Last Updated on August 26, 2025
Mexico has amazing destinations that allure millions of tourists every year. The same places that beckon visitors can also feel crowded and over-run.
As frequent Mexico travelers, my husband and I have some special places that offer natural beauty, outdoor adventure, endless surprises, and fascinating history and culture. The difference is that these under-the-radar destinations offer the best gift of all: no crowds.
Bacalar, Quintana Roo
Often hailed as Mexico’s “Lagoon of Seven Colors,” Bacalar, located along the Yucatán Peninsula, is a charming small town celebrated for its breathtaking freshwater lake—Lake Bacalar, also known as the Bacalar Lagoon.
The lagoon is famous for its vibrant spectrum of blue hues created by varying water depths, limestone bed and the interplay of the sun. Beneath its tranquil surface, ancient stromatolites are precious, fragile microbial formations dating back thousands of years; visitors are strongly discouraged from touching these formations or wearing any sunscreen which can damage them.
The town was designated a Pueblo Magico in 2006 for its cultural, historical and aesthetic importance.
Barra de Potosí, Guerrero
If the town of Zihuatanejo isn’t enough of a secret, Parra de Potosi, only a 20–25-minute drive or boat ride away is almost completely undeveloped except for a few local shops and restaurants.
Thatched-roof enramadas line the stunning beach and lagoon set along Guerrero’s Pacific coast. The small, cozy fishing village is tucked beside the coastal lagoon and mangrove-rich estuaries making it a tranquil destination for those into eco-tourism. Laguna Potosi features long, sandy beaches and a rich ecosystem full of wildlife, including more than 200 species of birds.
Holbox Island
One of the reasons we are so drawn to this remote place (pronounced hol-bosh), is that there are no cars allowed on the island. The almost undisturbed paradise is located off the northern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in Quintana Roo, Mexico, where the Caribbean Sea meets the Gulf of Mexico.
Holbox is known for its laid-back atmosphere, stunning turquoise waters, abundant wildlife, and charming, bohemian vibe. Locals and visitors get around by golf carts, bicycles, and walking. The roads are unpaved and the pace of life is intentionally slow here.
As part of the Yum Balam Nature Reserve, visitors can swim with whale sharks, dolphins and rays, birdwatch and witness the magical bioluminescence of its waters from June to September.
Loreto, Baja Sur
Nestled along the Sea of Cortez on Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, Loreto is a small, charming town known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, picturesque islands, and rugged mountainous terrain.
Loreto’s natural beauty is its biggest draw. The town lies at the foot of the Sierra de la Giganta mountains providing a stark but stunning contrast to the tourmaline waters of the sea. Nearby, the Island of Loreto National Marine Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, teeming with marine life and perfect for snorkeling, diving, and fishing.
Water sports are extremely popular, and in winter, the waters around Loreto are home to gray whales migrating from the Arctic.
Los Cerritos, Baja Sur
This low-key surfer’s paradise located just outside the artsy Pueblo Magico village of Todos Santos provides the area’s safest swimming and best place to catch a wave. The surroundings are absolutely awe-inspiring.
Aside from the sun, sand, and sea, the area offers inexpensive beer, cheap eats and low-key restaurants for a “toes in the sand” experience. One of the best views of Los Cerritos is from Hacienda Cerritos, perched high on a private cliff overlooking the picturesque bay.
Playa Balandra Beach, La Paz
Secretive, stunning Balandra Bay is situated 20 minutes from the heart of La Paz, Baja California Sur. Surrounded by massive rock formations, Belandra Bay is also known as the “Laguna de la Colores” for its six different contrasting colors ranging from turquoise to azure.
Surrounded by hills and rocky outcrops, the bay is rich in marine life, beaches are soft and pearly white, and its crystal-clear waters are perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling and swimming.
Puerto Morelos, Riviera Maya
While Cancun and Cozumel are famous destinations in this region, Puerto Morelos offers a peaceful beach retreat without the rampant overdevelopment seen in other places. The charming coastal town is just north of busier Playa del Carmen offering a quieter alternative for visitors.
The town is known for its white-sand beaches and crystalline waters and coral reefs making it a great spot for snorkeling and diving due to its colorful fish, rays, and turtles. We love Puerto Morelos’ authentic vibe and small-town feel. Historically a fishing village, you can still see fishermen coming in with the local catches of the day.
The town’s main square is dotted with cafes, beachside seafood restaurants, and shops and markets selling local wares.
Sayulita, Nayarit
The vibrant, but quaint coastal town located along the Pacific Coast about 25 miles north of Puerto Vallarta is a popular spot for surfers, artists and travelers seeking a laid-back bohemian vibe combined with natural beauty and fascinating culture.
One of Sayulita’s main draws is its picturesque beach with waves suitable for all skill levels. Two other nearby stretches of sand at Playa de los Muertos and Playa Carricitos offer even more peace and seclusion.
The area is surrounded by lush jungles and rugged terrain, and its main area boasts monthly art walks, an impressive food scene and lovely boutique shops.
Yelapa, Jalisco
Our first visit to this incredible remote destination near Puerto Vallarta’s Banderas Bay was unforgettable. The area is accessible only by boat with a few rustic palapa-roofed beach shack cafes and bars along the stretches of sand. There are no cars allowed here, and the secluded hidden fishing village sports calm emerald waters ideal for snorkeling, kayaking, and sport fishing.
The town is only a five-to-ten-minute walk from the beach, and longer jungle hikes lead to breathtaking waterfalls along the river. Iguanas, crabs, frogs, parrots, land crabs, bats and fireflies are among the local wildlife greeting visitors to this secluded paradise.
