Best beaches in Cancun have made the place popular among travelers as it plays host to world class vacation facilities with beautiful endless white sand beaches.
Most of the best beaches are located in an area referred to as Zona Hotelera in Mexico and many tourists love this amazing destination.
The Cancun area is located near Riviera Maya and the beaches stretch up to 150 miles making it an amazing travel destination.
There are many great beaches in Cancun that one can visit but I have selected eleven of my favorites and stated why they made it to the list.
The list will hopefully offer vital information when visiting this destination and help you decide which beach to visit.
Some beaches are suited for family events, others watersports while others are perfect for weekend getaways.
The popular ones are often crowded during the high season while others are located in the remote areas.
11 Best Beaches Cancun Region has to Offer
Mexico has approximately over 500 beaches located across the water bodies that surround the country.
Mexico is surrounded by four main water bodies namely the Pacific Ocean, Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean Sea and the Sea of Cortez.
Due to these massive water bodies, there are a number of islands that have not been inhabited by humans, famous among them being the Isla Mujeres.
Therefore, whether you want a perfect destination for your upcoming holiday, or weekend get-away or a holiday spent of white sand beaches, Mexico has a perfect place for you.
Other activities one can indulge in while in Cancun and the surrounding areas include surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, deep sea diving and fishing.
There are many beaches in the Cancun area and this article details the best among the rest to help you make good choices if you are planning to take a trip down there.
Playa Delfines
Also known as El Mirador, Playa Delfines is the largest, most beautiful and most popular public beach in the Cancun area.
Located in between hotel dominated beaches, Playa Delfines redefines the experiences the visitors enjoy due to its uniqueness and size.
The beach is among the few that does not have hotels and restaurants in the vicinity and it is accessible easily via public transport means like buses with parking slots made available to the public for free.
The name Playa Delfines in Cancun was coined for the term Dolphin Beach due to the fact that dolphins are popular in the area and if you are lucky, you may see some swimming or playing nearby.
For tourists, the beach is located near the hotel zone making it accessible from the hotels where tourists pitch camp.
On the beach, there are restrooms and beach umbrellas for hire if you need one.
For those who love swimming, the waves can be a bit choppy and rough during the undercurrent therefore, there is a need for visitors to exercise caution.
On the positive side, the coastal lifeguards are on standby in case of any emergency. Both locals and tourists flock to the beach because of its popularity.
Due to lack of hotels in the area surrounding the beach, food vendors are on standby to take care of your nutritional nourishment when necessary.
It is advised to carry any items you deem necessary for your vacation apart from surfboards, beach chairs and umbrellas that can be hired while on the beach.
Playa Delfines is rated among the best beaches in Cancun region.
Physical Address: Punta Nizuc – Cancun 335, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancun, Q.R., Mexico
Tulum Beach
Tulum beach features among the best beaches in Cancun.
Once a vibrant city that served as a port from as early as the 13th century, Tulum is among the top destinations for tourists to visit.
Located near the Cancun area and along Riviera Maya, the Tulum is home to a number of archeological sites.
Additionally, Tulum is home to popular beaches that are approximately 16km in length with powdery sand.
Tulum is divided into zones popularly referred to as zonas.
The three zones include the hotel zone, the archeological site and downtown Tulum.
The hotel zone is where the popular beaches are located and it is divided into the north and the south region.
Visitors interested in lively beaches that have clubs, hotels and restaurants, then they should head to the south region.
For those interested in less developed beaches with stretches of untouched powdery sand, then the north side is the place to be.
The hotel zone is less developed compared to the one in Cancun as there are a few high-end resorts and restaurants and more boutique hotels, cabanas, open air eateries and beach clubs.
If you plan to visit this beach, pass by the Mayan ruins and have an experience of a lifetime.
Physical Address: Zona Hotelera Tulum, 77765 Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Playa Langosta
Playa Langosta has an extensive white sand beach that make it among the most popular in the local area of Cancun.
Rarely visited by the tourists, Playa Langosta has shallow beaches with crystal-clear and calm waters ideal for individuals planning vacation with their families and children.
The waters are ideal for swimming especially for small kids as well as those who just want to relax and unwind beside the sea.
There is a playground and restrooms on site but beach chairs and equipment are rare to come by hence visitors are encouraged to carry their own.
For those who love swimming, there are beaches that are safe to swim while others may require a little caution as the currents may be strong but Playa Langosta is among the safe haven for swimming lovers.
These calm waters also make it ideal for observing the beautiful marine life and snorkeling.
For foods and drinks, there are food vendors and street food along the beach in addition to a few beachside restaurants and bars.
Make sure you try some of the local delicacies and fresh seafood and also visit the Cancun sign off Langosta Beach for some amazing photos to mark your trip.
Additionally, there is a ferry service operating to and from Isla Mujeres.
Next to the beach is an inflatable water adventure/fun course popularly referred to as Float Fun Cancun.
Other Activities
The fun course can accommodate kids and adults.
One of the adrenaline-filled activities in the area is flyboarding where an individual is propelled using a hoverboard.
There is also a greenspace and public park with numerous art pieces and sculpture gardens making it ideal for relaxing.
Visitors should be advised that the public shower and bathrooms are open up to 5pm daily.
Additionally, to save on high costs of food in the adjacent restaurants, visitors are encouraged to pack picnic food.
Parking spaces are in some cases limited therefore it is advisable to use public means or cab services to the beach.
This is the place to be if you would like to visit the Cancun area accompanied by your family.
Indeed, Playa Langosta is among the best beaches in Cancun area.
Physical Address: Kukulcan Boulevard, Hotel Zone, 77500 Cancun, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Phone contact: +52 984-158-2318
Playa Tortugas
Widely loved by both locals and visitors, Playa Tortugas is popularly known for its clean sands and calm atmosphere.
The beach features among the best beaches in the Cancun area.
It is well famed for being the best for swimming.
The beach has several open-air restaurants that are perfect for meals.
Due to its popularity, the beach can experience a high influx of tourists.
Therefore, if you are not into crowded places or beaches, then Playa Tortugas is not highly recommended for you.
However, for those who love swimming, this is the place to be. The area has other facilities that will make your stay worthwhile.
There is a ferry service operating daily from Playa Tortugas and Isla Mujeres in addition to a bus service that is ideal for visitors who do not have their own means of transportation.
Additionally, there are bars and souvenir shops making it ideal for anyone who would like to visit the beach.
The clear waters also make the place ideal for snorkeling and an amazing view of the wonderful marine life.
There is also a pier for bungee jumping where the visitors can enjoy.
Physical Address: Quintana Roo, 77500 Cancun, Mexico
Puerto Morelos
Puerto Morelos is among the popular places for visitors who love to explore the sea and partake in activities such as snorkeling and diving, making it among the best beaches in Cancun.
The beaches in Puerto Morelos are among the best in the Cancun area filled with white sand and calm waters with the sides lined with palm trees.
The beach is located a few minutes from the airport in Cancun and has among the best beaches in the Cancun area.
The area experiences a high influx of visitors during the summer period during which annual fishing tournaments happen.
Puerto Morelos is home to several fishing villages and the beaches along the area are well kept. For those who love diving and snorkeling, this is the place to be.
Among the favorite diving spots is the Mesoamerican coral reef located in the area.
When strolling along the beach, you will not miss the leaning lighthouse, El Faro Inclinado which is a key symbol of the town.
Additionally, when visiting, do not miss visiting the National Reef Park of Puerto Morelos located within the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef that is the second largest reef in the world.
Other Activities
The reef is located just 400 meters from the shore making it ideal and accessible for divers and snorkelers.
If visiting, do not miss checking out Ruta de los Cenotes, a unique place playing host to over 60 water bodies that are interconnected through a Great Mayan Aquifer, a river system that is the longest in the world.
Other activities that one can enjoy while visiting Puerto Morelos, which is among the best beaches in Cancun include driving ATVs through the rails of the Mayan jungle, zip lining, mountain biking, bird watching, horse riding, and many more activities.
For wildlife lovers, check out Dr. Alfredo Barrera Marin Botanical Garden located on a 160-acre piece of land that is a perfect place for board walking through natural mangrove forest and other indigenous century old trees.
The Crococun Zoo is also another place that you should not miss.
The animal sanctuary houses various animals that include alligators, parrots and spider monkeys among others.
Physical Address: Playa Puerto Morelos, 77580 Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Playa Chac-Mool
Playa Chac-Mool is among the most popular and best beaches in the Cancun area famed with white powdery sand and calm waters.
The beach is surrounded by a charming, beautiful calming atmosphere.
The beach is ideal for watersports and family vacations as the atmosphere is calm and quieter.
Unlike other beaches in Cancun, this beach is devoid of much movement and there are very few kiosks, shops or sellers along the beach.
Therefore, visitors are encouraged to carry picnic meals.
The Playa Chac-Mool beach has a stretch of powdery sand surrounded by clear dazzling waters with a shade of blue.
The beach is perfect for swimming, watersports, souvenir photos and family vacations.
For watersports lovers, rental options are available although the availability of the sports equipment may be challenging.
You can try every activity available in regards to watersports and spend your entire vacation splashing water and trying new adventures.
The renting of various water sports equipment makes it easy for one to explore various fun activities.
Physical Address: 77539 Cancun, Q.R., Mexico
Cancun Beach
Cancun beach is among the most popular beaches in Mexico located in the Yucatan Peninsula that is located in the Caribbean Sea.
The beach covers a stretch of approximately 23 km and it is famed for its turquoise waters and white powdery sand.
History indicates that this beach was home to the ancient Mayan civilization therefore this area plays host to a number of Mayan ruins and temples.
Unlike some of the other best beaches in Cancun, the Cancun beach plays host to a number of entertainment joints, hotels and restaurants that have a very lively vibe.
The beach also plays host to several water sports in addition to diving and snorkeling.
Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is a beautiful and peaceful paradise located in Bahia de Mujeres near the Cancun area.
It features among the best beaches in Cancun area.
The island is accessible through ferry services that are operational daily.
The area is host to a number of hotels, restaurants, entertainment joints and other facilities that often attract a lot of visitors and in some instances get crowded.
The beaches in Isla Mujeres and surrounding islands are famed for their friendliest locals, calm crystal-clear waters and white powdery sand.
The community is diverse with easy to mingle individuals who are welcoming to the visitors making it easy to learn more about their culture.
You can spend your day exploring, participating in watersports.
Shopping or making new friends on the island.
For those who love fishing expeditions, there are many boat charters that offer those services at a small fee.
The several hotels and restaurants serve both local, sea and international delicacies therefore you will find something that suits your budget.
Unlike some other beaches, it is easier to rent beach umbrellas and loungers in Isla Mujeres therefore, there is no need of carrying any equipment.
Physical Address: Rueda Medina 130, SM 001, Centro, 77506 Isla Mujeres, Q.R., Mexico
Playa Forum
Night life on the beach is one of the most popular ways of enjoying vacations in coastal towns around the world.
Playa Forum beach features as one of the best beaches in Cancun famed for its lively nightlife.
Forum beach in Cancun is popularly known for its lively atmosphere, turquoise waters and fine white sand.
Located on the northern side of Zona Hotelera in Cancun and adjacent to Mandala Cancun and Coco Bongo, the Forum beach is a stone throw away from local hotspots, shopping centers and restaurants.
This ideal location makes it among the most popular and best beaches in Cancun.
The beach is accessible easily by road and there are bus services.
For visitors who would like to drive there, there are several parking options although due to its popularity, they might be limited in some instances.
The beach is well trafficked making it a favorite for tourists of all ages ranging from couples and families to friend groups and solo travelers.
The average time spent by the visitors on the beach is approximately 1 to 4 hours with the majority enjoying their meals and snacks ordered from the several beachside bars and restaurants.
Nightlife in Playa Forum
Nightlife is plenty around the beach.
However, the two major entertainment spots near the beach are Coco Bongo and Mandala Cancun.
Mandala Cancun has a parked dance floor, spacious outdoor and indoor spaces and is famed for playing high energy music.
Coco Bongo, on the other hand, is famed for its lively performances.
The dance club is famed for colorful performers and dancers in their lively evening shows.
Additionally, there are several other local restaurants and bars around the beach that offer a blend of outdoor and indoor spaces for visitors to enjoy their warm tropical evenings.
A number offer live shows until late night giving visitors a chance to relax and unwind after a long day on the beach.
Visitors are advised to bring along their own beach umbrellas and lounge chairs as the demand shoots up from midday onwards.
To save funds, it is also advisable to carry your own snacks before heading to the beach.
For those who love shopping, there is a large entertainment and shopping center adjacent to the shoreline.
Physical Address: Playa Forum, Punta Cancun, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancun, Q.R., Mexico
Playa Pez Volador
Located in an urban area, Playa Pez Volador is among the best beaches in Cancun famed for its calm environment.
The area has a spacious coastline with some of the best pure golden fine sand and turquoise water.
This beach offers visitors the much-needed space and environment to relax and unwind.
Due to its location, the beach is ideal for gate away lovers and solo travelers.
Visitors should note that the beach has restricted access.
The beach is available only to the hotel visitors.
The hotels provide their guests with umbrellas, loungers, toilets, showers and changing rooms.
Additionally, there are other equipment available to the visitors that include jet skis.
There are also lifeguards on the lookout in case the guests need any medical assistance.
Visitors can engage in various activities such as kayaking and there is also a football field located near the beach for those who love playing football.
The parking options are available for free.
Due to the limited facilities, visitors are encouraged to carry their own water and snacks as there are no beachside restaurants and food vendors.
Physical Address: Kukulcan Boulevard, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancun, Q.R., Mexico
Playa Las Perlas
Playa Las Perlas beach should feature among the top beaches to visit as it is also among the best beaches in Cancun.
The beach can accommodate all categories of visitors and features among the beaches preferred by athletes.
Located on the entrance of zona hotelera, the beach is famed for its very calm waters, fine white sands and shallow depth perfect for various family activities.
The beach is accessible by all means.
One can decide to take a bus or walk or even use roller blades. The athletes love jogging and exercising along the beach.
Despite having shallow waters, the beach sometimes experiences strong currents making it challenging to swim under these conditions.
Additionally, the waters have a lot of seaweeds making them murky.
However, despite these conditions, the beach has some of the best white powdery sand that is firm and ideal for other activities like jogging especially in the morning and evening hours.
The beach has small cabanas, small children’s park, restrooms and showers meant for public use and there are coastal lifeguards ready to help whenever there is a medical emergency.
There are rental facilities where one can rent a surfboard or paddle board.
Other activities that one can engage in include kiteboarding, kayaking and surfing.
Physical Address: 77539 Cancun, Q.R., Mexico
Final Thoughts Best Beaches in Cancun
The Cancun area in Mexico has many beaches that are worth visiting and I have detailed 11 of the best beaches that you can visit if you decide to visit Mexico.
While visiting, there are things that you have to keep in mind while planning to visit this paradise.
For swimming lovers, take note that some of the beaches do not have perfect conditions for swimming.
There are some that experience strong undercurrents and water currents making it difficult for visitors to swim.
Therefore, if you love swimming, consider beaches that have ideal conditions.
Secondly, due to their location, some beaches do not have facilities such as beachside restaurants or rental facilities.
Keep this in mind when visiting these beaches.
For a perfect excursion on these beaches, carry all the necessary equipment and foodstuffs before visiting.
The numerous best beaches in Cancun signify that you may be spoilt for choice and it is recommended that you camp in the hotel zone as you will be spoilt for choice with beach clubs, rental facilities and restaurants.
Pack your bags, book your ticket and enjoy your vacation!