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These Three Towns Near Cancun Are Skyrocketing In Popularity This Winter

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Whether by cruise, train or plane, there are 3 Mexican towns skyrocketing in popularity this winter.

Cancun, of course, is America’s favorite beach getaway in Mexico, but there are 3 Pueblo magicos nearby, all worth a visit.

Sometimes the crowds of Cancun don’t pass the vibe check for certain vacationers, yet this side of Mexico is too good to pass up entirely.

cenote and blue waters of Bacalar

Whether Cancun is your mainstay or gateway into this beautiful coastal region, travelers have to check out Cozumel, Bacalar, and Tulum.

This trio of magic towns have become tourist hotspots and will only continue trending upward as we head into 2024.

The Island Of Cozumel

Just off the coast of another tourist hotspot, Playa del Carmen, the gorgeous island of Cozumel is easily within reach.

Cozumel sign at cruise port

As a popular cruise port in the region, many see it as just a blip in their Mexico travel plans. Cozumel is far more deserving than just a ‘stop and go’ destination.

If Cancun’s crowds aren’t your jam, then perhaps Cozumel will serve as the next best thing. This gorgeous island is home to luxurious all-inclusive resorts; there are just fewer to choose from.

Since Cancun is the most popular international destination for Americans, Cozumel is all but guaranteed to have fewer crowds to enjoy more elbow room.

Cozumel isn’t as developed as Cancun’s jam-packed tourist zone, so you can explore the blue waters, incredible beaches, and lush green jungles as a more secluded getaway.

the coast of Cozumel

The Otherworldly Town of Bacalar

Vacationers coming to Mexico expect pristine beaches to look out over the vast ocean, but what about visiting a lake?

Lake Bacalar is a trek from Cancun, but the otherworldly blue waters are worth the 4-5 hour journey. However, the new Maya Train will surely expedite your trip.

This off-the-grid small town has seen a surge in popularity, with travelers forgetting all about the Mexican Caribbean and perfectly satisfied with this picture-perfect lagoon.

tourist in clear water of Bacalar

So perfect, in fact, the waters change shades of blue through the day, giving it the name Lagoon of the Seven Colors.

Despite its small size, the town has plenty to offer to keep busy. It goes without saying you will want to spend the majority of your time in and around the water, where you can go swimming, kayaking, take a boat tour, or lounge around in a hammock.

It’s easy to see why this stunning area is known as the “Maldives of Mexico”. Nestled along the same mesmerizing body of water are multiple cenotes to enjoy a nice swim in other scenic spots.

tourist on hammock in bacalar

And when you need a break, the town itself is easily walkable with local restaurants and shops to check out.

Tulum – Mexico’s Trendiest Destination

Where to even start with Tulum? Perhaps the most transformed destination heading into 2024 is this gorgeous getaway a couple of hours south of Cancun.

Soon, flying into Cancun will no longer be a requirement to reach Tulum as the new international airport is now open, with new flights from the U.S. beginning to arrive in spring.

Plus, travelers will be able to hop aboard the highly anticipated Maya Train to visit Tulum as well. However you get here, you simply won’t regret being here.

diver near mayan ruins in Tulum

This magic town is beginning to feel more like a magic city with its growth and surge in popularity. Already home to a booming arts scene, travelers have been packing in for more natural attractions, such as Playa Paraiso Beach and the Cristal and Escondido cenotes.

Others venture into the jungle to see the preserved remains of historical Mayan ruins. Beyond the beautiful coastlines of popular beaches, Tulum has become an eco-tourism hub where travelers see this as a safe haven to focus on sustainability as well as their own health and wellness.

Yoga retreats have become increasingly popular, while sustainable destinations like the UNESCO-protected Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve and the newly opened Jaguar Park are top eco-driven attractions.

beachgoers in tulum

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com


Pat

Friday 19th of January 2024

Tulum is a beautiful place that was ruined many a year ago. Over built, water shortages,drug problems, beach crammed wall to wall with houses, full of entitled snooty north americans. Too many nice places in the Yucatan to waste your time in Tulum. Sorry