Our Tamaulipas beach road trip started in Monterrey, a bustling city surrounded by scenic mountains, making it the perfect departure point for a weekend getaway to Playa del Tordo, located in Aldama, Tamaulipas. This beach is one of the closest coastal escapes from Monterrey, and it only takes about four hours by car to reach it, making it a popular destination for locals seeking a quick seaside retreat.

The Route and Local Area

Tamaulipas might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of beach vacations in Mexico, but it offers a unique experience for those looking to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations. Our Tamaulipas beach road trip took us through scenic countryside roads, passing through small towns that showcase the quieter, more traditional side of Mexico. Playa del Tordo, while not a well-known tourist hotspot, offers a peaceful, authentic beach experience. Most visitors here are locals or travelers from nearby areas, and the lack of commercial development keeps the beach clean and uncrowded.
One of the standout features of Playa del Tordo is its simplicity. Unlike major beach destinations, this quiet spot doesn’t have the usual conveniences like Oxxo stores or chain restaurants. Instead, you’ll find small, family-owned eateries and basic accommodations that offer an authentic, low-key experience. If you’re looking to save on your trip, beachfront hotels are affordable, with options ranging from simple rooms to camping on the beach for a small fee under palapas. This makes it a fantastic option for a budget-friendly Tamaulipas beach road trip. Camping also allows you to experience the beauty of the sunrise and, if you’re lucky, the chance to see baby sea turtles hatching and making their way to the ocean.

Exploring the Cenotes Near Playa del Tordo on Your Tamaulipas Road Trip

While the beach was the highlight of our Tamaulipas beach road trip, the nearby cenotes were just as captivating. Tamaulipas is home to several beautiful cenotes, and we made it a point to explore them. Cenote Zacatón, known as the deepest cenote in the world, was a must-see on our itinerary. This cenote has even been studied by NASA due to its unique features, but visitors should note that swimming isn’t allowed in Zacatón to protect the delicate ecosystem.

For swimming and adventure, we headed to Poza Verde, a nearby cenote where you can take a refreshing dip and even jump from platforms into the clear water. The cenote is surrounded by hammocks and seating areas, making it the perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring. We also visited Pilitas and Caracol, two other stunning cenotes in the area, each offering its own charm and natural beauty. Exploring these cenotes adds a unique touch to any Tamaulipas beach road trip, combining both beach relaxation and a chance to swim in these natural wonders.

Tips for Your Tamaulipas Beach Road Trip

If you’re planning your own Tamaulipas beach road trip to Playa del Tordo and the surrounding cenotes, here are a few tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:

1. Bring supplies: Since there are limited convenience stores and supermarkets near Playa del Tordo, it’s a good idea to stock up on snacks, drinks, and essentials before leaving Monterrey.
2. Have cash on hand: Most of the small businesses and accommodations in the area don’t accept credit cards, so be sure to bring enough cash for meals, hotel stays, and other expenses.
3. Visit during off-peak times: For a quieter experience, try to visit outside of peak holiday weekends, when locals from nearby cities tend to visit the beach.
4. Pack for the outdoors: Sunscreen and insect repellent are essential, especially if you plan on camping or spending extended periods near the cenotes.

This road trip is perfect for those looking to escape city life and immerse themselves in nature. With its proximity to Monterrey, affordable accommodations, and access to breathtaking natural sites like the cenotes of Tamaulipas, a Tamaulipas beach road trip to Playa del Tordo is a fantastic option for anyone seeking a budget-friendly adventure.

For more detailed information about Cenote Zacatón, you can visit Wikipedia.

Check out my journey to La Guardia for more solo female hiking adventures if you enjoyed this one!

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