Trying to help a young single couple in their mid-twenties plan a week-long vacation the end of July. (They both work, so I'm helping with their research). Of the three places listed, which would you recommend? Want to relax, keep costs down (maybe an all-inclusive..), and just enjoy the ocean and beaches. Thanks for any help you can provide. eb from Texas

I've been to both Cancun and Cozumel, and either would be a good fit. Both have a lot to do and see for that age group and food, sightseeing and accommodations are reasonably-priced.
Cancun has the bonus of excellent nightlife and shopping, and one of the prettiest beaches to be found.

The beaches in Cancun are really something to behold! I'd go there. Check out well reviewed hotels on tripadvisor.com

A great beach and cheapest prices are on Isla Mujeres visit isla-mujeres.net

Also check out Playa Del Carmen which is also cheaper than Cancun or Coz but not quite as nice a beach as IM.

Thanks for the great advice! It's been several years since we visited Cancun and I hadn't thought about Isla Mujeres. It has probably built up a lot since we were there.... We went to Playa Del Carmen about 3 years ago, but found it to be a little too isolated. Thanks again, eb

You found Playa del Carmen too isolated? Did I understand that correctly? Many people find it too busy! If you found PDC too isolated, I'm not sure you would like Isla Mujeres. Yes, there is development, but it's not everyone's cup of tea. (I stayed there twice, liked it very much the first time, not so keen the second time.)

I'm not keen on Ixtapa, but liked Zihuatanejo a lot (mind you that was a few years ago). The town was really charming - nice hotels, restaurants, good shopping. The beach off Ixtapa had huge waves, not good for swimming, but Zihuatanejo was much nicer.

SusaninToronto, Maybe I'm confused...we stayed at an Iberostart in the Mayan Riviera...I think...
Is this not the same area?

The Iberostars are usually away from any town, not actually in the town of Playa del carmen. I hear the town itself has plenty to do and have never heard of it being called isolated yet.

Puerto Vallarta or Playa del Carmen would be my picks instead.

If you found PDC isolated you must not have actually been in downtown!

Ixtapa and Cancun were developed by the Mexican government to encourage tourist dollars. Cozumel is visited by numerous cruise ships daily. These factors obviously influence the dynamic.

PV and PDC, though both well touristed places, began and still are normal Mexican towns with a tourist trade naturally grown out of them. I'd throw Zijuat in with this description too, I guess.

Playa is definitely not isolated--now it is a bit too busy for my tastes. But,for a young couple, I think it would be a great place. I would avoid the all inclusives since there are so many great restaurants and bars to experience!