera Maya—stretching along Mexico’s Caribbean coast—is one of the top destinations for kosher travelers in Mexico. From the lively streets of Playa del Carmen to the laid-back vibe of Tulum, this region blends natural beauty, ancient history, and kosher convenience.
Playa del Carmen is home to two Chabad houses, along with a growing number of kosher restaurants and grocery options. Tulum also has a Chabad presence, and many hotels are familiar with kosher needs. For more, check out our Kosher Restaurants & Jewish Life in Riviera Maya Guide.
Top Things to Do:
- Relax on the Beaches: Enjoy the turquoise waters and soft white sand. The Riviera Maya is known for some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
- Explore the Mayan Ruins: Visit the iconic cliffside ruins in Tulum for a dose of history with a view. Adventurous travelers can head to the jungle to climb the Coba ruins, home to Nohoch Mul—the tallest pyramid in the Yucatan.
- Swim in a Cenote: Don’t miss a dip in one of the Yucatan’s famous cenotes—natural freshwater sinkholes. Popular options include Gran Cenote, Cenote Azul, and Dos Ojos.
- Visit Xcaret or Xel-Há Eco-Parks: These family-friendly parks offer snorkeling, zip-lining, underground rivers, and more—all set in a lush, eco-conscious setting.
- Sail to Isla Mujeres: A catamaran tour to Isla Mujeres is a Riviera Maya highlight. Enjoy snorkeling along the way and spend time exploring the island’s gorgeous beaches.
- Snorkeling & Diving: The Great Maya Reef is just offshore and offers incredible diving and snorkeling—second in size only to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.
- Take a Day Trip to Cozumel: A quick ferry ride from Playa del Carmen, Cozumel is a must for underwater adventures. The island also has Mayan ruins, marine parks, and laid-back beaches.
- Stroll Quinta Avenida (5th Avenue): Playa del Carmen’s pedestrian street is packed with shops and entertainment. It's a great place to soak in the local atmosphere.
- Explore Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve: Located in Tulum, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers boat tours, birdwatching, and the chance to see mangroves, manatees, and more.
- Swim with Dolphins at Delphinus: A family favorite, Delphinus Riviera Maya offers interactive dolphin experiences in a beautiful setting.
Cancun, Mexico (Photo: Envato)
Kosher Food and Things to Do in Cancun
Cancun is one of Mexico’s most popular tourist destinations—for good reason. Whether you're looking for white-sand beaches, fascinating Mayan ruins, or outdoor adventures, Cancun has it all. It’s also a convenient spot for kosher travelers, with several kosher restaurants, a hotel offering a kosher kitchen, and a welcoming Chabad house right in the Hotel Zone that hosts Shabbat services and meals.
For more details on kosher dining and Jewish amenities, check out our Guide to Kosher and Jewish Life in Cancun. Planning your own trip? Don’t miss our DIY Kosher Vacation Guide to Cancun for tips on where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around.
Top Things to Do in Cancun:
- Hit the Beach: Relax on Cancun’s stunning beaches like Playa Delfines and Playa Tortugas—perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and sunset walks.
- Explore Mayan Ruins: Visit the El Rey Ruins right in Cancun, or take a day trip to iconic sites like Chichen Itza or the seaside ruins of Tulum.
- Snorkel or Dive in the Reef: Discover the underwater world of the Great Mesoamerican Reef, the second largest reef system in the world.
- Spend the Day at an Eco-Park: Parks like Xcaret and Xel-Há offer fun for all ages—snorkeling, zip-lining, underground rivers, and more.
- Swim in a Cenote: Take a dip in one of the region’s many cenotes—freshwater sinkholes that are a natural wonder of the Yucatan Peninsula.
- Cruise the Nichupté Lagoon: Book a sunset cruise or try sport fishing in this peaceful lagoon that separates Cancun’s Hotel Zone from the mainland.
- Visit Isla Mujeres: A short ferry ride away, this charming island is perfect for a day trip. Rent a golf cart, explore the beaches, or stop by the Tortugranja turtle sanctuary.
- Go Shopping: Head to La Isla Shopping Village for designer stores and dining, or browse local markets for handcrafted souvenirs.
- Interactive Aquarium Cancun: Ideal for families, this aquarium lets you get up close with marine life—and even swim with dolphins.
- Museo Maya de Cancun: Learn about the rich history of the Mayan civilization through engaging exhibits and artifacts.
Cozumel (Photo: Envato)
Kosher Food & Things to Do in Cozumel
Just a short ferry ride from Playa del Carmen, Cozumel is a laid-back island escape known for its turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and easy-going charm. While it’s a major stop for cruise ships, Cozumel has managed to keep its local feel—and it’s a surprisingly convenient destination for kosher travelers, too.
There’s an active Chabad house on the island that hosts Shabbat and holiday meals, along with a few kosher restaurants for travelers who keep kosher. For more details, check out our Guide to Kosher and Jewish Life in Cozumel.
Top Things to Do in Cozumel:
- Snorkeling & Scuba Diving: Cozumel is famous for its crystal-clear waters and colorful reefs. The Cozumel Reefs National Marine Park offers some of the best diving and snorkeling in the world.
- Stroll Through San Miguel: Explore the island’s main town, with its lively central plaza, waterfront shops, and local restaurants. It's a great place for a relaxing afternoon.
- Visit the San Gervasio Mayan Ruins: These ruins were once a sacred site for Mayan women making pilgrimages to honor the goddess Ixchel. Today, they offer a quiet glimpse into the island’s ancient past.
- Tour the Cozumel Pearl Farm: Take a boat ride to this family-run pearl farm tucked away on a secluded beach. Learn how pearls are grown and enjoy the serene setting.
- Beach Time: Kick back on Cozumel’s stunning beaches like Playa Palancar or El Cielo, known for its shallow, clear waters and starfish.
- Punta Sur Eco Beach Park: At the island’s southern tip, this eco-park is home to a lighthouse, a small Mayan temple, and a protected lagoon with crocodiles and birds.
- Chankanaab Adventure Beach Park: Great for families, this park offers snorkeling, sea lion shows, dolphin swims, and a botanical garden—all in one place.
- Museum of the Island of Cozumel: Learn about the island’s history, culture, and marine environment at this well-curated local museum.
Isla Mujeres (Photo: Envato)
Kosher Food & Things to Do in Isla Mujeres
Just a short ferry ride from Cancun, Isla Mujeres offers a peaceful escape with stunning beaches, colorful marine life, and a warm island vibe. Its name—“Island of the Women”—pays tribute to the Mayan goddess Ixchel, who was once worshipped here. Today, it's a favorite spot for travelers looking to slow down and soak up the beauty of the Caribbean.
Thanks to the island’s Chabad house, kosher travelers can relax knowing everything they need is available—kosher meals, daily minyan, and even a mikveh. For more info about Chabad House of Isla Mujeres.
Top Things to Do in Isla Mujeres:
- Relax at Playa Norte: Widely considered one of the best beaches in the Caribbean, Playa Norte is perfect for lounging in shallow, clear waters with powdery white sand beneath your feet.
- Snorkel or Dive at MUSA: The island is part of the MUSA Underwater Museum, where you can snorkel or dive among 500+ submerged sculptures that double as artificial reefs.
- Visit the Turtle Farm (Tortugranja): Learn about local conservation efforts and, if you're lucky, catch a glimpse of baby turtles during hatching season.
- Explore by Golf Cart: Rent a golf cart—the island’s main mode of transport—and explore on your own. Stop by local beaches, scenic lookouts, and hidden spots along the way.
- Punta Sur & Mayan Ruins: Head to the island’s southern tip to visit a small Mayan temple dedicated to Ixchel. The ocean views here are unbeatable, especially at sunrise.
- Swim with Dolphins: Dolphin Discovery offers ethical marine encounters, letting you swim and interact with dolphins in a responsible, well-maintained environment.
- Shop on Avenida Rueda Medina: The island’s main street is lined with boutiques and artisan shops—perfect for finding local souvenirs or a quick snack.
Lover's Beach on Cabo San Lucas (Photo: Shutterstock)
Kosher Food & Things to Do in Cabo San Lucas
Cabo San Lucas, located at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, is where desert landscapes meet turquoise waters—and where adventure meets relaxation. From world-class beaches to marine wildlife and off-road thrills, Cabo offers something for every kind of traveler.
It’s also surprisingly kosher-friendly. There’s a kosher meat restaurant in town, and the local Chabad runs a dairy café, offers Shabbat meals, and provides kosher catering during the week. That makes planning a kosher vacation in Cabo easy and stress-free. For more info, check out our Guide to Kosher and Jewish Life in Cabo San Lucas.
Top Things to Do in Cabo San Lucas:
- See El Arco (The Arch): This iconic natural rock formation is Cabo’s signature landmark. Take a boat tour to get up close and enjoy views of sea lions and tropical fish.
- Beach Time: Visit Medano Beach (swimmable and lively), Lover’s Beach (secluded and scenic), or Divorce Beach (great for photos, but not safe for swimming due to strong currents).
- Whale Watching: From December to April, catch a glimpse of migrating whales—it’s one of the most magical experiences Cabo has to offer.
- Water Sports: Go snorkeling, diving, surfing, or jet-skiing—there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the water here.
- Day Trip to Cabo Pulmo National Park: Home to one of North America’s oldest coral reefs, Cabo Pulmo offers some of the best snorkeling and diving in the region.
- Sport Fishing: Known as the Marlin Capital of the World, Cabo draws anglers from around the globe.
- Stroll the Marina: Enjoy shopping, grab a drink, or just take in the yachts and scenery around Cabo’s bustling marina.
- ATV Desert Tours: Head into the Baja desert for an adrenaline-filled ride through sand dunes, arroyos, and scenic trails.
- Golf by the Sea: Cabo is a dream for golfers, with stunning ocean-view courses designed by legends like Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods.
- Camel Rides on the Beach: Yes, you read that right! Enjoy a guided camel ride along the beach for a truly memorable Baja experience.
Conclusion
Mexico, with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, is full of unforgettable experiences. It’s no surprise that it has become such a popular destination for kosher travelers. From the shimmering beaches of Cancun and the ruins of the Riviera Maya to the laid-back charm of Isla Mujeres and Cozumel, and the desert beauty of Cabo San Lucas, each place has its own unique appeal.
Food is a key part of any vacation, and Mexico delivers. Kosher restaurants have opened in many of the country’s top tourist spots, and several hotels now cater to kosher guests. Most destinations also have a Chabad house offering minyanim, Shabbat meals, and sometimes kosher catering during the week.
For more details, check out TJT’s guide to kosher and Jewish life in Mexico.
Safe travels—and enjoy every moment of your kosher Mexican adventure!