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These Are The Most Crowded Mexican Caribbean Destinations Right Now

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Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean are the trendiest International destinations for Americans this year.

Even amid the ongoing shoulder season, a handful of stunning destinations in the sunny region are reporting astonishing occupancy figures. 

aerial view of cancun at night with resorts

With travelers flocking to the area’s white-sand beaches and top-rated accommodations, May is turning out to be a surprisingly popular time to visit the popular region. 

Pleasant weather, improved safety, and numerous headlines owing to the launching of the new Maya Train railway system have all contributed to making the region so popular with visitors this year.

Airplane flying over tropical palm trees

With that in mind, here’s a look at the most crowded destinations in the Mexican Caribbean right now.

Cancun’s Popularity Shows No Signs Of Slowing Down Even During Low Season 

New statistics published this week by federal tourism officials reveal that Cancun is once again the leading resort destination in Mexico. 

The report, issued by the national secretary for tourism (Sectur), shows that Cancun’s average occupancy rate of 82% this spring places the city among the top-ranking destinations nationwide when measured by that variable. 

Tourists on a Beach in Playa Mujeres Cancun, Mexico on a Summer Day

Situated along a stunning white-sand coastline, Cancun is the number one resort hotspot in the Mexican Caribbean for sun-seeking travelers.

The latest Sectur report also indicates that travelers are increasingly opting for coastal destinations. With over 60,000 accommodations, Cancun is a logical choice, offering visitors a unique blend of luxury resorts, smaller hotels, and a growing number of vacation rentals. 

Playa del Carmen Continues To Charm Travelers

Another standout in terms of occupancy rates in the Mexican Caribbean is Playa del Carmen, a popular resort city just south of Cancun. 

a quaint resort area in playa del carmen

Known for its vibrant downtown area and numerous white-sand beaches, this coastal heaven saw an average occupancy rate of over 90%, indicating that travelers can’t seem to get enough of the city’s top-rated accommodations and pristine beaches. 

Playa del Carmen is an ideal destination for visitors seeking a cultural getaway; the city’s packed downtown district is bustling with life and boasts countless local bars and restaurants. 

And with resorts & hotels nearly sold out in parts of the city this year, more and more travelers are booking vacation rentals in the coastal hotspot. The city has also become a popular choice for digital nomads, offering excellent choices for remote work. 

a small beach in playa del carmen

This Pristine Destination Is Among The Most Popular Nationwide 

With an average occupancy rate of 84.4%, Akumal, a trendy eco-hotspot, ranks forth in popularity nationwide among resort travelers. 

Despite offering fewer accommodations than Cancun or Playa del Carmen, Akumal has proven to be an extremely popular choice for families as well as adult travelers, offering a mix of top-rated resorts. 

boats and blue water in akumal

The city boasts a handful of luxury resorts, including the 5-star Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya. Lining one of the city’s top beaches, the property offers unbeatable access to Akumal’s serene nature as well as the chance to swim with the famed Green Sea Turtles.

Akumal is the perfect choice for travelers wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of larger resort destinations, offering quaint views and remote beaches.

New Security Efforts Boost Traveler Confidence 

The latest statistical overview shows that more travelers are pouring into the Mexican Caribbean, indicating that safety concerns no longer deter visitors from vacationing in the area. 

Police Vehicles Parked Outside of Coco Bongo in Cancun, Mexico

From new investments in law enforcement to new measures to tackle taxi scams and vacation rental frauds, officials in Cancun and the Mexican Caribbean are committed to protecting travelers.

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