Best beaches in Mexico

Mexico has much to offer the adventure traveller, but one of the most enticing reasons to visit are its beaches. This Central American country is fringed with coastlines that simply take your breath away. And with over 500 beaches to pick from, you're almost guaranteed to find your perfect match. Whether you're looking for a protected cove for your children to play in, a beach-party atmosphere with a buzzing nightlife, or a secluded spot surrounded by dense jungles and mysterious ancient ruins. Everyone visiting Mexico can find their little slice of paradise.

Tulum Playa

A spot not just known for its glistening water and exquisite beaches, Tulum Playa also attracts history buffs visiting the nearby, ancient Mayan ruins. Tulum Playa is the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring. The huge stretch of powder-white sand is lined with palm trees, boutique hotels, chilled beach bars and fabulous restaurants. And covering such a large area, it never feels too busy.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is one of the most popular destinations on a group tour to Mexico. The town has a lively atmosphere and tends to attract a hip, young crowd. But the beach is where Playa del Carmen really shines, and there's something there for everyone. Chic, beach-side lounges to swanky cocktail bars overlooking the sea. Playa del Carmen is an excellent place for snorkelling, sailing, football, volleyball and diving.

Did you know?

Mexico City has 10 artificial beaches.

Playa Norte

Playa Norte is one of Mexico's most popular beaches, particularly for families with young children. The sea is clear and still, offering a safe place for young children to swim and perfect conditions for snorkelling. Lining the shore are a fantastic choice of bars and restaurants, but if you're just there to relax, there's nothing better than chilling in a hammock, tied between two palm trees, gently swaying in the breeze.

Akumal

If you're looking to explore some of Mexico's most fascinating marine life, Akumal is the place to go. It's particularly famous for its abundance of marine turtles. Hundreds of turtles live in the area, swim in the shores and lay their eggs on the beach, so it's common to find yourself in the company of these extraordinary creatures. The landscape of Akumal is just as vibrant below the surface as it is above.

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Puerto Vallarta Beach

Puerto Vallarta is a lively city with the stunning Sierra Madre Mountains rising in the background. Circling the cities boundaries is a beautiful beach perfect for organising a range of activities. Diving, snorkelling, windsurfing, deep-sea fishing, parasailing, and whale watching. But even with all the adrenaline-pumping activities and exciting atmosphere, Puerto Vallarta still retains that charming, small-town feel we've come to love.

Cancun beach

Cancun beach is one of the most famous beaches in Mexico. The area is crammed with high-end hotels and chic resorts, providing the ideal setting for a summer party. The 14 mile stretch of powdery white sand, frames some of the most clear-blue waters you will ever see. Cancun beach is an excellent place for snorkelling, diving, paddleboarding, kayaking and exploring ancient Mayan ruins.

Playa Las Gatas

Often rated as one of the best places in Mexico for snorkelling, Playa Las Gatas is an underwater sanctuary for marine life. Explore the magnificent rocky coves and the bounty of exotic fish hiding within them. Playa Las Gatas rarely gets overcrowded so you can always be sure you'll find a decent spot to relax. Plenty of options for delicious, fresh seafood are peppered along the beach, and there's a beautiful lighthouse nearby which offers unparalleled views out to sea.

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Xpu-Ha Beach

Xpu-Ha Beach is one of the best Mexican beaches to visit if you want to escape the crowds. It is the quintessential, beach-side paradise that springs to mind when you first think of Mexico. With its old-school Mexican charm and array of delicious local restaurants, it offers a unique atmosphere that many of the other Mexican beaches don't provide. Adding to the zen vibe are yoga classes on the beach, volleyball and snorkelling.