10 Underrated Mexican Beach Towns: Best Lowkey Coastal Gems

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I absolutely love Mexico. In fact, it is tied (with Japan) as my favorite country in the world. Eventually it is my dream to visit all of the Mexican states and take in their unique cultures and traits. But I haven’t been to all of them yet, and as someone drawn to the cities, I definitely haven’t visited too many of the wonderful Mexican beach towns dotted along the country’s 9,300km+ coastline.

I’ve visited a few of the more popular spots, like Cancún, Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Playa del Carmen…and while I enjoyed ALL of them and they each have their distinctive traits that have earned them that popularity…there are also SO MANY MORE Mexican beach towns worth visiting!

So with that in mind, I’ve teamed up with fellow blogger Eddie from The Vanabond Tales, a travel blog focused on slow travel and budget-friendly travel adventures. While he’s usually sailing the Mediterranean with his wife, he carved out some time to recommend his favorite lowkey Mexican beach towns to visit if you’re craving something different on your next Mexico trip.

The Criteria for Underrated Mexican Beach Towns

Selecting the top ten underrated Mexican beach towns involved several factors. The heaviest criteria focus was on natural beauty, with pristine beaches, clear waters, and scenic landscapes. A town’s cultural richness was also a factor. While all Mexican beach towns have their own unique histories and traditions, we wanted to highlight Mexican beach towns where travelers could more easily be steeped in understanding of the region’s heritage from an outside perspective.

The level of tourist development was crucial — our aim was to showcase Mexican beach towns that are under the radar, with fewer crowds and a more down-to-Earth atmosphere. We sought destinations where visitors can more easily connect with the local community and environment in a meaningful way, rather than just visit the surface level of a destination via commercial tourist spots.

Don’t get me wrong, “tourist spots” can still be fun and rewarding if that is the intention of your trip – nothing wrong with that – but if you’re looking up underrated Mexican beach towns, chances are you want something a little different.

Lastly, the uniqueness of the experience each Mexican beach town offers was a deciding factor. Whether they have a special natural phenomenon, an archaeological site, a local festival, or a unique culinary tradition, each Mexican beach town in this list provides something that can’t be found elsewhere, offering a truly memorable experience for travelers.

Pacific Side: Mexican Beach Towns

We are going to loosely break this list up by coast. In general, the Mexican beach towns facing the Pacific Ocean are more accessibly to those on the west side of the American continent. The water in the Pacific is also usually colder, so just a heads up that you’re not in the Caribbean.

La Manzanilla, Jalisco

Location and Access: La Manzanilla is a quaint beach town situated on the Costa Alegre of Jalisco, renowned for its laid-back atmosphere and natural beauty. This hidden gem is relatively easy to reach, with a scenic coastal drive from Manzanillo (1.5hr) or Puerto Vallarta (3.5hrs) leading to its serene shores.

Key Attractions and Activities: La Manzanilla is famous for its long, curved beach with gentle waves, ideal for swimming and relaxing under the sun. The town is part of a large mangrove ecosystem, which can be explored through guided boat tours, offering a chance to see crocodiles, tropical birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Local Culture and Cuisine: The town exudes a peaceful, artistic vibe, with local galleries showcasing works by regional artists. The culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional Mexican eateries, seafood restaurants, and international cafes, reflecting the town’s diverse community.

Accommodation: La Manzanilla offers a variety of accommodation options, from cozy beachfront guesthouses to private vacation homes, catering to different budgets and preferences. Many places are run by locals or expatriates who have fallen in love with the town, adding a personal touch to the hospitality experience. Aramar Palafitos is one of the best beachfront lodgings to book!

Lo de Marcos, Nayarit

Location and Access: Lo de Marcos is a serene beach town nestled on the Pacific coast of Nayarit, Mexico. It’s less known than its “bustling” neighbor, Sayulita, but offers an equally beautiful setting with a more tranquil atmosphere. Accessible by public or private transport from Puerto Vallarta (1hr), it remains a hidden gem for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Key Attractions and Activities: The town’s main allure is its long, sweeping beach fringed with lush palm trees and golden sand. The waters here are calm and clear, making it perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Nature lovers will enjoy the nearby hiking trails, offering picturesque views and the chance to spot local wildlife.

Local Culture and Cuisine: Lo de Marcos stands out for its relaxed, small-town vibe and friendly community. The local market offers a variety of fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional Mexican foods. Dining in Lo de Marcos is a delight, with several family-owned restaurants serving delicious seafood dishes, authentic Mexican cuisine, and international fare. While Lo de Marcos may not have the nightlife of nearby Sayulita or Puerto Vallarta, a handful of bars offer an opportunity to unwind after a day on the beach.

Accommodation: The town provides a range of lodging options, from cozy beachfront bungalows to comfortable vacation rentals, all offering a quiet escape from the more tourist-heavy locations. Staying in Lo de Marcos, especially at One&Only Mandarina, gives visitors a taste of local life, with the sound of the waves providing a natural soundtrack to a restful stay.

Agua Blanca, Oaxaca

Location and Access: Agua Blanca is a secluded paradise along the Pacific coast of Oaxaca, distinguished by its pristine natural settings and quiet ambiance. This hidden gem is reachable via a scenic drive and somewhat adventurous drive from the town of Puerto Escondido (40min), offering a journey through lush landscapes and rural villages.

Key Attractions and Activities: The beach at Agua Blanca is a breathtaking stretch of white sand bordered by dramatic cliffs and the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific. It’s an ideal spot for those seeking solitude and connection with nature. The area is known for its therapeutic mud baths, said to have healing properties. Visitors can enjoy long, peaceful walks on the beach, sunbathing, and swimming in the tranquil waters.

Local Culture and Cuisine: Agua Blanca maintains a strong sense of community and traditional lifestyle. The local cuisine is a highlight, with fresh seafood and Oaxacan specialties available in small, family-run eateries. The town’s relaxed pace allows visitors to unwind and savor the slower rhythm of life, reflecting the region’s cultural heritage.

Accommodation: Accommodations in Agua Blanca are modest and eco-friendly, designed to blend in with the natural surroundings. Options range from rustic cabanas to eco-lodges, emphasizing sustainability and simplicity. These lodgings, like Casa Palma y Coco, provide a peaceful retreat, perfect for those looking to disconnect from the modern world and immerse themselves in the natural beauty and tranquility of the Oaxacan coast.

San Agustinillo, Oaxaca

Location and Access: Nestled between Zipolite and Mazunte on the Oaxacan coast, San Agustinillo is a small, serene beach village known for its stunning natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere. This hidden gem is easily accessible by road from Puerto Escondido (1h15m) or Huatulco (1h20m), offering travelers a peaceful retreat from the more crowded neighboring towns.

Key Attractions and Activities: San Agustinillo boasts a beautiful crescent-shaped beach with golden sand and clear blue waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The village is small enough to explore on foot, offering a quiet escape with several spots for snorkeling and paddleboarding. The surrounding hills provide excellent hiking opportunities with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.

Local Culture and Cuisine: The village maintains a relaxed, friendly vibe, with a strong sense of community among locals and visitors alike. Dining in San Agustinillo is a delight, featuring beachfront restaurants that serve freshly caught seafood, traditional Oaxacan dishes, and international cuisine. The local market also offers a variety of organic products and handmade crafts.

Accommodation: Accommodation options in San Agustinillo cater to a range of preferences, from rustic beach huts to charming boutique hotels. Many of these are family-run, providing a personalized and authentic experience with stunning ocean views and easy access to the beach. A few outstanding boutique hotels to check out are Cabañas Punta Placer (beachfront), Aamori Boutique Hotel (adults only), Monte Uzulu Boutique Hotel (LGBTQ+ inclusive).

Maruata, Michoacán

Location and Access: Maruata is a small coastal community in the state of Michoacán, known for its unique rock formations and coves. This secluded beach town is located along the rugged coastline, away from major tourist paths, offering a serene and natural setting. It’s accessible by road from the city of Morelia (7hrs) or the port town of Lázaro Cárdenas (3hrs).

Key Attractions and Activities: Maruata’s beaches are famous for their golden sand and clear, turquoise waters, with distinct rock formations creating a dramatic landscape. The area is a haven for sea turtles, and visitors can often witness turtle hatching events. The town is also popular for its excellent surfing conditions, and the nearby coves provide perfect spots for snorkeling and exploring the marine life.

Local Culture and Cuisine: The indigenous community in Maruata plays a significant role in preserving the area’s natural and cultural heritage. Visitors can experience authentic Michoacán culture through local festivals, crafts, and cuisine, particularly the region’s seafood specialties and traditional dishes. It is also one of the Mexican beach towns that is involved with sea turtle releases.

Accommodation: Maruata offers a range of accommodation options, from rustic beachfront cabins to eco-friendly lodges. These places are integrated into the natural environment, providing a tranquil and immersive experience for those looking to connect with nature and local traditions. It’s also an excellent location to try camping in Mexico!

Barra de Potosí, Guerrero

Location and Access: Barra de Potosí is a tranquil beach village located near the resort town of Zihuatanejo in Guerrero. It’s a hidden gem offering a rustic and peaceful alternative to the nearby tourist-heavy areas. The village is accessible by a short drive from Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo International Airport (15min), making it a convenient yet secluded getaway.

Key Attractions and Activities: Barra de Potosí is known for its long, sandy beach and a large, serene lagoon that attracts a diverse range of bird species. The beach is perfect for leisurely walks, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The lagoon offers excellent opportunities for bird-watching and experiencing the local ecosystem’s richness. Fishing and boat tours to nearby coves and snorkeling spots are also popular activities.

Local Culture and Cuisine: The village has a strong sense of community, with a slow-paced lifestyle that revolves around the sea. Local cuisine is a highlight, with beachfront restaurants serving up fresh seafood, traditional Mexican dishes, and the catch of the day, often prepared by the fishermen’s families.

Accommodation: Accommodations in Barra de Potosí range from simple beachfront cabins and guesthouses to more upscale villas like the Las Palmas Luxury Villas, all offering a relaxed and intimate setting. Many places are operated by local families, providing an authentic experience of small Mexican beach town life and warm Mexican hospitality.

Cabo Pulmo, Baja California Sur

Location and Access: Cabo Pulmo is a small village located on the east coast of Baja California Sur, known for its national marine park, which is one of the oldest coral reefs on the west coast of North America. This secluded spot is accessible via a road trip from San José del Cabo or Cabo San Lucas (2hrs), offering a journey through the stunning desert landscapes of the Baja Peninsula.

Key Attractions and Activities: The main attraction of Cabo Pulmo is the Cabo Pulmo National Park, a protected area famous for its vibrant coral reef and abundant marine life, including rays, sharks, and a variety of tropical fish. It’s a world-renowned destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. The park’s conservation efforts have led to a significant recovery of marine life, making it a success story in environmental protection.

Local Culture and Cuisine: Cabo Pulmo is a tight-knit community with a strong commitment to ecological sustainability. The village has a laid-back atmosphere, with a few local restaurants offering fresh seafood and Mexican dishes. The community’s connection to the sea is evident in their daily lives and practices, with a focus on preserving their natural environment.

Accommodation: Accommodations in Cabo Pulmo are geared towards eco-tourism, with a range of options from rustic beach huts to eco-lodges like Bungalow Cirujano that practice sustainable tourism principles. These accommodations provide a peaceful retreat and offer guests the opportunity to experience the area’s natural beauty while supporting conservation efforts.

Gulf Side: Mexican Beach Towns

And then of course we have the Mexican beach towns located on the gulf/Caribbean side of Mexico. The water is warmer, the air is…also warmer (hello humidity!), but there’s still that amazing Mexican hospitality that you find everywhere in the country.

Xcalak, Quintana Roo

Location and Access: Xcalak is one of the most remote beach towns in Quintana Roo, located at the southern tip of the Yucatán Peninsula, near the Belize border. It’s a hidden sanctuary away from the bustling tourist circuits, offering pristine natural environments. Access is via a lengthy drive from Tulum (4hrs), traversing through less frequented roads that lead to this secluded paradise.

Key Attractions and Activities: Xcalak is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world. It’s a dream destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, with abundant marine life and spectacular underwater landscapes. It is one of the best small Mexican beach towns is also a perfect base for fly fishing, bird watching, and exploring the nearby mangroves and secluded beaches.

Local Culture and Cuisine: The small community in Xcalak is deeply connected to the natural environment, with a focus on conservation and sustainable living. Visitors can enjoy fresh catch-of-the-day meals and traditional Mayan and Mexican dishes in the few but welcoming local restaurants and eateries.

Accommodation: Lodging in Xcalak primarily consists of small, eco-friendly resorts, dive lodges, and guesthouses. Establishments like Sol y Arena Xcalak offer a quiet, intimate experience, often with direct access to the beach and personal service that connects guests with the local way of life and natural surroundings.

Punta Allen, Quintana Roo

Location and Access: Punta Allen is a remote fishing village located at the end of the Boca Paila peninsula in Quintana Roo, within the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. This secluded destination is accessible by a rugged road from Tulum (2hrs), offering an adventurous journey through one of Mexico’s largest protected areas.

Key Attractions and Activities: As part of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, Punta Allen is surrounded by rich biodiversity, including mangroves, tropical forests, and a vast marine ecosystem. It’s an ideal spot for eco-tourism activities like bird watching, fly fishing, and guided tours to observe local wildlife, including dolphins, sea turtles, and numerous bird species. The pristine beaches offer tranquil spots for relaxation and swimming in clear, turquoise waters.

Local Culture and Cuisine: The community in Punta Allen is deeply connected to its natural surroundings, with a way of life that revolves around fishing and sustainable tourism. It is the beating heart of small Mexican beach towns. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, particularly lobster, which is a local specialty, and other regional dishes in small, family-owned restaurants.

Accommodation: The accommodation in Punta Allen is modest and eco-friendly, reflecting the village’s commitment to environmental conservation. Options range from simple guesthouses to more comfortable eco-lodges like Hotel Cielo y Selva, providing a quiet and authentic experience for visitors looking to escape the more commercial tourist areas.

Celestún, Yucatán

Location and Access: Celestún is a small fishing village located in the Yucatán Peninsula, one of the small Mexican beach towns in the area known for its vast flamingo colonies and pristine natural reserves. The town is accessible by road from Mérida (1h20m), offering a scenic drive through the Yucatecan countryside.

Key Attractions and Activities: The Celestún Biosphere Reserve is the main draw, home to a large population of pink flamingos and other bird species, best explored through guided boat tours. The beaches in Celestún are wide, with fine white sand and calm waters, ideal for relaxation and swimming. The Ría Celestún estuary provides opportunities for kayaking and wildlife watching, offering a serene and untouched natural environment.

Local Culture and Cuisine: Celestún’s laid-back lifestyle is reflective of its fishing heritage, with the daily catch featuring prominently in local cuisine. Visitors can savor fresh seafood dishes like ceviche, grilled fish, and shrimp tacos in beachside restaurants and local eateries. The town’s slow pace of life and friendly locals provide a genuine experience of Yucatecan culture and hospitality.

Accommodation: Accommodation in Celestún is modest and unpretentious, ranging from small hotels and guesthouses to beachfront bungalows and eco-lodges. These establishments often emphasize sustainability and offer a quiet, family-friendly environment, like Tótem Beach Club.

Cultural Etiquette and Sustainability

Traveling to these lesser-known Mexican beach towns offers a unique opportunity to engage with local cultures and ecosystems in a respectful and sustainable manner. Here are some guidelines to consider:

Respecting Local Customs: Understanding and honoring the local customs and traditions is crucial in small Mexican beach towns. Simple gestures like greeting in Spanish, dressing modestly in non-beach areas, and asking for permission before taking photos of people or private property can make a significant difference in how you are perceived as a visitor.

Environmental Impact: These untouched areas often have delicate ecosystems that can be easily disrupted by irresponsible tourism. Travelers in small Mexican beach towns should minimize their environmental impact by avoiding single-use plastics, staying on designated trails, and not disturbing wildlife. Choosing eco-friendly accommodations and tour operators that prioritize sustainability can also contribute to the conservation of these beautiful destinations.

Supporting Local Economies: Purchasing local products, eating in local restaurants, and hiring local guides not only enrich the travel experience but also contribute to the economic well-being of the community. It’s important to ensure that tourism benefits are shared with the local population, helping to preserve their way of life and natural surroundings.

Sustainable Activities: Engage in activities that have a low impact on the environment and community of small Mexican beach towns. This includes participating in guided tours that respect wildlife and natural habitats, and avoiding activities that exploit animals or harm natural resources.

Conclusion: Mexican Beach Towns

Short and sweet, but hopefully this post has shown you a few more Mexican beach towns to visit to give you more options for your next coastal getaway. Sure, you can debate Cabo or Cancun, but who doesn’t love variety? Do you have any favorite Mexican beach towns that you like to visit? Let me know in the comments below!

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