Visiting Cancun is a guarantee that travelers will find pristine beaches, incredible parties, and famous attractions, such as the Cenotes and the incredible underwater museum. Yet, while planning to visit one of the most famous destinations in Mexico, tourists should know the attractions and beaches are often crowded with people.
However, it's possible to find some quiet spots in Cancun and the surroundings. Despite its fame, there're still many attractions and places unknown to tourists, and they're perfect for those looking for some relaxing days.
10 This Beach Is Popular Among Locals
While most tourists stay at the beaches near the hotels, most cancuneros prefer to spend their days at Isla Blanca. This beach is located in the north of Cancun and is part of the Isla Mujeres territory. It's an excellent spot for travelers looking for a quieter place, as there're fewer hotels in the region, and also for kitesurfers.
The combination of white sand and turquoise water would be enough to visit the beach, but the place is also famous for its sunrise.
9 There's An Ecological Park Near Cancun
The beaches aren't the only natural beauty in the region. Park Kabah is a protected area where it's possible to see some of the wildlife in Cancun. In the morning, many locals go to the park to do sports, but the place is still unknown to most tourists. The area also has a museum that tells the history of Cancun and a small zoo. The entrance is free, and the park is open between 6 a.m. and 4 p.m.
8 This Lovely Village Has An Amazing Atmosphere
Travelers who like short road trips can drive to a lovely village called Ojo de Agua, one hour away from Cancun. The atmosphere is less touristic, and it's an excellent idea to spend a whole day there. The best things to do are find a place to try the cochinita pibil and enjoy the market on Sunday. Travelers can also spend some hours in a lake near the village, where they can go kayaking. Ojo de Agua is also famous for its sunset and is an excellent place for star-gazing.
7 A Paradise Between Cancun and Playa Del Carmen
Commonly, travelers combine Cancun and Playa del Carmen in one trip, but some people seem unaware of other beautiful spots along the way. Punta Brava is a winding beach, and the only way to enter is through the Grand Velas or El Dorado Royale resort. As it's a less visited place, tourists cant expect to find vendors or shops. People planning to spend the day should bring meals and drinks, as they're no restaurants around. The closest restaurants are in Puerto Morelos.
6 This Quiet Fishing Village
Those visiting Punta Brava should also spend at least a few hours at Puerto Morelos. This fishing village is 32 kilometers away from Cancun and has an entirely different atmosphere. Although both places have incredible beaches, Puerto Morelos is much less touristic and quieter than Cancun. The best things to do here are visiting the cenotes, exploring the beaches, and snorkeling. The place also has excellent restaurants and a craft market in the city center. It's a place where people should spend at least one night.
5 Not All Cenotes Are Full Of Tourists
People visiting Cancun can discover incredible cenotes, and it's easy to find agencies organizing tours to different cenotes in the region. Travelers who want to go to less visited places can choose the Aktun Ha Cenote (also known as the Carwash Cenote), 7 km away from Tulum. This semi-open cenote has a snorkeling area, and it's also possible to visit the cave with an official guide.
The Carwash Cenote is open between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. It's also possible to visit the Gran Cenote and Cenote Calavera on the same day.
4 A Paradise For Brach and Birds Fans
While many tourists decide to visit Isla Mujeres, they should include Isla Contoy in their itinerary. This island is located 30 kilometers north of Isla Mujeres. It is much quieter than other beaches around. There are also over 150 bird species and four types of endangered sea turtles living at Isla Contoy.
Only 200 visitors are allowed daily; the only way to enter the island is by hiring a tour that leaves every day. Tourists aren't allowed to use sunscreen or mosquito repellant as those products can damage the coral reefs in the region.
3 Beyond The Chichen Itza Ruins
The Chichen Itza ruins are arguably the most famous Mayan ruins in Mexico, but they're not the only ones. Coba's Mayan City was considered one of the most amazing travel off-the-beat-path destinations. This place used to be one of the most important Mayan cities and still features 600 roads leading to some impressive ruins. Coba is less visited than Chichen Itza, so there're fewer people, and prices are lower.
Travelers can also visit the Punta Laguna Nature Reserve to see monkeys and enjoy a quiet time near nature.
2 Some Of The Most Beautiful Beaches In Mexico
Travelers who want to experience some relaxing days in Cancun should visit Holbox Island, part of the Yum Balam Nature Reserve and home to secluded beaches such as Playa Punta Cocos and Punta Mosquito. Visitors are often impressed by the region's wildlife, including whale sharks and flamingos.
The island is two hours away from Cancun, and it's reachable by a ferry boat leaving Chiquila. There're several rules to protect the environment on the island, and one of the main attractions is the boat tour to see the whales.
1 The Perfect Spot To See Turtles
Akumal is a city in Quintana Roo, and it's a paradise for people interested in eco-adventures. Tourists are often attracted by its white sands, turquoise waters, and coral reefs, but it's also a perfect place to watch sea turtles. The best thing is that visitors don't need to go on a tour to see them: they just need a snorkel and swim a few meters away from the shore. It's important to remember to don't touch the animals and respect their space.