As travelers start to look again for exciting adventures, quiet and unspoiled destinations are still sought-after for a relaxing vacation. While the Mexican Caribbean boasts some of the world’s most popular destinations, it’s also home to hidden gems throughout the region.

Holbox

Located in the Yum Balam ecological reserve, Holbox is a cozy island ideal for disconnecting in a tranquil environment, where lovers of open spaces and privacy will find beautiful beaches with shallow waters. It can be easily explored by foot, bicycle or golf cart to admire its natural settings combined with art and history, like Cabo Catoche, where you can see the archaeological remains of Ekab and Boca Iglesia, Mexico’s first Catholic temple. The island is well-known for its colorful murals inspired by local people, a reflection of their joy and hospitality.

Isla Mujeres

The magical town of Isla Mujeres is recognized for having one of the best beaches in the world, Playa Norte, where fine white sand seamlessly intertwines with crystal-clear water. In the highest part of the island, Punta Sur, you can admire the best views of the Caribbean and visit the Temple of the Mayan goddess Ixchel. This island is ideal for water activities like snorkeling or diving at the Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA).

Isla Contoy

Just a few miles from Isla Mujeres lies Isla Contoy, an uninhabited island that can be visited only by authorized tours, such as Contoy Tours or Contoy Adventures, and an unmissable spot for nature enthusiasts. Thanks to its wide diversity of flora and fauna and as the most important bird sanctuary in the Mexican Caribbean, home to 210 species of birds, it was declared a Protected Natural Area and National Park.

Cozumel

The largest island in the Mexican Caribbean is Cozumel, where more than 60% of the territory is a Protected Natural Area. At Punta Sur, travelers can navigate through the Colombia Lagoon and visit the spectacular Celarain lighthouse for a wonderful view of the coastline. Another stop in the island is a few minutes off-shore — El Cielo, a protected beach recognized for its starfish, though corals, stingrays and multicolored fish are also present.

Chetunal

Nestled in the Bay of Chetumal is the Tamalcab Island, which amazes travelers for its breathtaking scenery. Exploring Cayo Violín, Cayo Palometa and Cayo Tigre is highly recommended; these small islets surrounded by mangroves contribute to the conservation of the ecosystem in addition to Cayo Bota and Cayo Venado, a virgin beach and a manatee sanctuary.

Chetunal

Darío Flota Ocampo, director of the Quintana Roo Tourism Board, invites travelers to discover these paradisiacal beaches: “Our islands offer visitors the chance to live the local experience in traditional and vibrant sceneries, while finding a great range of hotels, restaurants and shops with artisan products.” The islands have ample lodging options that easily adapt to the expectations of its visitors, from colorful and modest cabins, to sophisticated and intimate boutique hotels.

We encourage you to follow your country’s recommendations to have a safe vacation when planning your next trip to the Mexican Caribbean.
For more information about traveling to the Mexican Caribbean, please visit: ​Traveling Safely to the Mexican Caribbean and https://www.mexicancaribbean.travel

Cozumel

Isla Mujeres