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Best Beaches in Cancun Mexico

Popular all over the world for its unsurpassed turquoise waters, Cancun is rightly called the Queen of the Caribbean.  This tiny stretch of land represents the heart of tourist activity in Mexico and its greatest attraction is the unending stretch of beautiful, white beaches that enfold it from every side.  Imagine this: a clear blue sky above, fine white sand beneath and the beautiful lapping waters of the Caribbean all around – when you’re in Cancun, you’re not too far away from paradise.

The best thing about Cancun is that all beaches here are public property, though you may have to get a hotel’s permission to access parts of the beach through its property.  However, there are a number of public access entries to every beach and nothing can stop you from visiting any you take a fancy to.

According to many enthusiasts, some of the best beaches in Cancun are on the seaward side of the island.  Taking a stroll on the sands here is in itself something straight out of a dream.  The waters are as clear as glass and the play of colors in the dazzling light of the sun is captivating.  From a pale aqua in the morning to deep turquoise in the afternoon and an orangish pink in the sun-drenched evenings, there is enough here to steal one’s breath away.  A surprising feature of Cancun beaches is that the fine white sand never gets hot even when the sun is shining directly overhead.

The beaches in Cancun are neatly divided into two distinct zones.  Those located at the North are protected from the thrashing waves by the Isla Mujeres. This is the beach area for all kinds of fun activities for kids and adults alike.  On the eastern side, the beaches open into the Caribbean, so the waters can be a little unpredictable.  Most of the waters here have a nasty undertow and the surf can rise as high as three feet at times.  For your protection, the beaches and marinas on this side make use of colored flags as a warning system.  So, pay attention to these before getting into the water.  There are no lifeguards here and each year at least a few people drown in the waters due to sheer carelessness and daredevilry.

Every beach in Cancun is unique, so it really depends on what you are looking for.  On the northern side of Cancun, you have the Playa Linda (map), Playa Las Perlas (map), Playa Langosta (map), Playa Tortugas (map) and Playa Caracol (map). According to some, these beaches are the best because they are more secluded and less crowded.

Playa Linda (map) has a small beach area, but it is a favorite amongst locals.  Because of the boat and ferry traffic, it isn't the safest place for swimming. 

The Playa Langosta (map) is the place you want to be if you love water sports like snorkelling and diving. Here, you will also find a number of exciting water activities like dolphin adventures. The beach is lined with swaying tropical trees and beautiful latched roof cabanas.  It even has a small cove.

Playa Caracol (map) is where the Xcaret bus station is located.  You will also find many of the hotels located in this area.  Its not a great spot for swimming though because of the rocks and water current.

Far down to the south is the Punta Nizuc (map). This is the tip of the peninsula and the last stop in the hotel zone.  Some of the best snorkelling in the area takes place at this spot.

The Playa Chacmool (map), south of Punta Cancun, is a stunning beach that offers a rare display of colors.  The water gets rough at times, but during the calm phases, you can walk into the water for quite a bit before it starts getting deep.  Be very careful of the current here though, it may look safer than it actually is.  At Playa Ballenas, you can try your hand at tube rides, beach volleyball and parasailing.

It would not be wrong to say that Cancun is one large beach or a number of beaches strung together on a beautiful island.  There are beaches all around and you can get to any beach by taking a bus or hiring a cab.  One of the most arresting and tourist-friendly characteristics of Cancun is the fact that the hotels in the Hotel Zone have direct access to some of the best beaches.  These hotels are very customer-friendly and they provide their guests with a variety of luxurious facilities.  However, public beaches are quite different and the most you can expect here are some great food stands.  No lifeguards and no showers!

If quiet beaches and some privacy is what you’re after, then the best time to visit Cancun is during the off-peak season.  However, if you are looking for a party atmosphere, February to April is the time to come.  Early reservations are recommended and are a must from December to April.

If you love the feel of the warm sea wind in your hair and dream of feeling the cool sand beneath your feet, visit Cancun.  The beaches here are a sight to see and any pictures you may see do no justice to the beauty of the stunning waterscape.

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