The beaches of Mexico are perfect for everyone, from partygoers to those looking for some R&R. We created this list of the best Mexico beaches for sunbathing on the sand and splashing in the waves. U.S. News compiled this list based on user votes and factors such as scenery, water clarity, crowd congestion, and nearby amenities. Cast your vote below for the best beaches in Mexico for next year’s ranking.
The U.S. government warns citizens against traveling to Mexico due to the prevalence of crime and kidnapping. The Coronavirus outbreak may also affect some of the following destinations. Consult the CDC and the U.S. Department of State before traveling.
Isla Holbox
With a shallow lagoon separating it from the Yucatan Peninsula’s northeastern tip, Isla Holbox offers calm, quiet beaches. There is a stark contrast between the island and its rowdy southern neighbors, Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Playa Punta Cocos lies on the western side of the island by downtown Holbox and is known for its incredible sunsets and bird-watching possibilities. The more secluded Punta Mosquito offers a sandbar and shallow water for strolls and swimming. Isla Holbox is home to numerous flamingos, so keep an eye out for them.
Isla Mujeres
Located off the northeastern coast of Cancun, Isla Mujeres makes for a great day trip, weekend getaway or weeklong vacation. There are beautiful beaches lining this island, characterized by white sand, green palm trees, and brilliantly blue water. The island’s most popular beach, Playa Norte, offers calm waters, beach bars, and chair and umbrella rentals. There are also idyllic stretches of sand on Playa Tiburón, where nurse sharks are abundant, and at Garrafon Natural Reef Park, where colorful coral reefs beckon snorkelers.
Zihuatanejo
Acapulco, Mexico’s Pacific coast, has miles of pristine beaches and cobblestone streets in Zihuatanejo, or Zihua as locals call it. There are two popular beaches in the area, Playa La Ropa and Playa Manzanillo. La Ropa is surrounded by palm trees, and Playa Manzanillo is a great snorkeling spot. As a less commercialized destination than many of Mexico’s other beloved vacation spots, Zihuatanejo offers visitors some quality relaxation and rest. Temperatures range from the high 60s to the high 80s here year-round, but the best time to visit is from November to May.
Cozumel
There are excellent beaches on this Mexican island, as well as some of the best diving and snorkeling in the world. Located on the island’s western side, Paradise Beach is popular with families thanks to its calm waters and nearby vendors. Playa El Cielo offers breathtaking turquoise waters, boat tours, and excellent snorkeling opportunities for travelers. While Playa Palancar is perfect for those who enjoy kayaking and sailing. Cozumel’s sandy shores, however, suffer from one major drawback: crowds. It is difficult to find a secluded spot on the island because of the influx of tourists every year.
Cancun
Mexico’s beaches are known for their vast sands and clear blue waters, making them some of the most popular in the world. Despite the popularity of the shoreline outside of their resorts, visitors should explore the other options available in the area as well. At Playa Tortugas, travelers enjoy the relaxed vibe, calm surf (perfect for snorkeling), and clean sand, while Playa Delfines is relatively less-crowded and scenic. Tourists tend to favor Cancun, so vacationers can find many restaurants, shops, and resorts just steps from the sand when they want to escape the heat.
Playa del Carmen
In the past, Playa del Carmen had the ambiance of a sleepy European coastal town. In recent years, these beaches have become some of the most popular along the Yucatan Peninsula. Beachcombers come to central beaches such as Playa Mamitas to see and be seen just as much as those found in Cancun. From many of the Playa del Carmen resorts, you’ll have direct access to the beach. You can relax at Playa Punta Esmeralda, Xpu-Ha, and Playa Maroma on the outskirts of the city rather than going clubbing.
Sayulita
Sayulita, 25 miles northwest of Puerto Vallarta, is the perfect destination for surfers and anyone seeking peace and quiet. Spend a calm afternoon sunbathing on the secluded Playa Carricitos or catch a massive wave. Take a surf lesson at one of Playa Sayulita’s many surf schools if you’re a beginner. Playa de los Muertos (Dead Man’s Beach) offers slightly safer swimming conditions and excellent people-watching. Visit the colorful shops and cafes of this relaxed town when you need a break from the sand.
Tulum
Beyond the Tulum Archaeological Site lies Playa Ruinas, one of Mexico’s best beaches. Enjoy the sand beneath El Castillo – the old Mayan temple – without interruption at Playa Ruinas early in the morning or late in the evening. Don’t miss Playa Paraiso, Tulum’s most popular beach. You can lounge on the white sand and enjoy the blue hues of the ocean. You can get ceviche and drinks at the beach club if you’re hungry. Occasionally, this popular shoreline is clogged with seaweed, according to some visitors.
La Paz
In the eastern part of Baja California Sur, La Paz overlooks the Gulf of California about 100 miles northwest of Cabo San Lucas. A modest beach lines the waterfront promenade, but the standout beaches are a short drive away. This beach, located approximately 17 miles north of the city, offers long stretches of white sand and shallow, warm water ideal for families. Kayaks are also available for rent here. Consider taking a boat tour to see the coastline and the more remote Ensenada Grande beach on Isla Partida.
Puerto Vallarta
The beaches in Puerto Vallarta are superb – some are small, some hidden, and some are only accessible by boat. The smallest beach in Mexico is Colomitos Beach, which is surrounded by the Sierra Madre Mountains. You can reach it by hiking for 40 minutes or taking a boat from Boca de Tomatlan, 15 miles south of Puerto Vallarta. There are calming turquoise waters and warm sands at Playa Las Gemelas, located about 10 miles outside of the city. Located about 3 miles south of the city center, Playa Camarones (Shrimp Beach) is easily accessible by car. Along the sandy shoreline, vendors sell henna tattoos and sunbathing equipment.
Manzanillo
Manzanillo, a resort town and port on the Mexican coast, offers travelers two bays. Bahia de Manzanillo has a few beaches to explore, as well as a boardwalk and a wharf. Playa La Boquita and Playa Miramar are popular with visitors. Playa Santiago is one of the many beaches in Bahia de Santiago, where you won’t want to miss the sunsets.
Punta Mita
Punta Mita is a luxury beach resort located less than 27 miles northwest of Puerto Vallarta on Mexico’s Pacific coast. There are several five-star hotels in the area, including a St. Regis and a Four Seasons. A tranquil atmosphere sets Punta Mita apart from neighboring Mexico beaches. Furthermore, the beaches are less crowded and better maintained since there are fewer lodging options. Take a boat to secluded beaches like La Lancha and the Islas Marietas if you want more elbow room while sunbathing.
Playa Zicatela
Playa Zicatela hosts several annual surfing competitions, making it one of the top surfing destinations in Mexico. Expert surfers should visit Playa Zicatela in late spring or summer, when the waves can reach 20 feet. However, beginners and casual swimmers should be aware that the beach has a dangerous undertow. La Punta and Playa Principal, however, offer calmer waves. During a break from surfing, surfers can visit Playa Zicatela’s many bars, restaurants, and shops.
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