If you think the only thing to do in Cancun is park your butt at a swim-up bar and maybe go shopping and bar-hopping downtown, then we at Travel Off Path have news for you!
Yes, it’s true that many of Cancun’s hidden gems have been uncovered to the masses, especially with the Maya Train’s wide-ranging route of attractions.
Take Isla Mujeres, for example — it’s now one of Mexico’s trendiest islands, topping many Cancun travelers’ wishlists.
But Americans’ favorite international vacation spot is so outrageously popular, more and more places to escape seemingly unavoidable crowds at times are coming to light.
Experts in all things Cancun at The Cancun Sun just revealed their top picks for doing just that, so let’s dive into 5 crowd-free destinations in Cancun’s vicinity calling your name this fall.
Bacalar: Mexico’s Dream Turned Reality
Let’s start with one you may have heard of, Bacalar — also known as the Lagoon of Seven Colors.
Truly one of Mexico’s most magnificent wonders, this sightly lagoon ticks off every possible shade of blue on the color wheel, hence its ‘Maldives of Mexico’ moniker.
While you won’t find the same level of ritzy accommodations here, that’s all part of the appeal.
Rather than sit on your (likely) overpriced balcony suite praying to all the gods sargassum won’t roll in today, that’s never an issue in Bacalar.
Relax in a hammock with your toes in the water, go for a dip in a pristine cenote, and discover otherworldly formations like rare stromatolites (advised not to touch!).
If you’re up for the most adventurous way to get here, make sure to book a vetted tour guide, as a boat ride here from Cancun can easily top 4 hours.
Though if you ask me, it’s a disservice not to make a stop in nearby Chetumal, one of the biggest surprises in all my travels through Mexico.
Isla Mujeres’ Best Alternative?
Well, Isla Mujeres has to start somewhere, so can the same be said for little-known Isla Contoy?
The Cancun Sun is hyping up this hush-hush island as the “quiet, nature-first sibling” to Isla Mujeres. In other words, it has the DNA to be a big star, but it just hasn’t had its glow-up moment yet.
Truth be told, it may never have had that moment given the stringent rules. Mexico has implemented a daily cap of 200 visitors on licensed tour boats.
But those who have gone out of their way to visit one of Cancun’s least known excursions have been wildly impressed by this nature preserve— literally!
For a full Jim Halpert-style rundown of all the dos and don’ts of visiting Isla Contoy, check out the Cancun Sun’s insightful guide here.
Swap Cancun’s Turquoise Waters For Stunning Pink Lakes
If you thought Cancun had to be the same-o, same-o experience year after year, Río Lagartos & Las Coloradas are here to prove you wrong.
The downside is you’ll have to sacrifice a full day from your itinerary with 7 hours of boat rides round-trip.
The plus side is that both Cancun Sun and we at Travel Off Path give our stamp of approval — it’s definitely worth it!
While we won’t go full Bill Nye the Science Guy on you by explaining the scientific reasoning for bubble-gum pink hues, there’s no denying the lake of Las Coloradas is one of Mexico’s prettiest locales, few tourists seem to know exists.
But in typical American fashion, why not make it a combo? The Cancun Sun also recommends checking out the array of wildlife, including flamingos and crocodiles, at the Ría Lagartos reserve.
Ek Balam: Cancun’s Jungle Gem
Another place popping up on more Cancun vacationers’ radars is Valladolid, and nearby Ek Balam is just the place to beat the crowds of Chichen Itza.
The Maya Train makes it a lot easier to reach, thanks to its Valladolid stop.
Best of all, you can climb the pyramid (referred to as the Acropolis — no offense, Athens!).
While you may have seen viral videos of locals shooing away rule-breakers climbing other archeological sites, Ek Balam is open to the public with minimal rules.
Plus, it’s home to a downright gorgeous cenote for a swim in your own slice of paradise — be wary of crocs, though!
Sian Ka’an Biosphere: Adventure Awaits In Tulum’s UNESCO Site
Tulum’s airport may not have been a resounding hit like it was expected to be, but getting there is still easier than ever, no matter the mixed bag of results.
While still trendy and definitely overpriced in some aspects, Tulum’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sian Ka’an Biosphere, is remarkably uncrowded, with only a small entry fee required.
You can also book personalized or private tours (by request). No matter how you traverse this untamed natural wonder, expect to witness a variety of wildlife such as manatees, dolphins, and exotic birds.
Venture through mangrove canals, snorkel in natural pools, or float down ancient Maya waterways while others wonder if forking over their paycheck was worth being another face in the crowd at their ritzy resort.
Sam Sears
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
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