Which body of water lies to the east of Mexico?

The Gulf of Mexico lies to the east of Mexico and serves as a significant body of water that impacts the region both economically and environmentally. This semi-enclosed sea connects to the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, providing crucial shipping routes and rich fishing grounds. Its position allows it to play a central role in weather patterns, particularly in the formation of hurricanes that can affect the eastern coastline of Mexico and the southern United States.

While the Pacific Ocean is on the western side of Mexico, the Caribbean Sea is south of the eastern coast, not directly east. The Atlantic Ocean is considerably farther to the east of the Gulf of Mexico. Therefore, the Gulf of Mexico is the most accurate answer, given its direct geographic location relative to Mexico's eastern shores.