US State Department Advises Against Travel to Four Mexican Beaches in 2026

The U.S. State Department has issued travel advisories for several regions in Mexico. As of 2026, four coastal destinations are classified under a Level 4 travel warning: “Do Not Travel.” This advisory mirrors warnings applied to active conflict areas worldwide. While these warnings cover entire states, they do not always reflect the actual safety of specific tourist spots.

Overview of Level 4 Beach Destinations

Below is a summary of the four major beach locations in Mexico that are currently under a Level 4 travel advisory.

• Mazatlán (Sinaloa)

  Mazatlán, known as the Pearl of the Pacific, presents a unique case. Although Sinaloa is under a strict Level 4 warning, Mazatlán is seen as a relatively safe area for tourists.

  U.S. government employees may visit, provided they arrive by air or sea and stay within designated tourist zones, such as the Zona Dorada and the historic center.

  Travel Tips:

  • Fly directly to Mazatlán Airport to avoid risky driving.
  • Explore the historic district and Golden Zone during the day and in the evening.

• Acapulco (Guerrero)

  Once a glittering destination for Hollywood stars, Acapulco now faces serious safety challenges. The entire state of Guerrero is under a Level 4 warning, meaning no U.S. government personnel may travel to the area, including Acapulco.

  Travel Tips:

  • If you choose to visit, stay in the Acapulco Diamante area for enhanced safety.
  • Avoid nighttime excursions and use verified transportation services.

• Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo (Guerrero)

  This dual destination combines modern resorts in Ixtapa with the charm of Zihuatanejo. Like Acapulco, it is encompassed by Guerrero’s Level 4 advisory, affecting U.S. government travel.

  Travel Tips:

  • Understand the geography; violence is mostly inland.
  • Fly into Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport and use official taxis.

• Manzanillo (Colima)

  Colima is one of Mexico’s smallest states but often ranks high in violence due to Manzanillo being a major commercial port. Despite the Level 4 warning, exceptions exist for tourist areas.

  Travel Tips:

  • Stay in resorts such as Club Santiago, away from commercial shipping areas.
  • Limit exploration to daylight hours for safety.

Navigating travel to these coastal locations requires caution and planning. Travelers are encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings and use reliable transportation methods. By adhering to safety guidelines, it is possible to enjoy the beauty of Mexico’s beaches while minimizing risks.