Nestled between the tourist-packed glamorous Cancún and Playa Del Carmen of the Yucatán peninsula is the quaint little fishing port town of Puerto Morelos. Rickety old wooden boats bobbing in the salty yet blissful Caribbean sea and local children sucking on their ice lollies are regular scenes you witness when you visit Puerto Morelos.
Our trip to Mexico was extra special because this was the last trip of just the two of us alone and the first of the 3 of us as a family.
My pea in a pod braved the mesoamerican barrier reef system in questionable boats with just a raggedy old life jacket. We snorkeled, played in the water, and spent hours drawing hearts and playing tic tac toe on the ocean sand, watching the waves wash our art over and over again.
Here are 14 reasons why you must visit Puerto Morelos.
- Beautiful beaches – Puerto Morelos is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico. The white sand and crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
- Snorkeling and diving – The coral reef located just offshore is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can explore the vibrant underwater world and swim with colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures.
- Unspoiled nature – Puerto Morelos is surrounded by lush greenery, mangroves, and wildlife. Visitors can take a guided tour of the nearby nature reserve and witness the beauty of the flora and fauna.
- Peaceful atmosphere – Unlike other tourist destinations in Mexico, Puerto Morelos has a quiet and laid-back atmosphere that is perfect for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing vacation.
- Local culture – The village is home to a friendly and welcoming local community that is proud of its culture and traditions. Visitors can experience the local way of life and learn about the customs and history of the region.
- Fresh seafood – Puerto Morelos is known for its fresh seafood, which is caught daily by local fishermen. Visitors can sample the delicious dishes at the many restaurants and street vendors located in the village.
- Cenotes – The Yucatan Peninsula is home to several cenotes, which are natural swimming holes formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock. Visitors can take a refreshing dip in the cool, crystal-clear waters and explore the unique ecosystem.
- Mayan ruins – The Yucatan Peninsula is also home to several Mayan ruins, including the famous Chichen Itza and Tulum. Visitors can take a guided tour and learn about the rich history and culture of the region.
- Eco-tourism – Puerto Morelos is committed to sustainable tourism and eco-friendly practices. Visitors can take part in various eco-tourism activities, such as sea turtle conservation, beach cleanups, and wildlife rehabilitation.
- Adventure activities – For those seeking adventure, Puerto Morelos offers several activities such as zip-lining, jungle tours, and ATV rides.
- Bird-watching – The village is home to several species of birds, including toucans, parrots, and pelicans. Visitors can take a guided bird-watching tour and spot the colorful and exotic birds.
- Art and culture – Puerto Morelos is home to several art galleries and cultural centers that showcase the work of local artists and artisans. Visitors can browse the art and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region.
- Wellness and relaxation – The village is home to several spas and wellness centers that offer various treatments such as massages, yoga, and meditation.
- Sunsets – Finally, Puerto Morelos offers some of the most beautiful sunsets in Mexico. Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking views of the sun setting over the Caribbean Sea and relax in the peaceful and serene atmosphere.
Cool winter breeze and playful stray dogs set the mood for our long walks from this cozy little beachfront cottage we were renting to the town’s square where musicians serenaded everyone with live Mexican music. With tabletop shops selling artwork, clothing & jewelry and restaurants serving flavors of local food, the town square became our favorite spots to hang out in the evenings.
Small straw hut shops along the square sold fresh fruits and vegetables. Some shopkeepers would go the extra mile to slice up delicious ripe mangoes and sprinkle chili powder, salt, and lemon. It transported us back to our childhood days eating mangoes from the pushcarts at Marina Beach in Chennai.
The Chichén Itzá is a spectacular ancient Mayan city that is worth a visit when you are in the beautiful state of Quintana Roo. The ruins reminded us a lot of our own South Indian temple architecture. It is a beautiful 2.5-hour drive from Puerto Morelos. We stopped en route at Valladolid, a town that boasts colonial-style architecture, and the array of colors of buildings and homes is a sight to see.
The Caribbean waters on the Yucatán peninsula are the bluest of blues, and the sand is so soft like flour. Away from the glitzy overcrowded resorts of nearby cities, Puerto Morelos is the perfect vacation destination to enjoy the culture and architecture of Mexico while relaxing your mind, body, and soul!
Plan a trip to Puerto Morelos
Overall, Puerto Morelos is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and adventure. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful getaway or an action-packed vacation, Puerto Morelos has something for everyone. So if you’re planning a trip to Mexico, make sure to add Puerto Morelos to your travel itinerary and experience the magic of this charming village for yourself.