Beyond Cancún: An Elegant Escape to Costa Mujeres

After a short drive from Cancún International Airport, you’ll arrive at your resort and be greeted with a chilled cocktail. I recommend heading straight for the beach before you even unpack. That first barefoot walk along Costa Mujeres’ shoreline is magical—the sand is so fine it feels almost silky, and the sound of the waves sets the tone for the whole trip.

For your first dinner, ease into the Mexican flavors with something simple but elevated: fresh ceviche, guacamole prepared tableside, and a glass of crisp white wine. Sit outside if you can—the sunsets here light up the horizon in pinks and golds.

Tips for today

• Pack a swimsuit in your carry-on so you can head straight to the pool or beach.

• Even though gratuities are often included, small bills in pesos are thoughtful for drivers and guides.

• At breakfast, ask your server for a “green juice” — local cactus fruit blends are revitalizing after travel.

A visit to Isla Mujeres is a must. It’s a quick catamaran ride from Costa Mujeres, and the journey is part of the fun—turquoise waters, open air, and a splash of salt spray. Once there, rent a golf cart (it’s the local way to get around!) and circle the island.

Don’t miss Punta Sur, where the Caribbean crashes against rugged cliffs and a tiny Mayan temple looks out to sea. For lunch, head to a beach club on Playa Norte, one of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico. Order the grilled fish—caught that morning—and a margarita with fresh lime juice.

If you’re a snorkeler, ask about El Farito reef and the underwater sculptures at MUSA. Swimming among art installations is unlike anything else in the Caribbean.

Tips for today

• Bring reef-safe sunscreen. Regular sunscreen is prohibited on reefs.

• Rent your golf cart early in the day near the ferry dock before they sell out.

• At Playa Norte, try pescado zarandeado (whole grilled fish) — messy but unforgettable.

• Pop into artisan shops for woven hammocks or embroidered blouses instead of touristy souvenirs.

This is your day for a cultural deep dive. A private driver can take you to Chichén Itzá, one of the most important Mayan archaeological sites. Standing before El Castillo, the iconic pyramid, is humbling—a reminder of the vast sophistication of Mayan civilization.

On your way back, stop in Valladolid, a colonial town with cobblestone streets and pastel-colored facades. Lunch here should be Yucatán specialties like cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork) or sopa de lima.

Finally, cool off in a cenote, one of the region’s natural sinkholes. The water is crystal clear and perfectly refreshing after a day in the sun. My favorite part? Looking up from the cool water, framed by jungle vines and sunlight streaming down.

Tips for today

• Leave early (before 7 am) to beat the crowds and heat at Chichén Itzá.

• Wear breathable fabrics and comfortable shoes—the ruins cover a large area with little shade.

• Bring water shoes for the cenote. The limestone edges can be slippery.

• In Valladolid, order agua de chaya — a refreshing herbal drink unique to Yucatán.

Build in a day to do nothing—trust me, you’ll thank yourself. Start with breakfast on your balcony: tropical fruit, fresh pastries, and coffee strong enough to rival Italy’s.

Book a couples’ massage at the resort’s spa—many offer open-air treatment rooms where you can hear the waves as you relax. Afterward, spend the afternoon in a private cabana. If you’re adventurous, try paddleboarding or kayaking, but if not, there’s no shame in ordering cocktails and sinking into a book you’ve been meaning to read.

Dinner tonight can be more indulgent—I recommend a chef’s tasting menu paired with Mexican wines (the Valle de Guadalupe region is producing some surprisingly elegant vintages).

Tips for today

• Reserve your cabana early. The best oceanfront spots go quickly.

• If your resort has a hydrotherapy circuit, do it before your massage for maximum benefit.

• Ask if the spa offers sunset outdoor massages for couples—they’re unforgettable.

• Save room for dessert—tropical flavors like guava and passion fruit shine in creative chef tastings.

On your last morning, wake up early for sunrise yoga on the beach. Even if you’re not usually a morning person, there’s something grounding about watching the sun climb over the horizon with your feet in the sand.

Have one last leisurely breakfast—the champagne mimosas at most resorts are worth saying yes to—and then it’s time for your private transfer back to the airport.

Tips for today

• Don’t miss sunrise at least once. The pastel Caribbean horizon is unforgettable.

• Pack a lightweight scarf or wrap for the plane—airports here can be overly air-conditioned.

• Treat yourself to one last mimosa or plate of fresh tropical fruit—your final taste of paradise.