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As temperatures drop, a warm getaway to the Mexican Caribbean sounds more inviting than ever.
Unfortunately, some of the region’s biggest hotspots have become too commercialized for their own good, with sky-high prices giving tourists pause before booking the fall trip of their dreams.
With that said, there are still a few Mexican Caribbean destinations that offer the same paradisical experience for a fraction of the price.
If you’re looking to take a sunny, budget-friendly vacation anytime soon, these are the top 5 spots to consider:
Playa Del Carmen
Playa Del Carmen is a coastal resort town best known for its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters.
Playa Mamitas and Playacar, in particular, are not to be missed.
Whether you’d like to spend the day sunbathing under the Mexican sun or feed your adventurous spirit and enjoy one of the many water activities in the area, Playa Del Carmen is the place to be.
Those looking to experience that quintessential lively feel of a Caribbean resort town will have the time of their lives browsing through the shops, restaurants, bars, and boutiques that line Quinta Avenida.
Don’t let Playa Del Carmen’s shiny exterior fool you, though; the city is also home to some of Mexico’s most significant cultural and historical landmarks, ranging from ancient Mayan ruins to the famous Xcaret Park.
As it happens, this gorgeous hotspot is also one of the cheapest in the region.
If you’re in Playa Del Carmen, a three-course meal for two people currently costs around $29. In comparison, the same meal in Cancun would set you back roughly $47.5, marking a 38.9% increase.
Accommodation costs follow a similar trend. Pricing for all-inclusive resorts in Playa del Carmen ranges between $200 and $396 a night. The same types of resorts in Cancun charge between $230 and $600.
Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is a small, picturesque island that is currently soaring in popularity.
The calm, idyllic beaches in the area are undoubtedly a driving force behind this impressive surge in tourism. The charming city and abundant diving opportunities don’t hurt, either.
However, what tourists seem to most appreciate about Isla Mujeres is the fact that the Mexican hotspot offers excellent value for the money.
Ferry tickets from Cancun to Isla Mujeres start at $10 per adult, and the ride only takes 20-30 minutes.
Once you’re there, you’ll be delighted to find that a meal in one of the local eateries only costs about $8-$10, while accommodation options for 3 and 4-star hotels start at $25.
Puerto Morelos
Home to the gorgeous Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, Puerto Morelos is one of the most underrated destinations in all of the Mexican Caribbean.
A trip here would take you through the Dr. Alfredo Barrera Marin Botanical Garden, the iconic Puerto Morelos lighthouse, and dozens of world-class beaches.
Puerto Morelos is the perfect destination for those looking for a more low-key getaway this fall.
The quiet atmosphere and reasonable prices are hard to beat. There are 5-star all-inclusive resorts here that start at $190 per night.
Chetumal
The Quintana Roo capital is the fastest-growing destination in the Mexican Caribbean and for good reason.
Nature lovers will have the time of their lives here, getting a chance to enjoy the world-famous Bacalar Lagoon and breathtaking cenotes.
Museums and art galleries are also abundant, so you won’t have to choose between an idyllic beach getaway and a culturally enriching experience – you’ll get it all in a neatly wrapped package.
Though you won’t find many all-inclusive resorts in Chetumal, accommodation options in the area won’t leave you disappointed. They cater to all types of tourists, and most boutique-style hotels start at $45 a night.
Mahahual
Mahahual is a village on the Costa Maya that has usually gone a bit under the radar.
Recently, though, more and more tourists have started appreciating the destination for its beautiful beaches, exciting snorkeling opportunities, and, most of all, its competitive prices.
Stroll through the Mahahual Broadwalk to find some of the freshest, most reasonably-priced seafood you’ll ever eat.
As far as lodging goes, you won’t be hard-pressed to find a decent, reasonably-priced hotel. 3-star accommodation options start at $37 per night.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.