As we settle into October, it’s the perfect time to plan a memorable fall getaway that centers around the vibrant traditions of Día de los Muertos. Día de Los Muertos, observed on November 1st and 2nd, is a cherished Mexican holiday that pays tribute to departed loved ones through vibrant food, drinks, and ofrendas (elaborate altars). From the vibrant Día de los Muertos celebrations in San Miguel de Allende to the enchanting landscapes of Oaxaca, here are some top destinations perfect for your Día de los Muertos journey with friends or family.

San Miguel De Allende, Mexico:

Día de los Muertos in San Miguel de Allende is a vibrant and culturally rich celebration that takes place all over the city. The cobblestone streets come alive with colorful ofrendas (altars), marigold-adorned calaveras (skulls), and lively processions. It’s a time when the community gathers to honor and remember their loved ones, blending Mexican traditions with a unique local flair.

Where to Stay:

This Mediterranean-style residence, available on HomeExchange Collection, seamlessly blends contemporary comfort with architectural elegance, perched atop a hillside offering views of San Miguel town, the lake, distant countryside, and the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range. HomeExchange Collection is an exclusive new luxury community created for like-minded travelers to meet, share, and exchange their luxury homes. One of the real luxuries for members of the exclusive community is the possibility to feel at home anywhere in the world in luxury homes with character. The other is the possibility to uncover unique local cultures and customs from host members who offer unparalleled pre-arrival advice for memorable moments and authentic travel experiences. Designed for indoor/outdoor living in central Mexico’s semi-arid, temperate climate, the home features an expansive upstairs terrace with dining and viewing areas, two outdoor lounging spaces, and a fireplace, all framing stunning evening sunsets. The lower terrace boasts a 60-foot solar-heated lap pool within a lush mature garden with citrus trees, bougainvillea, and cypress trees, alongside a hot tub, pergola, and cantera fire table. A separate guest house includes two ensuite bedrooms and private terraces, while the main house offers a master suite with a marble soaking tub, modern kitchen, and multiple terraces. Privately enclosed, it’s just a 12-minute walk to the town square and near the Botanical Garden and canyon walks.

 

Puerto Aventuras, Riviera Maya, Mexico:

Día de los Muertos in Quintana Roo, along the stunning coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, offers a unique beachside twist on this traditional celebration. Locals and visitors come together to honor their ancestors with beachfront ofrendas, where the soothing sounds of the ocean provide a serene backdrop to the festivities. 

Where to Stay:

Discover the perfect blend of comfort and convenience in this spacious home, available on HomeExchange Collection, with a private pool  located a 5-minute walk away from the  beach, boat marina, restaurants, bars, skateboard park, golf course, driving range, and a lush park nestled in the jungle. Safety and cleanliness define the gated community of Puerto Aventuras, creating a harmonious mix of residential and tourism elements. The neighborhood offers a secure environment, ideal for exploration, with easy access to Playa del Carmen, Tulum ruins, and world-class cenotes. Within the gated community, you’ll find a beach, jungle trails, park with a playground, skateboard park, jogging and cycling paths, an outdoor exercise gym, restaurants, a marina, shops, a fruit market, and vibrant nightlife. The home features four bedrooms, each with an attached bathroom and balcony. 

 

Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, Mexico:

Día de los Muertos in Playa del Carmen is a vibrant and captivating celebration full of tradition. The streets come alive with colorful processions, sugar skull face painting, and traditional Mexican cuisine. It’s a unique blend of local culture and tourist participation, offering a memorable way to experience this rich tradition against the Caribbean coastline.

Where to Stay:

This Playa del Carmen penthouse consists of three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a 2,880 sq. ft. luxury living space. The ocean-view home is crowned by a private rooftop with a plunge pool and grill, inviting guests to savor the ocean vistas. The home is just two blocks from the vibrant 5th Avenue, with access to the city’s finest dining and shopping, while the sand and turquoise waters of the Mexican Riviera are a short stroll away. A heated outdoor pool, on-site gym, and more are also included. 

 

Tulum, Mexico:

Día de los Muertos in Tulum offers a more tranquil and introspective take on this cherished Mexican tradition. Visitors can explore the ancient Mayan ruins and partake in quiet, heartfelt observances on the white sandy beaches, creating a serene atmosphere for remembering loved ones. Tulum’s Día de los Muertos celebration combines Mayan heritage with Mexican traditions in a natural setting.

Where to Stay:

Nestled in the heart of Aldea Zama within the trendy Tulum, this stunning 160-square-meter townhouse exudes modern elegance, boasting three bedrooms, each complete with its own full bathroom, and an inviting upper-level terrace. Ideal for families with children, the fully-equipped kitchen ensures travelers can savor home-cooked meals, while the nearby shared swimming pools, equipped with barbecue grills, offer a perfect setting for gatherings. Discover Tulum’s allure within Yaxiik condominium, complete with fine dining, boutique shopping, white sand beaches, archaeological sites, and refreshing cenotes, all easily explored on bicycles—a true Tulum delight. Additional amenities include an upper-level terrace, WiFi throughout, and proximity to the area’s finest beaches, all within a secure condominium with 24/7 security and two shared pools.

 

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico:

Día de los Muertos in Puerto Vallarta, nestled on Mexico’s Pacific coast, is a lively celebration that combines traditional customs with a vibrant beach-town atmosphere. The Malecón boardwalk and the charming streets of the Zona Romántica come alive with colorful ofrendas, intricately decorated calaveras, and vibrant parades. The celebration is a joyful way to honor ancestors with the entire community.

Where to Stay:

For this year’s Día de los Muertos celebrations, Velas Resorts in Mexico offer a diverse range of authentic experiences, including catrina parades, cultural night tours of Puerto Vallarta’s Malecon, culinary traditions, and art and handicraft exhibits. On November 2nd, Velas Vallarta will host a parade featuring iconic Mexican Catrinas, while Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit presents Mexology Fest, fusing Día de los Muertos traditions with mixology workshops and tastings. Casa Velas in Puerto Vallarta offers a unique Day of the Dead experience, including a nighttime tour of the Malecon promenade and a massive 75 ft tall catrina sculpture. Back at Casa Velas, guests receive sugar skull amenities with explanations of the celebration’s significance.