Top 35 Coneflower Varieties and Care Tips

Table Of Content

• What services does Garden Design provide?
• Expert Advice: 10 Tips to Get Your Garden Ready for Spring
• Choosing the Right Coneflower Varieties
• Shopper’s Diary: Peonies in Paris, for Flowers and Coffee
• Purple Coneflower

Participants use real-world design techniques and strategies of proper plant selection and placement. His passion for gardening was rekindled when he moved in the countryside. Even as a child, he was allowed / required to help out in the garden on a regular basis.Through his current experience in online marketing and love of writing, this blog was born.

What services does Garden Design provide?

Although coneflowers thrive best in a soil high in organic matter, too much supplemental fertilizer can cause them to become leggy. Adding compost each spring usually gives them the nutrition they need for healthy foliage and blooms. Color Coded® ‘Orange You Awesome’ (Echinacea hybrid) produces large deep tangerine flowers with a contrasting dark center cone.

Expert Advice: 10 Tips to Get Your Garden Ready for Spring

If you’re looking to create a vibrant garden, you should consider planting coneflowers alongside other purple flowers. They are a beautiful perennial flower that can add color and charm to your landscape design. They come in various varieties, such as ‘Green Envy,’ ‘Razzmatazz,’ and ‘Tangerine Dream,’ each with their own unique characteristics. When choosing the right coneflower varieties for your garden, it’s important to consider how they will complement the overall design of your landscape. Coneflower is typically planted in the ground from a pot, but it's also possible to grow it from seed.

Choosing the Right Coneflower Varieties

Lamb's-ears is a top pick for a groundcover in a hot, baked spot. Its silver-felted foliage quickly forms a dense, delightful mat. Depending on the type and your growing conditions, it may self-sow freely to the point of becoming a bother.

Garden designer Sue Goetz shares tips for planting, harvesting and enjoying herbs for the Northwest - The Seattle Times

Garden designer Sue Goetz shares tips for planting, harvesting and enjoying herbs for the Northwest.

Posted: Sat, 23 May 2020 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Shopper’s Diary: Peonies in Paris, for Flowers and Coffee

After planting coneflower, you should continue watering it every other day for about three to four weeks to help it get established. "Provide watering at least once a week if hot and dry weather persists," says Roethling. "After a year, hopefully, there should be no need to provide water." When watering, provide about 1 liter of water every time.

‘Cheyenne Spirit’ coneflower (Echinacea hybrid)

When purchasing coneflowers from your local garden center, look for ones growing in a pot. "Some stores will sell them in bags that arrived from overseas," says Roethling. In the past, the only colors for coneflowers were pink-purple or soft white. And these are definitely pretty — one glance shows you how gorgeous old-fashioned coneflowers can look in a flower border. But over the last several years, plant breeders have released some unusual varieties.

Mango Meadowbrite Coneflower is unique with its mango-colored petals and a prominent brown cone. It’s medium height, but it also blooms for an extended period from summer to early fall. The variety of Echinacea purpurea ‘Green Jewel’ is known for its greenish-yellow petals and a similarly colored central cone. This unique variety adds a touch of novelty to garden landscapes, making it an attractive option.

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Flowers start blooming from the top of the stem, and each flower remains in bloom for several weeks. As the initial flower fades, more side shoots and buds will form along the stem. Keep the plants deadheaded, and you'll keep getting more flowers.

Purple Coneflower

These plants can enhance the beauty of your garden by adding different textures, colors, and heights that complement them. Once planted, water your them regularly, providing about an inch of water per week. Avoid excessive foliage growth by being cautious with amendments and fertilizers. Additionally, consider leaving the seed heads on the plant during fall as they serve as a food source for birds during winter months. They attract pollinators with their late-season nectar and are deer-resistant, making them an excellent choice for any garden. With their long blooming period from mid-summer to fall, they can add vibrant color to your late-season summer garden.

Weekly topics begin on a Monday, and required assignments are generally due on or before the following Monday. Late assignments will be accepted, but instructor feedback may be delayed, and satisfactory completion of the course may be compromised. Consider optional activities only after completing and submitting required assignments. The final project is a completed garden plan which will reflect your evolving experience and information that you have learned throughout the course. The specific design, style, as well as the mode of executing the final plan will be a matter of your choice and preference. This course presents the proper steps of site assessment, with hands-on activities that demonstrate a property’s ecosystem, characteristics, and existing elements.

Echinacea Isn’t Itself Anymore - The New York Times

Echinacea Isn’t Itself Anymore.

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Introduced by Terra Nova Nurseries, this two-toned double flower has a ruffle of salmon-colored rays under a ball of dark coral-red. Flowers are 3 to 4-inches across with tall strong stems well-suited for cut-flowers. This online course teaches the basics of preliminary site analysis and ornamental garden design techniques.

Amy created a landscape design for a portion of a public park in her neighborhood. This class is asynchronous and self-paced in its design, where single topics are opened each week, and build upon each other. Get ready to transform your garden into a colorful oasis with these stunning flowers. "One may need to create a barrier fence around the yard," says Roethling.

How to Plant and Grow Coneflower

Once the perennial has stopped blooming, leave dormant seed heads for winter pollinators. "Gold finches and other birds will scavenge the pods during the winter months," says Roethling. I would consider leaving the seed heads until there's a nub left behind." Then you can cut back the stems.

Blooming Beauties Transform Your Outdoor Oasis with Garden Decor Ideas

To manage self-seeding, you can deadhead spent flowers to prevent seed formation. If you want to encourage self-seeding for a naturalized look, allow some seed heads to remain on the plant. You can also thin out excess seedlings in the spring to control their spread. The landscaping options for planting coneflower are almost limitless.

Everything You Need to Know About North American Native Orchids

These versatile and low-maintenance perennial plants are perfect for any garden design. With their vibrant colors and ability to attract pollinators, they are a popular choice among gardeners. Also keep an eye out for aster yellows, a systemic plant disease that causes growth deformities in the flowers.

Common Pests and Diseases

Plus, plants are more susceptible to foliar diseases, such as powdery mildew, when planted in the shade. On first viewing a photo of this plant found by avid gardener Mark Veeder, Tony Avent of Plant Delights Nursery thought it was Photoshopped. Each recurving rose-pink ray petal is tipped with lime green, taking bicolor to the next level. Unusual cones are deep green with hints of brown, lime green and purple. Part of the Prairie Pillars collection, with long sturdy stems perfect for cut flowers, its bright yellow rays mellow as they age. Others in the collection are red-flowered ‘Hot Lava’ and orange ‘Tiki Torch’.

Create a lush island butterfly garden bed of flowers that will bring beautiful fluttering insects to your garden. We’re a design practice at the nexus of strategy, experience, architecture, engineering and social impact. We imagine, create and implement solutions that advance human vitality, further equity, optimize business and protect our planet all at once.

With a long bloom time and adaptability to different soils, there are many ways to use coneflower in virtually any garden. Coneflower is an easy-to-grow perennial with long-lasting daisy-like flowers that attract beneficial pollinators and songbirds. Sometimes you may see dark spotting on the leaves — this is usually a bacterial or fungal condition caused by humidity and moisture. It may cause plants to drop leaves and look a little rough, but it doesn’t hurt anything.

If you see mildew or spots on the leaves, simply cut them back and let them fill in on their own. A few pests enjoy coneflowers, so keep an eye out for Japanese beetles, aphids and leafhoppers. Coneflowers are often listed as drought-tolerant plants, but they will actually do much better with fairly regular watering. Water them daily just after planting, then transition to an inch of water per week for the rest of the plant's first year of life.

Find Landscape Architects & Designers to Help Get the Job Done

Complement your coneflowers with strategically chosen companion plants to enhance the visual appeal of your garden. Consider planting lavender, salvia, or coreopsis alongside coneflowers for a harmonious blend of colors, textures, and fragrances. Companion planting not only adds aesthetic value but can also benefit the overall health of your garden ecosystem. Coneflowers are sun-loving plants that thrive in full sunlight. Choose a location for your garden that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Adequate sunlight exposure not only ensures prolific blooming but also contributes to the overall vitality of your coneflower garden.

You can plant a single color in groups or mix different colors. Or you can interplant it with ornamental grasses or other perennials between the groups of different colors of coneflowers. Just keep in mind that whatever you plant should not be so tall as to deprive the coneflowers of sunlight.

This Echinacea purpurea ‘PowWow Wild Berry’ is known for its vibrant rose-purple petals and relatively shorter Coneflower, and it has an extended blooming period. What coneflower needs the most is sun so pick a location where it gets plenty. In terms of soil, coneflower is undemanding as long as there is good drainage, and the pH is in the neutral range. Somewhat shorter than the pink versions with a honey fragrance and reflexed white petals. For her course project, Master Gardener volunteer Beth Ricciardi used overlays to sketch out plantings that straddle an asphalt driveway at the Science Museum of Long Island. She made this detailed sketch of perennial locations on one side of the driveway.

Coneflowers are unfussy about soil texture; they can grow in sandy, rocky, and clay soil with a neutral pH (6.5 to 7.0). Because purple coneflower is native to grass prairies, it prefers well-drained soil. Established plants tolerate drought well although they will bloom better if you water them regularly during dry spells. To keep your coneflower garden in top condition, regular maintenance is key. Deadheading spent blooms encourages continuous flowering, while pruning in late fall helps prevent disease and promotes a tidy appearance. Remember to divide crowded clumps every 2-3 years to rejuvenate the plants and maintain optimal health.

Summer blooms Photo of the week Nebraska Today University of Nebraska–Lincoln - Nebraska Today

Summer blooms Photo of the week Nebraska Today University of Nebraska–Lincoln.

Posted: Fri, 02 Jul 2021 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Both people and pollinators love these pretty North American native perennials, which have seen a resurgence in popularity. Echinacea purpurea, the purple coneflower, is the most commonly found Echinacea species. The big blooms are made up of a brownish-orange central cone and a ring of long, slender petals with a pinkish-purple hue radiating out from it. There are many more species and cultivars in different colors to choose from.

Plant them in an area that receives at least six to eight hours of sunlight per day to ensure optimal growth and blooming. To attract more butterflies and other pollinators to your outdoor space, incorporate coneflowers into your landscape and provide them with a pollinator-friendly environment. As long as the plants are given plenty of room for good air circulation, they should not be bothered by fungal diseases.

Get tips for making your yard a private paradise from two hardcore gardeners who turned their corner landscape into a secluded retreat.

Avoid overhead watering and remove any infected leaves promptly. Lambs-ears, with their soft and fuzzy leaves, create a lovely contrast against the spiky petals of the coneflower. Globe thistle, on the other hand, adds a touch of elegance with its round blue flowers that stand tall next to them. Do you want to enhance the beauty and wildlife of your garden?

Cozumel and Cancun Cruises: Cruise to Cozumel and Cancun

Table Of Content

• VIP Day at Anemona Beach in Punta Sur
• CRUISE OUT OF LOS ANGELES
• Cool Things to Do on Short Cruises From LA
• Late stays and overnights
• Where to Stay
• MEXICAN RIVIERA CRUISES

This is the perfect boat tour evening for couples, honeymooners, special events, or simply small groups of close friends. With the wind in the sails and the setting sun to your back, revel in the sight of twilight falling softly over the Caribbean sea. Even if you’ve never visited Mexico, chances are you’ve tried shrimp or fish tacos before.

VIP Day at Anemona Beach in Punta Sur

Or let loose with your loved ones during a mariachi performance, and dance to the lively tune of violins and guitars. On a cruise to Mexico with Princess, activities lie around every corner. Experience the country’s unique character the second you step on the ship with traditional Mexican cuisine, events and activities. June, July, and August can feel sweltering, with average temperatures peaking at 82 F. And, though the threat is relatively low, June to October is officially hurricane season in Rivera Maya.

CRUISE OUT OF LOS ANGELES

Busy cruise week for Cozumel with 32 scheduled to dock - Riviera Maya News

Busy cruise week for Cozumel with 32 scheduled to dock.

Posted: Sat, 02 Mar 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

If you’re new to California’s pulsing heart, spend some time exploring its cosmopolitan food scene, star-studded haunts and unique neighborhoods — each with its own distinct vibe. Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty and protect you if your flight is late or canceled. Recognized by UNESCO for its cultural heritage and preservation of culinary technique, Mexican and Spanish cuisine is a big part of the region’s culture. Sample the bold flavors and creative combinations for yourself on a cruise to Mexico with Princess. In many of our dining rooms, enjoy Mexican-themed dishes — like ceviche, fajitas and coconut cocadas — for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Cool Things to Do on Short Cruises From LA

From coffee and salsa to spirits and artisan goods, discover the best things to buy in Mexico cruise ports when you sail with Princess. On a seven-day Mexico cruise or a 10-day itinerary, you can find expertly crafted excursions on every itinerary. Spend the day catching marlin and tuna in the world-class fishing port of Mazatlan. With excursions for every traveler, see why we’re named one of the best cruises to the Mexican Riviera. Beachside cities and historical towns await you on our top-rated Mexican Riviera cruises. Depart from Los Angeles or San Francisco, where you can sail under the Golden Gate Bridge.

Late stays and overnights

Marvel at the ocean’s power at La Bufadora, Ensenada’s famous rock blowhole. Soak up the Hollywood glamor of Playa de los Muertos in Puerto Vallarta. We’re making waves from the Caribbean to the Med, the Adriatic to the Red, and everywhere in between across 4 continents. From captivating coasts to laid-back island vibes, the exclusively adult cruise vacation of your dreams is here.

Swim your way to seclusion at Puerto Vallarta's hidden beach, Playa del Amor. A romantic, awe-inspiring lagoon awaits after navigating a natural rock cavern.

With two wondrous places to consider, here's how to know whether traveling to the Mexican Riviera or the Riviera Maya for a vacation cruise is right for you. Continue to experience the charm of Mexico by cruising to Progreso, which is also located on the Yucatan peninsula, or Veracruz, which is further up the coast. Many cruises to Cancun and Cozumel cruise ports continue on to other in the Western Caribbean like Belize City, Grand Cayman and Montego Bay. And if you think you already know the region, think again — there are endless new discoveries to be made. From Ensenada to Puerto Vallarta to Cabo, each city has its own distinct food scene well worth exploring. And Baja is rich in arts and culture, whether galleries or some street murals are more your scene.

Since the construction of Puerto Costa Maya, Mahahual has been rapidly growing in population (around 3000) and in capacity to receive over 15,000 tourists in a day. Shuttle bus service and taxis go to the Mahahual boardwalk, with fares (cruise port to Mahahual Town) at ~USD 5 per person. Port Costa Maya cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Costa Maya, Quintana Roo Mexico, Riviera Maya. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Strong winds cause some Cozumel cruise ships to keep going - Riviera Maya News

Strong winds cause some Cozumel cruise ships to keep going.

Posted: Wed, 07 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Port Costa Maya (locode MXCOM) is also the closest tourist destination to the lesser-known Mayan ruins in Mexico's Yucatan state (including Kohunlich and Chacchoben). In 2017 was discovered Ichkabal (the largest Mayan archaeological site) and since 2019 it is added to Costa Maya's Shore Excursion program for cruise companies-organized land tours. There's fun to be had long after the sun goes down on a Riviera Maya and Mexican Riviera vacation, but you'll need to know where to look.

Each stop on a western Mexico cruise promises endless new discoveries. Bask in the wild natural beauty of Cabo San Lucas, with its windswept cliffs plunging into the Pacific. And embark on a wine- and food-tasting adventure while visiting cosmopolitan Ensenada.

Locals in the region typically serve tacos with grilled or fried seafood topped with lettuce or cabbage, pico de gallo and a sour cream or citrus mayonnaise. Don’t miss out on a local adventure, see what draws travelers to the Yucatan and the Baja Peninsula for vacation. Sunny Los Angeles serves as your jumping off point for unforgettable west-coast wanders to the Mexican Riviera.

One of the best benefits of the clear Caribbean waters off the Yucatan is world-class scuba diving. At Cozumel's Santa Rosa Wall, you can see large schools of grouper fish, while the Cancun Underwater Museum reveals a world of sub-surface art. The water in the Cenote caverns located in the inland part of the peninsula is just as clear— just be prepared for the close quarters of the caves.

Despite its seaside proximity, the most famous dish in the Yucatán is cochinita pibil, pork marinated and braised in local spices — traditionally cooked in a stone-lined barbecue pit. Sopa de lima, Yucatan-style lime soup, is made with meat, juice from Yucatán limes, cilantro and chiles. The word riviera is typically used to describe stretches of scenic shores, and it's fair to say both the Mexican Riviera and the Riviera Maya have earned their titles. On the western coastline of Mexico, a Mexican Riviera cruise reveals a journey to a wild desert peninsula, dramatic cliffs, romantic cities and epic waves surfers cross oceans for. Many of the most popular local Yucatan dishes will be familiar to American palates, particularly if you reside in the southern part of the country. When you travel to Mexico, one of the best ways to enjoy the country is by immersion.

Rest from a day of sightseeing by setting sail on a French-made catamaran in the Caribbean Sea. Experience relaxation, admire the coastline, and view some of the world’s most picturesque skyscapes. Explore 9 cool things to do on short cruises from Los Angeles with Royal Caribbean Cruises.

This aquatic venture takes you to part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System — one of the largest living structures on the planet. You’ll get a fish-eye view of tropical marine life, lobsters, rays, sharks, and turtles, then head to Cozumel’s famed wall — a vertical descent plunging you down 100ft. Experience some real aquanaut feels while gazing out of large port holes to view the Felipe Xicotencatl, an incredible wreck that is now home to an assortment of breathtaking species and coral. In general, the weather is best between December and April — there's little rain, and the temperatures are very comfortable. The wet season starts in May and ends in October, while hurricane season (affecting mostly the Caribbean side) starts in June and runs until November. You’ll find colorful colonial architecture in many of the towns along the Mexican Riviera.

This Coastal Destination Is Home to Some of the Most Iconic Mexico Attractions Here's How to Plan the Perfect Trip

Table Of Content

• Cruises to the Mexican Riviera
• Unwind with a Cocktail During this Sailing Adventure
• Virgin Voyages' guide to Cozumel (Playa del Carmen), Mexico
• Mexican Riviera Cruise Highlights
• Cozumel - Playa del Carmen

Feel the sea breeze on your face as you sail around the rocky coastline of Cabo San Lucas on the lookout for sea lions. Explore the galleries and boho-chic shops of Olas Altas, Puerto Vallarta. You’ll absorb Mexico’s colorful culture in the street food, tequila, music, and craft markets everywhere you go.

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Virgin Voyages cruise destination guide: The line's 5 best itineraries.

Posted: Wed, 08 Nov 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Cruises to the Mexican Riviera

When the sun has disappeared below the horizon, the evening breeze will cool you down as the catamaran sails back to port. Escape to the sea and witness the breathtaking sunsets when you set sail on a catamaran in Riviera Maya. Unwind after a day of adventure and relax as the wind in the sails moves you across the Caribbean Sea coastline. Mexican cuisine is beloved around the world, and the food you’ll find along the Mexican Riviera has a flavor all its own.

Unwind with a Cocktail During this Sailing Adventure

Some of the best waves I've ever surfed were perched on the points along the Baja Peninsula, many of which are nowhere to be found in surf guides. While the Riviera Maya is not known to entice expert surfers, there are beginner-friendly waves off Puerto Aventuras. Both the Riviera Maya and the Mexican Riviera offer other ocean activities like stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, kitesurfing and windsurfing. Soak up the sunshine of the Mexican Riviera on one of our luxury cruise ships.

Virgin Voyages' guide to Cozumel (Playa del Carmen), Mexico

The SS Sapona Shipwreck is one of the most famous shipwrecks in Bimini—shrouded in occult lure and fascination. Our itineraries feature late stays and overnights, so you can explore it all from morning to night (and morning again). For a more local adventure during your stay, have any local hotel (you don't need to be a guest in most cases) order you a taxi to Cancun city.

Puerto Vallarta hosts bars and nightclubs in the heart of the city and dancing in the town square. The quaint area of Zona Romantica has a blend of mellow pubs and bumping clubs, making it easy to ease in and out of a scene depending on your mood. Continue to experience the charm of Mexico by cruising to Ensenada, which is also located on the Baja peninsula, or Cabo San Lucas, which is further down the coast. Many cruises from the west coast of California and Mexico continue on to other ports like Catalina Island, Puerto Vallarta, and Mazatlan. \nContinue to experience the charm of Mexico by cruising to Ensenada, which is also located on the Baja peninsula, or Cabo San Lucas, which is further down the coast. Though visitors between January and mid-March will be treated to peak whale migration season, while summer offers sunny beach days and prime surf conditions.

Opt for a quick escape to Ensenada and Cabo San Lucas filled with delicious global flavors, top-notch wines and world-renowned beaches. The Sea of Cortez tucked in between Mexico's mainland and the Baja Peninsula is within the Mexican Riviera, too. Because a cruise to the Mexican Riviera covers such a large stretch of coastline, you could be kayaking around a dramatic rock formation one day and strolling the streets of an ancient city the next. For travelers who love grand journeys covering varied landscapes, there are few trips better than a cruise to the Mexican Riviera. All your senses will be captivated on a luxury cruise to the Mexican Riviera with Celebrity.

Mexican Riviera Cruise Highlights

Along the Mexican Riviera and the Riviera Maya's majestic shorelines are the locations of Mexico's best beaches and the prettiest water. The Riviera Maya is where you'll find those Caribbean blue hues, palm trees and sugar sands we've all been pining for. Beaches range from lively to untouched, with beach bars, lounges, yoga classes and hidden enclaves all throughout. The water here tends to be warm year-round, and generally calmer than the Pacific Ocean side.

The Riviera Maya is a dreamer’s gateway to Cozumel (Playa del Carmen) and Tulum. Arriving from Miami and departing late with an additional day and night spent at The Beach Club at Bimini, you’ll have plenty of time to see each port from every sun and moonlit angle. Sit back and enjoy tropical drinks and light snacks from our attentive staff on-hand to serve you while admiring the captivating views of the Riviera Maya. This sailing adventure brings a level of class to your catamaran ride, the perfect way to unwind after a busy day filled with Cancun adventure. Gaze at the beautiful views of the ocean as the sun illuminates the evening sky as you enjoy our sample appetizers.

Ever wondered, "What is Riviera Maya known for?" You'll find the answer as soon as you roam away from the shore. Venture just a few miles inland of the Riviera Maya to admire Mayan structures built by one of mankind's most innovative civilizations. The ancient city of Chichén Itzá is a day trip from Tulum, housing the grand pyramid of El Castillo and nearly 30 other ruins on the grounds. In between Tulum and Chichén Itzá, the Mayan city of Cobá reveals a civilization largely built around 600 A.D. Archeologists believe most of the structures of Cobá have yet to be uncovered, so tiptoeing around the jungle ruins is an intrepid experience.

More than 60 Virgin Voyages passengers get sick with salmonella, E. coli - USA TODAY

More than 60 Virgin Voyages passengers get sick with salmonella, E. coli.

Posted: Fri, 13 Oct 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Throw in miles and miles of pristine beaches and it's easy to see why this Mexican Caribbean coastal gem draws hordes of admirers. Pack your swimwear and bookmark our curated guide to this deservedly hyped region in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. The following map of Costa Maya cruise port shows all facilities in the terminal area.

Mahahual is just 3 km/2 mi away and the berthed in Costa Maya cruise liners are easily seen from there. Mahahual was a small fishing village (with population around 800) before the docking jetty was constructed at Puerto Costa Maya (just up the Mahahual Beach) with capacity to serve large-sized passenger liners. By the New Mahahual (cruise port development) project are planned the construction of new (second cruise dock) approx 12 km/7,5 mi to the south (along the coastal road). Beautiful beaches, on-land adventures and delicious food — this is what’s on the menu when you cruise to the Mexican Riviera. Our Mexican Riviera cruises are the perfect vacation for days of sights to see. From the crystal-clear waters and sparkling nightlife of Puerto Vallarta and La Paz, to the energizing fun of sport fishing and shopping in Mazatlan, Mexican Riviera cruises inspire a feeling of getting away — way away.

The beaches of Ensenada are wide and spacious, and it's easy to find a spot to yourself. South along the Mexican Riviera, Puerto Vallarta's beaches take on a more tropical feel as waters get warmer and the sands whiter. In Acapulco, it's tempting to lounge the day away under an oversized umbrella — but head to the La Quebrada to witness the heart-thumping performances of cliff divers bounding from the edge of 100-foot-high cliffs into the sea.