Why Smart Investors Choose Quintana Roo Over the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic and Mexico’s Quintana Roo are two of the most popular Caribbean destinations for people who want to own a home by the sea. Both have warm water and white sand. What sets Quintana Roo apart is the mix of mainland cities and islands, the depth of its culture and nature, and how easy it is to get there and live there all year. Here is how the two compare for a buyer.

Mainland and islands in one place

The Dominican Republic is a single island. Quintana Roo gives you a full mainland coast plus several islands, each with its own character:

• Cozumel: world class diving on one of the largest reef systems in the world
• Isla Mujeres: a short ferry ride from Cancún, home to Playa Norte
• Holbox: car free streets and a relaxed, bohemian pace

On the mainland you can choose between Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Aventuras, Tulum and quieter beaches like Tankah Bay, just north of Tulum.

Access and infrastructure

Cancún International Airport has direct flights from most major cities in the United States and Canada, and Tulum International Airport now serves the south. The Maya Train connects the main towns by rail, and the new Nichupté Lagoon Bridge in Cancún links the Hotel Zone with the city. For owners this means easy trips, more flight options and simple visits from family and friends.

Maya culture and history

Few places let you live this close to an ancient civilization:

• Tulum: the only Maya city built on the Caribbean coast
• Cobá: a jungle site with one of the tallest pyramids in the Yucatán Peninsula
• Chichén Itzá: one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, a day trip away
• Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve: a UNESCO site with lagoons, wildlife and untouched beaches

See our guide to Maya ruins near Playa del Carmen.

Cenotes and nature

Quintana Roo sits on one of the largest underground river systems in the world. Cenotes such as Gran Cenote and Dos Ojos are natural pools for swimming, snorkeling and diving, and you will not find anything like them in the Dominican Republic. Start with our list of cenotes near Playa del Carmen.

Parks and things to do all year

The Riviera Maya has some of the best known eco parks in Latin America, which makes everyday life here richer for residents and their visitors:

• Xcaret: underground rivers, Maya heritage and the famous night show
• Xel-Há: a natural water park with snorkeling and lazy rivers
• Xplor: ziplines, caves and jungle routes
• Xenses: a sensory park full of illusions

Which one is right for you?

The Dominican Republic can suit buyers who want a resort stay on a single island. If you want the choice between city, beach town, jungle and island living, with direct flights and full time services, Quintana Roo offers more. Before you buy anywhere, work with a licensed agent: here is how to verify a real estate agent in Quintana Roo. Closing costs in Mexico are usually 7 to 10% of the purchase price, and our closing guide walks you through each step.

Comparing more destinations? Read Quintana Roo vs Costa Rica and Puerto Vallarta vs Riviera Maya, or browse homes in our property search.