Cancún's Best Beaches

Offering 22½ km (14 mi) of accessible coastline, Cancún is riddled with postcard-worthy beaches that beckon outdoor enthusiasts of every ilk. The warm weather and inviting water make it ideal for those seeking sunshine, adventure, and relaxation.

It's virtually impossible to find a bad beach here; they all have turquoise waters and powdery white sand. In general, beaches on the northwestern side tend to have calmer waters and softer sand than those facing the Caribbean. The sand in Cancún is made up of microscopic star-shape fossils called discoasters. The light and fluffy texture stays cool underfoot, even when the sun is beating down during prime tanning hours. By law, the entire coast of Mexico is federal property and open to the public. Everyone is welcome as long as you enter and exit from one of the public points—the problem is that these points are often miles apart. One way around the situation is to find a hotel open to the public, go into the lobby bar for a drink or snack, and then head to the beach for a swim.

Safety First

Overall, the beaches facing the Bahía de Mujeres are best for swimming. Farther out, the undertow can be tricky. Some beaches facing the Caribbean have riptides and currents, especially when the surf is high. In December, strong north winds bring an increase in wave size that eats away at the sandbanks. Unexpected drop-offs along the shoreline can be dangerous.

(Above) Palapa-side service on Playa Gaviota Azul. (Top right) The powdery white sand of Cancún. (Bottom right) Soaking up the sun at Playa Tortugas.

Favorite Beaches

Playa Langosta (Lobster Beach)

The calm waters and designated swimming area make this Cancún's most child-friendly beach. Facing Bahía de Mujeres at the top of the "7," this stretch of sand is protected from high winds and is less crowded than those on the Caribbean side. Families can take a break from the sun and head to the neighboring ice-cream shop or Dolphin Discovery Center.

Playa Tortugas (Turtle Beach)

Snorkeling, sailing, kayaking, swimming—this beach is an aquatic playground for active travelers. The deep waters and wide sandbanks also make it an ideal launching point for paragliding and Jet Skiing. If water sports are not your thing, purchase a blow-up raft from one of the beach vendors, and float the day away. There are also plenty of snack shops to keep your tummy happy.

Playa Gaviota Azul (Blue Seagull Beach)

As the northernmost beach on the Caribbean side, the waves here pick up wind swell, making it one of the few spots in Cancún where surfing is possible. During hurricane season waves can reach up to 6 feet; all other times of year the waters are great for a playful day in the surf. Adding to the lure of this beach is its proximity to shops, restaurants, and Playa Cabana Beach Club, where you can rent a beach bed and eat fresh sushi.

Playa Delfines (Dolphin Beach)

This beach is easy to locate, since it is the only one that has yet to be blocked by resorts. The white sand and four shades of turquoise often bring cars to a halt on Boulevard Kukulcán. Families and locals are drawn to this wide-open stretch of sand, where kites and beach supplies are sold. The strong currents and high winds make this a better place to catch some rays than snorkel or swim. Playa Delfines is the only beach in Cancún with its own parking lot.

Playa Punta Nizuc

Located at the southern tip of Boulevard Kukulcán, this beach is so secluded that you may think you're on a deserted island. Since there are no amenities, few travelers visit this stretch of pristine coastline. The water is placid, and the beaches are well manicured by the neighboring Camino Real Hotel. Parking, crowds, and noise are never an issue, and it's most likely the only Cancún beach you'll have entirely to yourself.