Travelers who love to invest in the local communities they visit will enjoy the little beach town of Puerto Morelos.
Located south of Cancun, Puerto Morelos offers more than white sand beaches and the Rivera Maya’s best snorkeling. It is also home to the Puerto Morelos Market, a shopping collective founded by residents in 2015 and has been rising in popularity since.
The market provides Puerto Morelos residents and visitors alike with a great way to discover regional artists while supporting local businesses throughout the Riviera Maya without breaking the bank. Thanks to its central location at a local beach club, it’s quick and easy to stop by this artists’ market during a Saturday at the beach.
What to Buy at The Puerto Morelos Market
The Puerto Morelos Market showcases products made by residents, as well as those from regional businesses larger, metropolitan areas such as Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Local artists, jewelry makers, bakers, and designers line up tables of their products on the sandy floor.
As you browse the rows of brightly-colored wares, you’ll see that the vendors are far less pushy here than at other markets in the area. Also, they’re always excited to answer any questions you have about the inspirations for their products.
Baked items like homemade bread and desserts come neatly wrapped and placed in baskets. Food industry products like local salsas and jams offer a more organic alternative to grocery store items.
Handmade jewelry is the perfect blend of casual elegance for a day by the beach or a night on the town.
Traditional Otomi textiles from central Mexico bring a touch of color and nature to your local treasures. Hand-painted alebrijes (small fantasy creature figurines from Oaxaca state) are sold at affordable prices.
Clothing and accessories inspired by local Maya culture can be found at several tables, with options like purses, blouses, and huipiles (traditional Maya everyday dress). Plus, local Riviera Maya designers bring racks of bikinis and breezy, beach-friendly clothing for you to wear throughout your stay in Puerto Morelos.
If you find a vendor you particularly like, ask the artist for a business card. Many locally-run Riviera Maya businesses don’t have an official website, but almost all of them have a Facebook page where you can order their products.
When and Where to Do Your Puerto Morelos Market Shopping
Dates for the Puerto Morelos Market can vary. But their regular season is from November through April.
Markets take place two Saturdays a month during this time, usually from mid-morning to late afternoon. Sometimes, they’ll even organize some surprise summertime market dates.
Since the market is usually housed underneath a large tent, rain isn’t often an issue and probably won’t lead to event cancellations.
The Puerto Morelos Market takes place at My Paradise Beach Club, located several blocks north of the main square in Puerto Morelos. You can find the back entrance on Calle Plutarco Elias, or walk in straight from the beach (look for the big arrow sign).
Dying to stay in Puerto Morelos and experience its laid-back local culture? Contact us now :)