Yucatan Beaches: Epic Guide to the Best of the Best

If you’re looking for a tropical holiday, planning a trip to the Yucatan Beaches in Mexico is an absolute must. From crystal-clear water and powder-soft sand to the abundance of activities and water sports, there truly is something for every type of traveler. With over 50 glorious beaches, the hardest decision you’ll have to make is where you want to lay your towel.

Below are our top choices for the best beaches in the Yucatan.

About the Yucatan Peninsula

This region is in southeastern Mexico and borders the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. With two great bodies of water nearby, it is home to some amazing beaches.

The peninsula comprises three states: Yucatan in the north, Quintana Roo in the east, and Campeche to the west. To make it easier to plan your trip, the beaches are organized by their state and then the closest city. 

Best Beaches in Yucatan State 

Often overshadowed by neighboring Quintana Roo, this state is a bit underrated when it comes to beaches. However, Once you find your favorite beach, there are plenty of activities to do here that will keep you busy. 

This area is also a great place to take up some watersports like paddle boarding and kayaking. No matter what type of vacation you are after, Yucatan beaches are perfect for any beach lover seeking a tropical getaway. 

Merida

Mérida is a culturally rich town about 48 km (30 miles) from the coast. Its proximity to other popular destinations, such as Uxmal and Valladolid, make it an ideal base for exploring the region. And there are tons of great beaches nearby where you’ll find an abundance of gorgeous white sand stretches with crystalline, azure water. 

Merida is the central hub and capital of the state.

Playa El Cuyo

Best hidden gem.

If you are looking for a hidden gem, look no further than Playa El Cuyo. This secluded and peaceful beach is known for its stunning turquoise waters, powder-soft white sand, and postcard-perfect palm trees dotting the shoreline. 

It’s great for swimming because the waters are calm and clear, but it is also a great place to go kiteboarding if the winds pick up. The beach is perfect for laying out, so if you prefer to sunbathe, this is the place for you. 

The beach is in El Cuyo, a small fishing village. After soaking up some sun, head into town for a delicious traditional meal and experience some of the Yucatan’s culture. 

Playa Cancunito, Yucatan

Best for natural beauty.

Playa Cancunito is a stunning stretch of beach known for its soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. 

The beach is surrounded by lush, vibrant trees, giving you all the cues that you really are in a tropical paradise. The gorgeous backdrop gives off a peaceful vibe and is perfect for photos. 

After you’ve had some time working on your Instagram shots, head out for an afternoon of heart-pumping activities. Like many beaches in the Yucatan, Cancunito is great for jet skiing, parasailing, and beach volleyball in addition to its natural beauty. 

Playas Telchac, Yucatan

Best for fishing and relaxation.

One of the quietest beaches is Playa Telchac. This laid-back beach has pristine white sand, crystalline waters, and plenty of space for relaxation. It is the perfect spot to swim and sunbathe, and the peaceful atmosphere will allow you to chill out all day.

If you get a little restless, try beachcombing. It’s one of the best beaches in the area for finding gorgeous seashells. 

You could also try your hand at fishing. Cast lines right from the shore, or hire a local fisherman to take you out for the day.

While you’re here, visit the San Crisanto mangroves as well. This is a must-see if you are interested in the native flora and fauna—the estuary has tons of both! It is also home to a pretty beautiful flock of bright pink flamingos. 

This charming village is a great place to catch a glimpse of authentic Mexican life after you’ve had your fill of the sun and sand.

Pig Beach

Best beach to interact with adorable pigs.

You may have heard of Pig Beach in the Bahamas, but did you know that the Yucatan has its own unique version?

In 2021, eight piglets were found near the beach. After their mother died, animal services rescued them, and they became the poster pigs for animal protection. For the past few years, visitors have flocked to the beach to spend a few moments taking selfies and petting these adorable creatures. 

If you do bring your children here, just keep a watchful eye on them when the pigs are out. You don’t want to stress out the animals with lots of energetic children swarming them. Also, it is forbidden to feed the pigs or pick them up.

Chicxulub

Best beach for history buffs.

Chicxulub (pronounced Chicks-uh-lube) beach is known for calm waters and a peaceful, laid-back vibe, perfect for anyone looking to relax and soak up the natural beauty of Mexico. 

Even though the beach has become quite popular in recent years, it has still maintained its rustic charm. The town has many great traditional restaurants and cute shops for handmade souvenirs. 

It is also a great base to learn about ancient cultures and explore famous Mayan archaeological sites, like the ruins of Chichen Itza and Uxmal.

Check out the Chicxulub Crater, too. It was formed 65 million years ago by a massive asteroid impact believed to have caused the extinction of the dinosaurs. 

Sisal Beach

Best beach for marine life.

Sisal is surrounded by palm trees and is home to crystal-clear, turquoise waters and powder-soft, white sand. It looks like a postcard. 

Because the water is so clear, it is an excellent spot for snorkeling. You can see all kinds of different marine life here, including plenty of colorful fish, sea turtles, and dolphins. Check out these sea creatures from above on a kayak or paddleboard. 

Dzilam de Bravo

Best beach for learning about Yucatan culture.

If you want to learn more about Yucatan’s rich culture, head to Dzilam de Bravo. 

This quiet fishing village is famous for its rich history and natural beauty. The stunning beachfront is lined with vibrant fishing boats and charming, colorful houses. You’ve found the perfect backdrop if you want to snap the perfect Instagram photo.  

You can stroll down the Malecon, a promenade along the beach, or visit the local market to try fresh seafood and local cuisine. 

Dzilam de Bravo is also home to several historic landmarks, including the San Francisco de Asis church and the Hacienda San Pedro Ochil, a former sisal (agave plant) plantation turned museum. 

Playas Celestún (north and south)

Best beach for bird lovers and beach bums.

Playa Celestún is a hidden gem with pristine beaches and fascinating wildlife. 

The Celestún Biosphere Reserve is home to over 300 different species of birds. You’ll find flocks of stunning pink flamingos in winter and plenty of interesting small, migratory birds year-round. Take a boat tour through the swamps to see how many different species you can identify! 

If you aren’t a birder, don’t worry! This beach is a fantastic spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The water is warm and clear and makes the perfect place to go for a dip after exploring the biosphere. 

You can also rent a paddleboard or a kayak if you are looking for a little more excitement and want to explore the coastline. 

Crowds haven’t descended on Playa Celestún yet, so it’s kept its authentic charm.  

Playa Uaymitun

Best beach for a quiet getaway.

Uaymitun (pronounced oo-why-me-TUNE) is a beautiful coastal town 45 minutes north of Mérida. This beach is home to a large flock of pink flamingos, making it another great destination for bird lovers. There are also stunning beaches with crystal-clear water and soft, white sand, perfect for any beach bum.

One of the best things to do is to take a boat tour through the mangroves to observe the several species of beautiful birds in their natural habitat. 

The beach is also a great spot to relax away from the hustle and bustle of bigger Mexican cities. 

Best Quintana Roo Beaches, Eastern Yucatan Peninsula 

Along the eastern portion of the Yucatan Peninsula is the state of Quintana Roo. This stretch of coastline runs from Cancún all the way to Belize and includes three unique islands, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, and Isla Holbox. 

It’s also home to the famous Mayan Riviera, which houses some of the most stunning beaches in Central America. 

Let’s dive in…

Cancún

Cancún is one of Mexico’s most famous beach towns. Known for epic parties and gorgeous beaches, it’s no wonder why tourists flock here every year.

Playa Delfines

Best beach for surfing.

Playa Delfines, also known as Dolphin Beach, is in the famous Cancún Hotel Zone. It’s known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white sand, and it is one of the most stunning beaches in the area.  

Take a dip in the cool ocean waters, work on your tan, or even take a surf lesson. Because of the area’s consistent waves, this beach is pretty popular among surfers. 

Playa Delfines also happens to be home to the gigantic Cancún sign. You know, the one–big colorful letters that everyone gets their photo in front of. This is a great spot to snag your first Instagram shot. 

Playa Marlin

Best beach for families.

Playa Marlin, also in the Cancún Hotel Zone, offers even more crystal clear, cerulean waters and powdery white sand, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. 

If you are traveling with small children, it’s the place for you. This beach has calm, clear water, which makes for a great swimming spot for kids. 

Plus, there are some great amenities here. Sun umbrellas and beach chairs are available for hire, and there are lots of fun activities to try. Families can go jet skiing or parasailing if their children are a bit older. 

The beach is surrounded by plenty of different restaurants offering a range of local seafood and delicious Mexican fare.

Playa Gaviota Azul

Best beach for snorkeling around Cancún.

Like many beaches nearby, Playa Gaviota Azul, or Blue Seagull Beach, has calm azure waters and perfectly soft sand—great for beach bums looking to work on their tan. 

Additionally, it’s surrounded by lush green vegetation and a gorgeous mangrove area, giving off a peaceful vibe. Perfect for a day of relaxation. 

The water here is so clear that it is fantastic for snorkeling. Hop in the water with your mask, and you’ll be treated to an underwater aquarium right off the beach. Look out for all the colorful tropical fish and the vibrant coral. 

Playa Gaviota Azul is one of the best beaches the Yucatan Peninsula offers for snorkeling. 

It is also home to some great restaurants, so this really is a fantastic choice for travelers looking to stay the whole day in one spot.   

Playa Tortugas

Best beach for water sports.

Playa Tortugas, or Turtle Beach, is known for its soft white sand and sparkling, clear blue waters—perfect for swimming, relaxing on the beach, and watersports. It’s a good all-rounder! 

You can rent jet skis or go parasailing and snorkeling right from the shore. Captains also offer boat rentals and catamaran rides on the calm blue waters. 

Like many beaches near Cancún, Playa Tortugas is surrounded by plenty of bars and restaurants, so you can easily head here for a cocktail or fantastic meal after a day of fun on the shore. 

Playa Caracol

Best beach for families with children.

Playa Caracol, or Snail Beach, is a dream beach. Its cerulean waters and soft, brilliant white sand are idyllic. 

It is known for its calm water, which is excellent for families with small children. You will definitely feel safer having your kids swim here than in areas with big waves. 

In addition to the calm waters, it has plenty of amenities to help make your day at the beach perfect. You can rent umbrellas and sun loungers to get comfy and protect yourself from the intense Mexican sun, or you can rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the area by sea. There is something for everyone here at Snail Beach! 

Playa Caracol is also in a prime location in Cancún, surrounded by plenty of different restaurant options that the whole family will love. 

Honorable Mention: Playa Ancha for Yucatan kitesurfing and windsurfing, and Playa Chac Mool for surfing. 

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a small beach town with a buzzy atmosphere. It’s not as large or crazy as Cancun, so this is a great alternative if you’re not into the party scene that Cancun can be. It is only 68 km (42 miles) south of Cancún, so you could make it a day trip. If you don’t have a car, don’t worry! There are plenty of affordable transport options to get you there.

Playa Punta Esmeralda 

Best beach for beach bums looking to relax.

Playa Punta Esmeralda is a fantastic beach for a day of swimming in the sparkling azure waters or relaxing on the powder-soft white sand. 

The water here is crystal clear, so snorkeling is a must. In fact, you can rent snorkel gear right off the beach and check out the abundant marine life just off the shore. 

It has lots of amenities to enjoy as well. The beach has showers, bathrooms, and even a playground for small children. There are a few bars and restaurants nearby too. 

Calle 10 Beach

Best beach for a day of fun in the sun.

Calle 10 Beach is a small but charming beach people flock to for its calm waters and idyllic stretch of sand, perfect for swimming and tanning. 

Colorful tropical fish and stunning coral reefs make this area a popular scuba diving and snorkeling sight. 

Calle 10 Beach has plenty of bars and restaurants nearby, so you can easily grab a bite to eat or enjoy a refreshing cocktail. 

Honorable Mention: Playacar Beach for more rest and relaxation. 

Akumal

Akumal is another town firmly planted on the Riviera Maya. It is the perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling, as it is known for its stunning coral reefs and turtles. 

Playa Akumal

Best beach for turtle lovers.

Playa Akumal is best known for the sea turtles that make this part of the ocean home. The water here is so clear that you’ll probably see one while swimming in the ocean. In fact, the name Akumal means “place of the turtle” in the ancient Mayan language. 

The Mexican government protects the area surrounding Akumal because it is home to so many turtles. 

In addition, it is a great place to snorkel and scuba dive in hopes of seeing even more marine life and stunning coral reefs. 

This beach is set in the perfect location, too. It is a short drive from the Mayan ruins in Tulum and the ever-popular city of Playa del Carmen, so it is effortless to plan a day trip here. 

Half Moon Bay

Best beach for swimming and snorkeling.

Half Moon Bay in Akumal, Mexico, is a gorgeous beach that should be at the top of your bucket list. The pristine, white sand and cerulean waters make for the perfect spot to spend a day in the sun. 

The bay is sheltered by a coral reef, ensuring calm water, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking. It is also surrounded by plenty of palm trees, giving off lots of natural shade.

Of course, the area has a few great restaurants, so you can enjoy fresh seafood, tasty cocktails, and breathtaking views. 

Tulum

Tulum is an ancient Mayan city famous for El Castillo, the castle perched high upon a hill overlooking the ocean. Visitors flock here to learn about Mayan history and enjoy the gorgeous beaches. 

Playa Ruinas

Best beach to explore the Mayan ruins.

If you are exploring the Mayan ruins in Tulum, you absolutely have to add Playa Ruinas to your itinerary. This stunning beach is just below the cliffs of the ruins, and the views of the Caribbean Sea and the ruins above are absolutely breathtaking.

Playa Ruinas has the same pristine sand and sparkling azure waters as many neighboring beaches. And just like the others, it is great for swimming and snorkeling. What sets it apart, though, is its proximity to the Temple of the Frescoes and the Castillo, located within the archeological park set above the beach. 

You can head to the ruins first to learn about Mayan culture and history and stay for the epic views from the top of the cliff. Once you’ve taken enough photos or are ready for a dip, head down to Playa Ruinas to cool off and marvel at the views from below. 

Playa Paraiso, Yucatan Peninsula

Best beach for stunning scenery.

Another breathtaking beach near Tulum is Playa Paraiso. Known for its clear turquoise waters, powdery-white sand, and picturesque palm trees, it’s a perfect destination for travelers looking for a relaxing day.

It’s absolutely postcard-worthy. 

A few bars and restaurants are nearby, so you can easily spend the day enjoying the views, sipping on a delicious cocktail, and cooling off in the sea.

If you fly into Cancún, you can grab a bus or a seat on a minivan to get you all the way to Tulum. It is also possible to get from Playa del Carmen to Tulum in about an hour.

Mahahual

Mahahual was formerly a sleepy fishing village. Now, it is home to the southernmost cruise port in the entire state of Quintana Roo. There are plenty of great beaches to explore nearby. 

Maya Chan Beach

Best Yucatan Peninsula private beach.

Maya Chan Beach is a fabulous privately-owned beach located in Mahahual. Because it is private, crowds are limited, and you can escape the throngs of tourists that flock to other nearby beaches. 

The area is surrounded by stunning, lush vegetation, and the water is just as pretty. In addition to taking in the beautiful views, the beach is a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The clear waters provide the perfect location to see lots of Mexico’s marine life in its natural habitat.  

Additionally, you can rent beach chairs and umbrellas to ensure a comfortable day at the beach. A bar on sight serves up delicious cocktails and great snacks, so there isn’t a reason to leave! 

Honorable Mention: Mahahual Beach for scuba diving and La Bamba Beach for Yucatan beach clubs.

There is a bus that will bring you from Tulum to Mahahual. Once you arrive, grabbing public transport directly to the beach is easy.

Cozumel

Cozumel, located right off the coast of the Yucatan peninsula, is home to several wonderful beaches. It’s a beautiful island in its own right and definitely worth a visit, or a whole vacation. But it can also easily be a day trip from Cancun or Playa del Carmen.

Playa El Cielo

Best slice of paradise.

El Cielo translates to heaven, and the beach certainly lives up to its name with sparkling turquoise waters, soft white sand, and breathtaking views of the surrounding coral reefs. 

If you plan to spend a day at Playa El Cielo, you can swim, lay out under the sun, or go snorkeling. There is some natural shade from the palm trees which dot the shoreline, so you can even take a nap or relax without worrying about a sunburn. Just beware of falling coconuts. 

Snorkeling is very popular here because of the beach’s calm, clear, shallow water. There are also a ton of starfish, which you can see from the surface. It’s truly a slice of paradise.

Chen Rio

Best beach for beautiful landscapes.

Playa Chen Rio is a picturesque beach on the east coast of the island of Cozumel. 

You’ll find calm, clear waters and perfectly soft sand, making for a great day at the beach. However, what sets this beach apart is the rocky outcroppings that provide a unique view for beach lovers to enjoy. 

The beach is surrounded by lush, vibrant vegetation, making the spot feel more private and secluded. 

Head here for a day of relaxation or snorkeling. There is plenty of marine life to explore right off of the coast.

You can hop on a quick ferry that will take you from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel in about 30 minutes. You can also take a two-hour ferry directly from Cancún. 

Honorable Mention: Paradise Beach Club for a day of active fun. 

Isla Holbox

Isla Holbox is a charming and rustic little island north of Cancún. No cars are allowed on the island, so it has an utterly laid-back vibe and some stunning stretches of sand to enjoy. A bus+ferry will take you from Cancún directly to Isla Holbox. The ride takes about 2.5-3.5 hours, but imagine what beautiful scenery you’ll see!

Punta Coco

Best secluded beach.

Punta Coco is a remote and private beach on the southwestern tip of Isla Holbox, a small island off the coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. 

The beach is known for its stunning cerulean waters, pristine white sand, and undeveloped natural surroundings. It is another home to gorgeous flocks of flamingos and is a fantastic place to swim and lay in the sun.

Because cars aren’t allowed on the island, you can only access Punta Coco by boat, golf cart, or a long walk down Isla Holbox’s main beach. But it is definitely worth the effort. A day here will be a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of other Yucatan beaches.

Isla Mujeres

Known for the vibrant art scene and friendly locals, Isla Mujeres is a fantastic place to settle in for a few days. You’ll usually be able to find great music, amazing diving, and an awesome collection of people here. 

Playa Norte

Best beach for epic sunsets.

Playa Norte is a stunning beach that draws visitors from around the world. And for good reason! Playa Norte has plenty of powdery, soft sand and stunning crystalline azure waters. It is the perfect place to spend a day swimming and sunbathing. 

However, the best reason to visit is for the jaw-dropping sunsets. 

Several bars and restaurants line the waterfront, so head in for a sundowner and some fresh seafood. You’ll need to spend a whole day here to truly appreciate all its beauty. 

You can take a ferry from Cancún to Isla Mujeres in under an hour.

Best Beaches in Campeche, Western Yucatan

Campeche

The Western Yucatan Peninsula doesn’t get as much love as its neighbors, but that doesn’t mean you should rule it out! The state of Campeche is home to a few absolutely stunning spots along the Gulf of Mexico. 

Playa Boca del Rio

Best off-the-beaten-path beach.

Playa Boca del Rio is a beautiful beach in the state and town of Campeche. It is a secluded and natural beach, providing visitors a peaceful retreat. 

Beaches near Campeche are known for soft, white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for catching some rays and cooling off with a dip. The area also has some great scuba diving and snorkeling tours, as it is home to lots of sea creatures and beautiful coral reefs right offshore.

While not as famous as Cancún or Merida, Boca del Rio is the perfect place for sun-worshipers looking for a quieter, more off-the-beaten-path beach experience in Mexico.

Honorable mention: Playa Bonita for water activities and stunning sunsets.

Weather in the Yucatan Peninsula

December through April is the best time to visit the Yucatan. Temperatures range from 84-91.5℉ (29-33℃) during the day and 64-70℉ (18-21℃) in the evenings. This is the peak of the dry season when skies are cloud-free, and the sea is calm and clear. You’ll also find this is the best time for snorkeling and scuba diving.

July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures reaching 93℉ (34℃). The warm weather makes this time very popular with Europeans and locals, especially at the coastal resorts. 

Generally, the rainy season is from June through October. This is a great time to travel if you want to avoid crowds. You can expect a daily thunderstorm, especially in the late afternoon/early evening. Temperatures are very similar to peak season, with an average high of around 88℉ (31℃). 

As the rainy season wears on, hurricanes become more likely—most occur from August to mid-October. While they are typically mild to moderate storms, you want to be prepared for more serious ones, just in case. 

Also, March through October is the sargassum seaweed season when it washes ashore and rots. Sometimes there is a lot of it; other times, not so much. And some beaches are cleaned better than others. July has the highest collection of seaweed. 

Packing List Essentials

Packing for any beach holiday is half the fun, and the Yucatan beaches are no different! No matter which beach you choose to visit, you should include the following:

• Plenty of bathing suits/cute cover-ups
• Strong SPF sunscreen–the sun is intense here!
• Sunglasses and a sun hat
• A sand-resistant towel
• Portable safe or lockable bag for the beach
• Waterproof pouch for your phone
• Snorkel gear
• Waterproof camera or GoPro
• A small bag or backpack for day trips
• A good book and a great podcast

Map of Yucatan Beaches on the Peninsula

Since we’ve just given you a lot of beaches to think about, we thought a map could help you put it all in perspective. Check it out.

How to get to the Yucatan Peninsula

Getting to your beach of choice is a snap because most of these locations are on the well-beaten tourist track. No matter where you come from, you can find a transportation option that works for you. 

Getting to Beaches in Yucatan

Fly into the international airport in Mérida. It’s the best place to start your Yucatan wanderings. And there are plenty of options to get you to the beaches nearby. 

If you choose to fly into Cancún, a direct bus will take you to Mérida in about four and a half hours. 

Getting to Beaches in Quintana Roo

Cancún has a large international airport that you can fly into to begin your epic Quintana Roo vacation. 

If you don’t plan on staying in Cancún, don’t worry! 

There are some great options to get you to other destinations within the state. For example, you can book a seat on a minibus directly from Cancún to Akumal, and the trip will only take about an hour and fifteen minutes. Or head to Playa del Carmen or Tulum in under two hours.

Getting to Beaches in Campeche 

Your best option is to fly into Campeche if you plan on spending most of your time in western Yucatan. Direct flights from Mexico City are reasonably priced, especially if you book early. 

If you prefer to travel on the slower side, a 6.5-hour bus from Playa del Carmen to Campeche is also available.

Final Thoughts on the Yucantan’s Best Beaches

Because there are so many amazing beaches to choose from, the hardest part of planning your trip is figuring out which beach to hit first! The best bet is to cover your bases and plan a beach-hopping road trip. 

And also, take a look at our two-week Mexico itinerary to help you plan where to go next. There are a lot of other places to go in Mexico when you’re ready for the next adventure.

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