Cancun: One Airport, Eleven Distinct Vacation Destinations

Cancun is one of those always-in-demand, warm-weather vacation hotspots that many people dream about visiting. But did you know that Cancun International Airport is actually a convenient hub for eleven distinct and easy-to-reach vacation destinations in Mexico?

Each destination has its own particular flavor and flair, and together, they appeal to a wide range of travelers. But before we delve into those distinctions, we asked travel advisors who successfully sell the region why Cancun and the surrounding area are so appealing to vacationers, many of whom return year after year.

“It is my personal favorite, as I have been to this area more than 70 times going back to 1995,” explains Tom Brussow, president, of Sunsational Beach Vacations. “It feels like a second home to me, and I know the products extremely well. There is truly something here for everyone, whether it is a family vacation, romance, active/adventure, or cultural immersion. There are many amazing resorts to choose from at every price point, and no destination has more to offer outside of the resorts with tours, excursions, authentic small-town flavor, and cultural experiences.”

Kim Goldstein, president and travel consultant, at Journeys Travel Inc., says: “This area also offers a variety of experiences depending on the different regions. If a guest has already been to Costa Mujeres, then they will have a different style vacation in Tulum or Riviera Maya. The Cancun airport is a gateway to many different types of experiences.”

Heather Di Pietro, owner and CEO of TravelSalesGroup LLC, and owner and chief experience officer at She’s The World Luxury Guided Experiences, is also a fan of the area: “There are so many reasons to love this region. Short, often direct flights make for shorter travel days and more time to enjoy your actual vacation. There is truly a resort for every budget and every taste. Everything from budget-friendly, 3-star, all-inclusive resorts in the Cancun Zone for the young or young at heart; to 5-star, luxury properties with butler service, including breakfast or all meals. There are adults-only, family-friendly, and uber-luxurious properties peppered throughout all of the regions in the Cancun area. I even booked a helicopter transfer for clients recently from Playa del Carmen to Isla Mujeres.”

Very convenient airlift
The airlift to this area of Mexico simply cannot be beat. Cancun airport has direct flights at least weekly (and most are daily) from 38 cities in the U.S. 

“The Cancun area is, by far, one of the easiest destinations to access with a significant number of non-stop flights from gateways throughout the U.S. into the Cancun airport, and now into the new airport in Tulum,” says Brussow. “This means that destinations/resorts all throughout this area are accessible by flight without the need for lengthy transfer times. Also, access to ground transportation companies in the destination is excellent, safe, and affordable.”

Furthermore, as Di Pietro points out, “With the Tulum Airport opening next month, there will be even more convenient options, like direct flights to Tulum from Charlotte for about $300 a person on American Airlines in April and May. With so many complaints about the high price of airfare in the last 12-18 months, this is a refreshing break. This will give travelers even easier access to the southern part of Quintana Roo, like Tulum, Akumal, and Puerto Aventuras.”

Jay Islam, vacation dream maker/CEO, of Grand Travel and Cruise, raises one other key consideration for vacationers. “[Cancun airport has] automated immigration to eliminate filling out the paperwork, and making entry through Immigration and Customs faster. I hope all Mexico airports follow the Cancun airport measures.”

And now, we explore those eleven distinct destinations…

Costa Mujeres
We’re starting with Costa Mujeres because, of the four travel advisors we spoke to about vacationing in Mexico, all of them talked about this destination.

“Costa Mujeres was unheard of a few years ago, and now, resorts are popping up left and right,” says Di Pietro. “This is likely the fastest growing ‘suburb’ of Cancun. There is truly a resort for everyone, with some offering grand waterparks and a new one offering four pickleball courts. The biggest selling point for my travelers, though, is that the famous sargassum seaweed does not seem to settle in this area the way it does in other parts of the Mexican Caribbean. Looking for a fabulous stretch of swimmable beach and an ever-growing list of resort options, Costa Mujeres is the place to start!” 

Islam agrees: “As a relatively newer destination compared to some others in the region, Costa Mujeres offers a sense of novelty, attracting travelers who are interested in exploring emerging vacation spots. Overall, the combination of natural beauty, upscale accommodations, diverse activities, and a more exclusive atmosphere makes Costa Mujeres a desirable destination for vacationers looking to experience the best of the Mexican Caribbean.

“Beyond the beach, Costa Mujeres is close to natural attractions, such as Isla Contoy and Isla Mujeres. These islands provide opportunities for eco-tourism, snorkeling, and wildlife exploration, as well as PGA rating golf course. Costa Mujeres is home to upscale spas and wellness centers within the resorts, providing vacationers with opportunities for relaxation, rejuvenation, and pampering.”

Tulum
“Clients often express love for the Tulum area in Cancun for various reasons, as it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a relaxed atmosphere,” recounts Islam. “Tulum is renowned for its pristine, white-sand beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters …

Tulum has a distinctive bohemian and laid-back atmosphere, attracting a diverse range of visitors seeking a more authentic and holistic experience. The area is dotted with boutique hotels, eco-friendly resorts, and beachfront cabanas, contributing to its unique charm.”

In addition, he says, “Clients appreciate the historical and cultural significance of exploring the ancient Mayan ruins with a breathtaking backdrop, perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea.” Furthermore, “the Tulum region is home to numerous cenotes, natural sinkholes with crystal-clear water. These refreshing and unique natural formations offer opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and cave exploration.”

Riviera Maya
Natural beauty abounds in the Riviera Maya. This destination has some of the most pristine beaches and lush forests, as well as inspiring ruins of Mayan civilizations. Championship golf, excellent cuisine, and endless entertainment can also be enjoyed.

“Our clients are drawn to the Riviera Maya for many reasons,” says Goldstein, “ranging from a large variety of resorts, the beaches, and the accessibility to many eco-parks, the ruins, and many outdoor activities.”

Isla Mujeres
“Traveling to Isla, especially to some of the newer luxury resorts with personal catamaran transfers, is so easy, and yet, when that cat drops you off, that gorgeous, crystal-clear turquoise water makes you think you are in Bali or the Maldives, not 25 minutes off the coast of Cancun,” describes Di Pietro. “When you check into your suite at most of the resorts on the island, you have a stunning view across that water all the way to Cancun. My clients love the quality of the snorkeling and diving. The nearby underwater museum is especially popular. Pair that with smaller resorts with an emphasis on Mayan culture and a buzzing downtown area ruled by golf cart rentals, and you have a recipe for the perfect adventure with a direct flight from most larger U.S. cities.”

Puerto Morelos
The peaceful fishing village of Puerto Morelos is the antithesis of its high-energy neighbor Cancun. Designated as an eco-reserve, the environs and the village are protected from overdevelopment. Visitors are drawn to this destination mainly for its outdoor activities, from jungle and diving adventures to serene bike rides, to massages on the beach. The wide, white sand beach pairs well with a relaxing rendezvous with ceviche and a margarita, and maybe a good book.

Brussow says, “There are many factors here that contribute to this area being a favorite, including the concentration of high-quality affordable resorts, proximity to the airport, and access to the local flavors in the town of Puerto Morelos.”

Puerto Aventuras
Another magical port and small town, Puerto Aventuras is a private, gated community located between Playa del Carmen and Tulum. It is one of Mexico’s hidden gems. The area houses charming cafes, boutiques, a golf course, as well as villas, condos, and hotels. The picturesque marina offers sport fishing, dolphin and manatee swims, snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing. Some opt to explore the town by bicycle. This is the peaceful tropical life of many a traveler’s dreams.

Playa del Carmen
Once a small fishing village, Playa del Carmen is growing up fast, as more vacationers flock to its charms. The destination is known mainly for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and its laid-back bohemian vibe. The famous 5th avenue pedestrian walkway winds through town parallel to the beach and is lined with shops, restaurants, bars, clubs, and palm trees. Just off the coast is the second longest coral reef in the world, attracting scuba divers and snorkelers. The close proximity to the archeological sites also appeals to holidaymakers.

Cancun
One of Mexico’s largest and most popular vacation spots, Cancun attracts millions of visitors from all over the world. The all-inclusive resorts are the biggest draw. Cancun’s pristine beaches, known for their soft sand and warm blue waters, have become iconic symbols of this coastal paradise. The city offers a range of adventurous attractions, such as water sports and eco-parks, adding to its appeal. With a bustling nightlife and a diverse culinary scene, Cancun offers something for everyone who wants to have a lively good time.

Akumal
For travelers seeking a quiet beach town experience on the beautiful Caribbean Sea, Akumal is a wonderful choice, and it is just 62 miles south of Cancun. The name comes from a Mayan word for “place of turtles,” and the town is known for being one of the best places in Mexico to spot and swim with sea turtles. Akumal offers white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and abundant sea life – without the crowds. There is world-class diving and snorkeling (at the second-longest coral reef system in the world), as well as coffee shops and stores.

Maroma
A visit to Maroma is all about the secluded and serene beach experience, voted by The Travel Channel as the second-best beach in the world and the best in Mexico. Visitors relax on the pristine white sand, swim in crystal-clear waters, and soak up the relaxing vibes in a setting of paradise. For those who want to be more active, there are water sports and eco-parks. Top all of this off with its high-end accommodations, and Maroma is a vacation treasure, conveniently located just about 12 miles from Playa del Carmen and 33 miles from Cancun. The proximity to many of the hot spots in the Riviera Maya region makes Maroma the perfect escape for a day trip or weekend away from the hustle and bustle of large tourist crowds.

Cozumel
A tropical paradise, and a popular cruise ship port, Cozumel is known for its scuba diving, beautiful beaches, activities, and shopping. With a wide range of delicious restaurants, visitors can choose from rousing touristy spots or quaint family-owned establishments. An assortment of accommodations is also available. At nighttime, Cozumel heats up, with a mix of locals, tourists, and expats frequenting and mingling at its many bars and clubs.

To conclude …
With these eleven destinations in and around Cancun, all so close but so different from each other, it is no wonder why this region of Mexico is a favorite among vacationers. In addition to its stunning natural beauty, and the ease of traveling there, perhaps one of its secrets lies in something Brussow says: “I love the people in Mexico. They are friendly, service-oriented, and the hardest-working people you will find. Sadly, the media can sometimes cast everyone in the same negative light and create misperceptions for consumers that can be hard to overcome. For anyone who hasn’t had the opportunity to experience all this area has to offer first-hand, I would highly recommend it. When you do, any concerns that may have been an issue will quickly be put to rest.”

Some parting words from Di Pietro: “I have been to more than 500 resorts in more than 50 countries, and Mexico is still a personal favorite. In recent years, we have gotten questions about safety in Mexico. I travel there, often by myself, multiple times a year. If travelers are looking for good bang for their buck, with short flights and quality resort offerings, this area delivers that and then some!”

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Discover Cancun resorts and all of Inclusive Collection’s all – inclusive resorts in Mexico here: All-Inclusive Resorts Mexico | Inclusive Collection (hyattinclusivecollection.com). Advisors can also download marketing assets to help market and sell Cancun and the 11 unique vacation regions on Inclusive Collection’s Travel Advisor platform Confidant Collective: Groups & Specialty Travel (hyattinclusivecollection.com).