Need help on deciding (Mexico/caribbean)
 

Hey Fodors community,

I'm going to try and keep this as short, but informing as possible.

Basically, me and three friends are trying to go on vacation in December before we graduate from college. We want a place that has a different culture and vibe than the US. All we really know of is Carribbean or Mexico, but we are open to other places.


Here is what we want:
-Medium to Big waves
-jetski rentals
-Nice weather
-Warm water
-some shopping
-site seeing is always nice
-nightlife/bars
-somewhere safe

Please let me know guys, thanks!!

Puerto Vallarta Mexico fits what you seek except for big waves (because it sits within the Bay of Banderas on the Pacific side) and not sure about jet skis. Weather is typically gorgeous in December (sunny ~80F degrees). PV offers fantastic nightlife, restaurants, shopping, and is safe.

I know you said "different culture and vibe than the US" but have you considered Hawaii? That has everything on your list.

That was very informative! Thanks :) I haven't considered hawaii, but I am now.

And no worries, if you get out and about on any of the Hawaiian islands you can find plenty of local culture which is very different from mainland USA.

Suze is correct PV has everything in Spades you ask for except for big waves.
You might consider the several beach towns in The State of Oaxaca. Surfers/young peoples paradise.

Yeah ive looked at Oaxaca, but I haven't really heard of anything about the waves in december being good, or if there is enough stuff to keep us having fun for 10 days!

For surfing in the Puerto Vallarta area you want Sayulita (because it's around the tip and facing the Pacific Ocean not on the Bay.

Is Sayulita gonna have waves in december though, Suze?

"Waves break in the bay all year round with the best months being December through early April, as that is when the north swells hit."

http://www.sayulitalife.com/sayulitasurfing.htm

We love Costa Rica, but I don't think it's what you're looking for - not much in the way of nightlife or shopping.