7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Cancun

Cancun, is a paradise for digital nomads who enjoy the blend of tropical beauty, vibrant culture, and the convenience of modern amenities. While the city itself offers plenty to do, sometimes a change of scenery is needed. Whether you're looking for popular tourist spots or hidden gems, the Yucatan Peninsula has a wealth of weekend getaways that cater to all tastes. From ancient ruins to serene beaches and charming colonial towns, here are seven destinations that are perfect for a short trip from Cancun.

Playa del Carmen

Just an hour's drive from Cancun, Playa del Carmen is a bustling coastal town known for its palm-lined beaches and coral reefs. Quinta Avenida, the main street, runs parallel to the shore and is filled with shops, restaurants, and nightspots. For those interested in marine life, the nearby Great Maya Reef offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. Playa del Carmen is also a gateway to the eco-parks of Xcaret and Xel-Há, where you can experience natural lagoons, cenotes, and Mayan culture.

How to Get There: The best way to get to Playa del Carmen is by car or bus, with frequent services running from Cancun's main bus station. The journey typically takes around one hour.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to visit the Frida Kahlo Museum located on Quinta Avenida for a glimpse into the life of the iconic Mexican artist.

Where to Stay: La Pasion Hotel Boutique offers a tranquil atmosphere and a rooftop pool, while The Fives Downtown Hotel & Residences features a stunning rooftop terrace with ocean views.

Where to Eat: El Fogon is famous for its authentic tacos al pastor, while Oh Lala offers a more upscale dining experience with a focus on international cuisine.

Isla Holbox

Isla Holbox is a serene island located at the northern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula, where the Caribbean Sea meets the Gulf of Mexico. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, the island is free of cars, and its streets are made of white sand. Visitors can enjoy swimming with whale sharks, kayaking through mangroves, and witnessing the bioluminescent waters at night. The island's main beach, Punta Coco, is perfect for relaxing and watching the sunset.

How to Get There: To reach Isla Holbox, take a bus or drive to the port town of Chiquila, which is about a 2-hour journey from Cancun, and then hop on a ferry to the island.

Travel Tip: Make sure to rent a bicycle or a golf cart to explore the island's colorful murals and remote beaches.

Where to Stay: Casa Las Tortugas offers beachfront accommodation with a holistic spa, while Villas HM Paraiso del Mar provides a luxurious stay with beachside hammocks.

Where to Eat: Visit Viva Zapata for a lively atmosphere and fresh seafood, or head to Barba Negra for delicious wood-fired pizzas.

Valladolid

Valladolid is a charming colonial town that serves as a window into the past with its well-preserved architecture and rich history. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, visit the San Bernardino Convent, and take a dip in the nearby cenote Zaci. Valladolid is also an excellent base for exploring some of the lesser-known Mayan ruins, such as Ek Balam, and it's a short drive from the famous Chichen Itza.

How to Get There: The drive from Cancun to Valladolid takes about 2 hours by car or bus, with regular services available from Cancun's bus station.

Travel Tip: On a hot day, nothing beats the refreshing waters of Cenote Zaci, located right in the heart of the town.

Where to Stay: El Meson del Marques offers a traditional experience with a central location, while Casa Tía Micha provides a cozy and intimate setting.

Where to Eat: Enjoy Yucatecan cuisine at Conato 1910, a restaurant set in a colonial house with a beautiful courtyard.

Bacalar

Bacalar, known as the "Lagoon of Seven Colors," is a stunning freshwater lagoon with crystal-clear waters in varying shades of blue. It's an ideal spot for kayaking, sailing, and exploring the old Spanish fort, Fuerte de San Felipe. The laid-back town has a peaceful vibe, making it perfect for a relaxing weekend away from the hustle and bustle of Cancun.

How to Get There: The journey to Bacalar from Cancun takes about 4 hours by car or bus. Buses depart regularly from the ADO bus terminal in Cancun.

Travel Tip: Visit the Cenote Azul, one of the largest open-air cenotes in the Yucatan Peninsula, for a unique swimming experience.

Where to Stay: Hotel Laguna Bacalar offers stunning lagoon views, while Casa Bakal features waterfront access and private docks.

Where to Eat: La Playita is a popular spot for its waterfront dining and fusion cuisine, while El Manati Bacalar offers a bohemian atmosphere with vegetarian options.

Puerto Morelos

Puerto Morelos is a tranquil fishing village situated between Cancun and Playa del Carmen. It's known for its National Marine Park, which is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, offering superb snorkeling and diving opportunities. The town's laid-back charm, open-air restaurants, and artisan markets make it a delightful escape from the more tourist-heavy areas.

How to Get There: Puerto Morelos is a short 30-minute drive from Cancun, and buses run frequently between the two locations.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to snorkel or dive in the Puerto Morelos Reef National Park, home to vibrant marine life and stunning coral formations.

Where to Stay: Hotel Marina El Cid Spa & Beach Resort offers luxury accommodations with a private beach, while Posada Amor is a quaint and affordable option near the town square.

Where to Eat: El Nicho is a local favorite for breakfast and brunch, known for its homemade pastries and fresh juices.

Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve

The Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Mexico's largest protected areas. This off-the-beaten-path destination offers a diverse ecosystem with tropical forests, mangroves, and a large marine section intersected by a natural canal system. Visitors can enjoy bird watching, fly fishing, and guided tours through the reserve's untouched nature.

How to Get There: The entrance to Sian Ka'an is about a 2-hour drive from Cancun. It's recommended to rent a 4x4 vehicle or join a guided tour due to the reserve's rough terrain.

Travel Tip: Take a boat tour to explore the ancient Mayan canals and spot local wildlife, including dolphins, turtles, and various bird species.

Where to Stay: Accommodations within the reserve are limited, but Aldea Ecológica offers rustic eco-cabins, and Mukan Resort provides luxury amidst nature.

Where to Eat: Dining options are scarce within the reserve, so it's best to bring your own food and water. However, some tours include a traditional Mayan meal.

Isla Contoy

Isla Contoy is a small, uninhabited island and national park located approximately 30 kilometers north of Isla Mujeres. The island is a sanctuary for over 150 species of birds and is surrounded by clear turquoise waters teeming with marine life. With a limit of 200 visitors per day, it offers an exclusive and serene experience for those looking to escape the crowds and connect with nature.

How to Get There: Access to Isla Contoy is restricted to authorized tour companies, with boats departing from Cancun and Isla Mujeres. The trip usually takes around 1.5 hours by boat.

Travel Tip: Be sure to bring your snorkeling gear to explore the Ixlache Reef located at the southern tip of the island, which is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System.

Where to Stay: Since overnight stays are not allowed on Isla Contoy, consider staying in Isla Mujeres where Zoëtry Villa Rolandi offers luxurious accommodations.

Where to Eat: Back on Isla Mujeres, Mango Café is a must-visit for its Caribbean-inspired dishes and refreshing smoothies.