Mexico, a land blessed with thousands of miles of stunning coastline, presents an unparalleled variety of beach experiences. From the vibrant turquoise waters of the Caribbean to the dramatic Pacific waves, and the serene Gulf of Mexico to the biodiverse Sea of Cortez, Mexico’s beaches are as diverse as they are beautiful. As Zachary Rabinor, a renowned travel expert and CEO of Journey Mexico, aptly puts it, the country offers “a diverse range of coastal landscapes and beach destinations,” ensuring there’s a perfect slice of paradise for every traveler.
Whether you dream of sinking your toes into powdery white sands lapped by bath-warm Caribbean waters, crave the thrill of adrenaline-pumping surf, or seek secluded golden shores teeming with sea turtles, Mexico’s best beaches are calling. Forget generic vacation spots; Mexico offers unique coastal escapes tailored to every taste, from lively beach parties to tranquil azure waters perfect for peaceful floating.
Dive into our curated list of the best beaches in Mexico, your essential guide to planning an unforgettable Mexican beach getaway.
Top Beach Experiences You Can’t Miss
- Playa Paraiso, Tulum: For those seeking the quintessential postcard-perfect Tulum beach, Playa Paraiso is a must-visit. It’s the ideal spot to soak up the sun, swim in dazzling turquoise waters, and mingle with fellow travelers in a laid-back atmosphere.
- Playa Carrizalillo, Oaxaca: Prepare for a rewarding descent down 160 steps to reach Playa Carrizalillo in Oaxaca. This hidden gem offers a tranquil escape with golden sands and gentle turquoise waves, a world away from the bustling Playa Zicatela.
- Playa Balandra, Baja California Sur: Families and snorkelers will adore the lagoon-like serenity of Playa Balandra in Baja California Sur. Its shallow, crystal-clear waters are perfect for safe swimming and exploring the vibrant underwater world.
- Playa del Amor, Cabo San Lucas: Romance blossoms at Playa del Amor in Cabo San Lucas. This secluded beach, nestled near the iconic El Arco, provides intimate nooks and breathtaking views, making it ideal for couples.
- Isla Holbox, Quintana Roo: Escape the car horns and embrace island life on car-free Isla Holbox. Explore pristine beaches by bike, golf cart, or on foot, and immerse yourself in a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere.
Playa Paraiso, Quintana Roo
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/playa-paraiso-quintana-roo-MXBEACHES1021-9e3ae6596d70498499e7b9338304cbbb.jpg)
When Tulum is mentioned, Playa Paraiso inevitably follows. Often hailed as the most stunning beach in the Tulum area, Playa Paraiso lives up to its name – Paradise Beach. Located just south of Tulum’s ancient Mayan ruins, this expansive stretch of powdery white sand is a magnet for those seeking ultimate relaxation and breathtaking scenery. Day-trippers and seasoned travelers alike are drawn to its picture-perfect palette of dazzling white sand meeting the vibrant turquoise and emerald green waters of the Caribbean Sea.
Beyond its visual appeal, Playa Paraiso is a hub of activity. Whether your passion is exploring the underwater world through snorkeling and scuba diving, or enjoying the lively atmosphere of beach bars, Playa Paraiso provides an energetic yet relaxed beach experience. It’s a place where you can effortlessly spend the day lounging, swimming, and soaking in the quintessential Caribbean beach vibe.
Playa Carrizalillo, Oaxaca
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/playa-carrizalillo-oaxaca-MXBEACHES1021-1a722d2555904204a6540a120ae9e0b3.jpg)
While Playa Zicatela in Puerto Escondido buzzes with activity and margarita-sipping crowds, venture off the beaten path to discover the tranquil beauty of Playa Carrizalillo. A long-time favorite among locals, this secluded beach requires a descent of over 160 steps, a journey that rewards you with breathtaking turquoise waters and a perfectly crescent-shaped beach embraced by swaying palm trees. The descent ensures a sense of peaceful seclusion, setting it apart from the more accessible and crowded beaches.
Playa Carrizalillo is also renowned as an ideal spot for beginner surfers. Local surf instructors are readily available, offering lessons for those eager to catch their first wave. Adding to its charm are the laid-back beach shacks and snack bars lining the shore, perfect for enjoying fresh seafood and cold drinks. And don’t miss the iconic ice cream cart that rolls along the beach in the afternoons, offering a sweet treat to complete your idyllic beach day.
Playa Balandra, Baja California Sur
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/playa-balandra-la-paz-MXBEACHES1021-0b8b7902ceaf4b0099d39f90a591cf5e.jpg)
A short half-hour drive north of La Paz, a captivating city on the Sea of Cortez, lies Playa Balandra, a beach that truly redefines “jaw-dropping.” Far removed from typical tourist trails, this picture-perfect crescent of fine sand overlooks a bay that resembles a serene lagoon. The exceptionally calm, shallow, turquoise waters gently caressing its sugary shores make Playa Balandra one of the best beaches in Mexico, particularly for families with young children. The wading-depth waters extend far out, creating a safe and delightful playground for kids.
For those fascinated by marine life, Playa Balandra is an absolute paradise. The Sea of Cortez is globally recognized as a premier snorkeling destination, and Playa Balandra provides an unparalleled opportunity to encounter amazing sea creatures in their natural habitat. Its clear, shallow waters are ideal for spotting colorful fish and other marine inhabitants, making it an unforgettable experience for snorkelers of all levels.
Playa del Amor, Baja California Sur
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/playa-del-amor-cabo-san-lucas-MXBEACHES1021-eac54287c4d544479f5878e48fbad30d.jpg)
The iconic El Arco rock formation in Cabo San Lucas provides a dramatic backdrop to Playa del Amor, also known as Lover’s Beach. Renowned as one of the top beaches in Mexico for couples, Playa del Amor offers a romantic ambiance with its secluded spots and stunning views. Its name itself hints at the intimate and enchanting experiences it provides.
This celebrated stretch of golden sand graces a small peninsula southeast of downtown Cabo, easily accessible by a short water taxi ride from the marina. While the waters on the Playa del Amor side are generally calm, a rarity in Los Cabos known for its strong currents, it’s crucial to heed swimming advisories and stick to the designated swimming area on this side of the peninsula. The opposite shore, often referred to as “Divorce Beach,” faces the powerful Pacific Ocean and is notorious for dangerous surf and strong undertows, making swimming extremely hazardous.
Zachary Rabinor notes, “It’s worth mentioning that Playa del Amor changes in size throughout the year due to tides and was reduced considerably following Hurricane Odile [in 2014], but it’s the location and contrasts that make this spot so special.” Despite natural shifts in its size, the unique location and breathtaking contrasts of Playa del Amor continue to captivate and enchant visitors.
Isla Holbox, Quintana Roo
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/isla-holbox-MXBEACHES1021-15647f204f5040fdb8fd5807684540bb.jpg)
Isla Holbox, nestled just off the northern coast of Quintana Roo in the Gulf of Mexico, has evolved from a backpacker’s secret to a sought-after destination for bohemian luxury. This laid-back island paradise is car-free, with residents and visitors embracing a slower pace of life, moving around by bicycle, on foot, or in golf carts. The island exudes a relaxed “barefoot and cold beers” vibe, inviting you to unwind and disconnect.
Bring your yoga mat and insect repellent to fully embrace the Holbox experience. Let the gentle sounds of steel drums drift from Raíces, a beloved seafood restaurant known for its authentic Caribbean flavors, as you settle into the island rhythm. Isla Holbox offers a unique blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and a touch of understated luxury, making it a truly special beach destination in Mexico.
Playa Sisal, Yucatán
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/playa-sisal-yucatan-MXBEACHES1021-b1263066ecc1477e95ea5333eec8f99e.jpg)
Quintana Roo, with its famed resorts, vibrant nightlife, and historical sites, has long been the primary draw for tourists in Mexico. However, for travelers seeking a more understated and authentic Mexican beach experience, the neighboring state of Yucatán offers a compelling alternative. While less frequented than Cancún or the Riviera Maya, Yucatán boasts spectacular beaches characterized by powder-soft sands and serene, calm waters.
Just an hour’s drive northwest of Mérida, the state capital, lies Playa Sisal. This hidden gem offers pristine bone-white sand, crystal-clear water, and a uniquely tranquil charm. Here, you won’t find sprawling resorts or bustling crowds, but rather a few charming beachside palapas and quaint alfresco seafood restaurants serving up the freshest catches of the day. Playa Sisal provides a peaceful escape and a taste of authentic Yucatecan coastal life.
Playa Delfines, Quintana Roo
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/playa-delphines-cancun-MXBEACHES1021-86f0f0dca1834343b8d51699ca66cf63.jpg)
Cancún’s Playa Delfines is cherished by both locals and visitors for its expansive stretch of powdery white sand, vibrant electric-blue waters, and refreshingly tranquil atmosphere. Remarkably, it stands as the only beach in Cancún’s bustling Hotel Zone that remains free of towering high-rise hotels, preserving its natural beauty and open feel. Adding to its uniqueness, Playa Delfines is also one of the rare surfing spots along Mexico’s Caribbean coastline.
The ambiance at Playa Delfines is distinctly different – it truly feels like a local’s beach, a hidden gem within one of the most heavily touristed destinations in the world. As Zachary Rabinor points out, “There are not many public beaches with facilities along Cancún’s Hotel Zone, but this is one of them and so it’s mostly visited by locals. If you’re not staying in an oceanfront hotel in Cancún, Playa Delfines is where you’ll want to go to enjoy those iconic blue waters and white sands.” Playa Delfines offers an authentic Cancún beach experience, away from the resort crowds and infused with local charm.
Playa Mayto, Jalisco
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/playa-mayto-jalisco-MXBEACHES1021-c5b47f2e2f7a4ac28a935439fe738f79.jpg)
Playa Mayto, nestled approximately two hours south of Puerto Vallarta on the Cabo Corrientes coast, offers a delightful sense of remoteness. Reaching this secluded beach requires a journey down a dusty road branching off from federal highway 200 near the small town of El Tuito, adding to its off-the-beaten-path appeal.
Upon arrival, you’ll discover a seemingly endless ribbon of pristine sand, dotted with a handful of charming hotels and restaurants within easy walking distance of the shore. Notably, Playa Mayto is home to one of Jalisco’s most significant sea turtle protection camps. This camp has been dedicated to research and conservation efforts in the region since 2005, playing a vital role in preserving local sea turtle populations. For those interested in conservation, contacting the camp via their Facebook page offers opportunities to volunteer during your visit. Many nearby hotels also facilitate day visits to the turtle camp, providing a unique and enriching experience.
Playa Troncones, Guerrero
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/troncones-guerrero-MXBEACHES1021-e760403bf0a54664b72f09fa0ad696ec.jpg)
While Guerrero was once synonymous with the glitz and glamour of Acapulco’s beaches, the state’s quieter, lesser-known destinations are now capturing the attention of discerning travelers. Troncones, in particular, embodies a low-profile charm, attracting surfers seeking some of the best waves along the southern Pacific coast. This tranquil town is home to one of the best beaches in Mexico for those seeking peace and natural beauty.
Visitors to Troncones are rewarded with a breathtaking three-mile expanse of pristine golden sand, mesmerizing cobalt-colored waves, and the laid-back lifestyle that initially drew travelers to Mexico’s Pacific coast. It’s a place to unwind, surf, and reconnect with the simple pleasures of beach life, far from the crowds and commercialism of more popular resorts.
Puerto Progreso, Yucatán
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/progreso-yucatan-MXBEACHES1021-208b48a42ce8497fadf664b5764a656e.jpg)
When exploring the historic city of Mérida, setting aside time to venture north to the beach town of Progreso is highly recommended. Here, cruise ship passengers disembark onto the world’s longest pier – an astounding five miles in length – before immersing themselves in the local atmosphere. The Malecón, Progreso’s vibrant beachfront promenade, is lined with shops, snack bars, and restaurants, offering a taste of coastal Yucatecan life.
Take off your sandals and settle under a palapa on the beach to savor fresh ceviche while enjoying panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. Keep an eye out for the occasional pink flamingo wading in the shallows, adding a touch of whimsical charm to your beachside experience. Puerto Progreso provides a relaxed and accessible beach escape near the cultural richness of Mérida.
Playa El Médano, Baja California Sur
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/medano-beach-cabo-san-lucas-MXBEACHES1021-ae71f606c54242dc901f0444b5c022ae.jpg)
While many beaches in Los Cabos are characterized by powerful waves and strong currents unsuitable for swimming, Médano Beach stands out as a safe haven for swimmers. In fact, it’s Cabo San Lucas’s main beach, stretching for approximately two miles of golden sand and boasting some of the gentlest waves in this part of Baja California Sur. This makes it a particularly popular choice for families and those seeking calm waters for swimming and water activities.
Médano Beach is also one of the livelier and more frequented beaches in Cabo San Lucas, meaning you might need to vie for space at the numerous bars and restaurants lining the shore. However, the vibrant energy is palpable, and you’re always within easy reach of a refreshing beach cocktail or the luxurious amenities of a five-star resort. Playa El Médano offers a perfect blend of relaxation, activity, and accessibility in the heart of Cabo San Lucas.
Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, Quintana Roo
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/siankaanbiospherereservebeachmexico-DC_ColombiaGetty-8f530b30315543e585c6558c433123f4.jpg)
The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, encompasses a vast protected area of nearly one million acres directly south of Tulum. This natural sanctuary is a world away from the developed resort zones, offering pristine, undeveloped white-sand beaches, gracefully swaying palms, dense mangrove forests, and sparkling cerulean waters. It’s a haven for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility and unspoiled beauty.
Pack your camera, as Sian Ka’an is renowned for its exceptional wildlife. Here, you have the opportunity to spot diverse species, including dolphins, whales, spider monkeys, jaguars, and ocelots, among many other fascinating creatures. Zachary Rabinor highlights the reserve’s appeal: “Travelers can enjoy activities like wildlife spotting, bird-watching, snorkeling, kayaking, and ‘floating’ down the canals — all while savoring the untouched beauty of this protected area. Sian Ka’an serves as a reminder of the importance of conservation and sustainable tourism, providing a remarkable escape into nature’s wonders and a chance to connect with the incredible biodiversity of the region.”
Playa Tangolunda, Oaxaca
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/playa-tangolunda-huatulco-MXBEACHES1021-60917ee5c0b74b3ca4d937673f4f1f9d.jpg)
The Huatulco region in southern Oaxaca is a treasure trove of natural beauty, encompassing a national park and famous for its nine picturesque bays and breathtaking sunsets. A significant portion of the beaches here fall within the protected area, ensuring they remain undeveloped and pristine. Playa Tangolunda offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and convenient amenities.
At Playa Tangolunda, you’ll find opportunities for sailing and scuba diving in the clear waters, alongside a selection of luxury resorts catering to discerning travelers. The neighboring town of La Crucecita provides a range of shopping and dining establishments, and golf enthusiasts can enjoy an 18-hole golf course nearby. Playa Tangolunda offers a balanced experience, combining natural serenity with access to upscale amenities and activities.
Playa Maroma, Quintana Roo
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/playa-maroma-riviera-maya-MXBEACHES1021-4b9fea51159544c58696da7014d0c42e.jpg)
Playa Maroma, considered one of the premier beaches on Mexico’s Riviera Maya, is also among its most exclusive. Backed by select luxury hotels, Playa Maroma offers guests access to pristine pearly white sand and remarkably calm, brilliantly blue waters. This beach is also unique as one of the few locations in Mexico where you can find hotels featuring coveted overwater bungalows, such as El Dorado Maroma and Palafitos.
Playa Maroma deliberately maintains a tranquil and exclusive atmosphere, intentionally avoiding bustling beach clubs and crowded bars. Access to Playa Maroma is primarily reserved for guests of the select hotels lining its shore or through reservations at a handful of upscale restaurants. This exclusivity ensures a serene and undisturbed beach experience, ideal for those seeking privacy and luxury.
Playa Mujeres, Quintana Roo
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/isla-mujeres-MXBEACHES1021-588eb5bc7d1b4a1f9551dd5e668d7a0e.jpg)
Playa Mujeres, situated just north of Cancún’s bustling Hotel Zone, was once a well-kept secret, cherished for its fine white sand and relative seclusion away from the more raucous parts of the city. While its popularity has grown with the opening of new hotels, Playa Mujeres has successfully retained its original charm and inherent beauty. It continues to offer pockets of tranquility, particularly appealing to couples seeking a romantic escape.
For couples seeking an intimate retreat, the adults-only Beloved Playa Mujeres offers a luxurious and serene experience. For larger groups and families, all-inclusive resorts like the TRS Coral Hotel and the Grand Palladium Costa Mujeres Resort & Spa provide a range of amenities and activities while still allowing access to the beautiful Playa Mujeres. This beach provides a balance of accessibility and tranquility, appealing to diverse traveler preferences.
Playa La Punta, Oaxaca
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/puerto-escondido-OAXACART1221-7d648394e2eb434ea3f7f315eb7d3dd6.jpg)
Playa La Punta, named for the promontory that gracefully curves to form the southern end of Playa Zicatela, offers a slightly more relaxed and quieter atmosphere compared to its famous neighbor in Puerto Escondido. This area has long been a haven for a bohemian and hippie-chic crowd. While roads may be dustier and restaurants more casual, Playa La Punta’s reputation is evolving, with the emergence of design-forward boutique hotels and even a trendy food hall, Food Market La Punta.
However, what remains constant is the picture-perfect beach that consistently draws crowds for sunset. Playa La Punta provides an ideal vantage point to witness the spectacular Pacific sunsets that Puerto Escondido is celebrated for. It’s a place where you can enjoy the raw beauty of the Oaxacan coast, whether you’re a seasoned surfer, a sunset enthusiast, or simply seeking a laid-back beach vibe.
Beyond the Usual Suspects: More of Mexico’s Best Beaches
Playa Blanca, Guerrero
Located approximately 11 miles southeast of Zihuatanejo and a mere 10-minute drive from the airport, Playa Blanca offers a captivating “Robinson Crusoe” ambiance with its sparsely developed shoreline. It’s also renowned for showcasing some of the most spectacular sunsets imaginable, painting the sky with vibrant hues. Hotel options are intentionally limited to preserve its secluded atmosphere, with Las Palmas Luxury Villas providing an exclusive escape that feels like your own private beachfront estate.
Just behind the beach, nestled within a tropical forest, lies El Refugio de Potosí, a wildlife conservation center. This center offers a fun and educational experience for families, providing opportunities to observe iguanas, hummingbirds, macaws, and other bird species native to the region. Playa Blanca combines stunning natural beauty with opportunities for wildlife encounters and tranquil relaxation.
Costalegre, Jalisco
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/costalegre-jalisco-MXBEACHES1021-0a355d875ef547728eb81cc0d18bf5b3.jpg)
Costalegre in Jalisco is more than just a single beach; it encompasses a breathtaking 200-mile stretch of coastline along southern Jalisco, bordering the state of Colima. The region’s dramatic, rugged beauty ensures that virtually every beach along this stretch is worthy of inclusion on a “best beaches” list. Increasingly, travelers are drawn to this part of Jalisco, south of Puerto Vallarta, seeking refuge in luxury enclaves like Cuixmala and Careyes.
Zachary Rabinor expresses a personal connection to the region: “The Costalegre and Costa Careyes is an amazing region of Mexico close to my heart. It’s remote and relatively untouched despite having two international airports on either side of it.” Despite its secluded feel, Costalegre is surprisingly accessible.
With anticipated developments including a new airport, improved highways, and more luxury hotels, this area of Mexico is poised to potentially reach Los Cabos levels of luxury and recognition. The appeal is undeniable – dramatic cliffs cascade down to pristine, golden-hued beaches, while verdant peaks rise in the distance. Palm trees and sea turtles outnumber tourists, and beachfront seafood shacks are often frequented primarily by local residents and domestic tourists.
Rabinor further elaborates: “This is heaven for bird watchers, surfers, beach strollers, and those who seek seclusion, nature, and wild landscapes — not to mention the odd wild party, too.” Costalegre offers a unique and diverse coastal experience, appealing to a wide range of travelers seeking luxury, nature, and authentic Mexican charm.
Playa Cerritos, Baja California Sur
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/playa-cerritos-todos-santos-MXBEACHES1021-9cd0ff621ec24818bc2615fc601a25dc.jpg)
If Todos Santos isn’t yet on your radar, it definitely warrants your attention. This Pacific Coast town, located about an hour’s drive north of Los Cabos, has long been a haven for artists and surfers, drawn to its creative spirit and excellent waves. Today, Todos Santos offers a charming blend of unique shopping boutiques, thriving art galleries, and a sophisticated atmosphere, attracting a diverse crowd.
Todos Santos has always embraced a “choose-your-own-adventure” spirit, and this remains true today. The town’s most famous beach, Playa Cerritos, has been a renowned surfing mecca for decades, consistently attracting surfers of all levels. Notably, Playa Cerritos is also one of the few Pacific beaches in Baja that is considered safe for swimming, offering a broader appeal beyond just surfing. While it has become more popular than in past decades, Playa Cerritos undeniably remains one of the best beaches in Mexico, offering a vibrant mix of surf culture, natural beauty, and swimmable waters.
Playa Canalán, Nayarit
This expansive, wide stretch of inviting warm, white sand graces Mexico’s Pacific Coast, just north of Puerto Vallarta and framed by lush, jungle-covered mountains. Playa Canalán remained relatively undeveloped until the recent opening of the luxurious One&Only Mandarina in 2020. Its neighbors now include the exclusive Canalan Beach Club and the acclaimed Italian restaurant Allora, all integral parts of Mandarina, a meticulously planned community situated on some of the most coveted coastal real estate in the region.
Playa Canalán offers a blend of natural beauty and emerging luxury. The development of Mandarina has brought upscale amenities to this previously secluded stretch of coastline, while still preserving the stunning natural setting. It represents a growing trend in Mexican beach destinations – the integration of luxury and exclusivity with pristine natural environments.
Lagunas de Chacahua, Oaxaca
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/header-chacahua-OAXACART1221-17af7efbc7b74a49addfd6d374fa7237.jpg)
Reaching Lagunas de Chacahua beach requires a little more effort, but for those willing to undertake the journey, the reward is truly exceptional. A scenic water taxi ride through Lagunas de Chacahua National Park, located not far from Puerto Escondido, transports travelers to one of the most remote and idyllic beaches in all of Mexico. The journey itself is part of the adventure, winding through the natural beauty of the lagoon system.
This secluded beach graces the northern side of the inlet where the Chacahua Lagoon flows into the vast Pacific Ocean. Simple beach huts dot the shoreline, often filled with surfers who have traveled from distant corners of the globe, including Australia, to experience the legendary waves of Chacahua. This area of Mexico takes “lights out” seriously, resulting in exceptionally dark night skies perfect for stargazing. With minimal light pollution, the stars appear incredibly vibrant and numerous.
Don’t anticipate flashy services or amenities in Lagunas de Chacahua; this is a truly unspoiled and rustic paradise. It’s a backpacker’s haven, where an adventurous spirit, reef-safe sunscreen, and a surfboard are all you truly need to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and laid-back surf culture of this exceptional Mexican beach. Lagunas de Chacahua offers an escape to a simpler, more nature-focused beach experience.
Mexico’s coastline is a treasure trove of diverse and breathtaking beaches, each offering a unique experience. From the bustling shores of Cancún to the secluded paradises of Oaxaca and the luxurious enclaves of Baja California Sur, Mexico’s best beaches cater to every taste and travel style. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, romance, or family fun, the perfect Mexican beach awaits your discovery.
