Destinations

Explore the Mexican Caribbean

Stretching north from the island of Holbox down to Grand Costa Maya, the Mexican Caribbean boasts beautiful beaches, mystical cenotes, underground rivers, and authentic Mayan archeological sites and villages that you will want to explore. With Cancun, Cozumel and Chetumal´s airport serving as landing points for the area, the region’s coastal resort towns and islands are just a drive or ferry ride away.

Whether you’re after history, culture, adrenaline-filled activities, beaches, or watersports, the Mexican Caribbean has something for everyone. The only thing you have to decide is where to start your adventure.

Popular Spots

One of Mexico’s most popular resort areas, Cancun, and its postcard-perfect turquoise beaches have made the destination a favorite for vacationers. This comes as no surprise, as Cancun is also home to some of the best nightlife and restaurants in the Mexican Caribbean, and serves as a great base for day trips to the surrounding archeological sites, like El Rey, the largest archaeological site in Cancun.

North of Cancun, Costa Mujeres is a calm retreat that is just a 30-minute drive from the buzzy restaurants and nightlife in Cancun and a quick boat ride from the magical island of Isla Mujeres, which boasts one of the world’s best beaches, Playa Norte. Near Playa del Carmen, Isla Cozumel—a popular cruise-ship stop—is the largest island in the Mexican Caribbean and one of the top five dive sites in the world. In Cozumel the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System—the world’s second-largest barrier reef—is a bucket list locale for divers and snorkelers who come to swim amongst nearly 500 species of fish, dolphins, and turtles.

Spanning 80 miles running south from the small fishing village of Puerto Morelos to Tulum—with Playa del Carmen equidistant from the two resort areas—the Riviera Maya is another popular locale for travelers, thanks to its wide array of hotel styles (with everything from all-inclusive resorts to glamping options) and world-class restaurants and shopping. Lined with local eateries and street food stands, Playa del Carmen’s 22-block La Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue) has emerged as a foodie favorite. The former port city of Tulum, meanwhile, is where you’ll find one of the region’s best-preserved Mayan archeological sites, as well as the region's best beach clubs and its rich culinary scene.

Cultural Hubs

Grand Costa Maya, in the south of Quintana Roo is the gateway to the region’s capital city, culture-rich Chetumal, Magic Town Bacalar, and cruise ship hub Mahahual. Maya Ka'an, only two hours south of Cancun, is an eco-destination that boasts the breathtaking natural beauty of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve and the culture-filled communities of Maya Ka’an where travelers can sample traditional Mayan life or explore some of the more tucked-away archeological sites, like Muyil.

Hidden Gems

For those who want to get off the grid, the 26-mile-long Isla Holbox is located at the meeting point of the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico. The island feels rustic (think no paved roads or traffic lights) yet still offers an array of modern amenities and a few upscale boutique hotels, making it a romantic locale for couples and honeymooners who want to feel like they’re on their own private island.

Places To Visit

In the Mexican Caribbean, you will live unique and unforgettable travel experiences. Each destination has its own personality and attractions that we invite you to discover.