These are the 35 Best Beaches in Mexico (Including the Hidden Gems Most People Miss)
Curious about the best Mexico Beaches?
You’ve come to the right places because I live in Mexico, and consider myself a bit of a beach snob. In this article, I’m about to show you all the top beaches in Mexico.
With 5,800 miles of coastline (9,330 km), picking the best beaches in Mexico was no easy feat, but the list does showcase the Mexico beaches you won’t want to miss.
The 35 most beautiful Mexico beaches on this list include some of the top travel destinations in Mexico, like Cancun, Cabo and Puerto Vallarta, and also some hidden gems, like Sayulita.
There are Mexico resort towns, and also virgin beaches with very few (if any) other people around.
Ready to discover the 35 best beaches in Mexico? Let’s dive in! For a visual aid, they’ve all been pinned to this handy Map of Mexico Beaches for you so you can see what’s where.
After finding your perfect Mexico beach, check out the Mexico Travel FAQ to help you plan your perfect trip.
The 35 Best Beaches in Mexico
1. Playa Maroma Beach, Quintana Roo
📍 Where is Playa Maroma Mexico?
Maroma Beach is located in Quintana Roo State, between Cancun and Playa del Carmen in the Yucatan Peninsula.
It is on the Mexican Caribbean Coast, so expect gorgeous, crystal clear waters in every shade of blue — maybe even the clearest water in Mexico.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
One of the top rated beaches in Mexico, Playa Maroma has been voted one of the Best Beaches in the World by the Travel Channel and Discovery Channel.
It’s soft sand and warm waters are perfect for overwater bungalows — and this is where you’ll find all the best overwater bungalows in Mexico.
It also has some great coral reefs for snorkeling just off-shore. With white sand, turquoise water and great snorkeling, it’s pretty easy see why this is one of the nicest beaches in Mexico!
Head to the southern end of the beach, called Punta Maroma (Maroma Point) near the stunning Chablé Maroma Resort, which is the best place to go snorkeling at Playa Maroma.
⚠️ Playa Maroma Tip: Buy a Day Pass
Though all beaches in Mexico are public, not all beaches have public access.
Unless you’re staying at a resort like El Dorado Palafitos, the easiest way to access Playa Maroma is with a day pass from Maroma Adventures and Beach Club, which costs about $40 USD per person.
Still, it’s worth the cost to check out famous Playa Maroma Mexico.
☀️ More suggestions: Best Beaches Near Playa Maroma
- Playa del Secreto
- Playa Paraiso
- Playa Puerto Morelos, located in Puerto Morelos near Cancun
- Playa Xpu-Ha, one of the best hidden beaches in Mexico
- Playa Paamul, one of the best beaches in Mexico for couples
Best Beaches in Mexico
2. Playa Balandra Beach, La Paz
📍 Where is Playa Balandra Mexico?
Balandra Beach is located in Baja California Sur State, about one hour from La Paz, Mexico in the Baja Peninsula.
It is in Puerto Bahía Balandra (Balandra Bay), a sheltered area in the Gulf of California just across from Isla Espiritu Santo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has what many consider the bluest water in Mexico.
Protected from some of the elements in the cove, Playa Blanadra is one of the best Mexico beaches for swimming. If you’re traveling to Mexico with kids, this just might be the best water in Mexico for non-swimmers.
Depending on who you ask, some might even say this is one of the best clear water beaches in Mexico — and the prettiest beach in Mexico.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
If Playa Maroma (#1 on the list) is the best beach on the east coast of Mexico, Balandra Beach is the best beach in Mexico on the west coast.
The waters are bright blue and calm, perfect for swimming. When visiting, don’t miss the famous mushroom rock on the north side of the beach.
⚠️ Playa Balandra Tip: Get there Early
Thanks to Instagram and YouTube, Playa Balandra is now a must see Mexico destination, and one of the best things to do in La Paz.
The most important of all tips for visiting Balandra Beach is to get there early! Both the parking lots and the beach itself fill up quickly.
☀️ More suggestions: Best Beaches in La Paz Mexico
- Playa El Tesoro
- Playa Pulguero Tepetates
- Playa Venetia
Best Beaches in Mexico
3. Playa Paraiso, Tulum
📍 Where is Playa Paraiso Mexico?
Playa Paraiso Beach is located in Tulum, Mexico, in the central part of Tulum Beach. In case you don’t know much about the country, Tulum is among the best beach towns in Mexico!
Paraiso Beach Tulum is only about one miles (1.6 km) from the Tulum Ruins, an ancient Mayan architectural site located right on the beach in Tulum National Park.
▶︎ Book one of the best hotels in Tulum Mexico!
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
Wondering, Where are the best beaches in Mexico located? While they are all over the country, the beaches of Tulum and all the others in the Mexican Caribbean are known to the “the best.”
Though you have lots of options for Tulum beaches, Playa Paraiso reigns supreme. It’s a beautiful beach in its own right, but Playa Paraiso Beach is also one of the best Tulum Instagram spots.
Here, you’ll find the famous slanted palm tree (or crooked palm tree), one of the most popular Tulum photos spots, just outside Playa Paraiso Beach Club at Hotel El Paraiso.
⭐️ More suggestions: Best Beaches in Tulum Mexico
- Playa las Palmas Todos Santos
- Playa Pescadores
- Tulum South Beach
- Tulum Secret Beach in Sian Ka’an
- Playa Santa Fe
- Playa Ruinas, located beneath Tulum Ruins
Best Beaches in Mexico
4. Playa del Amor, Cabo San Lucas
📍 Where is Playa del Amor Mexico?
Playa del Amor (Lover’s Beach) is in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, one of the two cabos that make up Los Cabos, Mexico — the other is San Jose del Cabo.
The beach is in an area called Land’s End, located at the tip of the Baja Peninsula where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
When talking about a famous beach in Mexico, you have to mention Lover’s Beach in Cabo. Only accessible by boat, it’s also right next to the most famous spot in all of Cabo San Lucas — the Cabo Arch.
No visit to this Mexican beach town is complete without seeing El Arco, is a natural stone arch in the ocean, and one of the best things to do in Cabo.
⚠️ Lovers Beach Tip: Go With a Tour
You can visit on your own by taking a water taxi from the Cabo Marina, but there are so many amazing tours to El Arco de Cabo and Lover’s Beach which make the experience more fun.
Check out these best Cabo Arch tours to see it on a boat cruise, SUP paddleboard or kayak.
☀️ More suggestions: Best Beaches in Cabo san lucas
- Playa Medano Beach: The main Cabo beach, and one of the best swimmable beaches in Cabo
- Playa Divorciado
- Playa Santa Maria
- Playa Palmilla
- Playa el Chileno
Best Beaches in Mexico
5. Playa del Amor, Islas Marietas (Mexico Hidden Beach)
📍 Where is Islas Marietas Mexico?
The Marietas Islands are located in the Pacific Ocean, about 2.5 hours from Puerto Vallarta and 1.5 hours from Sayulita, Mexico by boat.
They are part of Islas Marietas National Park, which is a protected natural area. In fact, it has some of the clearest water in Puerto Vallarta, and is a very popular spot for snorkeling tours.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
This is a Mexico bucket list beach! It’s a trek to get to, but once you’re there, you’ll feel lucky you were among the 125 or so people who went that day.
It’s also super exclusive, and in an effort to preserve this beach, the government limits the number of people who can go each day.
How to visit Islas Marietas
You must go with a boat tour because the islands are in the Pacific Ocean, about 2.5 hours from Puerto Vallarta.
There are two types of tours: One where you swim in the waters around the Marietas Islands (like this one), and one that takes you to the Hidden Beach, like many of these best Marietas Islands tours.
Best Beaches in Mexico
6. Playa las Gatas, Zihuatanejo
📍 Where is Playa Las Gatas Mexico?
Playa Las Gatas Beach is located in Zihuatanejo, Mexico, in the state of Guerrero, Mexico. Guerrero is one of the so-called Mexico Pacific States, as it sits on the Pacific Ocean.
Of all the beach places in Mexico on this list, this one is definitely the hardest to pronounce 🤣 In case you’re wondering about the Zihuatanejo pronunciation, it’s zee-wat-ten-eh-hoe.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
Ixtapa, Mexico is one of the top Mexico resort destinations — and it’s just minutes from Zihuatanejo.
While many visit Ixtapa because it has all these amazing resorts, don’t skip the beautiful places next door, like Playa las Gatas, one of the best beaches in laid-back Zihuatanejo.
⭐️ More suggestions: Best Beaches in Zihuatanejo Mexico
- Playa Blanca
- Playa Contramar
- Playa Larga
- Playa Libre
Best Beaches in Mexico
7. Pig Beach, Progreso
📍 Where is Pig Beach Mexico?
Pig Beach in Mexico is located in Puerto Yucalpetén, about 15 minutes from Puerto Progreso.
It is about 45 minutes to one hour from the colonial city of Merida, known as the safest city in Mexico.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
Ever dreamt of swimming with pigs in the Bahamas on the Exumas Islands?
While the Exumas are a bit remote and you have to get there by boat, Pig Beach (Playa Cochino) is easy to get to from Merida, Mexico, and you can swim with the pigs in Mexico!
🐷 Mexico PIG BEACH Tip: Check out nearby beaches
There’s not much in Puerto Yucalpetén besides the pigs, so this beach can be part of a larger Yucatan beaches trip.
Head to Pig Beach to see them, then jump in your rental car and visit another beach, like Celestun or Progreso.
☀️ More suggestions: Best Beaches in Yucatan Mexico
For a complete list of the best beaches in Yucatan on the Gulf of Mexico, head to 15 Best Merida Mexico Beaches in the Yucatan Peninsula.
- Playa Progreso: A popular Mexico cruise port
- Playa Sisal Beach: One of the Mexico pueblos magicos (magic towns)
- Playa Norte and Playa Sur in Celestun
Best Beaches in Mexico
8. Playa Xpu-Ha, Puerto Aventuras
📍 Where is Playa Xpu-Ha Mexico?
La Playa Xpuha is located in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico — one of three states that make up the famed Yucatan Peninsula.
It is about 15 minutes from Playa del Carmen, and about 45 minutes from both Cancun and Tulum by rental car.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
It is considered one of the best beaches in the Mexican Caribbean and the Yucatan Peninsula — yet it’s still somewhat off the beaten path.
You’ll get the same crystal clear water, white sands and palm trees you would in any other popular destination nearby, but not the crowds.
Best Beaches in Mexico
9. Playa Delfines, Cancun
📍 Where is Playa Delfines Mexico?
Playa Delfínes (Dolphins Beach) is one of the best Cancun beaches. Given the Cancun is by far the biggest travel destination in the country, it’s also the most visited beaches in Mexico.
Playa Delfines Cancun is located on the southern end of the Zona Hotelera (Cancun Hotel Zone), where you’ll find the best Cancun all inclusive beach resorts.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
No list of Mexico famous beaches won’t include this best Cancun beach!
It’s hard to declare the top beach in Cancun, a city made famous by its beaches, but Playa Delfínes is generally considered the most beautiful.
With its straw umbrellas in the golden sand and turquoise waters, Dolphins Beach Cancun might as well be on a postcard.
While it’s of course one of the most popular tourist beaches in Mexico because it’s located in Cancun, this beach is famous for good reason.
☀️ More suggestions: Best Beaches in Cancun Mexico
- Playa Mujeres
- Playa Chacmool
- Playa Langosta
- Playa Marlín
- Playa Punta Nizuc
🏝 Isla Cnotoy: Best Cancun day Trip Beach
You’ll find some of the best beaches near Cancun at Isla Contoy National Park.
You need to book an Isla Contoy touto visit because this small island is only accessible by boat, and Mexican government limits the number of daily visitors to preserve this stunning national park.
Best Beaches in Mexico
10. Playa Camaron, Mazatlan
📍 Where is Playa Camaron Mexico?
Playa Camaron (Shrimp Beach) is in Mazatlan, Mexico, in the state of Sinaloa.
It is in Northern Mexico, and located just across the Gulf of California from the Baja California Peninsula. Though Sinaloa state has a sinister reputation, Mazatan is one of the best beach towns in Mexico.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
Located in the Mazatlan Golden Zone, the main tourist hub in the city, Playa Camaron is widely considered the best Mazatlan beach.
It’s also a great place to rent water sports toys and book tours to the surrounding area, and you’re right next to the Mazatlan Malecon (boardwalk).
☀️ More suggestions: Best Beaches in Mazatlan Mexico
- Playa Gaviotas: Located right next to Playa Camaron.
- Deer Island Beach: To visit, you’ll need to go with a Deer Island tour
- Playa Isla de las Piedras
- Playa Olas Altas
Best Beaches in Mexico
11. Playa Norte, Isla Mujeres
📍 Where is Playa Norte Mexico?
Playa Norte (North Beach) is in Isla Mujeres, Mexico, which means island of women. Of course, people of all genders can visit and enjoy some of the calmest beaches in Mexico.
Playa Norte Isla Mujeres is located about 20 minutes from Cancun by ferry boat, just across the Bahía de Mujeres.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches of Mexico
Playa Norte consistently makes the TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice list of Top 25 Beaches in the World.
It is among the most popular beaches in Isla Mujeres thanks to its calm waters, soft white sand, and island vibes — at one of the best tropical places in Mexico.
No matter who you ask, they’re going to tell you that Playa Norte is the best beach Isla Mujeres Mexico has.
☀️ More suggestions: Best Beaches in Isla Mujeres Mexico
- Playa Lancheros
- Garrafon de Castilla
- Playa Centro
Best Beaches in Mexico
12. Playa Holbox, Isla Holbox Island
📍 Where is Playa Holbox Mexico?
Playa Holbox is on Isla Holbox, Mexico. The easiest way to get there is to fly into Cancun Airport, then head to the small pueblo of Chiquila and take the ferry to Holbox.
This Cancun to Holbox Island travel guide will explain how to get to Isla Holbox.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
Though Isla Holbox (pronounced hole-bosh, not hole-box) is near Cancun, it feels like it’s a world away!
The island is a tranquil tropical paradise on the Caribbean Sea, with hammocks in the water, seafood restaurants in the sand — and you can even swim with the whale sharks in Holbox.
☀️ More suggestions: Best Beaches in Isla Holbox Mexico
- Playa Punta Coco
- Playa Punta Mosquito
Best Beaches in Mexico
13. Playa la Entrega, Huatulco
📍 Where is Huatulco Mexico?
Huatulco is in Oaxaca State, one of the states in south-central Mexico.
This somewhat off the beaten path state is famous for the Oaxaca Day of the Dead festival, traditional Oaxacan food and a coastline full of beautiful Oaxaca beaches and beach towns, like Huatulco.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
Huatulco has an astounding 36 beaches and nine bays, so it’s hard to pick the best one.
Playa La Entrega is the most popular beach and has a bit of everything — calm waters for swimming, a tropical aesthetic, beachfront restaurants, and boat tours heading to the other beaches.
⚠️ beaches of huatulco Tip: Rent a car
The best Huatulco beaches in Mexico are spread out from one side of town to the other.
With 36 pristine beaches and nine bays, the best way to see them all is with a rental car because there isn’t efficient public transportation in Huatulco, Oaxaca, Mexico.
☀️ More suggestions: Best Beaches in Huatulco Mexico
- Playa Tangolunda
- Bahia San Agustin
- Playa La Bocana
- Bahia de Cacaluta
- Playa Organo
- Bahia Conejos
Best Beaches in Mexico
14. La Bufadora, Ensenada
📍 Where is La bufadora Mexico?
La Bufadora, meaning The Blowhole, is located in Ensenada, Mexico, a popular cruise port town in the state of Baja California on the west coast.
By car, Ensenada is only about two hours from San Diego, California. Many visitors actually drive across the border when they visit.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
La Bufadora is a natural rock formation with a hole that shoots water into the air up to 100-feet above the ocean.
It is one of the best natural wonders in Mexico and the largest blowholes in the world, along with Halona Blowhole in Hawaii and Kiama Blowhole in Australia.
While this isn’t a swimming beach in Mexico, it does have one of the most impressive natural sites and most iconic landmarks in Mexico.
☀️ More suggestions: Best Beaches in Ensenada Mexico
Like the beach at La Bufadora, Ensenada beaches are more for observing than places to lay around and relax on.
The list below will direct you to all the best beaches near Ensenada, located less than one hour from town.
- Playa Hermosa
- Playa San Miguel Beach
- Playa Estero
- El Faro Beach
Best Beaches in Mexico
15. Playa los Muertos, Puerto Vallarta
📍 Where is Playa los Muertos Mexico?
Playa los Muertos is the most popular beach in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
It is in Jalisco State, and sits on the Bahía de Banderas (Banderas Bay), an inlet fed by the Pacific Ocean. ▶︎ Book one of the best hotels in Puerto Vallarta Mexico!
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
This Puerto Vallarta beach has it all — swimmable areas, beach clubs, shops, bars, and restaurants along the Malecon (Puerto Vallarta boardwalk). It is known as one of the best swimming beaches in Puerto Vallarta.
If you want to take the water taxi to other, more secluded beaches near Puerto Vallarta, just head to the Sail Dock at Playa los Muertos.
☀️ More suggestions: Best Beaches in Puerto Vallarta Mexico
Wondering, Does Puerto Vallarta have nice beaches? It sure does, so don’t miss these beaches when you visit Puerto Vallarta Mexico:
- Playa Conchas Chinas
- Playa Mismaloya
- Playa Camarones
- Mexico Secret Beach at Islas Marietas
- Las Caletas Beach & Nature Reserve
- Playa Colomitos: The smallest Beach in Mexico at only 33-feet-long (10 m)
Best Beaches in Mexico
16. Playa Yelapa, Jalisco
📍 Where is Yelapa Mexico?
Yelapa is a charming Mexico beach town in Jalisco State, about one hour from Puerto Vallarta by boat — The easiest way to get to Yelapa is by boat.
It is one of the most charming Mexico hidden gems, and when you arrive, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Even thgouh you’re near one of the most popular destinations in Mexico, it’s like you’re worlds away.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
Want to go chasing waterfalls!? (Sorry, I had to 🥸)
Though Yelapa Jalisco is known mostly as a quaint beach town run by local families, that’s only half the story.
While you have the beach on one side, the other side of the city is full of rainforests, jungles and waterfalls.
☀️ More suggestions: Best Beaches near Yelapa Mexico
- Playa Las Animas
- Playa Majahuitas
- Playa Colomitos
Best Beaches in Mexico
17. Punta Mita, Riviera Nayarit
📍 Where is Punta Mita Mexico?
Punta Mita is an exclusive area with posh resorts in an area called the Riviera Nayarit. It is in Nayarit State, one of the Mexico Pacific States.
Riviera Nayarit has many great beaches, but Punta Mita is popular because it’s only about one hour from Puerto Vallarta.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
The Riviera Nayarit beaches have something for everyone — whale watching in winter, calm beaches for swimming and great beaches for surfing in Mexico.
It also has everything from inexpensive hostels to some of the best 5 Star resorts in Mexico, like Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit.
☀️ More suggestions: Best Beaches in Riviera Nayarit
- Playa Nuevo Vallarta
- Playa Bucerias
- Playa Punta de Mita
- Playa San Pancho
- Playa Nahui
- Playa Rincon de Guayabitos
- Playa Las Islitas (San Blas)
- Playa Lo de Marcos
- Playa La Lancha
Best Beaches in Mexico
18. Playa Malpaso, Sayulita
📍 Where is Playa Malpaso Mexico?
Walk all the way north of the Playa Sayulita (main beach) and you will get to Playa Malpaso — one of the best hidden gems in Sayulita, Mexico.
It is a 40-minute walk along the shore, so you don’t have to worry about directions; just stick to the shoreline and you’ll get there.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
This beach is rarely (if ever) crowded, so it’s the perfect beach to escape the Sayulita crowds.
It’s also one of the best places to watch the sunset in Sayulita, but you’ll want to have a secure way to get back to town when it’s dark, such as a rental golf cart or rental car.
☀️ More suggestions: Best Beaches in Sayulita Mexico
- Playa Sayulita: The most popular and main beach in Sayulita, and one of the best beaches near Puerto Vallarta Mexico
- Playa los Muertos: Sayulita beach with a cemetery
- Playa San Pancho: Located in San Pancho, Mexico
Best Beaches in Mexico
19. Playa Troncones, Guerrero
📍 Where is Playa Troncones Mexico?
Playa Troncones is in Troncones, a relatively undeveloped and uncrowded pueblo about 20 miles northwest of Zihuatanejo, on the coast of Guerrero State.
It has small hotels on the beach, shoes-optional seafood restaurants, and little else.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
As it’s rather off the beaten path, Troncones Beach is a pristine, quiet, and clean beach.
It has a long shoreline, with great waves for splashing around and boogie boarding. Other parts have giant waves ideal for surfers, which makes Playa Troncones one of the best surfing spots in Mexico 🏄♀️
☀️ More suggestions: Best beaches near Troncones
- Playa La Saladita
- Playa Manzanillo
- Playa Majahua
Best Beaches in Mexico
20. Lagunas de Chacahua, Oaxaca
📍 Where is Chacahua Mexico?
Lagunas de Chacahua National Park, usually just called Chacahua (pronounced cha-caw-wah), is on the Oaxacan Coast in Oaxaca State.
You can easily get there on a Puerto Escondido to Chachua tour, otherwise it’s a bit of a trek to get there (though totally worth it!).
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
Chacahua is one of those beaches to lay in a hammock, surf (or take surf lessons), read a book, go for a swim, watch the sunset and eat fresh seafood.
The WiFi is basically nonexistent, so all the best things to do in Chacahua involve being out in nature.
⚠️ Lagunas de Chacahua Tip
Chacahua is one of the best off the beaten path Oaxaca travel destinations.
This Mexico national park is gaining in popularity more and more each year — so head there soon to beat the crowds.
Best Beaches in Mexico
21. Playa Carrizalillo, Puerto Escondido
📍 Where is Playa Carrizalillo Mexico?
Located in the popular beach town of Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, Playa Carrizalillo is located just west of downtown. ▶︎ Book one of the best hotels in Puerto Escondido!
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
Looking for that famous Mexico beach aesthetic? Look no further! Playa Carrizalillo is known as one of the best beaches in Puerto Escondido, if not the best.
It’s not super easy to get to, as you must walk down (then back up) about 155 stairs to access this beach.
However, Carrizalillo is great for swimming and surfing, and it’s absolutely stunning, so this one’s worth the trek.
☀️ More suggestions: Best beaches near Playa Carrizalillo
- Playa Puerto Angel
- Playa Bacocho
- Playa Coral
- Playa Zicatela
Best Beaches in Mexico
22. Playa Mermejita, Mazunte
📍 Where is Playa Mermejita Mexico?
Playa Mermejita is in the Mazunte pueblo magico (magic town), located about one hour from Huatulco, Mexico.
It is one of the beaches that make up the Riviera Oaxaqueña (Oaxacan Riviera), also known as the Costa Esmerelda (Emerald Coast).
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
Mazunte has relatively untouched beaches, so they are all beautiful and peaceful.
However, the best one of them all is Playa Mermejita, a must see Mazunte beach. There isn’t anything to do here but enjoy the beauty all around you, and take in the sounds of the Pacific Ocean.
⚠️ Mazunte Tip: Watch the sunset at punta cometa
Punta Cometa is just a short and easy hike up from Playa Mermejita or Playa Rinconcito.
This is a point of land that juts into the Pacific Ocean, and the southernmost point in Oaxaca Mexico.
You can walk up there all day, but it’s an especially popular area at sunset because you’ll get some amazing views from the clifftop.
Just below Punta Cometa, you have an ocean view of Playa Mermejita.
☀️ More suggestions: Best beaches in Mazunte
- Playa Mazunte
- Playa Rinconcito
- Playa Cometa
Best Beaches in Mexico
23. Playa Zipolite (Mexico Nude Beach)
📍 Where is Mexico nude beach?
Playa Zipolite is the only legal nude beach in Mexico — though nudity is unofficially accepted at other Mexico beaches.
It is in the state of Oaxaca (pronounced waa-haa-kah), between the towns of Mazunte and Puerto Angel.
This beautiful beach is popular with everyone from hippies and artists, to multi-generational Mexican families and LGBTQ+ travelers.
However, some might not find it appropriate for children, which is why you might file Zipolite under “best beaches in Mexico for adults only!”
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
Nudity aside, Zipolite has some of the best beaches on the entire coast of Oaxaca.
Still a relatively off the beaten path Mexico travel destination, you’ll enjoy a long stretch of beach lined with huge boulders in the ocean, amazing sunsets, and laid back beachfront bars.
☀️ More suggestions: Best beaches in Zipolite
Though all Zipolite beaches are nude beaches, many beach-goers in Zipolite remain clothed.
If you want to bare it all without stares, head to the area known locally as Playa Desnudo (Nude Beach), located outside the Naked Hotel Zipolite, or the private beach cove called Playa Del Amor.
Best Beaches in Mexico
24. Playa La Boquilla, Puerto Angel
📍 Where is Playa La Boquilla Mexico?
Playa La Boquilla is in Puerto Ángel, a small beach town about 30 minutes west of San Agustinillo, closer to Zipolite, in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
While all Oaxaca beaches were just small fishing villages some years back, many now make the bulk of their income from tourism.
Nowadays, there are some nice hotels in Puerto Angel, but it’s still largely a fishing village, so it offers a nice glimpse into old school Oaxacan coastal life.
☀️ More suggestions: Best beaches in San Angel
- Playa Estacahuite
- Playa Panteon
- Playa Principal (Main Beach)
Best Beaches in Mexico
25. Isla Espíritu Santo, Baja California Sur
📍 Where is Isla Espíritu Santo Mexico?
Isla Espíritu Santo National Park, located off the coast of La Paz, Mexico, is an uninhabited island. As such, it’s arguably of the cleanest beach in Mexico!
It is part of the Islands and Protected Areas of the Gulf of California, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes 244 Mexico islands, like Isla Los Islotes and Isla Espiritu Santo.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
French diver and 1970s TV personality Jacques Cousteau famously called this part of Mexico “the aquarium of the world.”
The waters are clear, and there are numerous species of tropical fish and large schools of marine life, playful sea lions and seals, whale sharks and more.
The shallow waters at Espiritu Santo Island are perfect for swimming or just floating around at one of the most peaceful places on Earth.
For photographers, there’s no place better than Isla Espíritu Santo, a place of pure natural beauty, where the rocky desert meets the clear blue sea.
🏆 Best Isla Espíritu Santo Tours
Espiritu Santo Island Mexico is only accessible by boat on a tour. Below, you will find all the best tours to Isla Espiritu Santo:
Best Beaches in Mexico
25. Playa Zicatela, Puerto Escondido
📍 Where is Playa Zicatela Mexico?
Located in the popular beach town of Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, Playa Zicatela is located on the southeastern side of town.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
Playa Zicatela Oaxaca is best known for the Mexican Pipeline wave, which regularly reaches 10-feet in height 🏄♀️
The wave is most active in summer, when you can see international surfing competitions in Puerto Escondido.
As you might imagine, Playa Zicatela is not always best for swimming, but nearby Playa Carrizalillo is. In fact, Playa Zicatela is usually closed to swimmers because the waves are so huge.
☀️ More suggestions: Best beaches near Playa Zicatela
- Playa Manzanillo
- Playa Principal
- Playa La Punta
Best Beaches in Mexico
26. Playa Los Cerritos, Todos Santos
📍 Where is Playa Los Cerritos beach Mexico?
Playa Los Cerritos is in Todos Santos, one of the 135 (or so) Mexico pueblos magicos, or magic towns.
Todos Santos is located about one hour from Cabo San Lucas, and 1.5 hours from San Jose del Cabo.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
Los Cerritos Beach in Todos Santos is ideal for both surfers and swimmers — which is rarely the case, as many Baja Mexico beaches aren’t suitable for swimming.
You can rent a board or take surf lessons from a shop on the beach, or just enjoy a cold beer and tacos at Cerritos Beach Club.
☀️ More suggestions: Best beaches in Todos Santos
- Playas La Palmas (AKA Playa San Pedro)
- Playa La Pastora
- Playa Punta Lobos
Best Beaches in Mexico
27. Playa Paamul, Puerto Aventuras
📍 Where is Playa Paamul Mexico?
Paamul Beach is one of the best beaches in Quintana Roo Mexico, and one of the best beaches in the Riviera Maya.
It is located about 1.5 hours south of Cancun, and 30 minutes south of Playa del Carmen, near the town of Akumal Mexico. It is one of the best beaches in Mexico for swimming thanks to its calm water year-round.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
Playa Paamul is one of the best kept secrets in the Riviera Maya, and offers a locals’ experience amid a sea of Mexico all inclusive resorts.
There is great snorkeling in the reefs just off-shore, kayak rentals, inexpensive taco and ceviche restaurants in the sand, and an overall laid-back feel.
In my opinion, this is one of the best Mexican beaches to visit in the Caribbean because it’s not overrun with people.
Best Beaches in Mexico
28. Playacar Beach, Playa del Carmen
📍 Where is Playacar Mexico?
Playacar is just south of Playa del Carmen, well known for pristine white sand beaches, exclusive golf courses, luxury hotels and Playacar resorts.
Rather stay in Playa del Carmen? ▶︎ Book one of the best hotels in Playa del Carmen!
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
Playacar Beach provides a nice respite from the crowded Playa del Carmen beaches.
You can just put your towel in the sand, or pay for a day pass from one of the best Playacar resorts, like Sunset Fisherman Beach Resort, so you have access to food servers, the pool, showers and restrooms.
☀️ More suggestions: Best beaches in Playa del Carmen
- Playa Parque Fundadores
- Playa Mamitas
- Playa Calle 10 Beach
- Playa Calle 2 Beach
- Playa Punta Esmeralda
Best Beaches in Mexico
29. Cabo Corrientes, Costalegre, Jalisco
📍 Where is Cabo Corrientes Mexico?
Cabo Corrientes is part of the Costalegre (sometimes spelled Costa Alegre, and meaning Coast of Joy).
This is a series of different beaches, capes and bays in the Pacific Ocean on the western coast of Jalisco State, between Puerto Vallarta and the city of Manzanillo in Colima State.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
This is one of the best beaches in Mexico for those who like venturing off the beaten path.
Cabo Corrientes, on the southern tip of the Bay of Banderas, is home to unspoiled beaches, thick forests in the Sierra Madre mountains, cool rock formations, small pueblos and not much else!
☀️ More suggestions: Best beaches in Costalegre Mexico
- Playa Careyitos (Careyes, Mexico)
- Playa Yelapa
- Playa Majahuitas
- Playa Las Animas
- Playa Tenacatita
- Playa de Melaque
Best Beaches in Mexico
30. Punta Allen, Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
📍 Where is Punta Allen Mexico?
Punta Allen is just south of Tulum in Quintana Roo State. This hidden gem has one of the clearest beaches in Mexico, known as the “Tulum Secret Beach.”
It is located in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO site and the largest protected area in the Mexican Caribbean at about one million acres (405,000 hectares).
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
As one of the most popular vacation spots in Mexico, there’s not many Tulum off the beaten path places left, but Punta Allen is one of them.
It’s not always easy to access Sian Ka’an, but for those who venture into the Yucatan jungle past the all inclusive Tulum resorts, you’ll be rewarded!
🏆 Best Sian Ka’an Tours
The best way to visit Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is on a tour — and these are the best tours of Sian Ka’an.
There’s a lot to see in its one million acres, like the snorkeling reefs, Boca Paila Lagoon and Muyil Mayan Ruins, so a tour helps you see more of the reserve’s attractions in a limited amount of time.
Best Beaches in Mexico
31. Playa Mahahual, Costa Maya
📍 Where is Mahahual Mexico?
Mahahual (pronounced maa-haa-wall) is in Quintana Roo State, in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.
It is part of an area called the Costa Maya (Mayan Coast), about 4.5 hours south of Cancun, and 2.5 hours south of Tulum.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
Located just off-shore, there’s the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second largest in the world and one of the best places to snorkel in Mexico.
Snorkeling and scuba diving are the best things to do in Mahahual, but there’s also nearby Chacchoben Mayan Ruins to explore.
☀️ More suggestions: Best beaches in Mahahual
- Playa Maya Chan
- Playa La Bamba
💙 Lake Bacalar: The Maldives of Mexico
Besides the beaches in Mahahual, you’re only about 1.5 hours from Xcalak and Laguna Bacalar Lake — which isn’t technically one of Mexico’s best beaches because it’s a lake.
Nicknamed the Lagoon of Seven Colors, this large freshwater lake has the same blue waters as the Caribbean Sea. In fact, many visitors will even say Bacalar Lagoon has the most beautiful water in Mexico.
There are also cenotes (sinkholes) located in the lagoon, like Cenote Esmerelda. Just outside the lagoon, don’t miss Cenote Azul, one of the deepest cenotes in Yucatan.
Best Beaches in Mexico
32. Playa Ruinas, Tulum
📍 Where is Playa Ruinas Mexico?
Playa las Ruinas Beach is located on the northern end of Tulum Beach in Tulum National Park and the Zona Arqueológica (Tulum Archeological Zone).
The beach is just beneath the Tulum Ruins, an ancient Mayan architectural site once used as a trade port.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
First and foremost: This is the only beach in the world that has Mayan Ruins on it, which has made it one of the most popular Mexican beaches.
This beach isn’t huge, but it is the perfect place to cool off after you see the ruins. There is a staircase from the Tulum Ruins that you can take down to the beach cove below.
☀️ More suggestions: Best Tulum beaches
- Playa las Palmas
- Playa Pescadores
- Tulum South Beach
- Playa Paraiso
- Playa Santa Fe
Best Beaches in Mexico
33. Playa Akumal Beach, Akumal
📍 Where is Playa akumal Mexico?
Akumal is in Quintana Roo State, one of the three states that make up Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. It is south of Cancun, and in-between Playa del Carmen and Tulum.
The pueblo (small town) of Akumal sits on the Caribbean Sea, and ranks among the safest cities in Mexico.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
Akumal means place of the turtle in Maya, and Playa Akumal is famous because you can swim with the sea turtles.
A few years back, the Mexican government put restrictions in place to limit the number of daily visitors — so you must now book a tour to swim with the turtles in Akumal.
☀️ More suggestions: Best beaches in Akumal
- Yal-Ku Lagoon
- Playa Jade Beach
- Soliman Bay
- Tankah Bay
Best Beaches in Mexico
34. Playa la Ropa, Ixtapa
📍 Where is Playa la Ropa Mexico?
Playa la Ropa (Clothes Beach) is in the city of Ixtapa, located in Guerrero, Mexico. Guerrero State is in central Mexico, and its southern side sits on the Pacific Coast.
Wondering, What’s the nearest beach to Mexico City? It’s Acapulco, which is also in Guerrero State.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
Ixtapa, Mexico is undeniably a resort town, however, it doesn’t see the same huge crowds as Cancun, Cabo and Puerto Vallarta — so while still a popular beach in Mexico, it’s not inundated with tourists.
Here, you’ll have a nice balance between these lux Ixtapa resorts and also gorgeous beaches, like Playa la Ropa, one of the best beaches in Ixtapa.
☀️ More suggestions: Best beaches in IXtapa
- Isla Ixtapa Island
- Playa El Palmar
- Playa Linda
- Playa Quieta
Best Beaches in Mexico
35. Playa Chen Rio, Cozumel
📍 Where is Playa Chen Rio Mexico?
Cozumel Island is located about 30 minutes by ferry from Playa del Carmen, Mexico.
The cruise ships and ferry boats dock on the west side of the island, but if you venture to the east side of Cozumel, you’ll find gorgeous virgin beaches, like Playa Chen Rio.
🏝 Why This is one of the best beaches in Mexico
Many say there are two Cozumels — the west side where the cruise ships dock (very touristic) and the east side.
On this much more natural side of the island, there’s nothing but virgin beaches, thatched-roof palapa bars and restaurants in the sand. (Note: Theses aren’t the best swimmable beaches in Mexico though, as they can get larger waves).
There are many gorgeous beaches in East Cozumel, but Chen Rio Beach is great because it has a protected tide pool. In fact, I consider it the best beach to visit in Mexico for snorkeling thanks to this tide pool 🐠
Some also say it’s the best place to snorkel in Cozumel, so don’t forget to bring pack your snorkeling gear when you head to this Mexico beach.
☀️ More suggestions: Best beaches in Cozumel
- Isla de Pasión (Passion Island)
- Punta Sur Eco Park
- Playa Palancar
- Playa El Cielo
- Playa Punta Morena
Best Beaches in Mexico: FAQ & Guide
Where is the nicest beach in Mexico?
While this answer is relative, some of the most beautiful beaches in Mexico include Playa Maroma on the Mexican Caribbean side, Playa Balandra on the West Coast, and Playa Carrizalillo on the Pacific Coast.
Best Beaches in Mexico
How many beaches does Mexico have?
More than 450 beaches — The vast Mexican coastline stretches along four bodies of water, the Pacific Ocean, Gulf of Mexico, Gulf of California and Caribbean Sea, so there are a lot of Mexican beaches to explore.
Best Beaches in Mexico
Where in Mexico has the clearest water?
The Mexican Caribbean beaches are known for their clear water, especially Playa Maroma Beach near Cancun — voted on of the Top 10 Beaches in the World by The Travel Channel.
Best Beaches in Mexico
What is safest beach to vacation in Mexico?
Puerto Vallarta is considered one of the safest resort towns in Mexico, and safest beach towns. While it has these amazing Puerto Vallarta all inclusive resorts, you can of course stay-off resort and best just as safe.
Best Beaches in Mexico
What part of Mexico has the cleanest beaches?
The Pacific Coast of Mexico is known to have the cleanest beaches. This is also the least developed area, so you won’t find a ton of large resorts here except in popular Mexico resort towns on the Pacific, like Puerto Vallarta, Ixtapa, Punta Mita and Acapulco.
Best Beaches in Mexico
Where is the turquoise water in Mexico?
There are quite a few beaches in Mexico with turquoise water, including Playa Maroma, Playa Balandra, and Playa Carrizalillo — but there are many other nice beaches in Mexico with clear water.
Best Beaches in Mexico
Are all beaches in Cancun swimmable?
Most of them are — You can swim at nearly all Cancun beaches because this city sits on the Caribbean Sea. This body of water is known for calm waters and small waves, however, in some spots, the water is too rough to swim.
Best Beaches in Mexico
Which beach in Mexico has no seaweed?
In the last few years, many beaches have experienced algae blooms and sargassum (seaweed) — and Mexico is no different. To avoid the seaweed in Mexico, you’ll want to visit Pacific Coast beaches, Gulf of Mexico beaches and beaches of Baja California — but skip the Caribbean beaches.
Best Beaches in Mexico
The Best Beaches in Mexico Map
Wondering, Where are the best Mexico beaches located?
The map above will show you where all 35 of the top beaches in Mexico featured in this article are located — so you can see where these nicest Mexico beaches to visit located and plan your vacation accordingly.
Best Beaches in Mexico
What’s the best time to visit Mexico beaches?
Winter — For the best weather, meaning cool temperatures, no rain and low humidity, visit Mexico beaches from about December to March (though some extend that as November to April).
✅ Mexico High Season: During the high season from November to April you’ll get the best weather, but also the highest prices and largest crowds.
This is the Mexico dry season, so you shouldn’t have any rain during your vacation, and the humidity and mosquitoes will be at bay so you can enjoy those Mexico beautiful beaches to the fullest.
✅ Mexico Low Season: During the low season from May to October, you will likely get rain on all of the most beautiful beaches Mexico has — sometimes even heavy rains and bad storms.
If you don’t mind some rain, the low season has smaller crowds and lower prices at all the best beaches in Mexico to visit.
Final Thoughts: Best Beaches in Mexico
Any country with as much coastline as Mexico (5,800 miles, 9,330 km) certainly has a lot of amazing beaches! From tropical vibes to big-wave surf, sportfishing to world-class diving, the Mexico coast and has it all.
This list highlights many different types, from posh to rustic, Mexico’s beaches both on and off the beaten path, Spring Break destinations and quiet islands accessible only by boat.
I hope it helps guide you to your personal best beach in Mexico — whether that’s a hidden beach in Mexico, popular Mexico resort town, or the best beach cities in Mexico.