TIRED OF CANCUN AND TULUM? TRY THESE 5 COASTAL TOWNS INSTEAD

We’ve all been there: scrolling through Instagram, seeing the same over-hyped spots tagged a thousand times, and suddenly, a hidden gem becomes a crowded hotspot.

I get it—when a destination blows up on social media, it’s exciting at first. But then, the crowds start pouring in, and suddenly you’re not just fighting for the perfect beach photo, but you’re shoulder to shoulder with other tourists.

What’s worse is seeing the locals, who once thrived in peace, now dealing with the chaos of overrun streets, packed beaches, and a spike in prices.

That’s kind of what’s happened with Cancun and Tulum. These once-coveted gems have become so popular that they’ve lost some of the charm they once had. But here’s the good news: You don’t have to fight through the crowds to experience the beauty of Mexico’s coastline.

In this guide, I’m sharing some lesser-known beach towns and coastal destinations that will give you the same ocean views and relaxation without the overcrowded chaos.

If you’re craving a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path Mexico getaway—one where you can truly unwind without dealing with the impact of overtourism—these towns are the perfect alternative.

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1. Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo

In a nutshell: Baby sea turtle releases, farm-to-table dining, under-the-radar eco-resorts, and peaceful, unspoiled beaches.

Ixtapa is home to some incredible beaches, high-rises, golf courses, and luxury resorts. But the funny thing is, it’s still relatively undiscovered.

Like its Caribbean sister resort town of Cancun, Ixtapa was transformed in the 1970s from being just an undeveloped strand of golden sand and turquoise waters into a resort hotspot for sun worshippers.

Zihuatanejo, on the other hand, offers the atmosphere and character of a more traditional Mexico. It’s less touristy, meaning you’ll be able to experience a more authentic version of Mexico.

With fewer crowds than other destinations, you can enjoy Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo’s beaches all to yourself, farm-to-table cuisine, and opportunities to engage in local conservation efforts like turtle sanctuary volunteering.

Where To Stay: Cala de Mar Resort & Spa Ixtapa or La Casa Que Cantaboth are absolutely swoonworthy.

2. Mazatlán

In a nutshell: Expansive beaches, a charming historic center, a famed Carnaval event, and one of the world’s longest oceanfront boardwalks.

Mazatlán, aka the “Pearl of the Pacific,” offers a unique blend of sun-soaked beaches, a charming historic center, and lively cultural events like its famous Carnaval celebration.

Stroll along its lively Malecón, one of the longest oceanfront boardwalks in the world, or explore the beautifully restored historic center with landmarks like Angela Peralta Theater and Plaza Machado.

And if you happen to be visiting in late February/early March, don’t miss the city’s world-famous Carnaval, a longstanding pre-Lenten celebration (over 125 years) that rivals some of the best in the world.

Where To Stay: Dreams Estrella del Mar Mazatlán Golf & Spa Resort (a recent addition to Hyatt’s All-Inclusive Collection) or Casa Lulu for a cute boutique stay.

3. Bacalar

In a nutshell: Crystal-clear Lagoon of Seven Colors, 18th-century fort, atmospheric beach clubs, and toucans.

Bacalar, located near Mexico’s border with Belize, is a dreamlike escape that feels worlds away from the busier tourist hubs of the Mexican Caribbean.

The jewel of this town is the Lagoon of Seven Colors, where you can kayak, swim, or even take a boat tour to see its famed Cenote Azul and Pirate Channel. History buffs will enjoy exploring the 18th-century Fort of San Felipe, which offers both panoramic views and a glimpse into the region’s pirate-fighting past.

With the new Tulum airport, this laid-back paradise is now easier to access than ever.

Where To Stay: Our Habitas Bacalar or the lagoon-front Azulea Bacalar Hotel & Spayou might not be able to help yourself from splurging on the deluxe rooms!

4. Isla Holbox

In a nutshell: Laid-back beachy charm, beachside bungalows, and eco-chic accommodations.

Isla Holbox, located off the coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, is the perfect antidote to the always-bustling energy of nearby Cancun. While you might fly into the same airport, this car-free island couldn’t feel more different.

Holbox is known for its laid-back charm, colorful murals, and shallow azure waters, perfect for wading or kayaking. Nature enthusiasts love it for its bioluminescent waters, flamingo-filled lagoons, and whale shark tours (available during the summer months).

With no megaresorts in sight, this island feels like a hidden gem designed for unwinding and reconnecting with nature.

Where To Stay: CASA CAT BA or AWA Holboxchoosing between these two beachfront hotels will likely be your hardest trip-planning task.

5. Costalegre

In a nutshell: Luxury resorts, secluded beaches, eco-friendly hideaways, and natural beauty with nearly zero crowds.

Nestled between Puerto Vallarta and Manzanillo, Costalegre is a secluded coastal retreat offering an abundance of natural beauty, including unspoiled beaches like Playa Perula and Tenacatita Bay.

Costalegre has been known to be a luxury travel destination thanks to blissfully uncrowded upscale properties such as Las Alamandas, a luxury eco-resort with just 18 colorful villas and four private beaches.

Known for its utterly relaxing and idyllic atmosphere, this stretch of the Pacific also boasts lush jungle landscapes and wildlife sanctuaries like Chamela-Cuixmala Biosphere Reserve.

The recently opened Chalacatepec International Airport has made this region more accessible, yet it still feels like a hidden oasis.

Where To Stay: Las Alamandas or Playa Rosa Bungalows Careyes (the pink bungalow of your dreams)

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2025-01-21T21:40:23Z