Top beaches in the Riviera Maya
Among the liveliest cities of the Riviera Maya, the resort sits in the state of Quintana Roo and is one of the Mexican capitals of nightlife. Indeed, Playa del Carmen has an enviable set of beaches, where you can enjoy the Caribbean relaxation and swim in an unspoiled sea. Here are the Top beaches in the Riviera Maya.
Punta Esmeralda
A stone’s throw from the heart of the nightlife, Punta Esmeralda beach is a small blue jewel. It is not only the lush vegetation that gives it its name, but also the fresh waters of the cenote that emerge on the beach, flowing directly into the sea. This particularity makes the small but enchanting bay a fantastic place to cool off in the shallow, warm water under the shade of palm trees.
More info here: Punta Esmeralda Beach: A Blue Slice of Paradise
Xpu Há
Xpu Há beach is a little gem of the Riviera Maya. The one that the Mayans called “Morning Dew” is a good alternative to the other beaches of the region crowded with tourists. This large sandy area is about 30 km south of Playa del Carmen, between Puerto Aventuras and Akumal. It has a calm and shallow sea and is ideal for families with young children.
More info here: Xpu-ha: Why you should ditch the popular spots
Playa Paraiso, Tulum
If you are on vacation in Playa del Carmen, Playa Paraiso is a must-see destination. For its calm waters and white sand, it is considered one of the jewels of tourism in Mexico and one of the most beautiful beaches of the Riviera Maya. It is located in Tulum, 1.5 miles from the archaeological zone of Tulum. This is one of the beaches close to Playa del Carmen that has free parking, beach chairs for rent and restaurants. Playa Paraiso is also part of the second largest barrier reef in the world, so you will have the opportunity to snorkel and enjoy the view under the sea. Of the top 10 beaches in the Riviera Maya, this is a must for scuba enthusiasts.
More info here: Playa Paraiso: Mayan Ruins and a Beautiful Beach
Akumal
Located between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, Akumal Beach (the land of turtles in Mayan) is one of the most mythical places in the Yucatan Peninsula. It is where turtles make their home! In the bay, they wade into the sea to feed, they zigzag between the coral reefs and they lay their eggs on the shores once spring arrives. When you arrive, an environmental agent will inform you of the behavior to adopt when you are in their presence.
Mahahual
Located more than 3 hours from Playa del Carmen, it is considered one of the jewels of Quintana Roo. Its abundant marine life makes it one of the best places on the coast for snorkeling and diving. The surrounding coastline has several restaurants where you can enjoy some seafood tacos. And if you’re worried about where to stay, you’ll find a variety of accommodations here. Because of the distance, it barely made the cut in the top beaches in the Riviera Maya, but it is totally worth the journey.
More info here: Mahahual: Something for Everybody
Tulum ruins
As you walk up the wooden staircase to the Castillo, the view opens up to an authentic wonder: Playa Ruinas. The bay is a dazzling blue jewel, overlooked by the Mayan ruins. To get to the beach, you have to buy the entrance to the Tulum site, but it’s worth it: in addition to visiting one of the most beautiful archaeological complexes in Mexico, the reward is double. Thanks to the possibility of admiring one of the most spectacular beaches in the world. This beach is part of the top beaches in the Riviera Maya because you have to take a picture here, no questions asked.
See also: After visiting the ruins in Tulum cycle to Santa Fe Beach
Punta Sam Beach
Punta Sam beach is the departure point of the ferry to Isla Mujeres, located north of Cancún. Less touristy than its predecessors, this white sand beach is mostly visited for its spectacular sunrises, punctuated by the sounds of the Caribbean Sea waves. Here you can reach the 3rd underwater gallery of MUSA (Museo Subacuático de Arte). A museum of contemporary art that exhibits in the depths the giant sculptures of the Cuban artist Elier Amado Gil. All you have to do is to equip yourself with a mask, a snorkel and flippers to make the museum trip.
Xcacel
The beach is home to sea turtles that come to lay their eggs. In the Turtle Sanctuary, you can enjoy a unique privilege: watching the turtles hatch, taking care not to get too close so as not to disturb the animals. With a mask and snorkel, you can also swim with these fantastic animals, even without an organized tour. Xcacel beach is for nature lovers. It has little services but you can adapt and enjoy nature as it is.
More info here: Xcacel Turtle Sanctuary – A Virgin Beach You Want To Visit
Xcalacoco
Playa Xcalacoco is 6 miles north of the center of Playa del Carmen. It is set back from the road, so you will have to park and walk along the narrow road that leads to the beach. It is one of the public beaches of Playa del Carmen that offers a lively family atmosphere. But unlike the more popular beaches of the Riviera Maya, it is much quieter and more peaceful. Part of the shoreline keeps the waves and algae out, creating a natural pool perfect for kids. Just like some other beaches in the top beaches in the Riviera Maya, if it’s hard to pronounce, it’s definitely worth it.
More info here: Xcalacoco Beach: Camping in a Riviera Maya
Puerto Morelos
Puerto Morelos beach has a more authentic atmosphere, since it hosts Mexican families. Indeed, it is a quiet setting that does not disdain leisure activities. The beach has bars where you can enjoy a colorful cocktail.Puerto Morelos beach is also a perfect place for a fish lunch. The small port is bustling with fishermen’s boats that bring the fresh delicacies of the sea to the land.
More info here: Puerto Morelos : The Laid-Back Fishing Town of the Riviera Maya
