Last Updated
Different travelers visit Mexico for different reasons, but the majority of American travelers who go to the Mexican Caribbean do so to enjoy the beaches and luxury all-inclusive resorts.
There is much more to see in this diverse region, though.
The Mexican Caribbean’s Magic Towns
One of the things travelers to the region must see is its several Magic Towns.
These are towns that are the best places in the region to explore culture, history, and nature.
To bring more visitors to these fascinating places, Mexican Caribbean officials are inviting American travelers to explore 5 amazing Magic Towns in the region.
Let’s take a look at what they are, and what makes them so special, but first, let’s go over what makes a town a Magic Town.
What Are Magic Towns?
Magic Towns, or Pueblo Magicos, are towns in Mexico that are recognized for their preservation of history, culture, architecture, nature, or some other important feature.
The program was launched by the Mexican government in 2001 and it has grown to include more than 175 Pueblo Magicos.
The program has now expanded to also designate certain areas of various cities as Magical Neighborhoods as well, one of which is in the Mexican Caribbean.
But enough with the background, why should you visit?!
Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres, located off the coast of Cancun, may be a relatively small island, measuring less than five miles long and just under half a mile wide, but it has a lot to offer.
It gained its Magic Town status in 2015 because of its natural beauty and preservation of culture and history.
Exploring the island by bike or golf cart is a must because you can see all of the things that make this island magical, including Mayan ruins, statues, street art, and several reefs with great swimming and snorkeling.
It’s also a great spot to go if you are trying to avoid sargassum! It typically gets way less than mainland beaches.
Cozumel
Cozumel, a well-known island vacation destination that sits across from Playa del Carmen, is the Mexican Caribbean’s newest Magic Town, gaining the coveted status just last year.
There are three things that Cozumel has to offer specifically that are the reason for it being given its Magic Town designation.
They are its rich culture, which can be explored throughout the island, its old fishing village charm, and its natural beauty, which includes a fascinating underwater world that is part of the world’s second-largest reef system, the Mesoamerican Reef.
If you are set on Cozumel did you know that you can actually fly there direct from the U.S.? There are 10 direct flights to Cozumel from the U.S., and it includes major hubs like Atlanta, Miami, Chicago, and more…
Check out your options here on Google Flights.
Tulum
Speaking of direct flights, did you know Tulum just got its very own international airport? Yep! You can now fly direct to this Magical Town from 9 U.S. citites. Check them out on Google Flights here.
Tulum gained its Magic Town status in 2015, and one visit to this magical town is all it takes to see why it was awarded this prestigious designation.
Its natural attractions and rich culture and history make it a fascinating place to visit and are why it has become one of the most popular destinations in the Mexican Caribbean today.
It’s the only town in the region with cliffside Mayan ruins overlooking the sea, and it’s surrounded by enchanting naturally formed swimming holes called cenotes.
The bohemian atmosphere just adds to the allure of the city.
Bacalar
Bacalar, a town about four hours south of Cancun, has been considered a Magic Town since 2006.
While the charming town has much to offer, it’s undoubtedly its nature that led to its designation of Magic Town status, but it has a long and storied history as well.
It was founded by the Mayan people in around 415 AD and has a fort that dates back to 1729.
The biggest attraction in Bacalar, though, is the Lagoon of Seven Colors, which visitors are fascinated by when visiting the destination.
While Bacalar does have its own airport pretty close by in Chetumal (19 miles away), you won’t find any direct connects to the U.S., you’ll have to connect through Mexico City or Cancun.
Most travelers opt to take ground transport from Cancun.
Chetumal – The First Magical Neighborhood In The Mexican Caribbean
Chetumal is just minutes from Bacalar, and although it hasn’t been given Magic Town status, it does have the Mexican Caribbean’s first Magical Neighborhood.
It was awarded that status in 2022 as a way to highlight local food, history, and culture.
It’s the capital city of the state of Quintana Roo and has plenty of culture and history to explore for those looking for a change from the more touristy Mexican Caribbean destinations.
Which Mexican Caribbean Magic Town will you explore?
Plan Your Next Cancun Vacation:
Traveler Alert: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip!
Choose From Thousands of Cancun and Riviera Maya Hotels, Resorts and Hostels with Free Cancellation On Most Properties
↓ Join the community ↓
The Cancun Sun Community FB group has all the latest travel news, conversations and tourism Q&A’s for the Mexican Caribbean
Subscribe to our Latest Posts
Enter your email address to subscribe to The Cancun Sun’s latest breaking news affecting travelers, straight to your inbox.