The cold and dark might be closing in across the UK but further afield it’s still hot and sunny. If you want to escape the first chills of autumn there’s no time like the present.

The good news is you don’t have to spend a fortune for a stunning luxury getaway. In fact, according to loveholidays, the shoulder season is one of the best times to travel. Crowds are smaller, prices are lower, but the weather is still gorgeous – especially in this beautiful beach town.

By travelling in the months of early spring and autumn, you miss the peak crowds of summer and winter – these ‘shoulder seasons’ are a great way of saving money and enjoying a more relaxed getaway. 

Puerto Morelos is on the Caribbean coast of the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico. It’s a charming port town with all the beauty of the Maldives but none of the crowds.

Even better, the temperatures in this seaside town hover around 31C in October – perfect for some late season sunshine and relaxation. 

This jewel in the crown of Mexico has something for everyone – yes, there is a vibrant hospitality scene with bars and restaurants but there’s also technicolour coral reefs, incredible geological marvels and some of the best beaches around.

If it’s scenery you want, Puerto Morelos has it in spades. One of the unmissable experiences is a visit to Cenote La Noria.

Cenotes are sinkholes in the rainforest that have filled in with crystal clear rainwater over the course of millennia, and La Noria is a truly jaw-dropping example.

Fish flit through the water and stalactites drip from the ceiling of this wondrous spot nestled in the forest. 

You can also explore the coral reefs around Puerto Morelos, with dozens of snorkelling and boat tours to choose from.

The reef in this region is the second largest in the world, and slipping beneath the surface of the clear, warm ocean will give you an insight into another world.

The reef teems with life and is home to more than 500 species of fish and 65 types of coral as well as sharks, rays and turtles. It’s a protected marine park so these animals can enjoy their home for many, many years to come. 

The best part of Puerto Morelos is the price. Despite its beauty a holiday to this stunning town won’t break the bank – especially in the shoulder season.

In fact, you can enjoy a seven night, five star holiday here from £899pp including all flights and transfers. 

This tropical paradise is the perfect place to score some last-minute sun and soak up all the beauty Mexico has to offer.