What Is There To See In The Mexican Caribbean?

Hola from Mexico! I have been able to experience the beauty of the Mexican Caribbean first hand. There is so much to see here, and it is one of the most sought after destinations. From honeymoons and babymoons, to anniversaries and family reunions. The most immediate thought is Cancun, but there are in fact twelve locations that encompass the Mexican Caribbean. Luxury exudes Mexican culture when you decide to visit here, and it is a rare destination that you can visit at any time of the year. Let’s explore together into this beautiful region of Mexico and answer your questions.

Is the Mexican Caribbean Safe to Visit?

CARTE ATLAS advises all travelers to become aware of the International Travel Advisory Map from the U.S. Department of State. This map lists out the levels of travel. As of the publication of this blog post, the Mexican state of Quintana Roo carries a Level 2 “exercise increased caution” advisory from the U.S. State Department. That is the same level assigned to France, United Kingdom, and even Antarctica. Once you are educated on the level, you can decide if you wish to visit where millions of voyagers do each and every year.

What Airports, Ports and Transportation are available?

There are four major international airports, with Cancún and Cozumel that offer plenty of nonstop flights. This is also a growing service in Tulum and Chetumal. You can fly nonstop from dozens of cities across the U.S., Canada, and beyond. Multiple cruise ports bring you to the Mexican Caribbean. These include Cozumel and Costa Maya.

Once in the area, there are transfers and accessible resort zones from these locations. Note that distances can be deceiving. A hotel in Tulum could mean over an hour transfer from the Cancun International Airport. The Tren Maya is also a popular option to explore once you are in the area, as it connects multiple locations in one rail system.

Whether arriving by land or sea, and exploring by private transfer or train, the region is ready to host you and CARTE ATLAS is ready to plan your luxury journey.

When Is the Best Time to Avoid Sargassum in Cancun?

Seaweed has become a topic of conversation here as well as in the Caribbean. The official name is Sargassum. Sargassum season runs roughly April through October along the Mexican Caribbean. June through August bring the heaviest seaweed accumulations on the beaches. November through March have historically offered the clearest sand and water. Conditions can still shift within 48 hours, so ensure you are aware of this upon arrival.

The main callout here is discussing with your luxury travel advisor at CARTE ATLAS what impact this may have on you. If you plan to be at the beach each and every day, then we will check with the resort on if they do daily clean up. My stay at the Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya showed me how hard they work to clean the sargassum each and every day, and it made my experience all the more enjoyable. If you do not wish to head to the beach, but perhaps just wish to have an ocean view room and relax by the pool, then the sargassum should have little impact on your journey. Just ensure you are clear when you discuss in your complimentary consultation. And never blame hotel hospitality for mother nature simply being unpredictable.

Do You Need a Passport to Visit Cancun?

Yes, U.S. citizens need a valid passport book to fly into Mexico. Select airports may have the booths which process you through without meeting an agent. This can depend, and should not be assumed. Ensure you follow regular U.S. Passport Guidelines, and you can see those here at the Department of State Website. Always assume three hours arrival time at any International Airport prior to your departure.

What is the Difference Between the Mexican Caribbean, Riviera Maya, and Mexican Riviera?

Every traveler should ensure they are calling places by the correct name. Imagine someone coming to my state of Virginia and saying we are part of New England. The same applies to when we travel. The Mexican Caribbean covers 12 areas of Quintana Roo, the primary state in Mexico where travelers visit. This is on the Atlantic side of Mexico and is often a port stop for the “Southern Caribbean” Cruise Market.

The Riviera Maya is a part of the Mexican Caribbean. This encompasses specific parts such as Puerto Morelos and Tulum. It does not include Cancun which is to the north and more known for resorts. Costa Maya may also be mentioned, and this is the southern part that includes areas such as Mahahual, Bacalar and Chetumal.

Mexican Riviera is actually on the opposite side of the country. This is on the Pacific side, and is a common cruise port destination from California. Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlán, Cabo San Lucas, and Ensenada are all a part of this amazing region. But they are nowhere near the Mexican Caribbean. Be sure to avoid saying this when you visit here. Unless of course you are recalling a fond memory or an upcoming trip planned for you by CARTE ATLAS.

What are the 12 Paradises of the Mexican Caribbean?

Let’s break down each one and discuss what makes them so unique and which one is right for you. There is plenty to see and experience in the Mexican Caribbean. It is time to explore each one.

THE NORTHERN ZONE – Zona Norte

For this blog, the Zona Norte contains Cancun, Costa and Isla Mujeres, and Holbox. Let’s start in Cancun, and then make our way North as we explore this gateway to the Mexican Caribbean. While Cancun may be your beginning journey to the Mexican Caribbean, we invite you to be inspired by others along the way. Now, let us begin our journey.

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CANCUN – Play, Sway, Get Away

This is often the first introduction to the Mexican Caribbean if flying in for a resort stay. The region is known for its popular Hotel Zone with plenty of luxury hotels to choose from. The Cancun International Airport is the gateway here, with numerous direct flights year round. Cancun is located to the north on the Yucatan Peninsula, and is about a 45 minute drive to Playa Del Carmen, and an hour and a half to Tulum. Note that the Tren Maya has stops that can take you quickly to plenty of locations in the Yucatan and beyond.

Cancun is home to seven Blue Flag Beaches. That means they have passed rigorous standards on safety, quality, education and environmental information. If you plan to stay on a beach, we highly recommend ensuring you are staying at one of these. Waves can be calm lagoon style to larger swells. We ensure during your consultation to discuss your preferences.

Additional activities include seven golf courses located in Cancun, 11 shopping malls, plenty of nightlife whether in resort or off property, and spas that include Mayan healing techniques. Enticing restaurants bring the gastronomic flair of Mexico right to you. Multiple Michelin star restaurants call Mexican Caribbean their home. I have experinced one myself and it is indeed worth the reservation.

CANCUN – Maya Influence

Archeology abounds in Mexican Caribbean and Cancun is no different. While known for beaches and sand, there are in fact 19 archeological sites within reach. El Ray is the largest with over 50 buildings. El Meco is home to El Castillo which is the tallest pyramid in the northern part of the state. A visit to the Mayan Museum of Cancun opens up doors to explore while visiting one location. It also includes a visit to the site of San Miguelito.

For nature lovers, there are four dive sites including a shipwreck. Divers can also enjoy Spotted Eagle Rays from December through March, and Snailfish from January through March. The Nichupte Lagoon has plenty of water activities. The lagoon is also home to a multitude of bird species living within the mangroves. The Mexican Caribbean comes alive right here.

COSTA MUJERES – Retreat, Pamper, Delight

World-class resorts are just 20 minutes from Cancun in the renowned Costa Mujeres. A large assortment of the absolute best in luxury resorts await you. Imagine powder white sand under your feet as you enjoy bright turquoise ocean waves lapping the beach. Imagine gourmet dining, luxurious spas and your own suite at an award winning property.

Nature is still present here with the Chacmoch lagoon. Plenty of bird species call this place home. Coral Reefs are just not far, nor is a visit to Isla Mujeres. And after a day exploring, imagine being handed a hand crafted Mezcal cocktail with fresh ceviche appetizers. What a perfect evening view of the waters as your day comes to an end.

Our speciality is luxury. And Costa Mujeres ensures you receive it. Let us discuss in your complimentary consultation what a visit to Costa Mujeres could look like. Let your Mexican Caribbean barefoot luxury voyage begin.

ISLA MUJERES – Escape, Wonder, Imagine

Just off the Costa Mujeres is the next location, the Isla Mujeres. An island who’s most predominant form of transportation is golf carts gives you a sense of relaxation that awaits you. You will have to take a ferry from Cancun to arrive. If you prefer a more luxurious experience. A Luxury Yacht is always a possibility, and one that we specialize in here at CARTE ATLAS.

The Underwater Art Museum, or MUSA (Museo Subacuático de Arte), contains 500 sculptures deep underwater. It is one of the few underwater museums in the world. The sculptures come in a variety of humans, hands, and even a Volkswagen Beetle. They are meant to promote reef development. It is also a symbol of how humans and underwater nature can be present together without harming each other.

Punta Sur is the place to visit in Mexican Caribbean. The city is actually the first part of Mexico to greet the sun at sunrise. It sits high up and provides wonderful view of the Caribbean Sea and Cancun. Enjoy plenty of food spots here as well as a sculptor park with artwork from 23 different sculptors. Playa Norte is a Blue Flag Certified beach you can spend your day at. The beach has pristine white sands and beautiful blue waves. The El Farito marine park has a small lighthouse with snorkel and scuba opportunities. If you enjoy snorkeling you can visit the underwater cross La Cruz de la Bahía. The underwater sculpture is dedicated to all those who have lost their lives at sea.

HOLBOX – Admire, Dream, Enjoy

As we finish our way north, Holbox is our last stop. The proper pronunciation is “hole-bosh” because in the Yucatec Maya language the X makes an “SH” sound. The island is quite small and is known for its wildlife of whale sharks which appear from May to September. The beaches are clean and the water is clear with very shallow waves. The location is about two hours drive from Cancun, followed by a ferry ride. Note there are no cars on the island, but bicycles and water craft help bring you to your final destinations.

Holbox is a playground for nature lovers and off the beaten path travelers. Swimming with whale sharks during the May to September months is a possibility. Or perhaps enjoying water activities like kayak and paddle boarding year round are all wonderful activities. At certain times the beaches may have a bioluminescence glow to them. Flamingos are commonly found here from April to October, as well as other bird species, making this a naturalist’s joy. Turtles make this place a nesting ground and are commonly seen here from May to September.

With plenty of islands to explore here as well, you will find yourself wandering through nature every day. The simplicity of Holbox should not be seen as a lacking of transportation like cars. Instead, you will find wonder with nature surrounding you each and every step in this Mexican Caribbean location.

THE RIVIERA MAYA – Swim, Sail, Share

As earlier mentioned, the Riviera Maya section of the Mexican Caribbean is just south of Cancun. Join me as we go from the naturistic Puerto Morelos, down to the vibrant down of Playa Del Carmen, and further south into the magical Tulum. Right in the heart of the Mexican Caribbean, let us voyage there together and see their wonders.

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PUERTO MORELOS – Explore, Try, Connect

Adventure herself calls you to Puerto Morelos. From stunning Cenotes to lush mangrove jungles, there is plenty to explore. Riviera Maya begins when you enter Puerto Morelos as it is just south of Cancun and north of Playa Del Carmen. Boutique hotels live here and provide a front door experience to the area.

Water activities expand from kayaking like in Cancun, to exploring underground rivers in Puerto Morelos. The Cenotes and caverns are so close here, they almost seem right outside your hotel door. The Puerto Morelos National Reef Park is a part of the second largest reef system in the world. The Great Mesoamerican Reef is the official name. There is plenty of nature to see in this Mexican Caribbean location, whether by snorkel or by scuba.

The Cenotes Route can take you to 57 of these sinkholes! The Cenote Zapote contains the “Hells Bells”. These are cone-shaped rock formations that have become a famous site to see. Cenote Zapote is the only one that has them. Well worth a visit. Plenty of other Cenotes call the route their home including Siete Bocas, Kin-Há, La Noria, Las Mojarras, Chilam Balam, Verde Lucero and Boca del Puma.

Multiple award winning restaurants call Puerto Morelos home, from best in Mexico to best in Latin America. Plaza Principal will be your go to place to experience these gastronomic delights. You might even spot El Faro Inclinado, the leaning lighthouse. There is plenty to see and enjoy here in Puerto Morelos. Take time to explore and find adventure in this Mexican Caribbean adventure hub.

PLAYA DEL CARMEN – Chill, Cheer, Celebrate

Consider Playa Del Carmen to be the heart of Riviera Maya. It’s iconic statue of as the gateway to the area brings visitors from around the world. It is right in the middle, with Puerto Morelos to the north and Tulum to the south. Playa Del Carmen is a mix of hotels, and does have select boutique and luxury resorts to select. Seven golf courses are also nearby, allowing you to enjoy the sport while away from the busy Cancun hotel zone.

Playa Del Carmen is the perfect mix in the Mexican Caribbean. The cenotes and mayan sites are not far from downtown. There is plenty of beach front properties. The shopping, however is fantastic. Especially along Fifth Avenue. Just do not confuse that one with the one in New York City. Shopping malls like La Quinta Alegría, Calle Corazón and Paseo del Carmen are at your fingertips. Fifth Avenue is a five mile pedestrian way filled with local, national and international stores. You will find plenty to fill your suitcase with, so be sure to leave room when you arrive. You will be filling it up with all the shopping goods you find here.

Nightlife also plays a role here. Right near Fifth Avenue you will find 12th Street. This location gives the best shows around. From mariachi bands to the latest hits. There are nightclubs, plenty of bars and restaurants, and all within a short walk. There is fun for everyone here. Be sure to arrange hotel transfers should you need them for a night out.

TULUM – Heal, Style, Vogue

Welcome to the Magic Town of the Mexican Caribbean. Deep in spirituality, Tulum is there for those looking for a deeper way to get away. Tulum is actually made up of three zones: Downtown/El Pueblo, Archaeological, and Hotel. Each one brings a unique perspective to this holistic place that is sought after by many. You can arrive at the ever growing Tulum International Airport, which takes away the hour and a half transfer from Cancun International Airport.

The Downtown, or El Pueblo Zone is known for its dining delights. Renowned chefs have decided to call Tulum home. You can find them throughout El Pueblo, as well as at select luxury resorts. The food is a range from regional declicies to international cuisines. Farm-to-Table or even treetop dining are all available to you here.

The Archeological Zone is another treasure trove. The sites of Tulum, Cobá or Muyil are all within reach here. The iconic landmark Tulum picture with the Mayan architecture along the coast of the Caribbean resides here. There is plenty to enjoy within the Mayan culture. It brings that magic to life. See a free guide from the tourism board to Archaeological Sites. Note we always recommend checking to see if these are open or closed to the public as they could change at any moment.

TULUM – Hotel Luxury & Relaxation

The Hotel Zone brings high scale luxury mixed with spiritual wellness. I was able to experience sound bathing while at my stay in Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya. The spas here mix nature with healing. The Conrad spa was designed after a Cenote. It featured a welcome area and pool, treatment and massage rooms, and a post pool wellness retreat. They even bring Mayan shamans for special ceremonies depending on your needs. The naturistic lagoons of Kaan Luum and Yal-Kú also are here. Their pristine water, mixed with multiple cenotes nearby, give a special feeling to Tulum and the Mexican Caribbean.

AKUMAL – See, Snorkel, Save

Another location just north of Tulum is Akumal. Its translated name is Place of Turtles. A Mexican Caribbean summer sees hundreds of turtles arrive here for nesting. So much so, the area is a Sea Turtle Sanctuary. May through September is the best time to see turtles. It has a beautiful quiet jungle and cenote feel and is well worth a visit.

ISLA COZUMEL – Dare, Dive, Discover

A cruise port that gives the very best of the Mexican Caribbean. It is worth a journey whether you intend to visit by cruise, or one of the ferries that may leave from Playa Del Carmen. No matter how you get there, the Isla Cozumel is waiting for you.

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COZUMEL

Welcome to the Island of the Swallows in the Mexican Caribbean. That is the original Mayan translation of Kuzamil, now known as Cozumel. It is a port stop that caters to a wide number of passengers. A great introduction to Mexican Caribbean for the cruiser, and right across from Playa Del Carmen. One place to be seen is her beaches. They are white sandy style with a turquoise water of various blues you can enjoy on a clear bottom boat tour. Over fifteen beach clubs open up to relax and enjoy your day here in the Mexican Caribbean.

Archeology is still present on this island with 19 sites to see. San Gervasio is the most well known and largest on the island, while El Cedral, El Caracol and Castillo Real are well worth a visit too. Nature lovers can also enjoy diving at over 30 sites or a snorkel in El Cielo. The name translates to Heaven and is a sanctuary for starfish. Other species that appear can include sea turtle nesting from May to November as well as Eagle and giant Manta Rays from December to March.

For a more cosmopolitan experience, head to San Miguel de Cozumel. This is El Centro, or the downtown district. Look for Parque Benito Juárez which is the main square and home to the town center. Be sure to try Lionfish ceviche. The fish has no natural predators and feeds on corals. Locals hunt the fish to preserve the sites and make it into an excellent meal. You can also visit the Cozumel Pearl Farm, the only pearl farm in the Caribbean.

MAYA KA’AN – Marvel, Explore, Escape

A region all her own, the Maya Ka’an is a nature lover’s paradise. Just south of the Riviera Maya and north of the Grand Costa Maya, the Maya Ka’an brings the natural wonder of Caribbean Mexico to you. Let’s board our kayaks, and start paddling along.

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MAYA KA’AN

As we continue our journey south, we find ourselves in the Maya Ka’an. The area of the Mexican Caribbean is home to natural wonders such as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and archeological treasures. Her biggest claim to fame is Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. Here you can enjoy a safari to spot manatees, jaguars, turtles, and over 300 species of bird. The mangrove forest makes it the perfect place to kayak through natural Muyil canals once used by the Mayans. It is thousands of acres large, and has one of the most pristine views of Mexican Caribbean untouched nature.

Felipe Carrillo Puerto is the center from which most adventures begin. Mayan history can be found at Sanctuary of the Talking Cross. There are also plenty of immersive Mayan experiences here for you to enjoy. Homemade tortillas with authentic dishes can be found here as you become one with nature.

GRAND COSTA MAYA – Relax, Wander, Breathe

We have now reached the most southern part of the Mexican Caribbean. Accessible by the cruise port Costa Maya in Mahahual, or the airport in Chetumal, the Grand Costa Maya includes these as well as Bacalar within its region. Let’s journey there together.

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MAHAHUAL – Roam, Rest, Take It Easy

Known for the cruise port named “Costa Maya”, the town of Mahahual is a beautiful part of the Mexican Caribbean. It is a quiet town but should not be taken for granted. The natural wonders here are beautiful, specifically the Chinchorro Bank Biosphere Reserve and the Xcalak National Reef Park. The Biosphere is the largest coral atoll in Mexico and is part of the second-largest barrier reef system in the world. You can explore it with over twenty dive sites in the Mahahual region.

Explore Mahahual with on El Malecon, the boardwalk that borders right up to the ocean. Colorful wooden houses greet you as well as shopping, dining, and seaside views. A picture by the lighthouse is the perfect souvenir to take home. The absolutely perfect port day if you decide to stay close to your ship.

BACALAR – Float, Relax, Repeat

Welcome to Bacalar, or in Mayan, the place of reeds. The most important part of this magical place is the Lagoon of Seven Colors. This wonderful lagoon has a wide variety of wonderful water activities. From snorkeling to kayaking and beyond. There are even three cenotes within this lagoon. They are named Cocalitos, Negro, and Esmeralda. They vary in size and shape, with some having restaurants and lounge chairs even.

Wellness is also a part of Bacalar. Imagine receiving a wonderful massage or facial in an overwater bungalow overlooking the Lagoon of Seven Colors. Sounds nice doesn’t it. A variety of spas exist in the area that bring the very best treatments right to you. The view is yours to enjoy while you relax with ingredients like honey and cocoa.

Bacalar is not without its history. It has a fort, a church and a town square worth exploring. The Fort of San Felipe is from the 1700s has changed hands numerous times, but today it is in the hands of the pirates. You can visit the Piracy Museum to see artifacts and ship models. The church of San Joaquín church is named after the patron saint of Bacalar and is also from the 1700s. It has a historical garden to enjoy as well. Meanwhile, the Casa de la Cultura is the city plaza where you can find plenty of shops, restaurants, and crafts to enjoy.

CHETUMAL – Venture, Treasure, Learn

Welcome to the capital city of the Mexican Caribbean. A vibrant fishing port now turned center of the state has grown beyond expectations. You can enjoy a walk down the Boulevard Bahia which is filled with multiple monuments, fountains, and even a sculpture park with over 15 pieces of art to admire. History lovers will enjoy the Museum of Mayan Culture which is highly regarded within the country. The city museum, lighthouse museum, and the State House are all there for museum lovers to enjoy.

Getting outdoors is still special in Chetumal. Laguna Milagros is part of the Hondo River, and has plenty of water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. You are surrounded by lovely restaurants and shopping as well. Speaking of food, you are not too far from the country of Belize. Therefore you will find a fusion of Mexican and Belizean food to enjoy. The Boulevard Bahia is a great place to find these fantastic delicies like machacados iced drink with cocoa and maize. You can also visit the town of Calderitas which has plenty of palapa restaurants to enjoy while looking at the bright blue waters.

Archeological sites are not far from Chetumal. You can complete a day excursion to the archaeological sites like Chacchobén, Kohunlich, Dzibanché, Kinichná and Oxtankah. Chacchobén is one of the largest complexes in the region while Kohunlich lives in lush vegetation with plenty more to discover. Dzibanché is so large that it is divided into four groups. Kinichná means House of the Sun while Oxtankah actually included an island in its most powerful era. All of these are within an hour or so from Chetumal, and make the perfect exploration day.

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