The Best Campeche Travel Guide – Campeche, in the Yucatan Peninsula, is one of the most beautiful capitals in the country. It has 17 archaeological sites including Calakmul, the largest Mayan city that has ever been discovered. If you’re looking to escape from the tourist crowd, its Pacific beaches are for you. Campeche has charming corners that you’ll love including the beautiful colonial port, various Mayan ceremonial centers and majestic nature reserves.
When you visit Campeche you have to take a stroll along the Fort of San Miguel, San José el Alto, and the Door of the Earth; their buildings will carry you and will tell the story of this beautiful city. Our Campeche Vacations guide will give you everything you need to plan your beach vacation now. For more information on the wonderful beaches of Campeche and the Yucatan Peninsula, visit here. Also learn more about the Yucatan Peninsula here.
Campeche Weather – When to Visit
In Campeche, the wet season is oppressive and mostly cloudy, the dry season is muggy and mostly clear, and it is hot year round. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 65°F to 93°F and is rarely below 57°F or above 100°F. The best time of year to visit Campeche for warm-weather activities is from late November to mid March. The hot season lasts for 4.3 months, from April 10 to August 20, with an average daily high temperature above 91°F. The hottest day of the year is May 10, with an average high of 93°F and low of 75°F. The cool season lasts for 2.6 months, from November 23 to February 11, with an average daily high temperature below 84°F. The coldest day of the year is January 15, with an average low of 65°F and high of 82°F.
Best Campeche Area Beaches
Playa Punta San Julian
There is lots of room on the beach, some large groups of coworkers or family go for get-togethers and in places you will see people drive cars and motorcycles right to the water’s edge! However the road in from the highway is pretty rough and gets worse after a rainfall.
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Bahamitas Beach
Fishermen, water-skiers, swimmers and windsurfers will love this beach. The sea is clear and you can hide from the sun under the palms.
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Isla Arena (Isla del Sabalo)
This picturesque fishing village is clean, and offers good birding, with many flamingos, gulls, terns, pelicans, and the like. It is tranquil and quiet.
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Playa Bonita
Playa Bonita is the closest real beach to Campeche. Don’t expect an isolated paradise though – this is a gated, developed resort with gritty sand and sandbagged swimming areas (to keep sand from washing away). Still, it’s not unpleasant – plenty of palapas provide shade (M$50 to M$100) and there’s a restaurant and fútbol pitch. Come on weekdays to avoid the crowds.
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Seybaplaya
Stroll leisurely along the beach that flanks the port town. Paddle along the placid water in a kayak that you can rent from operators on the beach. Other watersports equipment is also available. Go snorkeling in the calm sea to spot the array of colorful fish.
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Best Campeche Restaurants
La Pigua $31 – 60
Located on the Malecón, La Pigua serves a selection of seafood dishes and is a very popular spot with both locals and visitors. Along with the menu rich in fish and seafood, the restaurant is known for its signature coconut cake that is the perfect end to any meal. Telephone: 52-981-811-3365 Web: La Pigua.
Marganzo $11 – 30
A great place to try local dishes and soak up the Campeche culture, Marganzo is a popular choice. The menu is well stocked with favorites of the regional cuisine, however the restaurant is popular with big tour groups so if that is not your thing you may need to time your visit to avoid the tours. Telephone: 52-981-811-3899 Web: Marganzo
Luz de Luna $11 – 30
With tables set out on Calle 59 and a colorful and fun décor you might write Luz de Luna off as just an average tourist spot. However, the food is great quality with good portions and fresh ingredients. It is a wonderful place to enjoy local favorites, as well as a number of other dishes from across Mexico and its local is just perfect. Telephone: 52-981-811-0624 Web: Luz de Luna
Mercado 59 $11 – 30
Set in a cool, stylish courtyard, this restaurant has a youthful vibe and serves fresh, unique and creative dishes alongside tasty cocktails. Loud music pumps through the courtyard, but those who prefer a quieter ambience can enjoy their meal in the interior dining room. Telephone: 52-981-811-6990 Web: Mercado 59.
Best Campeche Nightlife
Café Peón Contreras
The café-bar at Mérida’s landmark 1908 theater is one of the most happening nightspots in town. Tables spill onto the street, where locals gather to hear balladeers singing romantic and politically-inspired songs. The drinks are expensive and the food is nothing special, so only go if you want culture, live music, and an opportunity to splurge. Telephone: 52-993-924-7003 Web: Café Peón Contreras
La Parrilla
Location, location, location is the allure of this loud and colorful drinking establishment. Right in the heart of Plaza Grande—but with branches around the city—the tourist magnet offers live music and drinks served in plastic yard glasses. It’s one of the best spots to grab a beer and watch Mérida in action. Check the website for weekly promotions. Telephone: 52-981-127-1162 Web: La Parrilla.
Mayan Pub
A pleasant atmosphere, flowing beer, and live music are what make this bar one of Mérida’s best-kept secrets (you might want to pass on the food). Grab a spot in the beer garden where you can listen to live reggae, rock, or jazz. A rather worn billiard table and occasional entertainment—such as belly dancers and fire spinners—draw in a decent crowd. Telephone: 52-999-968-7341 Web: Mayan Pub.
Best Campeche Hotels
