Every November 1 and 2, Mexico and parts of Latin America come alive with the vibrant and deeply spiritual celebration of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Far from being a somber occasion, this centuries-old holiday is a joyful time to honor and remember loved ones who have passed.
Rooted in pre-Hispanic Aztec traditions and later blended with Catholic beliefs, Día de los Muertos is symbolized by colorful altars (ofrendas), marigolds, candles, sugar skulls, music, and feasts. Families gather in cemeteries, streets fill with parades of dancing skeletons, and communities unite to celebrate life, memory, and ancestry. Today, this UNESCO-recognized tradition is one of Mexico’s most iconic cultural expressions—and an unforgettable experience for travelers.
If you’re planning to immerse yourself in the beauty of Día de los Muertos, here are some of the best resorts to celebrate the holiday in luxury and authenticity:
Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa | Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Nestled along Banderas Bay and framed by the Sierra Madre Mountains, the newly renovated Marriott Puerto Vallarta Resort & Spa is perfectly positioned to celebrate Día de los Muertos. Guests can experience the city’s famous Malecon, lined with altars and towering Catrinas, or join the “Death is Alive” parade with dancing skeletons and floats. On-site, the resort hosts its Celebration Beyond Life Dinner, complete with a traditional altar, live music, Catrina face painting, and a curated menu. A special package even includes daily breakfast, dinner tickets, and immersive cultural experiences.
Sandos Caracol Eco Resort | Playa del Carmen, Mexico
At Sandos Caracol Eco Resort, Día de los Muertos is a full-sensory celebration. The resort transforms into a lively festival, reminiscent of Disney’s Coco, with parades of Catrinas, traditional food stalls, face painting, and cultural performances. Guests can join ceremonies and games designed to honor ancestors, making this all-inclusive Riviera Maya destination one of the most festive places to experience the holiday without leaving the property.
Villa Bokéh | Antigua, Guatemala
For a unique twist, head to Antigua, Guatemala, where Día de los Muertos coincides with All Saints’ Day. The city’s cemeteries glow with candles, marigolds, and family offerings, while nearby highland towns host the Giant Kite Festival, where massive hand-painted kites soar as spiritual messages to departed souls. At Villa Bokéh, luxury meets authenticity with personalized guides, cultural tours, and concierge-led experiences—ensuring every guest can witness this breathtaking tradition with depth and ease.
W Punta de Mita | Nayarit, Mexico
For a soulful, design-forward experience, W Punta de Mita celebrates Día de los Muertos with Huichol-inspired traditions. Guests can join a Shaman-led Cacao Ceremony on the beach, dine at Rubra, the resort’s new restaurant from award-winning Chef Daniela Soto-Innes, or attend Echoes of the Unknown, a four-course dinner on November 1 infused with mythology, music, and performance. With altar-inspired décor and an emphasis on ancestral connection, the resort offers one of the most artistic and spiritual ways to celebrate the holiday.
✨ Why Celebrate Here?
Día de los Muertos is more than a holiday—it’s an invitation to reflect, celebrate, and connect with traditions that transcend time. Whether you’re drawn to Puerto Vallarta’s colorful parades, Playa del Carmen’s resort-wide festivities, Antigua’s soaring kites, or Nayarit’s spiritual rituals, these destinations offer the perfect blend of luxury, culture, and remembrance.
