Cancun Beach Guide
Laura Schulthies
Laura Schulthies
Daniel Mode
Daniel ModeCancun beaches are some of the most picturesque in the Mexican Caribbean. An area famous for its sugary white sands, turquoise waters, and island-style beach life. While most Cancun all inclusive resorts have their own beaches, we recommend venturing out a bit to see what else this Caribbean destination has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a fun touristy Cancun beach or a more secluded local favorite, you’ll find it here in our Cancun beach guide. These are the 5 best beaches in Cancun to plan your perfect beach getaway.
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*Note: Since 2008, Sargassum (seaweed) has regularly arrived on the Caribbean coast of Mexico (Cancun, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, etc.) from April to August. Many resorts and beaches remove the seaweed from the sand daily, but it can pile up by the water’s edge and be stinky in places where it’s not removed. For this reason, we suggest getting a hotel with a nice pool area for swimming or spending some time on the islands of Cozumel or Isla Mujeres which are largely protected from the seaweed.
The Best Cancun Beaches
Playa Delfines
Cancun’s largest and most popular beach is also one of its most beautiful. Ivory sands meet electric turquoise waters at Playa Delfines, also known as Dolphin Beach. Make sure to keep an eye out for dolphins while enjoying the powdery sands of this gorgeous beach. This Blue Flag certified beach is home to the famous colorful “Cancun” sign at El Mirador viewpoint.
If you’re looking for a bit of shade, there is no need to worry. There are plenty offree palapas (on a first-come, first-served basis) and beach chairs and umbrellas available for rent along the beach. It’s also good to keep in mind that waves can be strong here with a powerful undertow, and weak swimmers are not recommended to be in the water.
Beach Amenities: Public Restrooms (close around 5 PM), Public Showers, Beach Vendors, Free Public Parking (Southernmost End of Zona Hotelera), Free Palapas (First Come, First Serve), Lifeguard On Duty, Small Playground.
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Playa Caracol
You’ll find Playa Caracol in the heart of Cancun’s Hotel Zone, right next to the Isla Mujeres ferry dock at the Ultramar terminal. This stunning beach is also close to Plaza Caracol shopping center, numerous delicious restaurants, and great shopping.
Although the beach is small, it is quiet and a local favorite. Not to mention, incredibly beautiful with powdery white sand and gorgeous crystal clear waters. Playa Caracol is an excellent beach for swimming thanks to its calm, shallow waters protected by a nearby jetty. The gentle waves and sandy bottom make it ideal for families with young children. Those wanting to escape the sun can easily rent umbrellas or palapas.
Beach Amenities: Easy Access, Limited Roadside Public Parking, Lifeguards On Duty During Peak Hours, Beach Facilities Only Available To Hotel Guests Including: Restrooms, Showers, Changing Rooms, Umbrellas, and Loungers.
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Playa Chac Mool
Playa Chac Mool is a bit of a hidden gem. Although it’s located right next to the popular party beach Playa Forum, it couldn’t be any more different. This gorgeous beach is a quiet and secluded spot to relax in solitude with a good book, stretched out under an umbrella.
The crystal clear jewel-toned waters look calm on the surface, but it’s important to note that this beach can have a surprisingly strong undertow, always pay attention to the flag system and swim near lifeguard stations. Playa Chac Mool is popular for surfing, with local surf schools offering lessons and board rentals. Visitors can also easily rent water sports equipment including jet skis, paddleboards, and snorkeling gear if they are looking for a bit more adventure.
Beach Amenities: Easy Beach Access (Across From Mayan Monkey Hostel), Good For Families, Lifeguards On Duty, Public Restrooms, Public Restrooms, Public Showers, and Public Parking.
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Playa Langosta
Playa Langosta’s location makes it one of the most easily accessible beaches in Cancun’s Hotel Zone. Adored by both locals and visitors alike, this beach has somehow managed to fly under the tourists’ radar.
With sun-drenched sand and dazzling blue water, the beach also has a picturesque pier going right down the middle. This is an ideal beach for families because the water is calm and shallow, extending far from shore and making it perfect for little ones to wade safely. There is a well-maintained playground for kids on the sand, plus a new beachside snack bar called El Pecesito.
As a bonus, Playa Langosta is often praised for having less sargassum than other Cancun beaches, making for more consistently pristine beach days.
Beach Amenities: Public Restrooms, Free Public Parking (limited to 40 spaces so arrive early), Beach Vendors, Playground, Great Beach For Families, Lifeguards On Duty, Beach Entrance Next To Melia Casa Maya Hotel.
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Playa Marlin
This wide and serene beach is one of the top-rated in Cancun and is conveniently located in the Hotel Zone near Plaza Kukulcán and La Isla Shopping Village. The deep turquoise waters meet sugary white sand at Playa Marlin.
Those who are searching for a bit of solitude can find it here and experienced swimmers can enjoy playing in the waves. There is a lifeguard on duty and visitors can easily rent umbrellas and chairs. Keep in mind that Playa Marlin can have powerful waves and a strong undertow, making swimming a bit dangerous at times, but visitors can still enjoy other water activities like parasailing. Lifeguards are on duty with extended hours from 9 AM to 7 PM during the winter tourist season. While swimming conditions can be challenging, visitors can still enjoy water activities like parasailing, jet skiing, and catamaran rides.
Beach Amenities: Public Restrooms, Public Showers, Public Changing Rooms, Lifeguards On Duty, Rentable Beach Chairs and Umbrellas, Easily Accessible, and Free Public Parking (limited – make sure to arrive early).
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