The Yucatan Peninsula is hardly an undiscovered vacation destination. Its fine tropical weather, sparkling beaches and friendly atmosphere make it a desirable and accessible place for travelers of all kinds, which for solace-seekers and peace lovers might sound a little dubious. Don’t worry - while Cancun is an important and fun-for-some part of this region, there are other places with a little less traffic and arguably a bit more allure. Try Puerto Morelos on for size; it delivers the getaway goods without all that spring break nonsense.

Puerto Morelos is located on what is known as the Mayan Riviera. This stretch of Mexico contains the best of the best when it comes to beach vacation diversions, from water sports to scenic beauty, history to authenticity. You’ll get by speaking English just fine, but it’s not the kind of place that feels like coastal Texas or Southern California. As you amble along the quaint streets and absorb the vibes of a colorful and unique people, you’ll know you’ve briefly settled into a new world.

Start with the real reason for your visit; the beach. Daydreaming in your cubicle about the feel of warm sand beneath your toes and wishing the Gulf of Mexico was holding you in its embrace have prepared you for what is to come. Your musings haven’t been in vain, as all that you’ve imagined will be made real once you land in Puerto Morelos. Plop down on the white sand, snorkel or dive at Palancar Reef (the second longest barrier reef in the world), go deep-sea fishing, or just take a snooze in a shady spot once your pina colada has done the trick.

You may not even know what to expect beyond these basic activities, but believe that Puerto Morelos has many surprises up its sleeve. Horseback riding on the beach, exploring the caves at Quintana Roo, visiting the Jardin Botanica, or taking a short trip to the Mayan ruins of Tulum will all add exotic elements to this holiday. You may never have thought you’d be able to climb the stone steps of an ancient temple or glimpse a school of tropical fish up close and personal before partaking of a delicious meal of Mexican cuisine and perhaps a cerveza or two, but this is just one of many possible scenarios that will fill a day here.

Several restaurants and shops will provide you with necessities, so from souvenirs to snacks you’ll have what you need. The Cancun airport is just a few minutes away, and if a day trip sounds appealing it’s no sweat to make it to either Cancun or Playa del Carmen. In Cancun especially, there are more extensive shopping opportunities and a bustling nightlife, but considering that you’ve chosen to set yourself down in Puerto Morelos, you’ll be glad to return to a calmer atmosphere at the end of the day.

Speaking of the end of the day, don’t overlook the importance of where you choose to lay your head at night. Lodgings make all the difference when it comes to distinguishing between a mediocre and merely satisfying vacation and an incredible one. Research the options well in advance to ensure that you find a pleasing place and a good deal. Here’s a hint: check out all the vacation rentals in the area and uncover something that fits the needs of you and your traveling companions. From spacious villas with full kitchens to cute casitas right on the beach, having a home away from home rather than a bland hotel room could catapult this holiday to the next level.

So put all the ingredients together: a Puerto Morelos Vacation Rental, enough time to properly enjoy everything, and all your daydreams realized. The outcome can be nothing but spectacular, so get started today.

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