Quintana Roo Travel Guide

Mexico
Cancun showing a sandy beach, general coastal views and landscape views
Experience the ancient wonder of Mayan ruins and hop between islands and idyllic beaches off the Caribbean coast on Mexico’s eastern edge.

Framed by breathtaking beaches along the Caribbean coast and forest reserves through its interior, Quintana Roo is one of Mexico’s most exciting getaway destinations. Indulge at the waterfront resorts of Cancún, relax beneath the tropical sunshine on the offshore islands, explore ecological theme parks and join the revelers in the bars and clubs after nightfall.

The state was populated mostly by small farming and fishing villages until the late 20th century, when it began to grow into the internationally renowned getaway that it is today. Have a tailored vacation experience in Cancún’s luxury resort area and enjoy a playground of 14 miles (23 kilometers) of white-sand beaches.

Playa del Carmen is an eclectic resort town and the heart of the Riviera Maya. Wander along the town’s pedestrianized promenade, which is lined with bars, clubs, restaurants and shopping destinations. Chetumal is the state’s bustling capital city, while Bacalar offers a slower pace with historic architecture and a multi-hued lagoon.

Ride a ferry or charter a yacht to Cozumel or Isla Mujeres to experience island life on the Mexican Caribbean. Isla Mujeres, a laid-back resort island, is said to have been a sanctuary for the Mayan goddess Ixchel.

Embark on sightseeing cruises or scuba-diving charters. Swim through coral reefs brimming with marine life or dive into the mysterious depths of a cenote, the cavernous sinkholes found across the Yucatán Peninsula. Venture into the jungle on foot or with a Jeep safari from Tulum or Coba to see spectacular Mayan ruins. Check out Xel Ha and Xcaret to find ecological theme parks with nature trails, secret rivers, wildlife tours and demonstrations of Mayan culture.

Quintana Roo is a coastal state stretching along the northeast of the Yucatán Peninsula in southeastern Mexico. Reach the area via major airports in Cancún and Cozumel or via road from Yucatán. The state has a comprehensive bus network and taxis are also readily available in most areas. Stay in upscale resort areas or discover hidden getaways just a few hours’ drive from the major urban centers. Visit in spring for Carnaval celebrations or in November for the Riviera Maya Jazz Festival.

Popular cities in Quintana Roo

Cancun showing a sandy beach, general coastal views and landscape views
Cancun
Known for Dining, Beaches and Sea
A unique blend of Mayan temples, Yucatan cuisine and cocktail bars, with dolphins swimming just offshore…Cancun is calling!

Reasons to visit

  • La Isla Shopping Mall
  • Gaviota Azul Beach
  • Delfines Beach
Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen
Known for Beaches, Excursions and Sea
This popular tourist town is a veritable paradise on earth with white-sand beaches lapped by warm waters stretching along the beautiful Caribbean coastline.

Reasons to visit

  • Xcaret Eco Theme Park
  • Quinta Alegría Shopping Mall
  • Maroma Beach
Cozumel featuring tropical scenes
Cozumel
Known for Beaches, Snorkelling and Sea
Hop over to the Caribbean island of Cozumel with its dolphins, impressive reef system, fun beach bars, Mexican culture and Mayan ruins.

Reasons to visit

  • Paradise Beach
  • Mr. Sancho's Beach Club
  • Playa Mia Grand Beach and Water Park
Tulum Mayan Ruins which includes building ruins and rugged coastline
Tulum
Known for Beaches, Relaxing and Sea
Explore Mayan ruins, dive in natural sinkholes and relax on picturesque beaches in this enchanting Riviera Maya town.

Reasons to visit

  • Tulum Beach
  • Tulum Mayan Ruins
  • Xel-Há Park
Norte Beach which includes a sandy beach, general coastal views and tropical scenes
Isla Mujeres
Known for Beaches, Islands and Sea
This small, peaceful island is packed with some of Mexico’s most pristine beaches and jungle, and is home to one of Cancun’s more traditional communities.

Reasons to visit

  • North Beach
  • Dolphin Discovery
  • Punta Sur
Puerto Morelos which includes a coastal town, tropical scenes and boating
Puerto Morelos
Known for Beaches, Relaxing and Romantic
Discover the natural wonders of the area, both underwater and on land, around this sleepy Caribbean village.

Reasons to visit

  • Ojo de Agua Beach
  • Crococun Zoo