The Mexican Caribbean beckons travelers with its natural wonders but it's also an ideal getaway for pet parents. From the luxury of Cancun’s all-inclusive hotels to the hidden gems of the Grand Costa Maya, the region promises a fun and adventurous pet-friendly vacation. Here are top five spots in the region where visitors can have fun with their furry friends.
Cancun offers a range of lodging options. Aloft Cancun features a rooftop with sunset views, a 24-hour gym and gourmet pantry, besides rooms for guests and their pet. The hotel is centrally located in Punta Cancun. Guests can take a stroll in the Hotel Zone, visit a pet-friendly beach or visit the Marina Puerto Cancun mall. The downtown area offers several dining options on the Nader Avenue. For a more upscale experience, the all-inclusive Live Aqua Beach Resort Cancun is ideal for couples. The resort’s “Dog Friendly Hotels & Resorts” program offers canine travelers an exclusive bed, a drinking fountain and other amenities.
Travelers can explore the nearby island of Isla Mujeres with their pets. The tropical destination is just 20 minutes from the mainland by ferry. Though they can easily explore the downtown area by foot, golf carts are also available on rent to explore other attractions, such as the recently renovated Mayan-themed sculpture park in Punta Sur. Isla Mujeres is an easy day trip, but guests can also opt to stay overnight in one of the island’s hotels. Those looking to connect with fellow adventurers can stay in a pet-friendly hostel such as Selina Hotel Isla Mujeres. The property offers private rooms, a beach club and morning yoga sessions. Local and international restaurants are just a few minutes away.
Playa del Carmen is a great destination for longer stays. The easily walkable 5th Avenue, and its surrounding neighborhoods, is a great area to explore with pets. A quick stop for brunch in one of the avenue’s cafés or restaurants on 38th Street is a must. Hotels like Grand Hyatt Playa del Carmen, Thompson Main House or The Fives Downtown offer a chic stay close to all the action. Those looking to stay in a secluded enclave can head to Fairmont Mayakoba, where pets are welcomed as premium guests. With its surrounding mangroves, freshwater canals, high-end rooms and fine cuisine, the property is an environmentally conscious luxury getaway.
Those looking to spend some days exploring the jungle and cenotes can make a beeline for Tulum. A few cenotes in the destination accept pets, like the new cenote beach club Buuts Ha, where visitors can lounge in its private cabanas and play fetch with their dogs. Placed at the entrance of the hotel zone is Aloft Tulum. Onsite amenities include the rooftop, which offers views of the jungle and Tulum’s archeological site. Aloft Tulum is close to bars, restaurants, supermarkets and other attractions.
A hidden gem in the southern part of the state, Bacalar offers a taste of the slow life in its laid-back community. Travelers can visit the Lagoon of Seven Colors or explore downtown Bacalar on bike or by foot with their pets. Casa Bakal offers pet-friendly rooms, cabins and bungalows, besides an onsite dock overlooking the lagoon. Watersports include kayaking, paddle boarding and sailing. BALIK, the hotel’s Mexican restaurant, offers a menu by chef Xavier Pérez Stone.
Travelers with pets may book private transfers or rent a car to explore the destinations at their own pace.
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