Mérida, Mexico: Magical Cenotes, Jungle Escapes, Mayan Adventures

Merida, Mexico shines on the map especially for U.S. east coasters looking for some fun in the sun without the crowds. For those looking to escape extreme weather this winter, the average temperature in Merida at this time of year is 72 degrees. 

The state of Yucatán offers the ideal climate for seaside vacations and, with nearly 250 miles of beaches, getaways are plentiful and stunning where jungle environments, picturesque towns, natural reserves, and colorful bodies of water make daily stress disappear.

Merida, Mexico: Top Places to Visit

Celestún: 

Without a doubt, a natural and eco-tourism paradise, Celestún is home to exceptional landscapes where extensive beaches rife with abundant coconut palms and mangroves are an ideal setting for lovers of outdoor activities. This area is part of the World Heritage Special Reserve of the Ría Celestún biosphere, which is home to approximately 400 species of migratory birds that arrive in the entity from December to March, making for an incomparable natural spectacle of flora and fauna.

Telchac: 

One hour away from the capital city Mérida lies the port of Telchac, an ideal option for all those who seek peace and quiet during their vacations. Its peaceful waters are perfect for swimming in complete tranquility. Here, you can also visit the Museum of the Sea, the only such attraction in the area, which maintains an exhibition of various species of marine fossils, snails, shells and more.

Xtampú & X’Cambó: Merida Mexico

Not far from Telchac is the beautiful Laguna Rosada, with its singular pink color. It comprises part of Xtampú’s lagoon, where — in addition to taking spectacular photos — you can learn about the process of salt extraction. While in the area, you can also learn more about the ancient Mayan culture by visiting the archaeological zone of X’Cambó, one of the few ruins close to the coast, which is believed to have been an ancient fishing port that supplied the main Mayan cities with food.

Cancunito: 

Located in Río Lagartos — just three hours’ drive from the capital and very close to Las Coloradas, famous for its large pink pools — Cancunito stands out as one of Yucatán’s most spectacular virgin beaches. Tantalizing those who visit with a fantastic natural setting, this tropical paradise has abundant mangroves as well as coastal dunes that, thanks to vegetation, form an extraordinary ecosystem where species such as Hawksbill, White, and Loggerhead sea turtles arrive to spawn.

San Felipe: Merida Mexico

Half an hour away from Cancunito lies the small fishing and tourist port of San Felipe, where you’ll find rustic wooden houses in a mix of cheerful colors. Enjoy a day at the town beach, where white sands, turquoise waters and peaceful tranquility are just part of a normal day. Today, San Felipe has become one of the most popular spots in Yucatán for nature lovers, thanks to the unique beauty of its surroundings.

Río Lagartos: 

A small traditional fishing port that today is one of the best kept “secrets” in the Yucatán Peninsula, the town lies right at the entrance to the well-known Ría Lagartos Reserve Natural Park, where you can explore a fascinating environment that’s home to crocodiles, sea turtles and hundreds of species of birds, including flamingos and pelicans.

El Cuyo: Merida Mexico

At the northeastern tip of Yucatán, El Cuyo is just three hours from the state capital. This little Eden is one of the most unique corners of the state, lying right at the end of the Costa Esmeralda. Its main claim to fame is being the place where the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea meet; the mix of currents and winds make the area ideal for sports such as sailing and kitesurfing.

The beaches near Merida, Mexico and throughout the Yucatán have become the vacation spot of choice for all of those who value the natural beauty of semi-virgin stretches of sand. In addition to being the safest state in Mexico, this magical destination offers 18 archaeological zones open to the public, around 100 cenotes, four historical “Magical Towns” and a cosmopolitan capital city that stands out as the cultural and gastronomic hub of the country’s entire southeast.