Celestun is a town in Yucatan, Mexico. It is located in the northwest corner of the state, just north of the border with the state of Campeche, on the Gulf of Mexico coast.
In 2000, it had a population of just under 6,000 people; however, the population swells to 10,000 during the octopus hunting season. It is mostly a fishing town, with an old 19th century lighthouse (as well as a more modern one) and an abandoned historic Hacienda. Besides fishing, Celestun also produces salt, as it has done from pre-Columbian times. Tourism is also making up an increasing portion of the town's economy, as the community boasts many kilometers of sand beaches and abundant wildlife.
While most tourists only come to Celestun on day trips, an increasing number are staying in town overnight. Several hotels have therefore been created, including an ecological resort, Eco Paraiso, that uses solar energy, recycles water, etc. Eco Paraiso is located about 10km to the north-northeast from Celestun, on the coast (accessible only over unimproved sandy roads).
