Last Updated
As Cancun’s beaches become increasingly crowded and the city skyrockets in popularity, many travelers are exploring destinations outside of the Mexican Caribbean hotspot.
One stunning region stands out among the crowd for its stunning beaches, colorful lagoons, and rich Mayan history.
The sun-soaked Costa Maya, in the southern region of the Mexican Caribbean state of Quintana Roo, is surging in popularity as an alternative to Cancun.
Unlike other northern hotspots, the vast coastline that makes up the Costa Maya is home to quiet beaches, laid-back towns, and endless nature, providing travelers with space to breathe and take in the sights.
If you’re looking for the perfect destination for your next Mexican Caribbean getaway, here’s why the Costa Maya is the right choice for you.
Costa Maya Drawing More Travelers With Quiet Beaches
This summer, most travelers headed to the Mexican Caribbean are doing so in search of sun, sea, and sand.
And while Cancun will continue to dominate that travel segment, its southern counterpart, the Costa Maya, is gaining popularity.
Encompassing several dozen kilometers of white-sand coastline, the Costa Maya is home to several popular beach towns, including Mahahual, which has helped boost tourism to the region thanks to its massive cruise port.
Other popular attractions in the region include Bacalar, a booming eco-hotspot located close to the coast.
While not a beach town, the remote community is famous for colorful lagoons, including the Lagoon of Seven Colors, renowned for its azure pools.
In addition to its beach areas and natural wonders, the Costa Maya is also trending for its impressive Mayan history.
Ruins such as Chacchoben are among the most stunning in the region, featuring impressive temples and pyramids (some of which can be climbed!)
Along the Costa Maya, travelers can find a number of all-inclusive resorts, although the region is known for offering thousands of vacation rentals and hundreds of boutique hotels.
One of the standout properties in the area this year is Boca de Agua, an eco-luxury property boasting 22 treehouse-style villas.
Recently named one of the world’s top hotels by TIME Magazine, the stunning hotel is just 10 minutes from downtown Bacalar.
Costa Maya: Conveniently Close To Cancun
The Costa Maya is a stunning destination in its own right.
Travelers headed to the booming hotspot can easily spend a week enjoying everything it has to offer.
Although extended stays are possible, it’s also a convenient destination for shorter day trips from Cancun.
From Cancun, travelers can reach the wider Costa Maya region by car, bus, or plane, and in just several months, train travel will also be possible thanks to the launch of the Maya Train.
For a cost-effective option, visitors can catch an ADO bus from downtown Cancun to Chetumal.
A one-way ticket for the 6-hour connections costs around $36, although pricing is subject to availability.
From Chetumal, travelers can continue their journey to Mahahual and other resort towns in the area.
ADO also offers a nonstop bus connection to Bacalar for around the same price.
For a quicker option, travelers can fly non-stop from Cancun to Chetumal with Aerus, which operates several daily departures to the state capital.
Although significantly pricier compared to other options, it’s a great idea for visitors who want to make the most of their time.
Travelers can also explore the Costa Maya with a rental car. With car rentals on the rise, visitors can find plenty of cost-effective options.
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.