1/5 Tulum Is Just The Beginning

[Ciro Antonio Martínez Morales]

3 EMERGING MEXICAN MARKETS WITH MASSIVE ROI IN 2025

Most investors have heard of Tulum, Cancún, or Playa del Carmen. And yes these are strong markets.
But if you think you’re late… you’re not. You just need the right guidance.

Tulum is still performing well, especially in luxury villas and boutique hotels, but there’s also a new wave of destinations that are booming—quietly, but powerfully.

Here are 3 emerging markets in Mexico that are gaining serious momentum in 2025 and might just be your best chance to get in early:

📍1. BACALAR, QUINTANA ROO

Often called the “new Tulum,” Bacalar has carved out its own identity: a lagoon with seven shades of blue, wellness-focused tourism, and an eco-luxury lifestyle.

• +32% property appreciation in 2024

• 27% increase in luxury vacation rental demand (Airbnb & Booking.com)

• Strong appeal to European and Canadian travelers seeking nature, tranquility, and boutique stays.

Best for: Eco-villas, glamping, boutique hotel projects, and STRs with a wellness angle.

📍2. MAHAHUAL, COSTA MAYA

This low-key beach town is waking up—thanks to its cruise ship traffic, untouched beaches, and prices up to 50% lower than Tulum.

• STRs perform especially well during cruise season and holiday peaks.

• Local infrastructure is being upgraded with new roads, utilities, and public services.

Best for: Land banking, beachfront villas, or Airbnb properties close to cruise ports and diving spots.

📍3. VALLADOLID, YUCATÁN

Culturally rich and strategically located between Cancún and Mérida, Valladolid is directly connected via the Maya Train—and tourists are starting to notice.

• Named 2024’s “Top Emerging Town” by Lonely Planet

• 18% increase in tourist visits in the last year

• Historic downtown renovations + transportation upgrades = major upside

Best for: Restored colonial properties, boutique hotels, and short-term rentals targeting cultural travelers.

So, why explore beyond Tulum?

Let’s be clear: Tulum still works, especially in premium niches like luxury villas and boutique developments. But the barrier to entry is rising:

• Higher property prices

• More competition on STR platforms

• Tighter margins if you don’t position yourself well

These emerging towns offer:

✅ Lower acquisition costs
✅ Less saturation
✅ Room to innovate and lead
✅ A rising wave of traveler interest

Final thought:

If you’re serious about investing in Mexico, this is your window.
Don’t just follow the hype, follow the data, the infrastructure, the tourism trends.

And most importantly: work with someone who knows the territory.
The right advisor can help you identify where the growth is moving before it gets priced in.

Happy to share insights or walk you through opportunities if you're exploring Mexico in 2025. 

Drop a comment or DM anytime.