Costa Mujures Attractions: Your Guide

We recently wrote about some of the best cities to visit in Mexico. Now, we're back to tell you about one of the latest cities to undergo a major transformation: Costa Mujures.

Costa Mujures is the perfect getaway for travelers who love the attractions of Cancun but not the crowds. Costa Mujeres is only about 20 minutes north of Cancun's hotel zone, making it easy to hop on a bus, spend the day in Cancun, and come back for some peace and quiet.

Because Costa Mujures is one of the newer spots to get a vacation makeover, you may not know what to do with your time there. We're here to help.

Read on to learn about the best Costa Mujures attractions to check out on your next trip.

Dine in Puerto Juárez

The full-time residents of Cancun will be the first to tell you that one of the most underrated places to go in search of fresh seafood is Puerto Juárez. This small district is located right on the shore of the Caribbean, and restaurants source their seafood from a variety of local fishers' cooperatives.

If you're looking for a place to eat before catching the ferry to Isla Mujeres, consider Mandinga. Here, you can find moderately priced Mexican and Caribbean food with a beautiful view. Make a reservation for lunch or dinner and ask for an outdoor table when the weather permits.

There are plenty of small seaside restaurants at a variety of price points, including La Palapa Beach and Club Nautico. No matter where you go, be sure to order Tikin-Xic fish, a refreshing and citrus-packed local dish.

Tour El Meco

Tulum isn't the only place to go near Cancun if you want to explore ancient Mayan architecture. El Meco is one of the great Mayan ruins near Costa Mujeres, and it tends to draw a smaller crowd.

Though El Meco does not get the attention that Tulum gets, it is believed to be one of the most important sites in Mayan culture due to its proximity to Isla Mujeres. On Isla Mujeres, you'll find a shrine to Ixchel, the goddess of fertility, medicine, and childbirth.

If possible, book a tour of the ruins. A local tour guide can explain the history and significance of the ruins, which are otherwise difficult to decipher to the untrained eye.

Get Some Spa Time

When you think of luxury resorts in Mexico, you probably think of Cancun. However, there are several luxury resorts in Costa Mujeres, including adults-only resorts and family-friendly resorts.

These resorts are built on the edge of Costa Mujures' beautiful white-sand beaches, where guests can lounge without the hustle and bustle you'd find in Cancun. These resorts also provide world-class wellness centers where you can enjoy a massage, facial, and other amenities that will help you unwind.

Dive Down to the Underwater Museum

If you're a trained scuba diver, you won't want to miss the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to view the Museo Subacuático de Arte (aka the MUSA, translated to the Underwater Museum). The Manchon exhibit is visible only to divers because its 473 sculptures are situated 8 to 10 meters below the ocean's surface.

This exhibit is not only mesmerizing and other-worldly, but it has also helped to preserve nearby coral reefs, meaning you may get a glimpse of some stunning wildlife, as well.

If you're not a diver, don't sweat it. The Punta Nizuc exhibit features another 30 sculptures that you can see via scuba diving or a trip on a glass-bottom boat.

Play a Round at the Playa Mujeres Golf Course

Even if you're not an avid golfer, it's worth your while to request your own tee time at the Playa Mujeres Golf Course. Not only is it a top destination in Costa Mujeres, but it's also considered one of the best (if not the best) golf courses in all of Mexico.

Keep in mind that this course isn't the best spot for beginners unless you're willing to enjoy the fun and the views without putting too much weight on your performance. Because this golf course is so close to the water, you'll get a strong cross-breeze that will knock your ball off course unless you've got an expert swing.

Relax on the Costa Mujeres Beaches

Your coastal Mexico vacation isn't complete without some serious beach time. If you're staying in one of the city's many resorts, you can enjoy the private beach there or travel to some of the area's best public beaches.

Playa Norte is a public beach on Isla Mujeres that's worth the ferry ride. If you don't want to lug your own chairs and umbrellas around, consider booking some time at the Mayan Beach Club Restaurant and Tequileria. They've got plenty of lounge chairs along with a full menu to keep you satiated.

Say Hello to Whale Sharks

Here's another option for any traveler who can't get enough of the water. The waters off of Costa Mujeres are home to a large whale shark population, and don't let the name fool you. While they are true sharks, they're gentle filter feeders that don't pose a threat to humans.

You'll have the best luck swimming with whale sharks if you are a trained scuba diver. However, snorkelers also have a chance to get a glimpse of these majestic creatures.

Whale sharks are easiest to spot in the summer months. There are plenty of whale shark tours to choose from, and your hotel concierge can point you in the right direction (possibly at a discounted rate).

Need Transportation in Costa Mujeres?

If you're looking for a quieter alternative to Cancun, it's time to check out Costa Mujeres. In addition to the city's own sights and attractions, you can take day trips from Costa Mujeres to Isla Mujeres, Cancun, and even Tulum.

Do you need private transportation flying in or out of Cancun? We're here to help, whether you're staying in Cancun or in a surrounding city like Costa Mujeres. Contact us and let us know how we can make your trip easier.