International Air Rally badge
1st Edition · December 1–10

Mexico
Pacific Coast
Air Rally

Dates
Dec 1 – 10, 2026
Total Distance
2,890 NM
Stops
Mahahual · Huatulco · Zihuatanejo · Mérida

The itinerary is planned taking into consideration the slowest aircraft. Alternate fuel stops are suggested and arranged to ensure fast turnaround.

Adventure Awaits.
Mexico Pacific Coast Air Rally route map
Briefing

Fort Lauderdale Arrival (KFXE)

Monday, November 30

The International Air Rally experience begins in Fort Lauderdale on Monday, November 30, where all participating crews will come together for the official Pre-Rally Meeting and Pilot Briefing. After arriving at Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport (KFXE), participants will park and fuel their aircraft before gathering for registration, introductions, and an important briefing covering the journey ahead. The day will conclude with a group dinner, giving everyone a chance to meet fellow participants and enjoy a relaxed evening together before the Air Rally adventure begins.

December 1–3, 2026 · 3 Nights

Mahahual, Mexico

Leg Distance
634 NM

Mahahual

Mahahual is a charming seaside village on Mexico's Costa Maya, offering a relaxed escape from the busier destinations of Cancún and the Riviera Maya. Known for its crystal-clear Caribbean waters, beautiful beaches, colorful beach clubs, and excellent snorkeling and diving, Mahahual is the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the coast. Once a quiet fishing village, it has grown into one of the Yucatán Peninsula's hidden gems while preserving the laid-back, welcoming atmosphere that makes it so special.

Mahahual hotel view Mahahual hotel beach club
Your Stay in Mahahual

Set directly along the beautiful Caribbean shoreline, this stylish beachfront property offers the perfect combination of comfort and relaxation, just a short walk from the lively bars and restaurants of Mahahual's village center.

Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant, a beachfront bar, and a private beach club complete with a dedicated beach area and sun loungers—the perfect setting to unwind and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of Costa Maya.

Mahahual

Mahahual's beautiful shoreline is lined with soft sand, turquoise Caribbean waters. Many spots along the Malecón offer lounge chairs with the purchase of food or drinks. For a more complete beach experience, day passes are available at popular clubs such as Maya Chan, Blue Kay, and Yaya Beach, often including food, drinks, and other amenities. You can also enjoy Mahahual's fresh coastal flavors—from ceviche and grilled fish to tacos, margaritas, and local beer. For something sweet, stop by the local favorite, Panadería La Tarteleta.

Mahahual malecón beach club Mahahual coastal flavors
Top Dinner Spots in Mahahual
Malecón21 Beach Club & Restaurant

A stylish beachfront restaurant along the Malecón, offering fresh seafood and Caribbean-inspired Mexican cuisine in a beautiful seaside setting.

40 Cañones / Pez Quadro

An oceanfront option known for its romantic atmosphere and refined dining experience.

Luna de Plata

A relaxed restaurant at the southern end of the Malecón, featuring Italian favorites, fresh seafood, and views of the Caribbean.

Nacional Beach Club & Bungalows

A beachfront favorite serving a mix of Mexican and international cuisine, with excellent grilled dishes and a casual tropical atmosphere.

Mesoamerican Reef diving

Mesoamerican Reef

Discover the spectacular underwater world of the Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world. Snorkel along the reefs or take a diving excursion to explore colorful marine life, impressive coral formations, and the renowned Banco Chinchorro Biosphere Reserve. Divers can discover several historic shipwrecks, including the remains of Spanish and English galleons.

Chacchoben Mayan Ruins

Chacchoben Mayan Ruins

Step beyond the beach and discover the Chacchoben Mayan ruins, hidden within a lush jungle setting just 50 minutes from Mahahual. Explore ancient temples and experience one of Costa Maya's most fascinating archaeological sites.

Costa Maya Cruise Terminal

Costa Maya Cruise Terminal

Just a few minutes from Mahahual, the Costa Maya Cruise Terminal offers shops, restaurants, bars, and entertainment in a lively tropical setting. It's an easy visit from the village, located less than two miles away.

Other Activities
December 4–6, 2026 · 3 Nights

Bahía de Huatulco, México

Leg Distance
523 NM

Bahía de Huatulco

Huatulco is a beautiful Pacific Coast destination known for its nine scenic bays, more than 30 beaches, and lush tropical landscapes. Offering a quieter and more natural alternative to Mexico's larger resort destinations, Huatulco combines clear waters, secluded coves, and a relaxed atmosphere with the distinctive culture and flavors of Oaxaca.

Chahué Bay hotel Hotel pool overlooking bay
Your Stay in Bahía de Huatulco

Enjoy a peaceful beachfront retreat overlooking beautiful Chahué Bay, featuring comfortable rooms with private terraces and plunge pools. The hotel offers two outdoor pools with bay views, a spa, a poolside bar, and a casual restaurant with a scenic terrace. Located within walking distance of Chahué Marina, it provides a relaxing setting while remaining close to Huatulco's attractions.

Huatulco

Beyond its beautiful coastline, Huatulco offers plenty of local character to explore. Visit La Crucecita and Santa Cruz to discover colorful markets, shops, restaurants, traditional Oaxacan cuisine, and regional mezcal. The surrounding area is equally impressive, with protected natural landscapes, tropical vegetation, and a welcoming coastal atmosphere that makes Huatulco enjoyable both on and off the beach.

Huatulco bays aerial La Crucecita market
Top Dinner Spots in Huatulco: La Crucecita & Santa Cruz
Mercader

Charming option offering creative dishes and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for an enjoyable evening out.

Terra Cotta

Popular local favorite with a welcoming atmosphere and a varied menu featuring Mexican flavors.

Rocoto Hux

A highly rated local favorite offering creative seafood and fusion cuisine in an intimate, welcoming setting.

Boat excursion Huatulco bays

Explore Huatulco's Bays by Boat

Discover Huatulco's spectacular coastline and its famous nine bays on a scenic boat excursion. Cruise between beautiful beaches and secluded coves surrounded by lush green hills, with opportunities to swim, snorkel, and enjoy the clear Pacific waters along the way.

Copalitilla Waterfalls

Discover the Copalitilla Waterfalls

Escape to the jungle-covered foothills outside Huatulco and visit the beautiful Cascadas Mágicas de Copalitilla. Hike through tropical scenery to crystalline waterfalls and emerald pools, where you can swim and relax. The excursion can also be combined with a visit to a traditional coffee plantation.

La Crucecita and Santa Cruz

Explore La Crucecita & Santa Cruz

Experience Huatulco beyond the beaches with a visit to La Crucecita and Santa Cruz. Explore local markets, shops, restaurants, and traditional Oaxacan flavors while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of these colorful coastal communities. La Crucecita and Santa Cruz are easily reached from the hotel by a short taxi ride.

Other Activities
December 7–8, 2026 · 2 Nights

Zihuatanejo, México

Leg Distance
319 NM

Zihuatanejo

Zihuatanejo is a charming Pacific coastal town where beautiful beaches meet the character of a traditional Mexican fishing village. Set around a protected bay and backed by the Sierra Madre del Sur, it offers a more relaxed and authentic atmosphere than many larger resort destinations. Beaches such as La Ropa, La Madera, and Las Gatas, warm waters, tropical scenery, and spectacular sunsets make Zihuatanejo an ideal destination for enjoying Mexico's Pacific Coast.

Zihuatanejo hotel view Zihuatanejo hotel pool
Your Stay in Zihuatanejo

This charming property offers spectacular views of Zihuatanejo Bay and just a short walk from downtown. Guests can unwind beside two outdoor pools overlooking the Pacific, enjoy the panoramic terrace and jacuzzi, or take the stairs directly down to the calm waters of the beach. Comfortable rooms complement an on-site restaurant and bar—an inviting setting for fresh coastal cuisine, cocktails.

Zihuatanejo

Venture into the colorful town center and experience the local character that has made Zihuatanejo a designated Pueblo Mágico since 2023. Stroll along the Paseo del Pescador, where the waterfront comes alive with fishing boats, restaurants, local artisans, murals, and views across the bay. Fresh seafood remains an important part of the town's fishing heritage, while its markets, cobblestone streets, and relaxed seaside atmosphere offer an authentic taste of coastal Guerrero.

Paseo del Pescador
Top Dinner Spots in Zihuatanejo
LA GAVIOTA Restaurante

A beachfront restaurant known for fresh seafood, Mexican flavors, attentive service, and ocean views.

Tentaciones Restaurant

An elegant fine-dining experience overlooking Zihuatanejo Bay, featuring seafood and international cuisine.

Casa Bahía

An intimate hillside restaurant with panoramic views of the bay. Enjoy creative Mexican coastal cuisine and fresh seafood in a romantic setting, especially at sunset.

Playa Las Gatas

Playa Las Gatas

Take a short boat ride across Zihuatanejo Bay to beautiful Playa Las Gatas, a secluded beach known for its calm, clear waters. Spend the day swimming, snorkeling around the protected reef, or relaxing under the sun. Beachfront restaurants serve fresh seafood and cold drinks, making it an ideal spot to experience Zihuatanejo's laid-back coastal lifestyle.

Downtown Zihuatanejo

Downtown Zihuatanejo

Discover the heart of Zihuatanejo with a walk through its colorful downtown. Follow the Paseo del Pescador beside the bay, browse local shops and artisan stands, watch fishing boats return with the day's catch, and stop for fresh seafood or a margarita. Stay into the evening to enjoy the lively atmosphere and beautiful Pacific sunset.

Whale watching Zihuatanejo

Whale Watching

Head out onto the Pacific for one of Zihuatanejo's most memorable seasonal experiences. Humpback whales migrate through the region during the winter months, creating opportunities to see these magnificent animals from the water. A morning cruise combines marine wildlife and beautiful coastal scenery.

Other Activities
December 9, 2026 · 1 Night

Mérida, México

Leg Distance
806 NM

Mérida

Mérida is a vibrant colonial city where Mayan heritage, colorful architecture, and rich Yucatecan culture come together. Known as the cultural heart of the Yucatán, its historic center is filled with elegant plazas, lively markets, beautiful mansions, and impressive landmarks. Visitors can discover traditional cuisine, local music and crafts, stroll along the iconic Paseo de Montejo, and experience the city's welcoming atmosphere. Mérida also serves as a gateway to spectacular cenotes, haciendas, and ancient Mayan sites.

Paseo de Montejo hotel Mérida hotel pool
Your Stay in Mérida

Located along the iconic Paseo de Montejo, this elegant property combines traditional Yucatecan architecture with modern comfort in the heart of Mérida. Spacious rooms provide a relaxing retreat, while guests can enjoy an outdoor pool, fitness center, restaurants, and inviting common areas.

Its central location offers convenient access to the historic center, local restaurants, shops, museums, and many of the city's cultural attractions.

Mérida

Discover Mérida through its colorful streets, grand colonial architecture, and vibrant Yucatecan culture. Stroll along Paseo de Montejo, explore the historic Plaza Grande, browse local markets, and taste regional favorites such as cochinita pibil. Beyond the city, discover ancient Mayan ruins, beautiful haciendas, and crystal-clear cenotes, making Mérida an exciting blend of history, culture, gastronomy, and adventure.

Plaza Grande Mérida Yucatán cenote
Top Dinner Spots in Mérida
Micaela Mar & Leña

A lively, stylish restaurant in a restored colonial home, known for excellent wood-fired seafood, creative Mexican cuisine and cocktails.

Kuuk

An upscale culinary experience showcasing Yucatán ingredients through creative contemporary cuisine.

La Chaya Maya

A Mérida classic for traditional Yucatecan cuisine, including cochinita pibil, sopa de lima, poc chuc, handmade tortillas, and other regional favorites.

Uxmal Archaeological Zone

Uxmal Archaeological Zone

Step back in time at Uxmal, one of Yucatán's most impressive ancient Mayan cities. Beautifully preserved temples and intricate stone carvings, including the iconic Pyramid of the Magician and Governor's Palace. Located about an hour south of Mérida, Uxmal offers a fascinating look into Mayan history, architecture, and culture.

Paseo de Montejo

Mérida's Historic Center & Paseo de Montejo

Explore the heart of Mérida, beginning at Plaza Grande, surrounded by colonial architecture, historic buildings, shops, and lively plazas. Continue along Paseo de Montejo, "Xíimbal Nachi Cocom", the city's elegant tree-lined boulevard, where grand 19th-century mansions, museums, cafés, and the Monumento a la Patria showcase Mérida's fascinating past and vibrant present.

Yucatán cenote swimming

Swim in the Yucatán's Cenotes

Escape the city and discover one of Yucatán's most spectacular natural treasures. The countryside surrounding Mérida is dotted with beautiful cenotes—natural freshwater pools hidden inside caves or surrounded by tropical vegetation. Swim in crystal-clear waters, admire dramatic rock formations, and experience a natural wonder.

Other Activities
December 10, 2026

Fort Lauderdale (End of the Rally)

Total Return Distance
659 NM
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See You On The Next

Adventure!

Mexico Pacific Coast Air Rally 2026