Cancun Is So Yesterday! Here Are the Hottest Places to Travel Instead
Globally, Cancun has always been a top vacation spot, welcoming over 20 million visitors in 2023 alone. As tourists overrun crowded parties and luxury resorts in the city’s Hotel Zone, many beautiful beaches in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean remain overlooked. For travelers seeking a serene beach experience with far fewer people, these 12 offbeat alternatives should be highly considered.
Bacalar, Mexico
Beachgoers can enjoy the same charm of the Yucatan with fewer crowds in Bacalar, one of the few designated Pueblo Màgico in Mexico. The city is steeped with historical and symbolic significance, evident at the Fort of San Felipe, both Dzibanché and Kohunlich archeological sites, and its several cenotes. Boutique hotels line the Lagoon of Seven Colors, making Bacalar a quiet and serene getaway.
Mazunte, Mexico
Mazunte, like Bazalar, also happens an emblematic Pueblo Màgico. With its hippie vibe perfect for travelers looking for a closer connection to nature and their bodies, the town is home to various wellness retreats and holistic pursuits. Located in Oaxaca, Mazunte is famous for its unspoiled beaches, delicious food, and thriving art scene.
Montezuma, Costa Rica
Despite Costa Rica’s rising popularity in the tourism industry, Montezuma remains under the radar due to its seclusion. With a quiet bohemian vibe, the area is ideal for relaxing on empty beaches, chasing waterfalls in the rainforest, and spotting Costa Rican wildlife.
Nevis, St. Kitts & Nevis
Nevis often lives in the shadow of St. Kitts despite its rich cultural influences from Africa, Europe, and the Indigenous people. Additionally, it is the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton, a US founding father.
Besides its historical significance, the island offers scenic mountain hikes to Peak Nevis and beginner surfing opportunities on Pinney Beach.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Puerto Vallarta is an urban beach town similar to Cancun, on the opposite side of Mexico. Located in Jalisco, it is a prime location to embrace Mexican culture and fine arts during the day before ending the night sipping tequila at a bar – if that’s the vibe.
While Puerto Vallarta has many unique zones, less-traveled areas include Conchas Chinas beach and Zona Romantica’s cobblestone streets.
Montericco, Guatemala
Volcanic black sand beaches and clear waters make Montericco a favorite amongst locals. After enjoying picturesque sunsets, visitors will likely encounter female sea turtles laying eggs along the shore. The town is notably accessible, making day trips to famous Mayan ruins and the city of Antigua easily executable.
Tobago, Trinidad and Tobago
Life is slow on this Caribbean island, allowing for a laid-back vacation. Surprisingly, Tobago is free of large resorts and congestion. Ziplining through the lush rainforest, kayaking amidst the mangroves, and discovering historical sites are ideal ways to experience Tobago.
Ecotourism has become an island initiative, enticing divers and snorkelers with colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life, from turtles to manta rays.
Caye Caulker, Belize
A relaxing, affordable getaway awaits on the carefree island of Caye Caulker, situated just off the coast of Belize. This is the best location to access the Belize Barrier Reef, the world’s second-largest. While there are great opportunities for diving and snorkeling, Caye Caulker, like Cancun, is widely known for parties and nightlife.
Panama City, Panama
With a vibrant nightlife, fabulous cuisine, and easy access to Panama’s natural wonders, Panama City hosts the same world-class experiences as Cancun without being as touristic.
Visitors can explore the old town of Casco Viejo for historical and cultural immersion, relax on pristine beaches, or take a day trip to the city’s rainforest, Parque Natural Metropolitano.
Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua is home to historic sites like Nelson’s Dockyard, wildlife encounters like Stingray City, and popular treks to Mount Obama or on the Fig Tree Drive rainforest trail. Barbuda features Pink Sands Beach, limestone caves in Two Foot Bay, and the Frigate Bird Sanctuary, where the species lives boundless in its natural habitat.
Both islands have great snorkeling and low-key beaches, but island hopping is the best way to see this small Caribbean nation.
La Paz, Mexico
La Paz is situated on the southernmost tip of Baja California Sur. It is famous for its picturesque coastlines and vibrant Malecón area filled with restaurants, shops, and cafes. With its clear waters, the Sea of Cortez is home to various marine species, such as whales, sea turtles, dolphins, and tropical fish.
Zihuatanejo, Mexico
Zihau, a coastal town in Guerrera, has mostly been untouched by tourists. This hidden gem invites visitors to brush up on their Spanish and experience authentic Mexican culture.
After a busy day of water activities and historical visits, the best way to end the night is near the beach, watching stunning sunsets while indulging in marine specialties like ceviche and fish tacos.
While Cancun remains a popular destination, many unique and lesser-known places in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean are worth exploring. Increased access to these off-the-beaten-path destinations offers an excellent opportunity for a quieter and more secluded getaway by the seaside.
