Mexico’s Caribbean coastline is truly transcendental, blessed with sparkling sapphire waters, swaying palm trees and powdery white sands. Float through gin-clear waters while gazing up at the ancient ruins of the mighty Mayan civilization. Visit secluded islands with ombre-effect beaches, boasting platinum white sand which seep into an azure ocean. Dance the night away to the perfect symphony of gentle waves, live music and the rattle of a cocktail shaker. This beach-lovers paradise has something for every mood, here’s our breakdown of Mexico’s best beaches...
Picture coconut palm trees swaying against the background of soft white sand and gleaming turquoise waters. This is what you’ll experience at Akumal beach, one of the most famous beaches in Mexico. These shores are teeming with Marinelife, it’s likely you’ll spot some sea turtles, especially during their nesting season from May to November.
Dove white sand stretched for miles across the crystalline, turquoise shore of Punta Maroma. Soak in the glorious sunshine and make the most of the incredible snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities at this beach.
Playa Mamitas is a golden, palm-fringed beach with a vibrant atmosphere. There’s something for everyone here, from family-friendly seafront restaurants to lively beach bars with live music. For a luxury experience, visit the beach club and rent a canopied sunbed.
Playa Ruinas lies beneath the magnificent cliffs which hold the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum. This location oozes with its own unique charm, you’d have to search hard to find a beach quite as majestic as this one. Soaring palm trees line the silky shores of this beach, and the azure ocean has an almost pearlescent shimmer.
Playa Delfines’ soft white sand stretches for 800 meters and is sprinkled with leafy palm trees overlooking the brilliant Caribbean Sea. There aren’t any hotels or restaurants built on the beach, which makes for a truly peaceful beach getaway. If you’re a surfer, you’ll appreciate the warm waves at this beach.
Playa El Cielo, meaning ‘heaven’ or ‘sky’ lives up to its divine name. Silky white sand and mesmerizing turquoise waters make this beach heaven on earth. The shallow, gin-clear water provides perfect conditions for snorkelling, discover a magical underwater world filled with colourful starfish and stingrays.
You’ll find this small, quiet beach on the western side of Cozumel. The vibe here is relaxed and rustic, soak it all in with a cold margarita and some mouth-watering fish tacos. Don’t be surprised if you see a peacock stroll by, these majestic birds love this beach!
Only a 30-minute boat ride from Cancun, Isla Mujeres is a small tropical island with an incredible history. As well as breathtaking scenery and glistening sapphire waters, this island is home to the ruins of an ancient temple, honouring the Mayan goddess of the moon, Ixchel.
Isla Holbox is a small island three hours away from Cancun. This beach is perfect if you want to get away from crowds and immerse yourself in nature. You’ll come across tropical fish, sea turtles and, if you’re lucky, flamingos. The atmosphere here is very laid-back, so find yourself a hammock overlooking the sparkling seafront and let your worries melt away.
Practice your sun salutations with a group yoga session, Xpu-Ha's tropical paradise will soothe your mind, body and soul. You’ll be able to embrace the tranquil vibe of this beach without feeling too cut off from the world, as there’s restaurants, cocktail bars and watersport services surrounding the area.