30 Best Beaches In Mexico

If you have landed here looking for the best beaches in Mexico, you will be happy to know you are in the right place!

If you know me, you should also know that I love hanging by the beach, and that is why I have put together a post on the best beaches in Sardinia. So I thought about doing the same for Mexico, which is a wonderful country to visit, with a rich culture, welcoming people, fantastic food, and spectacular landscapes.

I obviously have my favorite beaches, and most of them are in the Yucatan Peninsula – some to which I have a special emotional attachment, for I have visited them with my sister or with my ex-boyfriend. But there are others that are truly worth visiting too.

So, the following is a selection of the best beaches in the country.

The Best Beaches In Mexico

Tulum Beach – Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo

Quintana Roo has a very high number of beautiful beaches, and it is undeniable that Tulum Beach is one of the best in the country, facing the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. It is also known as Playa Paraiso, and for a good reason! Imagine a gorgeous white sand beach, palm-fringed that is so long and wide that rarely gets busy. 

Playa Ruinas is the perfect place to stop over after having visited the archeological site (which is only 500 meters away).

As with most of the beaches in this country, there are nice beach clubs where it is possible to hire a table, chairs, and an umbrella. On-site restaurants are usually nice, and there are showers and toilets too. Good beach clubs offer guided expeditions in the clear turquoise waters.

Not far from Tulum, you will find the gorgeous Sian Kaan reserve.

Make sure to also check out Ziggy Beach, a great place for water sports, snorkeling, and diving, thanks to the coral reef.

Akumal Beach – Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo

This is undoubtedly one of the best spots in the country for snorkeling. Easily accessible from either Playa del Carmen or Tulum, it is a long, fine white sand beach famous for the beautiful marine turtles that live in the area. They are easy to spot when swimming.

It’s known as the best place to swim with sea turtles. In fact, most tour companies guarantee you’ll see at least one sea turtle. And I’ve never been to Akumal without stumbling across at least a few.

You don’t need a tour to find the sea turtles, but much of the reef is protected. I wholeheartedly recommend following a guide because these animals should never be disturbed.

Akumal Bay: Cenotes and Snorkeling with Turtles – This guided tour also takes you to the best cenotes in the area. It’s one of the best options you can book online, especially if you want to explore the area beyond the beaches.

Playa Canibal Royal – Playa Del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is home to some of the best beaches in Quintana Roo. It really does not matter what kind of beach experience you may be looking for – you will find it here. The city has five beaches, all offering something a little different.

Canibal Royal is the quietest, located at the end of the main beaches and on Coco Beach.

It is not as easy to get to as the others are. As a result, it is practically unspoiled. There is not even a bar or restaurant, so it is a great place to enjoy a picnic.

The two main beaches in town, on the other hand, have chic beachside lounges where you can sip a sunset cocktail or get busy with a game of volleyball or football. It’s a great place for a sunset drink.

You should also read my post, The Best Beaches In Playa Del Carmen.

Xpu-Ha Beach – Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo

This is a perfect white-sand beach. It’s located almost at the halfway point between Tulum and Playa del Carmen in the Riviera Maya. To me, it has to be one of the top Mexico beaches.

However, over the years, hotel and beach club development has expanded. So, there are many more resorts and beach clubs around here than ever before. That being said, it’s still kept some of its authentic charm and is still much less crowded than beaches in Playa del Carmen and Cancun.

It offers old-school charm and is a real tropical paradise. It is the kind of place where you can play football or volleyball or just chill out in one of the local beachside restaurants.

Paamul – Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo

Between Playa del Carmen and Puerto Aventuras, Paamul Beach is one of the best diving and snorkeling spots in the area. It’s a mix of sand and limestone, which differentiates it from other nearby beaches. The local public pool is an alternative to the beach.

There are a few restaurants, hotels, and beach houses along the stretch of sand. But there are usually very few tourists, so it’s the perfect place to get away from the crowds.

If you have the time, I’d recommend spending a weekend here to unwind after a long week of traveling. It’s very peaceful, with beautiful water and plenty of water sports for everyone.

Playa Maroma – Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo

Soft white sand, beautiful – and calm – Caribbean waters, and the fact that it is secluded and exclusive make Playa Maroma one of the best Mexican beaches.

To access it, you have to stay in one of the luxury resorts or purchase a day pass at one of the few beach clubs along the beach. It’s more expensive, but if you have the budget to splurge, it’s definitely worth it.

However, there’s a little cheat to get here. Some Riviera Maya tours around Playa del Carmen and Cancun offer a beach pass for Playa Maroma after the tour.

Riviera Maya: Parasailing Tour with Beach Club Access – This guided parasailing tour includes a thrilling parasailing tour off the coast of Playa Maroma. And you can finish off your day with a relaxing afternoon at the Maroma Beach Club.

Playa Delfines – Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo

This is one of the most popular beaches in the area. It doesn’t have the incredibly fine, white sand that is typical of this coast, but the views are gorgeous, and the vicinity of some Mayan archeological sites makes it all the more charming.

The name Playa Delfines translates to “Dolphin Beach” in English. And while dolphin sightings are pretty rare nowadays, they are sometimes seen in the early mornings when there aren’t many people or boats around.

Significantly less crowded than other beaches in the area, keep in mind the current in this part of the ocean can be quite strong, so approach it with caution.

Cancun Beach – Quintana Roo

Cancun Beach, in the Riviera Maya – Yucatan Peninsula – stretches for a whopping 14 miles on the shores of the Caribbean Sea. With its turquoise waters and incredibly fine, soft sand, it’s easily one of the best beaches in Mexico.

The beach is easily accessible as high-rise hotels are scattered all along it – in what is known as the Zona Hotelera (or the hotel zone in English) – and you will find plenty of restaurants and places where you can practice water sports.

If you get tired of basking in the sun, you can take day trips to the nearby Mayan ruins of Tulum, Chichen Itza, or more.

Playa Norte – Isla Mujeres

Playa Norte in Isla Mujeres is hands down one of the best beaches in Mexico. forswimming. It can be reached on a short ferry ride from Cancun. Picture white sand, palm trees, shallow water, and little to no current. Yes, it is great!

On very hot days, this beach gets a bit busier. This is because there is usually a light breeze, which makes it a more comfortable place to be than the other beaches in the area.

It’s also an excellent spot to escape the sargasso (or seaweed) during the summer months. Because of the currents and location of the beach, it sees much less seaweed than other popular spots around the Yucatan Peninsula.

Holbox Beach – Isla Holbox 

This is beach perfection! It is a natural, relatively unspoiled spot that you are bound to love. It is within easy walking distance of nearly everywhere in the town.

This small island is a favorite of tourists as it puts together amazing beaches that are fully equipped, with the convenience of a small town with restaurants, a fishing pier, and a dock.

For more activities, you may want to consider a kayaking tour through the mangroves, a three-island tour to some secluded spots, or a night swim with the bioluminescent plankton found in the waters around Holbox.

Holbox is a little more difficult to get to, as it has no airport and it’s a few hours from Cancun. You have to take a two-hour bus from Cancun to a small town called Chiquila. From here, you can take a 20-minute ferry ride to Isla Holbox.

El Cielo – Isla Cozumel

Cozumel is another beautiful island off the coast of Mexico, about a 45-minute ferry ride from Playa del Carmen.

Cozumel is well-known for its snorkeling and scuba diving. It’s located on a lively reef, the Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest reef in the world (after the Great Barrier Reef).

The marine life is unmatched, but finding a swimmable, sandy beach is pretty hard. Most people come to hop in the water and don’t spend time on the shore. The shore is pretty rocky, so unlike other islands, it isn’t all soft, white sand around the perimeter.

That being said, El Cielo is one of the best beaches near Cozumel.

Even though it steals the show for best beaches in Mexico, it’s not easy to get to. You can only access El Cielo by boat from Cozumel. To get there, you could consider joining this catamaran boat trip that departs from Cozumel – the tour also stops at Playa Palancar.

La Entrega – Huatulco

La Entrega is a beautiful white-sand beach with plenty of trees for shade. It can definitely be considered one of the best beaches in Mexico. It is popular with both locals and tourists. It is a good place to get back to the old way of enjoying a beach.

La Entrega also has some of the best snorkeling when the waters are calm. You can see tropical fish, sea turtles, and other lively marine life. There’s a small reef just off the shore of La Entrega.

Located on the beach are numerous “palapas” (thatched-roof huts) serving simple seafood. If you want to eat something strictly local, look for tlayudas!

And if this isn’t enough, Huatulco has many other beaches and bays. The official name of Huatulco is Bahias de Huatulco (Bays of Huatulco), and there are nine spectacular bays. The bays are very different from one another, but all offer an incredible experience.

This Private Huatulco 5 or 7 Bays Boat Tour takes you to the best bays in Huatulco so that you can see them all in one day. The tour guides know all the best snorkeling spots and provide water and snacks throughout the day.

Playa Cacaluta – Huatulco

All of the beaches and bays in Huatulco are worth visiting. La Entrega is one of the most popular for swimming, snorkeling, and dining. But Playa Cacaluta is truly a hidden gem and one of the most beautiful places in Huatulco.

Playa Cacaluta is not easy to get to, so it should be no surprise that there are rarely many people around.

Most boat tours stop at Playa Cacaluta, but you can also get there on your own. To get to the entrance, you would have to take a taxi or drive.

The taxi will drop you off at the start of a little path. From here, you can pay to take an ATV directly to the beach or walk 30 minutes through the woods to reach the beach.

It’s worth every second of your day, however.

Walking through the swaying palm trees and out to this magnificent stretch of sand and blue waters, you’ll likely have most of the beach to yourself.

De Balandra Beach – La Paz

De Balandra Beach, in La Paz (Baja California Sur), is one of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico. It is a great place to go for a walk and to enjoy stunning beach scenery.

It is a series of small bays, so the sea is quite unlike anything one may have seen before. The water here looks almost white, something that makes it one of the best places for snorkeling.

The water is also very shallow, so you can walk from one bay to the other. At the corner of one of the bays, there is a large mushroom-shaped rock formation, and you can climb up there for a beautiful view of the bays below.

The beach has restricted hours and is only open to the public from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and again from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. If you’re at the beach at noon, the authorities will nicely kick you out, but you can return again at 1:00 p.m.

This Balandra & Tecolote: Hike, Kayak, and Snorkel in Paradise tour includes a visit to Balandra Beach and Tecolote. It’s a really fun outing, with plenty of time for relaxing on the beaches, catching some sun, and even hiking in the nearby hills. The meeting point is at the entrance to Balandra Beach, and kayaks will be waiting for you.

Tecolote Beach – La Paz

For great swimming opportunities and views of Espíritu Santo island, head to Playa Tecolote. This small beach is not too far from Balandra Beach. It’s not as popular (or as equipped – though toilets and showers are available), however it’s nevertheless charming.

You can swim in the warm, shallow waters, enjoy a refreshing drink at one of the beachfront bars, or lay in the sand and soak up the sun.

It usually doesn’t get too crowded, as it is a little more off the beaten path than other popular Los Cabos destinations.

Playa del Amor – Cabo San Lucas

The beach town of Cabo San Lucas is home to some of the best beaches in Mexico (and there are lots of excellent beach clubs in Cabo San Lucas). Playa del Amor certainly is one of them.

Playa del Amor translates to “Lover’s Beach” in English. It’s also nicknamed “Hidden Beach” or “Secret Beach” as it remains relatively hidden. It’s located on the south of Banderas Bay and offers incredible views and sunny afternoons.

This is a remote Pacific beach that is wide, with white sand and unique rock formations – the only issue is that you can only access it by boat! But other than that, it is a fantastic place to spend a day.

Cabo: 2-Hour Whale Watching Boat Ride with Free Pictures – This whale watching tour is the perfect way to get out in the water and marvel at the majestic giants that roam the ocean around here. Whale watching season is from December to April in Cabo.

Keep in mind the beach is not equipped with services like bathrooms and restaurants.

Medano Beach – Cabo San Lucas

Beaches in Los Cabos are gorgeous, but they are not safe to swim as the currents are too strong. It will come as a relief then that Medano Beach is a safe swimming spot, perfect for water sports and other fun activities such as boat excursions.

Medano Beach is located right in Cabo San Lucas, so is also one of the easiest and nicest beaches in Los Cabos to access.

There are several beachside bars and plenty of sand and sea to enjoy.

Ensenada – Baja California

If you enjoy surfing, you will definitely agree that Ensenada, in Baja California, is a must-see. Because it is located near the USA’s border, it gets busy during the weekend.

Ensenada is a port city, so it has plenty of amenities, including bathrooms, restaurants, bars, and little shops.

It’s one of the most popular surf destinations in North America. The best waves are in the winter months, though, as with this part of the Pacific Coast, the water gets cold, and you may need a wetsuit.

Puerto Vallarta – Jalisco

With the gorgeous Sierra Madre mountains at its back and lovely golden sand and blue waters, Puerto Vallarta Beach is one of the best in the country.

You can go snorkeling in the many protected coves or join a whale-watching or deep-sea fishing expedition. There are also many other quieter beaches within driving distance, or you can take a water taxi to the lesser-known spots.

And if you want a different scene, head out to the lovely Zona Romantica for quaint city charm. The cobblestone streets, delicious street food, and the row of artisan shops will surely keep you busy.

Conchas Chinas – Jalisco

This is one of the most romantic Mexico beaches – so much so that weddings often take place there. It’s in Puerto Vallarta and close to Garza Blanca Reserve and characterized by golden sand and beautiful rock formations within which you will find lovely natural pools.

It’s a fantastic place for walks, for sunbathing, and to relax. If you’re into sea shells, you’re in luck.

The name Conchas Chinas translates to “Chinese Shells” in English. It has really unique and beautiful shells that can only be found here.

Make sure to also check out Playa Gemelas, which is located about 9 km (5.6 miles) south of town.

Yelapa Beach – Jalisco

About 40 minutes by water taxi from Puerto Vallarta, Yelapa, in Cabo Corrientes, in the Bahia de Banderas, is a lovely fishing village home to a gorgeous, lesser-known beach perfect for snorkeling.

The beach itself is pretty small, but it’s rarely crowded. If you find yourself relaxing on the beach, make sure to visit the infamous “Pie Lady,” who sets up shop right on the beach with freshly baked pies.

Punta de Mita – Riviera Nayarit

On the Pacific Coast and not far from Puerto Vallarta, Punta de Mita is a coral sand beach that is wide enough not to get too crowded. It’s also a fantastic place to go surfing since there are plenty of long wave breaks, and in most places, the water is shallow.

The little fishing village of Punta de Mita is also worth exploring. It has some historical ties to the indigenous people. Not too far from Punta de Mita, an ancient graveyard was discovered.

Sayulita – Nayarit

Sayulita, in Nayarit and close to Puerto Vallarta, has a reputation for being a quiet, beautiful beach during the day, to then become quite a lively place after nightfall. Big parties are frequently held here. It definitely is one of the best beaches in Mexico if you like to party.

Ten years ago, things were very different. After all, it’s really just one unpaved row with a handful of shops and buildings around the center. However, the secret got out, and more and more people are now flocking to the small town.

It is very popular with surfers in the winter months when the waves are bigger. Boards can be easily rented. So, whether you are looking for some quiet time to surf and relax or for some fun at night, this is one of the top Mexico beaches.

Playa Las Gatas – Zihuatanejo

If you love snorkeling, Las Gatas is a great place. It is a safe spot to learn, but it still offers plenty for experienced snorkelers to enjoy. One of the best activities in the area is deep-sea fishing.

To get there, you must take a water taxi from the Municipal Pier in Zihuatanejo. Because it is difficult to reach, it rarely gets overcrowded.

If you’re into snorkeling or scuba diving, Zihuatanejo is also the place to be. There’s a large “Cathedral Rock” that is an excellent scuba diving backdrop for experienced divers. And the marine life is so lively, snorkeling is also a blast.

Playa Principal – Zihuatanejo

Playa Principal, or Playa del Puerto, is the main beach in downtown Zihuatanejo. Although it isn’t as beautiful as Playa Las Gatas or Playa Blanca, it has charm.

It’s right in the heart of the fishing village, which means you can easily walk to the local markets, some of the best local restaurants, and all the little souvenir shops.

A boardwalk that stretches about half a mile from Playa Principal to a few other small beaches, restaurants, and viewpoints overlooking the bay. I recommend walking this boardwalk during sunset to enjoy the beautiful colors of the sea.

There are a few spots to enjoy the sun and sand, but the overall ambiance and vibes are the best part.

Troncones – Guerrero

Troncones is a three-mile-long beach that is simultaneously a surfer’s paradise and very popular with eco-tourists. It is easily one of the best beaches in Mexico. It is perfect for relaxing but also for more active pursuits.

For example, you can enjoy a ride across the sand or a hike in the mountains behind the beach. After an active day, being able to relax in one of the tidal pools is heaven.

Puerto Escondido – Oaxaca

With the massive waves, availability of all sorts of accommodation options (including excellent budget ones), and good local restaurants, Puerto Escondido is one of the most famous surfing spots in the world. No wonder it’s a popular beach!

Most of the public beaches around here aren’t very swimmable, but it’s excellent for surfing. The sunsets can’t be beat, either.

Be prepared for a more laid-back vacation. The Internet isn’t very good, and things just feel simpler here.

Zipolite – Oaxaca

This lovely beach near Puerto Escondido, on the Pacific Coast, is the only nudist beach in the country. You will find a long stretch of sand with a strong surf, surrounded by rock formations.

Along the beach, there are restaurants and bars where you will be able to get a bite and enjoy a sunset drink. It’s not far from Huatulco National Park, which has a beautiful coral reef. 

If you want to take a break from the beach, you can go fishing, birdwatching, horseback riding, or take a boat trip along the coast.

Mazunte – Oaxaca

Mazunte is actually one of the country’s Pueblos Magicos – and that should be enough to make you want to visit. Other than that, here you will find some of the best beaches in Mexico, with soft golden sand and the backdrop of mountains.

The main beach is divided into two main areas – one with bars, restaurants, and bungalows; the other a quieter, smaller cove. 

Another beach nearby is Mermejita Beach. 

Be aware that the currents on this part of the coast can be very strong, so even if lifeguards are present, approach the water with caution.

If you are looking for more things to do in the area, you will be happy to find the Mexican Turtle Center, which strives to preserve sea turtles. Boat cruises for dolphin watching are also popular.

Zicatela – Oaxaca

This 3.5 km (around 2.2 miles) beach in Puerto Escondido is one of the best beaches for surfers who come here from around the world to enjoy the excellent waves.

If you are in search of an easy-going place, head to Punta Zicatela, on the southern end, where waves aren’t as fierce – so it’s good for beginner surfers. This is also a popular yoga retreat.

Further Information About Mexico

The fact that the country has 6,000 miles of coast means that the above is just a taste of the type of beaches you can find in this beautiful country. However, there are many stunning and beautiful places to visit that are not just beaches. 

Personally, I find it is always nice to mix things up a bit and visit some beautiful archeological and natural sites as well as spend time on the beach – so I wholeheartedly recommend you do the same and make sure to start in Mexico City!

Further Readings

Make sure to read my other posts

• The Most Delicious Food In Mexico
• The Best Time To Visit Mexico
• The Best Mexico Road Trip Itinerary
• The Best Travel Tips For Mexico
• The Best National Parks In Mexico

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