Last updated: September 2025

Thinking about buying property in the Mexican Caribbean, but wondering where along the sun-drenched stretch of coastline is your perfect fit?

From vibrant coastal cities to enigmatic jungle living to laid-back island life, this world-renowned region is teeming with fabulous destinations to call home – whether primary or secondary. 

Ahead, we have your quick-guide to 10 such diverse destinations, Cancun to Tulum and beyond.

Ready to live away? Contact us – your trusted husband & wife licensed international real estate team in Mexico – for seasoned, on-the-ground insight and expert guidance in making your vacation home, full time residence or investment property in paradise a reality.

Because life is better under the palm.

Related: Can Americans, Canadians & Other Foreigners Really Own Property in Mexico – Even on the Beach?

Where to Buy Property in the Mexican Caribbean: Cancun

A globally recognized destination, Cancun offers the perfect fusion of cosmopolitan living and Caribbean leisure. Known for its international airport, luxury resorts, and vibrant nightlife, Cancun appeals to international property owners seeking convenience, a lively lifestyle and easy access to postcard-perfect beaches in addition to robust services.

From oceanfront penthouses and modern gated communities to a rising crop of luxury branded residences, Cancun’s real estate market is ideal for second-home seekers, full-time residents and investors alike who value both accessibility and world-class amenities.

Where to Buy Property in the Mexican Caribbean: Isla Holbox

If Tulum feels too buzzy and Playa too built-up, Holbox is where you’ll find the barefoot, bohemian charm that first drew travelers to the Mexican Caribbean. This car-free island off the northeast Yucatán coast is a sanctuary of soft, sandy streets, colorful murals, flamingos wading in turquoise shallows, and an unhurried rhythm that invites you to truly slow down. And though a wave of chic boutique hotels, stylish beach bars, and artisanal dining are popping up, Holbox gracefully retains its distinct, off-grid authenticity.

Properties here lean small-scale and eco-conscious: think airy beachfront villas, boutique hotels blending into the palms, and low-density condo projects that prioritize sustainability. Tight environmental protections and limited buildable land keep inventory naturally controlled and exclusive, equating to robust long-term property values. Best for buyers seeking privacy, nature, and a touch of castaway luxury – whether as a personal retreat or a strategic investment appealing to in-the-know travelers seeking something more soulful than the Riviera Maya’s main hubs.

Where to Buy Property in the Mexican Caribbean: Isla Mujeres

Just a breezy ferry ride from Cancun, Isla Mujeres feels like a world away. This tranquil island is a sanctuary for those craving privacy, stunning sea views, and a slower pace. Its charming, walkable downtown and intimate island community attract international buyers looking for boutique-style living, often favoring elegant villas or eco-conscious homes perched above shimmering turquoise waters. The real estate market on Isla Mujeres is perfect for retirees, creatives, or anyone drawn to barefoot luxury and authentic island life.

Where to Buy Property in the Mexican Caribbean: Puerto Morelos

Puerto Morelos offers an unspoiled, small-town charm that’s increasingly rare in the Riviera Maya. Nestled between Cancun and Playa del Carmen, this laid-back fishing village has retained its local soul while quietly evolving into an in-the-know hub for international retirees, ocean view-vacation home seekers and a growing wave of wellness facilitators.

Puerto Morelos is nicknamed “La Joya Del Caribe” (Jewel of the Caribbean), though the idyllic seaside town is better known to locals as “the magic in the middle.” It’s easy to see why, between beautiful beaches, a national marine park, lush mangroves, and a strong sense of community. The real estate market in Puerto Morelos is ideal for those who want a peaceful, steps-from-the-beach lifestyle while enjoying easy access to the modern conveniences of nearby Cancun (just 20 minutes away by car).

Where to Buy Property in the Mexican Caribbean: Playa Del Carmen

Stylish yet unpretentious, Playa del Carmen is a vibrant coastal city that draws digital nomads, young professionals, and savvy investors alike. Its mix of stylish condos, beach clubs, global cuisine and world-class services offers a distinct urban-meets-tropical lifestyle. With walkable neighborhoods, a buzzing downtown, easy beach access and a thriving expat scene, the real estate market in Playa Del Carmen is a favorite for international property owners who want to be in the heart of it all – literally.

Not only steps from the sea, living in Playa means enjoying unbeatable connectivity to the rest of the Mexican Caribbean and greater Yucatán Peninsula. Think: 45 minutes south of Cancun Airport, a quick ferry ride away to the offshore island of Cozumel, 1 hour north of Tulum and 90 minutes inland to the pueblo mágico of Valladolid.

Related: How to Finance Your Dream Property in Mexico as a Foreign Buyer: 7 Lending Options to Consider

Where to Buy Property in the Mexican Caribbean: Cozumel

An island known for world-renowned diving and rich cultural heritage, Cozumel combines natural beauty with a slower, more relaxed pace. While tourism thrives, residential pockets remain peaceful and community-oriented. International property owners on Cozumel are often scuba enthusiasts, retirees, families and increasingly, young professionals in search of oceanfront serenity and a tight-knit, decidedly laid-back vibe. With limited land and growing demand, Cozumel’s real estate market offers strong long-term value for those seeking a serene escape immersed in nature and ocean-backed tradition.

Where to Buy Property in the Mexican Caribbean: Puerto Aventuras

Halfway between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, Puerto Aventuras is a secure, master-planned gated community built around a full-service marina, golf course and powder-soft beach. Residents enjoy walkable streets lined with cafés, boutiques and waterfront dining, plus easy access to sailing, snorkeling and sport fishing right from their doorstep. With its international school, 24/7 security and proximity to medical services, it’s as practical for year-round living as it is alluring for a vacation home.

For investors, Puerto Aventuras offers steady appreciation and strong rental demand, particularly for marina-view condos and oceanfront villas. Limited inventory within the gates helps preserve value, while the community’s quieter, low-density atmosphere appeals to buyers seeking a more refined, relaxed alternative to busier Riviera Maya hubs – without sacrificing amenities or connectivity.

Where to Buy Property in the Mexican Caribbean: Akumal

Meaning “Place of the Turtles” in Mayan, Akumal is a secluded beachfront enclave beloved for its calm bays and ecological focus. Luxury villas and boutique residences are tucked among palm-fringed coves, offering an exclusive retreat for nature lovers and second-home buyers. Whether snorkeling with sea turtles or savoring quiet evenings under the stars, Akumal’s real estate market is perfect for those seeking an off-the-radar hideaway with eco-luxury appeal.

Plus, easy proximity to the nearby, exclusive marina community of Puerto Aventuras (just 15 minutes north by car) as well as to the modern conveniences and services of Playa Del Carmen (35 minutes north by car).

Where to Buy Property in the Mexican Caribbean: Tulum

Tulum is synonymous with barefoot luxury and bohemian sophistication. Known for its design-forward architecture, holistic lifestyle, and enigmatic jungle-meets-beach setting, the internationally-renowned beach destination attracts creatives, entrepreneurs, visionaries and wellness-minded property owners from across the globe. From artfully designed condos to luxury villas with private cenotes, the real estate market here caters to those seeking a personal sanctuary rooted in beauty, intention, and natural connection.

Between the recent opening of Tulum International Airport and the region’s celebrated Maya Train linking the Mexican Caribbean and greater Yucatán Peninsula, Tulum is becoming more accessible than ever – without losing its signature mystique.

Where to Buy Property in the Mexican Caribbean: Bacalar

Often called the “Maldives of Mexico,” Bacalar is an emerging gem set on a stunning freshwater lagoon of seven shimmering shades of blue 2 1/2 hours south of Tulum by car. Popular amidst in-the-know circles of adventurous yet luxury-minded international travelers, you won’t find mass tourism here. Rather, a tranquil, jungle-immersed destination attracting early adopters seeking serenity, sustainability, and unique natural beauty. Ideal for visionary buyers, wellness facilitators, and those drawn to untouched landscapes, Bacalar’s real estate market offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of paradise before the world catches on.