As travel authorities begin to lift their restrictions, we gradually begin to enjoy more places that open their doors to breathe fresh air, climb the highest mountains, set our feet in the sand, dive into splashing rivers and seas. But above all, travelers seek safe environments and live experiences that transcend.
A trend pointed out by important travel figures such as Tripadvisor or Condé Nast Traveler is the search for secluded or less crowded places to plan summer vacation — and in general for the rest of 2021.
So, in line with this trend, we share with you 6 idyllic and remote beaches to spend a different but very special summer.
Riviera Maya
Bacalar
This town bears the Pueblo Magico tag for its natural and cultural wealth. Bacalar is a place that combines gastronomy, superb nature and a peaceful environment.
Among its must-sees are the Laguna de los Siete Colores with its shallow waters and very soft white sand that takes on different shades of blue and which results in a simply fascinating spectacle.
Do not forget to visit the San Felipe Fort, which was a key point to defend the area from attacks, or the Bacalar Rapids that connect with the lagoon and the Hondo River through the Estero de Chac, known as the Canal de los Piratas (Pirates’ Channel). Visit the Cenote Esmeralda, which is considered one of the most spectacular viewpoints of the lagoon or the Cenote Azul with 300 meters deep and more than 30 meters in diameter where you can practice diving.
Xcacel Beach and the hidden Cenote of Xcacelito
Xcacel-Xcacelito Bay is the first beach in the world to obtain the “Class 1” distinctive granted by the Ibero-American Beach Management and Certification Network (Proplayas), in recognition of its natural wealth and its species conservation programs. It is the most important nesting place for the loggerhead and white turtles in all of Quintana Roo, so you can be a witness, and even join the volunteer work, of its turtle camp if you visit it between May and November. Its beach remains untouched, so you should take a snack and umbrellas with you.
The Xcacelito cenote is added to the beauty of its beaches, hidden among the dense mangrove that protects it. Its fresh waters are inhabited by small playful fish that you can better appreciate with the help of a snorkel gear. As you dive, you will witness the rays of the sun that penetrate the water to discover fossilized corals and the roots of the mangroves.
Los Cabos
Cabo Pulmo
This National Park has just completed 26 years as a protected natural area, a title that was given to it on June 6, 1995. Cabo Pulmo comprises 7,111 hectares where you will find the largest coral reef in the Gulf of California and the marine area with the highest concentration of fish throughout the Gulf of California.
The reef’s recovery since its protection against unfair fishing allowed the return of migratory species such as the whale shark, giant mantas, humpback whales, sharks and sea turtles – three of the seven species, including the Olive Ridley and the Leatherback, they nest in this area. So you can imagine the biodiversity that you will witness during your visit.
In addition to the activity par excellence, diving, you can practice snorkeling, kayaking and windsurfing, and go up to the trails to practice hiking and mountain biking while observing the birds and the beauty of the desert.
Todos Santos
This Magical Town is simply charming, it is a small oasis located between the Pacific and the arid Baja California desert embraced by the Sierra de la Laguna. It stands out for its artistic and cultural atmosphere, and its dozens of galleries that offer you the opportunity to admire the works of local and world painters. Days at the beach can be spent tasting delicacies from the sea and surfing at Playa Cerritos, or simply sunbathing on Palm Beach.
Be sure to visit the Tortuguero Las Playitas, the emblematic Hotel California, said to have inspired the famous song by The Eagles, or the Misión De Nuestra Señora del Pilar dating from 1720 or the Plaza de Armas with its emblematic buildings, its fountain and the kiosk.
Puerto Vallarta / Riviera Nayarit
Mayto Beach
Mayto is a charming beach closeto Puerto Vallarta. You will find many options for ecotourism, beautiful views of the Pacific and local food.
Among the activities that you cannot miss during your visit are strolling the virgin beach, diving, snorkeling and surfing —with special attention to the tides ad it is open sea.
In addition, it has a full-service protected area for camping and enjoying bonfires in the moonlight.
Do not miss a visit to its estuaries and mangroves with a more than fascinating biodiversity to admire: birds, turtles, fish and reptiles among many more.
Lo de Marcos, Nayarit
With a charming atmosphere of a peaceful fishing village and life passing by without distractions, Lo de Marcos is located southwest of Tepic with a half a mile of beautiful beaches of fine pearly textured sand, spectacular turquoise blue waters and warm temperatures, as well as exuberant tropical jungle vegetation.
To get the best out of Lo de Marcos, locals suggest traversing Rincón de Guayabitos Bay by boat, to Coral and El Cangrejo islands, and El Beso and Tortugas beaches. Then, savor exquisite local cuisine, chat with the welcoming locals to finally locate your ideal place in the most isolated point of the beach to admire how the sun melts with the sea.
Hopefully, you will soon enjoy these magical, and secluded, beach destinations. See you then!