U.S. State Department Warns Against Travel to Four Mexican Beach Destinations
The U.S. State Department has issued a stark warning against travel to several popular beach destinations in Mexico, placing six states under a Level 4: “Do Not Travel” advisory – the same level reserved for active conflict zones globally. However, the department acknowledges that blanket warnings can be overly broad, and exceptions exist for specific areas within these states.
While the entire state of Sinaloa carries the highest level of warning, the popular tourist city of Mazatlán is considered relatively safe for visitors who adhere to specific guidelines. U.S. Government employees are permitted to visit Mazatlán, provided they arrive by air or sea and confine their movements to the Zona Dorada (Golden Zone) and the historic town center. The key, according to travel experts, is to avoid inland highways, where the majority of the danger lies.
Mazatlán: A City Apart
Known as the “Pearl of the Pacific,” Mazatlán offers a distinct experience from the rest of Sinaloa. Walking the Malecon, visitors often find a city focused on tourism and expat life, where enjoying local cuisine like shrimp ceviche feels safe. However, maintaining situational awareness and respecting boundaries remains crucial.
Travelers to Mazatlán are advised to fly directly into the city’s airport and remain within the established tourist areas. Venturing into rural municipalities or non-tourist suburbs is strongly discouraged.
Acapulco: A Fallen Star
Acapulco, once a glamorous destination for Hollywood stars, now faces serious safety challenges. The entire state of Guerrero is under a Level 4 warning, prohibiting even U.S. Government personnel from traveling to the area, including Acapulco itself. For those who choose to visit despite the warning, staying in the Acapulco Diamante area is recommended for enhanced safety. Nighttime excursions should be avoided, and verified transportation services utilized.
Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo: A Dual Destination with Risks
The dual destination of Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo presents a more nuanced situation. While also encompassed by Guerrero’s Level 4 advisory, the violence is largely concentrated inland. The modern resorts of Ixtapa and the charming town of Zihuatanejo have a loyal following of repeat visitors. Travelers are advised to fly into Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport and use official taxis to minimize risk.
Manzanillo: A Port City with Hidden Dangers
Manzanillo, in the state of Colima, is another destination under a Level 4 advisory. While Colima is a small state, it experiences high levels of violence due to Manzanillo’s status as Mexico’s busiest commercial cargo port on the Pacific. Criminal organizations compete for control of the port for smuggling purposes, but tourists staying within established resort zones are generally insulated from this activity.
U.S. Government employees are permitted to travel to the central tourist and port areas of Manzanillo. Visitors are advised to stay within the Peninsula de Santiago or Club Santiago, and to limit off-resort exploration to daylight hours. A visit to the city’s iconic sailfish monument is recommended during the day.
The State Department’s advisories highlight the complex security landscape in Mexico, where state-level warnings can sometimes overshadow the relative safety of specific tourist destinations. While caution is always advised, informed travelers can navigate these areas with awareness and adherence to official guidelines.
