If you’re looking to truly disconnect and explore one of the best places in Mexico’s Yucatán peninsula, El Cuyo might be the sun-soaked hidden-gem you’re looking for. It’s not fancy, and that’s precisely what makes this village special.
Tucked away on the northern coast between Cancun and Mérida, this sleepy fishing village remains blissfully untouched by mass tourism. You won’t find clubs, big resorts, or fancy parties here, unlike some of the more well-known places like Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya. Instead, you’ll discover a handful of great restaurants, miles of untouched, empty beaches with tall palm trees, and an authentically serene atmosphere with just a few people in on the secret.
Thanks to its unique geographical position, you can watch the sun rise and set spectacularly from the same beach. The natural beauty and simplicity make El Cuyo one of the best places for a digital detox, a breath of fresh sea air, and the true indulgence of doing absolutely nothing.
Friendly advice: Leave your nice shoes at home—you won’t need them here. The streets of this village are all sand.
How to get to El Cuyo and where in Mexico is it located?
El Cuyo is located in the state of Yucatán, near the border with Quintana Roo. But you don’t just stumble upon El Cuyo. Getting there requires effort and intention, and that’s exactly why this village has remained largely under the radar.
Unlike its better-known neighbor Isla Holbox, El Cuyo is connected to the mainland by a causeway, making it technically easier to reach by road. However, there are no direct public buses to El Cuyo from any of the surrounding airports so the best way to get there is by car. The drive takes about 2.5 hours from Cancun and 3.5 hours from Tulum. You can rent a car and drive yourself or arrange for a private driver to get you there. Ask your hotel for a recommendation.
Our favourite restaurants in El Cuyo
For such a small town, El Cuyo offers a surprising variety of great eateries, from laid-back beach shacks and trendy cafés to traditional restaurants and more refined options.
- La Playita – Great for lunch, this beachside shack serves up the fresh catch of the day, in ceviche, fried whole (the region’s specialty), or in tacos. Pair your meal with a Michelada or one of their refreshing chilled cocktails.
- Naia Café – Set in a beautiful outdoor dining room surrounded by lush greenery, Naia Café offers a vibrant menu that includes breakfast items, fruit bowls, sandwiches and warm dishes, with vegan and gluten free options available.
- Zapote Bar Asador – Surrounded by tall palms and greenery, Zapote is known for its open-flame cooking. From fall-off-the-bone ribs and juicy seafood to standout vegetable-forward dishes, everything here is fantastic, including the mezcal and passion fruit cocktail. Reservations are recommended.
- Casa Mangle – This charming outdoor eatery blends home-style warmth with culinary finesse. The chef draws on family recipes to create refined takes on Mexican classics. Don’t miss the cochinita pibil, chile relleno (stuffed pepper), or crispy flautas.
- Navios Restaurante – A no-frills cafeteria-style spot serving breakfast and lunch, Navios specializes in Mexican comfort food and local fish and seafood dishes. The ceviche and octopus tacos are especially good here.
- La Negrita Restaurante – Similar to Navios, this casual Mexican restaurant has an extensive menu of specialties, from seafood and fish to meat and vegetarian options. The whole fried fish with a choice of sauce is a local favourite.
- Mowgli – In a jungle-like setting close to El Cuyo’s main street, Mowgli is one of the best places for local and seasonal ingredients. The “wild and refined cuisine” of this hidden gem is highly popular so reservations are recommended.
- Kukulcan Café y Centro Cultural – Ideal for a pick-me-up, Kukulcan Café is known for its excellent coffee. The space doubles as a gallery showcasing local artists and artisans.
- Laguna Café – Located on the ground floor of the Mero Mero Hotel, Laguna is a favourite breakfast and lunch spot. Open from early morning to mid-afternoon, the menu includes chilaquiles, eggs, a loaded avocado toast and homemade pastries.
What activities can you do in El Cuyo, Yucatan?
If lounging on El Cuyo’s pristine beaches or counting the waves and watching the sunset has you craving more excitement, there are several adventures and activities to enjoy in the region.
Get active – Thanks to the island’s steady winds (especially from October to March), El Cuyo is a popular destination among fans of kite surfing. You can learn how to kite surf or enjoy some of the other water sports available, such as kayaking in the lagoon or paddleboarding.
Spot the flamingos – Take a boat tour of the quiet lagoon that lies between El Cuyo and the mainland to see the majestic pink flamingos that congregate here to feed, breed, and nest.
Explore Río Lagartos – Located about 1.5 hours west of El Cuyo, the UNESCO-listed Río Lagartos Biosphere Nature Reserve is a prime spot for birdwatching, hiking, and observing wildlife. The reserve is home to a wide variety of species of birds, and you might even spot alligators or jaguars. Don’t miss a visit to the nearby pink salt flats of Las Coloradas.
Visit Isla Holbox – The neighboring island of Isla Holbox is more popular with travelers and offers a wider range of services. You can reach it by car and ferry, which requires heading towards Cancun from El Cuyo. While cars are not allowed on the island, it’s easy to get around on foot or by bike.
Discover Ek Balam – A lot more quiet and less crowded than Chichén Itzá, the ancient Maya ruins of Ek Balam are perfect for visitors who are interested in learning about the region’s fascinating history and culture.
Swim in a cenote – The Yucatán peninsula is renowned for its cenotes, these stunning, naturally-formed sinkholes revealing clear, underground water. They are ideal spots for swimming and photography, especially when rays of sunlight penetrate the depth of the holes to illuminate the turquoise water beneath. Several cenotes can be found in the area, including noteworthy Cenote Kikil about an hour and a half drive from El Cuyo.
Where to stay in El Cuyo
El Cuyo may be small and off the beaten path, but its accommodation scene offers stylish, welcoming options that blend comfort with coastal charm.
Mero Mero Hotel
Located right on the town square, Mero Mero is a charming, 10-room hotel with an eclectic decor inspired by the Yucatán esthetic. Guests can enjoy a small rooftop bar with an outdoor communal kitchen. With the beach steps away, this is a great place to stay.
Cucu Hotel & Kite El Cuyo
Set slightly outside the town center (about a 20-minute walk), Cucu Hotel offers a serene beachfront retreat with six well-appointed rooms surrounding a small pool area. The property also counts a restaurant, a beach club, and its own kite school.
La Casa Cielo
Beachfront La Casa Cielo is close to the town center and features a small pool, hot tub, a restaurant, and lovely rooms. With its calm, easygoing atmosphere and sea views, La Casa Cielo is perfect for a low-key beach holiday.
Nikau Hotel
Reminiscent of Tulum’s boutique style hotels, Nikau Hotel features boho-chic and tropical architecture and a laid-back vibe. With a stylish pool area, privileged beach access, and a cozy lounge bar, this adults-only retreat is one of El Cuyo’s most sought-after stays.
