The Mexican Caribbean is home to some of the most stunning Magical Towns (Pueblos Mágicos) in all of Mexico; from Isla Mujeres’ stunning beaches to Tulum’s historical wonders, these charming destinations will continue to captivate travelers in 2024.
A new report reveals that a growing number of travelers are opting to visit the Mexican Caribbean’s four Magical Towns. This year, interest in these quaint destinations is expected to skyrocket thanks to the launching of the Maya Train as well as new international flights.
With that in mind, here’s a look at the most popular Magical Towns near Cancun according to the latest statistics.
@intercontinentalcozumel Experience the magic of evenings at #InterContinentalCozumel with this mesmerizing sunset view. Join us in this pure magic! 🌅✨ #SunsetMagic #Cozumel ♬ sonido original – VOGA
Cozumel Named Newest Magical Town In Mexican Caribbean
As Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean continue to soar in popularity with travelers, officials are continuing efforts to attract more visitors to the region’s Magical Towns.
In 2024, the sunny region boasts four stunning Magical Towns: Cozumel, Bacalar, Tulum, and Isla Mujeres, each offering a distinct experience for travelers.
@maiasuitescozumel Pure magic at sunrise #cozumel ♬ sonido original – Maia Suites Cozumel
Magical Towns, or Pueblos Mágicos, are destinations that boast unique cultural, historical, and natural features that make them one-of-a-kind experiences for travelers.
Mexico’s Secretariat awards the designation of a Pueblo Mágico each year for Tourism based on a number of strict conditions, including safety and infrastructure.
The newest Magical Town in the Mexican Caribbean is the popular tropical island of Cozumel, which achieved the highly sought-after status in 2024. Nowadays, the island boasts a growing variety of stunning all-inclusives, remote beaches, and ancient historical landmarks, making it one of the most versatile island destinations in the region.
@amarieevents Passion Island in Cozumel Mexico, The whole island can be rented for your wedding also has 2 houses for you, family and friends. #destinationwedding #amarieeventsanddesignllc #amarieeventsanddesign #fyp #fypシ #fypage #fypシ゚viral #foryoupage #foryourpage ♬ original sound – Anita Craine
Last year, the booming island destination welcomed over a million travelers, making it the most popular Magical Town in the region. In 2024, Cozumel’s arrival figures are set to continue their upward trend thanks to a new ferry route from Playa del Carmen operated by Xcaret, which owns a number of theme parks in the coastal hotspot.
Tulum – The Ideal Getaway For History Lovers
Coming in second place in terms of popularity is Tulum. This historical destination located in southern Quintana Roo welcomed a whopping 800,000 overnight travelers in 2023. Home to the most visited Mayan ruins in the region, Tulum is a hotspot for those wishing to immerse themselves in history & culture.
@thebucketlistvagabond Three things you can’t miss in Tulum🌴👇🏼{save this post for your next trip to Mexico} ✨ Sfer Ik Uh May is very similar to the Azulik that we all see online, but it’s much larger & deep in the jungle🎨 Not only can you see the art, but you can experience it too! It’s designed to leave a small ecological footprint as it’s built into the jungle with the trees making up large parts of the structure🌴This is a bucket list experience in Tulum you can’t miss! ✨ Exploring downtown Tulum where you’ll find the “follow that dream” sign, the famous “coming into light” wooden sculpture head, Taboo beach club & so much more! ✨ Lastly, you can’t visit Tulum without eating at Kin Toh Azulik!🍹This is the “nest” restaurant you see videos of all the time which sits 12m above the Mayan Jungle🤩 Is Tulum on your Bucket List?🌴 Book your next trip with @expedia ✨ . #visittulum #tulummexico #bucketlisttravel #travelcontentcreator #bucketlistcheck #visitmexico ♬ original sound – Bionation
In 2024, the southern hotspot is expected to welcome more travelers than ever before, thanks to the launching of the Maya Train railway system. Combined with the new Felipe Carrillo International Airport, Tulum has seen a huge boost in international connectivity.
Isla Mujeres, The Most Popular Magical Town Near Cancun
Isla Mujeres continues to attract a growing number of travelers thanks to its proximity to Cancun, the crown jewel of resort towns in the Mexican Caribbean. Located just 15 minutes from the mainland, this quaint destination is like stepping into a tropical paradise.
@thelesbianpassport you’re going to want to save this 🔖🫶🏼 #islamujeres #exploremexico #solotravel #travelguide #solofemaletravel #traveltips #budgettravel #greenscreen ♬ original sound – Allyssa | LGBTQ+ Travel
Home to Playa Norte and Playa Centro – two of the most popular beaches in the region – Isla Mujeres boasts a unique mix of coastal scenery and lush greenery. The island is also home to some of the top resorts in the region, including the new 5-star Impressions Isla Mujeres.
Bacalar: Colourful Lagoon And Amazing Accommodations
Despite its remote location, Bacalar continues to welcome an impressive number of travelers. Last year, the eco-destination saw over 254,000 travelers spend at least a night in one of its many top-rated accommodations.
@roamluggage What’s the big deal about Bacalar? Bacalar is so much more than a lagoon, in fact, the Mayans nicknamed it ‘Laguna de los Siete Colores’ because of the seven different shades of blue you can see here throughout the day 💙🌀 It’s also home to ‘stromalites’ ancient sediment deposits created over millions of years that are the oldest living landform on earth 😱 AND it has been selected as a Pueblo Mágico “magic town” because of its unique charm and natural beauty. ✨ If you plan a visit to the Riviera Maya in Mexico, Bacalar is a place not to miss! Here is a mini guide to help plan your visit! 👇 EAT 🥭 Mango y Chile – favorite spot to eat and chill! Love their chocolate protein smoothie and chocolate chip cookie! Lots of savory options as well 🍣 Nao – sushi by night, yummy breakfast in the morning! 🌮 Barbanegra Bacalar – get the fish tacos and cauliflower appitizer! DO 🏄🏼♀️ Sunrise paddle board or kayak and be sure to ride over Cenote Negro (also the perfect sunrise spot) 🚣♂️ Kayak on the lake or at the nearby Los Rapidos 😌 RELAX! One of the best things about Bacalar is that there isn’t too much to do so it’s the perfect place to chill, hang out on your dock and soak in those magical views STAY 🏠 Stay right on the lake if you can, you’ll find lots of airbnb and hotel options. Planning to visit Bacalar? 📌 Save this post for later and be sure to help preserve Bacalar by traveling mindfully! Video by @wholistictraveler #bacalarmexico #bacalarpueblomagico #laguna7colores #quintanaroo #mexico #exploremexico #mexicotraveltips #roamluggage #luggage #packwithme #packinghack #custommade #supporthandmade #traveltoktok #travellife #traveltips #traveltiktok #traveldiaries #luggagepacking #luggagehack #traveltipsandhacks #dji #dronevideo ♬ original sound – Roam Luggage
Bacalar is above all famous for its colorful lagoons – including the Lake of Seven Colors, which offers travelers plentiful eco-adventures, including sailing and snorkeling.
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