Explore Cancun and the Mayan Riviera’s Best Beaches

The Mexican Caribbean is a popular destination for sun lovers everywhere, from those seeking pampering at high-end luxury spas to backpackers who prefer more rustic accommodations. The one thing most travelers to the Yucatan Peninsula have in common is the quest for the beach.

From Cancun to Tulum and in between, each area offers unique qualities and vibes. Turn a bend on the coast, and the landscape changes, showcasing long stretches of flat white sand, rolling waves, fabulous rocky outcroppings, and inlets filled with coral and sea life.

1. Tulum Ruins Beach

Address: Zona Hotelera Tulum, 77765 Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico

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One of the most stunning vistas in the region can be enjoyed at the site of the Mayan ruins called “Tulum”. After hiking through the jungle and walking through ancient stone buildings, you are struck by the shocking blue ocean against the backdrop of ruins and cliffs. Once you descend the steep staircase, you’ll find yourself on powder-soft sand at the base of el Castillo (the castle) with the Caribbean waves at your feet—a perfect place to connect with nature and history.

Tulum is a popular day trip destination from all parts of the region, often combined with visits to the nearby eco-park, Xcaret, where you can experience the flora and fauna of the jungle and sea. The nearby town of Tulum is known for its rustic palapa-roofed hotels and charming restaurants, with a few sprawling luxury resorts in the outlying area. Tulum is located about 120 kilometers or 75 miles south of Cancun airport, which is roughly a 90-minute drive on the main highway.

2. Half Moon Bay, Akumal

Address: Playa Akumal, Carretera Tulum, Yodzonot, 77776 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico

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Nestled between Tulum and Playa del Carmen, Akumal is an ideal beach for snorkeling or kayaking. The small inlet is protected from harsh seas and is rich in coral and marine life. Just walk offshore to step into an amazing underwater world teeming with turtles, barracuda, small fish, and even a harmless shark or two. The tranquil beach is perfect for relaxation, although water shoes are recommended due to shells and coral along the shore.

Half Moon Bay mainly consists of privately owned condos, some available for rent for extended periods. There are a couple of hotels, and the nearby town of Akumal offers intimate restaurants and a small grocery store. Dive shops operate daily for trips to the nearby reef, and don’t overlook the charming beach bar “La Buena Vida,” an inviting spot for lunch by the beach with refreshing beverages and delightful views from its palm tree crow’s nest.

3. Playa del Carmen

Address: Playa del Carmen, Mexico

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The area, affectionately known as “Playa,” covers a significant stretch along the coast of the Riviera Maya. The beaches in Playa del Carmen are popular among locals and tourists alike. Festive beach clubs offer lounge chairs, umbrellas, entertainment, and waiter service, attracting crowds to this bustling town’s shores.

The main town beach is a gathering spot for families, where they engage in beach soccer or volleyball until sunset, enjoying picnic lunches and fresh fruit with chili sauce, or simply splashing in the surf with the kids. Playa boasts chic boutique accommodations directly on the beach as well as more budget-friendly options just a few blocks away. The town is conveniently located for a day trip from Cancun or other Riviera Maya destinations, making it a great place for beach parties and fun in the sun.

4. Punta Bete Beach

Punta Bete, a little-known beach in the Riviera Maya, is poised between Playa del Carmen and Puerto Morelos, serving as a secluded hideaway for those seeking serenity by the sea. This beautiful stretch of sand is shared by high-end boutique hotels and a few rustic cabins for rent or tent camping. Visitors arriving at this hidden gem are seeking peace and solitude amidst nature.

Enjoy fresh seafood and refreshing drinks from beachside restaurants (Los Pinos is highly recommended) as you relax to the sounds of the surf and the salty breeze. The area has some rocky spots, making water shoes handy. Just south of Punta Bete lies Xcalacoco, another small gem known for its quaint cabanas and untouched beach.

5. Puerto Morelos

This lively fishing village lies halfway between Playa del Carmen and Cancun. Puerto Morelos boasts one of the finest stretches of pristine, publicly accessible beaches in the Riviera Maya. Small boats line the shore, shuttling snorkelers and scuba divers to the nearby reef to experience vibrant coral formations and a range of marine life. Musicians often stroll the sand, and fresh ceviche is available from colorful vendors wandering the beach.

The Ojo de Agua Beach Club is a popular spot for both tourists and locals, providing rentals for chairs and umbrellas along with ice-cold drinks and attentive service. The waters here are typically calm, with few rocks or shells—making it an ideal spot for swimming and strolling along the pristine beaches. While there are not many large hotels, there are numerous rental options available, ranging from basic accommodations to luxurious beachfront homes with pools and Jacuzzis.

6. Cancun Island, East Side Beaches

The island of Cancun, often referred to as the “hotel zone,” is designed like a giant number seven. The ocean on the east side offers picturesque views seen in travel brochures, showcasing incredible shades of blue in the crystal-clear waters. Although these beaches suffered damage during Hurricane Wilma in 2005, a reconstruction project in 2009 and early 2010 has revitalized the pristine shores that Cancun is renowned for.

The surf on the east side can range from moderate to heavy; therefore, exercise caution while swimming. Heed the warning flags and lifeguard advice, and avoid swimming when intoxicated. Whether you wish to enjoy long walks along the nearly 20 kilometers of beachfront, rise early for a sunrise stroll, or rent a jet ski for thrilling rides, the hotels here primarily consist of opulent all-inclusive resorts—no cabañas or tents along this stretch.

7. Beaches of Cancun Island, North Side

The beaches on the north side of Cancun contrast significantly with those on the east side. This section of the hotel zone is shielded from surf by Isla Mujeres, a small island across the Bay of Mujeres. Consequently, the water here is less vibrant and the surf is typically gentle in comparison to the east shore. With its tranquil waters and extensive sandy beaches, the north side is a great destination for families, providing a safe area for enjoyment of the warm Caribbean Sea.

This side is also ideal for water sports, attracting kayaking, sailing, and jet skiing enthusiasts, alongside those interested in ocean volleyball. The north side boasts some of the more established hotels in Cancun, along with available condos and houses for rent.

8. Isla Mujeres

Address: Isla Mujeres, Q.R., Mexico

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A thriving island just a short ferry ride from Cancun, Isla Mujeres is a vibrant hotspot for travelers and day-trippers from the mainland. Playa Norte, or North Beach, features cozy beach clubs and gentle, shallow waters, making it an inviting locale. Settle on a swing at the beach bar or rent a beach bed with a canopy for an opportunity to meet travelers from around the globe. Yachts and boats anchor offshore, adding to the vibrant atmosphere enjoyed by sunbathers on the beach.

Snorkeling expeditions to the near reef are essential, as there are stunning locations for exploring coral formations and marine biodiversity surrounding the island. Rent a golf cart to explore the island, ensuring you stop by Punta Sur or South Point for breathtaking sea views, crashing waves on rocky cliffs, and iguanas that inhabit the area—you’ll feel like you’re truly at the world’s edge.

The island offers numerous small hotels in town and along the beach, and larger resorts are beginning to emerge or are currently under development. Isla Mujeres remains a favored destination for longer stays, with various vacation rental apartments available for visitors. The town center is filled with small shops and restaurants, as well as ATMs and banks for convenience.

9. Isla Blanca

Just 25 minutes north of Cancun, Isla Blanca features undisturbed white sandy beaches interspersed with virgin jungle. This tranquil haven is bordered by the Caribbean Sea and the Chacmuchuk Lagoon, providing an escape from the hustle and bustle of tourist areas. Camp along the beach, rent a rustic cabin for an overnight stay, or visit for the day; it’s a peaceful oasis for those who prefer to avoid the large resorts and crowded beaches. A kiteboarding school in the area attracts adventure enthusiasts, with colorful sails dotting the sky over the lagoon.

Getting to Isla Blanca requires a car, as it’s situated down a secluded dirt road with no public transit available. This island operates independently from city services; hence, electricity is often supplied through wind or solar power, or via diesel generators. Visitors will discover a truly immersive experience, perfect for those looking to disconnect.

10. Isla Holbox

Address: Isla Holbox, Quintana Roo, Mexico

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Isla Holbox, located off the northern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula, remains a hidden treasure. After a three-hour journey from Cancun, travelers find themselves in a time capsule, away from commercial resorts, banks, and shopping options—just a quaint village of fishermen and small palapa-roofed hotels. The expansive beaches, lined with soft white sand, stretch as far as the eye can see.

The island attracts adventurers looking for a unique experience, including opportunities to swim with whale sharks that frequent the area for several months each year. Holbox is also a haven for bird watchers, showcasing over 100 species that either nest or pass through, including vast flocks of flamingos. Accommodations range from rustic palapas for hammock sleeping to luxurious “eco-rustic” boutiques that cater to every need. The warm, calm water of the Gulf of Mexico is more green than the blues found on the Caribbean side, and the beach is soft with minimal rocks, allowing visitors to relax for hours in gentle surf.

The Yucatan Peninsula awaits, offering sunshine and sand for every type of traveler. Families, honeymooners, and adventurers alike are invited to experience the stunning beaches and enjoy a well-deserved vacation in the Mexican Caribbean.