Mexico’s beaches: 5 places where you can bask in the Mexican sun

Are you dreaming of feeling the warm sand between your toes and the gentle sea breeze on your cheek as you stroll along powder-white tropical beaches?

In Mexico, you’ll discover stunning coastal gems, tempting you with everything from a swim in azure waves to visits in charming seaside towns, where authentic Mexican culture and a welcoming local vibe promise truly memorable experiences.

But with so many beach destinations to choose from, which should you visit on your tour to Mexico?

We’ve put together a list of five beaches to ensure magical moments and unforgettable days on the sand when you visit this Latin American jewel.  

Why visit Mexico’s beaches?

Mexico is a true treasure trove for lovers of beach idyll. Here, you’ll find some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, with soft sand, azure waters and palm trees gently swaying in the pleasant breeze.

Mexico’s incredible variety of beaches offers something for everyone. You can look forward to pure relaxation on the sand, water sports in the surf, and thrilling adventures through lush landscapes and ancient Mayan ruins.

No matter which beaches you choose to visit on your tour of Mexico, you’re guaranteed unforgettable moments.

Where are Mexico’s best beaches?

With a coastline stretching over 9,000 km, Mexico boasts a wealth of stunning beaches. While each beach has its own unique charm, some truly stand out as being that extra bit enchanting.

The Yucatán Peninsula is often renowned for having some of the very best beaches in Mexico. Here, you’ll find popular beach destinations like Isla Holbox, Playa del Carmen, and Isla Mujeres, where soft sands, tranquil waters, and a relaxing tropical atmosphere await you.

Beyond its spectacular beaches, the Yucatán Peninsula is also home to a wealth of cultural and historical treasures, such as the world-famous Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá, giving you the perfect opportunity to add a touch of adventure to your beach holiday.

5 beaches in Mexico you simply can’t miss

Which beaches should complete your Mexican adventure? We’ve handpicked 5 fantastic spots for you right here.

Isla Holbox – glowing flashes in gentle waves

Isla Holbox is a captivating island paradise, tucked away on the northern edge of the Yucatán Peninsula. The island enchants visitors with its tranquil atmosphere and relaxed pace of life.

Here you’ll find powdery white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters with gentle waves – perfect for a revitalising swim or for diving into a range of watersports, such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or kitesurfing.

This beautiful island gem is part of the protected Yum Balam Nature Reserve, an important habitat for a variety of tropical birds, including pelicans and the distinctive pink flamingos. Beneath the surface, the sea teems with life, from colourful shoals of fish to playful dolphins. Isla Holbox is an ideal destination for those who want to combine a beach holiday with unforgettable wildlife experiences.

Isla Holbox also boasts some of the world’s most beautiful sunsets. As the sun dips below the horizon, the landscape is bathed in a kaleidoscope of colours. After dark, in certain spots on the island, you can witness the magical phenomenon of bioluminescence, where tiny microorganisms sparkle in the water – an utterly unforgettable sight.

Highlights of Isla Holbox

• Family-friendly beach with shallow waters and gentle waves – perfect for swimming and water sports
• Rich biodiversity, including the chance to spot pelicans and flamingos
• Opportunity to witness the natural phenomenon of bioluminescence

Playa del Carmen – where white sand beaches meet a vibrant coastal town atmosphere

Playa del Carmen, beautifully located on the eastern side of the Yucatán Peninsula, is a lively coastal town where you can unwind on stunning beaches and enjoy the bustling city life along the iconic 5th Avenue – all in one place.

In Playa del Carmen, white sand beaches stretch as far as the eye can see, while the azure sea invites you in for an invigorating swim among the rolling waves. If you’re feeling active, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for water sports in Playa del Carmen, such as windsurfing and jet skiing. Hop on the ferry to Cozumel, just a short distance away, and you can explore coral reefs and underwater caves on a snorkelling or diving excursion.

After a dip in the waves, why not wander through the narrow streets in the heart of town? 5th Avenue is brimming with life, full of shops, cafés, and bars – but just a few streets away, you’ll soon find quieter areas with cosy little corners. Here, you can browse colourful boutiques, enjoy a drink at one of the popular bars, or sample authentic Mexican dishes at the many restaurants and cafés.

Highlights of Playa del Carmen

• Stunning surroundings with sweeping sandy beaches
• Opportunities for watersports, such as jet skiing and snorkelling excursions
• Vibrant city life including shops, cafés, and beach bars

Isla Mujeres – Experience one of Mexico’s finest beaches

Isla Mujeres is a charming little island gem located off the north-eastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, just a few kilometres east of Cancún.

A visit to Isla Mujeres feels like stepping into a tropical paradise, where powdery white beaches and crystal-clear waters are ready to greet you. Of the many fabulous beaches on Isla Mujeres, one stands out above the rest: Playa Norte, the island’s northern beach, which has deservedly been named Mexico’s best beach and ranks among the world’s top ten by Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards.

Beyond its stunning setting, Isla Mujeres offers plenty of opportunities for adventure. For example, you can hire a golf buggy to explore the island at your own pace, taking in dramatic rock formations and ancient ruins dedicated to the Mayan goddess Ixchel at the island’s southern tip.

In the evening, you can wander through the island’s charming streets and treat your taste buds to delicious Mexican specialities.

Highlights of Isla Mujeres 

• Beautiful beaches, including Playa Norte, which has been named the best beach in Mexico
• Opportunity to discover historic ruins from the time of the Maya
• Charming streets where you can sample authentic dishes

Tulum – paradise beaches and ancient Mayan ruins 

Tulum is a delightful coastal town on the eastern side of the Yucatán Peninsula, looking out over the Caribbean Sea.

This enchanting coastal gem is celebrated for its natural beauty, boasting powder-white sand beaches, swaying palm trees, and turquoise waters – the perfect setting for peaceful moments and basking in the sun.

A couple of kilometres from the beach, you’ll find the town of Tulum, perfect for exploring its vibrant streets lined with colourful boutiques, charming cafés, and inviting restaurants serving up local specialities. Or why not hop on a bicycle? Cycling is the favoured way to get around in Tulum.

The area surrounding Tulum is also renowned for its many spectacular cenotes – natural limestone pools boasting crystal-clear waters and a truly awe-inspiring sight.

Tulum also offers the chance to immerse yourself in Mexico’s captivating culture and history with a visit to the ancient Tulum ruins. Perched dramatically on the coastline, they stand as a majestic reminder of the Mayan era’s golden age in the region.

Highlights of Tulum

• Paradise beaches and magical cenotes
• Fascinating heritage with ancient Mayan ruins
• Bohemian atmosphere with bicycles, cafés, and vibrant shops

Akumal – snorkelling adventures with turtles and shipwrecks

Akumal is a picturesque coastal town on the eastern side of the Yucatán Peninsula, located about 100 km south of Cancún.

With its crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and intriguing shipwrecks, Akumal is celebrated as one of Mexico’s premier snorkelling and diving spots, drawing travellers from around the globe.

Akumal is particularly renowned for its large population of sea turtles, which can be found in the bay all year round. This abundance of sea turtles has inspired the town’s name, which means “place of the turtle” in Mayan.

In addition to fantastic wildlife and natural experiences, Akumal is also home to a handful of small shops selling souvenirs, as well as a selection of charming restaurants where you can enjoy a delicious Mexican meal.

Highlights of Akumal

• Incredible marine life with large numbers of sea turtles
• Excellent opportunities for snorkelling and diving
• Cosy little shops and restaurants

What should you know about seaweed on Mexico’s beaches?

When planning your beach holiday to Mexico, it’s understandable to consider whether seaweed might affect the beaches during your visit. Seaweed, also known as sargassum, can sometimes be found on the coast around Cancún and along the Riviera Maya (for example, near Playa del Carmen and Tulum), and it is most common between April and August. The beaches on Isla Holbox and Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres generally experience less seaweed than other areas, as their locations are more sheltered from the currents that bring it in.

It’s important to emphasise, however, that seaweed is a natural part of the marine ecosystem. It poses no threat to visitors or to the marine environment. During periods when larger amounts are washed ashore, many hotels and local organisations work hard to clear the beaches – often on a daily basis.

With a little flexibility, seaweed need not get in the way of an unforgettable beach holiday.

You can stay up to date on seaweed conditions at various Mexican beaches here.

Fancy soaking up the sun on Mexico’s beaches?

Soft sands, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back coastal vibe are what Mexico’s beaches are all about, guaranteeing magical moments on your beach holiday in Mexico.

Still unsure which beach destination to choose?

Our experienced travel specialists are on hand to help you create lifelong memories in Mexico’s tropical paradise.

TourCompass – From tourist to traveller