The 10 Best Beaches in Cancun

If you’re looking for a slice of paradise away from the crowds, Puerto Morelos is the place to be. This small fishing village, located about 20 miles south of Cancun, offers a more relaxed and authentic beach experience. The pristine white sand and turquoise waters make it perfect for a quiet day by the sea. Spend the day at a beach club, sip on a fresh coconut, or rent a small fishing boat to catch your own dinner. The nearby coral reef—part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef—is also a dream for snorkelers and divers.

One of the most untouched beaches in the Riviera Maya, X’Cacel Beach is a true hidden gem. This eco-reserve is home to nesting sea turtles and a gorgeous freshwater cenote tucked just behind the dunes. Since it’s a protected area, you’ll need to pay a small fee to enter, but that means fewer crowds and a serene setting. Bring your own water, snacks and whatever tropical drink you fancy—there aren’t many services here, which adds to its off-the-grid charm.

Families with kids will love Xpu-Ha Beach for its calm, shallow waters and soft golden sand. This crescent-shaped bay, about an hour south of Cancun, is naturally protected from strong waves, making it perfect for swimming and paddleboarding. For a more luxurious beach day, head to La Playa Xpu-Ha Beach Club, where you can rent a lounge chair, sip a margarita and enjoy live music on Sundays. Don’t be surprised if you see people playing volleyball, doing yoga, or even spotting stingrays in the clear waters.

Akumal, which means “place of the turtles” in the Mayan language, is famous for its resident sea turtles that swim close to shore. Located about two hours from Cancun, this palm-fringed beach is the ideal spot for snorkeling. Rent gear from one of the small beachfront shops and swim alongside these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. When you’re done exploring the underwater world, relax under a palapa, sip on a cold beer and watch the waves roll in.

Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Playa Maroma boasts powdery white sand and unbelievably clear waters. This private beach is only accessible to guests of nearby resorts or those willing to purchase a day pass at Maroma Adventures. If you’re up for some adventure, you can go parasailing, ride ATVs through the jungle, or book a catamaran tour. But if you’d rather keep things low-key, grab a lounge chair, order a cocktail and soak up the stunning views.

For an untouched, wild beach experience, head to Sian Ka’an, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that marries beautiful beaches, verdant jungle and ancient Mayan ruins. Getting here takes some effort—expect a bit of off-road driving or even a boat ride—but the payoff is worth it. Once you arrive, you’ll find miles of empty white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and an ecosystem teeming with wildlife, from dolphins to exotic birds. It’s the ultimate escape for nature lovers looking for something beyond the typical resort beach.

Located in Playa del Carmen, Playacar Beach is a stunning stretch of sand known for its steady breeze, making it a hotspot for kite surfers and windsurfers. If you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe, just bring a towel, a good book and a cooler with drinks and snacks. Since it’s part of a gated community, you may need to pay for a day pass, but the calm waters, soft sand and fewer crowds make it a worthwhile trip.

A quick 20-minute ferry ride from Cancun, Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres is what beach dreams are made of. Think shallow, calm waters that are perfect for floating, soft white sand and a lively beach scene with plenty of bars and restaurants. If you’re in the mood to socialize, grab a lounge chair, order a piña colada from a beachfront bar and soak up the island vibes. If you prefer a quieter experience, head farther down the beach for a more relaxed setting. Either way, Playa Norte is an absolute must-visit.

Once a hidden paradise, Tulum Beach has transformed into one of the trendiest beach destinations in the world. Unlike Cancun’s hotel zone, Tulum is lined with boutique hotels, beach clubs and eco-friendly resorts. The vibe here is more bohemian, with plenty of yoga classes, juice bars and stylish beachside restaurants. Whether you’re lounging under a palm tree, exploring the ancient Mayan ruins that overlook the sea, or sipping a mezcal cocktail at a beachfront bar, Tulum Beach is all about effortless cool.

If you want to experience Cancun’s natural beauty without the high-rise resorts, Playa Delfines is the place to go. This public beach is one of the few in Cancun that remains free of major development, giving it a more rugged, natural feel. The strong waves make it a favorite for surfers, but even if you’re not catching waves, you can still enjoy the panoramic ocean views and soft sand. Bonus points if you’re traveling with kids—there’s a playground nearby, and you can snap a photo with the colorful Cancun sign while you’re there.