Mexico is filled with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. White powdery sand and the colorful Caribbean water towards the east make for picturesque locations.
Whilst I haven’t been to every beach in Mexico, I’ve spent a total of two months in Mexico collectively and found the best beaches were in the state of Quintana Roo. In this region you can find popular destinations like Cancun & Tulum.
What are the beaches like in Mexico?
I will note that the following photos were taken in 2014. On my second trip to Mexico in 2018 most of the beaches were overtaken by seaweed known as sargassum which turned the ocean into a muddy brown colour. It wasn’t pleasant to see or smell and it’s apparently getting worse due to global warming. The warming ocean temperatures encourage more growth of seaweed and then the ocean currents often bring this seaweed to the shores of Quintana Roo. I was told it is worst in the summer months between May and August because of the warmer temperature.
Something that used to occur rarely in Mexico is now happening more often but it is hard to predict. Tulum was unfortunately the worst hit area. The least affected area was Isla Mujeres, where the main beach of Playa Norte wasn’t affected due to being sheltered. Isla Holbox is also on another coastline so wasn’t affected.
There are tactics being implemented to divert seaweed and websites are providing updates if you’re interested in the current beach conditions and where is best to travel to avoid it.
5. Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo
Playa del Carmen is a popular beach destination just over an hour from Cancun. When compared to the upscale, resort style of Cancun, Playa has a much more relaxed vibe. The beach stretches for miles, so it’s less crowded and the main strip with all restaurants, shops and bars is much more convenient compared to the spread out layout of Cancun. It’s also great for party seekers, as it has all of the same clubs that Cancun has.
TIP: Senor Frogs (next to the Cozumel Ferry dock) offers free lounge chairs and day beds on the beach so long as you buy a drink or a meal. It is also the less crowded part of the beach.
4. Cancun Beach, Zona Hotelera
The water and sand combination in Cancun is remarkably stunning, but most of the beaches are pretty crowded. This photo was taken in the main strip in the Hotel Zone with all of the restaurants, shops and bars. The great thing about Cancun is the beach stretches for miles and the resorts along the strip have their own beach access and these are generally much quieter.
TIP: If you’re looking for a fun beach party, head to Coco Bongo! Their nightclub is also the most iconic nightclub/show in Cancun.
3. Playa Santa Fe, Tulum
Amazing! A short walk from the Tulum Ruins and you will find this beautiful, quiet beach. Most tourists flock to the tiny beach area inside the ruins, so this long stretch of beach is remarkably peaceful.
TIP: If your interested in snorkeling, book a cheap trip at a tour desk in the shopping area before walking down to the ruins. For around $20 USD you can get a small tour which also goes past one ruin only visible by boat.
2. X-Puha, Quintana Roo
I met some locals in the nearby town of Puerto Adventuras who took me to this hidden gem. A local mini van (used as a public bus) picked us up and dropped us off on the other side of the highway to where the entrance was. After running across the highway and down a dirt track through what seemed to be a forest, this was awaiting. Away from the major tourist crowds, but there are still small resorts along this area meaning we had to pay a fee of $5 USD. But boy was it worth it. Powder white sand, the bluest water and a lot of water sports to keep anyone entertained.
TIP: Hire a set of snorkels and paddle out to some cute little reefs scattered not far from shore.
1. Playa Norte, Isla Mujeres
In 2014 I stopped here for lunch after swimming with Whale Sharks and was blown away. The boat captain cooked us ceviche and we hoped out of the boat in waist deep water, drinking Corona’s and taking in this view. It was one of the best experience’s I’ve ever had. This beach is breathtaking.
I loved it so much that I came back and stayed on the island for a few nights in 2018. Playa Norte was the only seaweed free beach on this coastline.
TIP: For backpackers wanting that tropical island experience and a bit of a party, Isla Mujeres is a great place to stay! It’s a quick ferry ride from Cancun and the Poc-Na Hostel which is now owned by Selina is an amazing place to stay.
What are your favourite Mexican beaches?
