For British travellers seeking an authentic escape from Mexico's crowded mega-resorts, a collection of eight coastal gems is emerging as the premier destination for 2026. These towns, once considered mere detours, now offer a soulful and distinctly prettier alternative for the savvy holidaymaker.
From Surf Havens to Car-Free Islands
The selection highlights destinations that have resisted overdevelopment, each boasting unique attractions. Puerto Escondido in Oaxaca, a transformed coffee-shipping village, bans high-rise chains and is home to the stunning Playa Carrizalillo, accessible via 167 stone steps. Its after-dark attraction is the bioluminescent Manialtepec Lagoon.
Further north in Nayarit, the colourful, carefree town of Sayulita offers gentle surf and over 320 days of sunshine annually. Its quieter neighbour, San Pancho (San Francisco), provides near-silent sunsets and community-focused attractions like the EntreAmigos centre.
On the Caribbean coast, Isla Mujeres presents a calm counterpoint to Cancun, just a 15-minute ferry away, with vibrant reefs and an underwater sculpture museum. The ultimate castaway experience is found on Isla Holbox, a 26-mile-long, car-free island where, between mid-May and mid-September, visitors can snorkel alongside whale sharks.
Pacific Gems and Enchanted Pueblos
On the Pacific, Huatulco in Oaxaca is noted for its cleanliness and safety, centred around nine protected bays and 36 beaches. Over on the Sea of Cortez, La Paz in Baja California Sur features the iconic Balandra beach, where visitor numbers are capped to protect its fragile, shallow waters.
Finally, Loreto, also in Baja California Sur, holds the official designation of a 'Pueblo Mágico' from the Mexican government, recognising its magical qualities. Its enchantments include the UNESCO-listed Loreto Bay National Marine Park, a sanctuary for dolphins, sea lions, and whales.
Planning Your Authentic Getaway
Each destination provides a stark contrast to impersonal resort complexes, focusing instead on local character, natural beauty, and sustainable tourism. From the surf breaks of Puerto Escondido to the magical streets of Loreto, these towns cater to travellers looking to immerse themselves in Mexico's true coastal culture. With a range of boutique accommodation options available, from colonial-style retreats to beachfront haciendas, planning a trip for 2026 offers the promise of a genuinely unforgettable escape.
