With over-tourism spoiling Mexico’s Caribbean coast, travelers are seeking quieter alternatives. Thanks to a new ‘superhighway’ connecting Oaxaca to the Pacific, secluded beaches and vibrant cities await without the high costs or congestion of the East Coast.
The Caribbean Coast Crisis
Tourism on Mexico’s east coast has skyrocketed, bringing a whirlwind of developments—and consequences. Cancun, the region’s crown jewel, ranked as the world’s second most visited city in 2021, welcoming over 21 million tourists, according to reports by The Telegraph. This influx has transformed tranquil spots like Tulum into bustling hubs, where taxi fares rival those of New York, and loud beach clubs cater more to influencers than travelers. Once a serene escape, Tulum feels like “diet Mykonos,” with an overwhelming military presence and limited affordability.
In Holbox, the picture isn’t much different. An influx of social media-savvy tourists has disrupted the island’s charm. TikTok influencers crowd the shores to capture the perfect shot, making it nearly impossible for visitors to enjoy the beaches without being asked to shift out of frame. Overdevelopment and inflated prices have caused many to reevaluate Mexico’s Caribbean, with travelers increasingly exploring other destinations to find authentic experiences.
Mexico City’s Hidden Gems
Many travelers choose to start their adventure in Mexico City, an energetic metropolis that feels worlds apart from the East Coast resorts. With The Telegraph describing the city as a “cosmopolitan wonder,” Mexico City offers a refreshing cultural richness and is remarkably affordable for food, art, and historic sites. A stay in the peaceful Roma neighborhood allows easy access to prime restaurants, bars, and cultural hotspots. At La Valise, a boutique townhouse, visitors can unwind in vintage French-style suites within walking distance of highlights like the speakeasy Casa Prunes, a cigar lounge, and traditional taco spots like Tortas Al Fuego.
Exploring further, travelers find themselves far from tourist throngs. Friday afternoons are surprisingly quiet in Taquería El Califa de León, the first taqueria to win a Michelin star. Here, locals gather to enjoy tacos undisturbed by influencers or crowds. Iconic landmarks require bookings, such as Frida Kahlo’s cobalt-blue Casa Azul in Coyoacán. Still, visitors find an authentic cultural experience that respects the artist’s legacy and the city’s creative pulse.
Oaxaca City – A Cultural Oasis
The journey from Mexico City to Oaxaca reveals a different side of Mexico, defined by vibrant colors and historic charm. Oaxaca offers a slower pace, only an hour away by flight, as The Telegraph described in its recent travel features. Cobblestone streets are lined with boutiques, street art, and markets, making it easy to fall in love with the city’s charm. The Pug Seal Hotel embodies the area’s artistry with murals and frescoes that draw inspiration from Oaxaca’s lively culture.
In Oaxaca, every corner holds surprises. Ancient ruins like Monte Albán sit beside bustling markets like Benito Juarez, where travelers can taste local cuisine without the inflated prices of the coast. A spontaneous dinner at a food stall might include chargrilled meats on fresh tortillas and a dessert of hand-ground chocolate from the nearby mill. The lack of pretentiousness adds to Oaxaca’s allure, making it a welcome reprieve from the crowded eastern resorts.
Pacific Bliss in Puerto Escondido
Finally, a trip down the Barranca Larga-Ventanilla highway brings travelers to the Pacific coast town of Puerto Escondido, now accessible in just two and a half hours. The Telegraph notes that the new “superhighway” has transformed what was once an eight-hour journey from Oaxaca into an easy drive, opening the doors to a relaxed coastal getaway. Puerto Escondido’s laid-back atmosphere contrasts sharply with the bustling beach clubs of Cancun or Tulum. Surfers, expats, and locals gather here to soak up the sunset, free of selfie sticks and sound systems.
Staying at Casona Sforza, a secluded boutique hotel with ocean views, visitors can truly unwind. Whether lounging on hammocks or sipping fresh coconut juice on Playa Zicatela, the town’s low-key vibe sets the tone for days of pure relaxation. A sunset stroll might end at Glou Glou, a rooftop wine bar known for its fresh seafood and seasonal produce. With a drink, guests savor an ocean view and watch surfers catch their last wave as the sun dips below the horizon.
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Mexico’s Caribbean coast may be overrun by tourism, but alternatives like Oaxaca and Puerto Escondido are emerging as perfect escapes. For travelers looking to experience Mexico’s natural beauty and cultural depth, these lesser-known spots offer an authentic slice of paradise—without the influencer crowds.
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