Best Beaches in Mexico

Mexico, located in the southern portion of North America, is bordered to the southeast by Guatemala, Belize and the Caribbean Sea, and to the east by the Gulf of Mexico. So it’s no wonder this country is filled with many breathtaking beaches ideal for those who seek a relaxing getaway and those who want to party. 

It’s estimated that Mexico has at least 500 beaches across its bodies of water. If you’re looking to plan your next Mexican holiday, be sure to include these best beaches on our list!

Best Beaches in Mexico

  1. Isla Mujeres This beach is actually rated as the number one beach by visitors in terms of scenery, water clarity, crowd congestion and amenities nearby. So, there’s no doubt you’ll be spoiled here. It’s located on the northeastern coast of Cancun and is an ideal destination for a day trip when you’re staying in the mainland. But we recommend you stay for a weekend, because once you’re there you’ll never want to leave.
  2. Cozumel An island that’s home to excellent beaches that includes some of the world’s most premier diving and snorkeling destinations. There’s Paradise beach on the west side that’s popular for families, thanks to its friendly waves and many family oriented restaurants. Those who want to try snorkeling on this island can go straight to Playa El Cielo and book a boat tour. There are also spots for kayaking and sailing. But a word of advice, don’t expect to find a secluded spot here because it will be packed all year round.
  3. Cancun With vast sands and clear turquoise water, Cancun’s beaches are some of the most popular ones in Mexico. This area is also packed with amenities such as upscale resorts and restaurants. The beaches have soft, low waves which makes it perfect to go for a dip, or snorkeling. Go to Playa Tortugas for the best waves, or the less crowded Playa Delfines is also an awesome alternative. A combination of both beautiful nature and amenities, Cancun should definitely be in your travel itinerary.
  4. Playa del Carmen Located along the Yucatan Peninsula, Playa del Carmen is a newly popular tourist spot in Mexico. Previously very quiet and sleepy, now its beaches are as hip as the ones in

Cancun. You can enjoy the central beaches if you want to be seen. With resorts lining up the shoreline, you’ll be spoiled for choice here. If you’re after a little more R&R, you can also visit the outskirts of the city and go to Playa Punta Esmeralda, Xpu-Ha, and Playa Maroma.

  1. Sayulita The perfect destination for surfers everywhere, it’s also suitable for those seeking peace and quiet. The waves in Playa Carricitos, so that’s where you’ll want to be if you’re a surfer. For those who are novice surfers, they can try joining one of the many surfing lessons here. You can also head to Playa de los Muertos if you only want to go for a swim and are looking for friendlier waves. And when you get tired of sunbathing, you should go and visit the quaint little artsy town filled with colorful shops and cafes.
  2. Isla Holbox Also located in the Yucatan Peninsula, this is where you want to go when you’re after calm, quiet beaches. You can come to Playa Punta Cocos to watch sunsets and bird watch, there’s also Punta Mosquito that has a sandbar and shallow water for a relaxing dip. Also, you should look out for some flamingos that call this place home.
  3. Tulum If you’ve never been to this beautiful white beach, you’re missing out. It’s located in the southern end of the Mayan Riviera, about two hours from Cancun. Not only can you enjoy its white sandy beach and turquoise-hued waters, but you can also soak in the scenery of jungle and cliffs that have 13th century Mayan ruins. The most popular spot in Tulum is Playa Ruinas, with its direct views toward the ruins. But if you’re after more activities and high-end resorts, you should also visit South Beach that has bright white sand and kite-surfing.
  4. Cabo San Lucas Who doesn’t know this extremely popular beach? Once you hear “spring break”, Cabo San Lucas is probably the first thing on your mind. This resort city has some of the best beaches in Mexico, such as Playa La Palmas and the surfer’s paradise Playa Acapulquito. Thanks to its highly developed areas, you won’t miss any creature comfort when you’re in Cabo San Lucas. You’ll have many options here, from the high end resorts to cheaper backpacker friendly spots. There’s no beating Cabo’s swim-friendly beaches, cute villas and parties.
  5. La Paz

La Paz is the state capital in the California Baja Sur peninsula, and home to one of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico, namely Balandra Beach. If you’re looking for a tranquil getaway that’s far from busy towns, then this is definitely one to visit. You can enjoy the picture perfect sand and sea without any of the crowd in more popular beaches like Cabo San Lucas. This beach resembles a lagoon, thanks to the high cliffs that almost entirely circling the beach and shallow waters. The friendly waves are perfect for kids, but there’s also great snorkeling sites in the bay and in the reef beyond it.

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