there’s a lot to love Mexico – Historic cities, sparkling street tacos, colorful festivals and endless art. But undoubtedly, what attracts most tourists to Mexico are, first and foremost, its show-stopping beaches. With nearly 6,000 miles of coastline between the Pacific Ocean, Caribbean Sea, and Sea of Cortez, Mexico serves up a sandy buffet that appeals to everyone. Whether you’re a sun-worshipper, a wave chaser or just a beach lover for tacos and sunsets, there’s something here for you.
But not all beaches are created equal, and Mexico’s offerings fall into three distinct categories: Caribbean, Pacific, and Baja Peninsula. Caribbean beaches feature powder-soft white sand and Tiffany-blue turquoise waters. On the Pacific coast, rugged cliffs, golden sand and surfer-worthy waves steal the show. And the flute? Think remote fishing villages and cinematic desert-meets-sea landscapes filled with saguaro cactus for miles.
So, if you’re planning to sink your toes into some of the best sand this side of paradise, you’re in the right place. Here are the eight best beaches in Mexico that deserve a spot on your bucket list.
Playa Norte, Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo
Area:Caribbean Coast
Just a 20-minute ferry ride from Cancún, Playa Norte feels like stepping into a (sorry for the millennium reference) screen saver. Imagine bathing in stunning turquoise colors and soft white sand like shallow waters.
This beach is the epitome of “no shoes, no problem,” as the shore is lined with sunbeds and beach bars happily serve margaritas while you swim in the calm Caribbean. The sunsets here are legendary, as is the western view from the beach to the mainland. Grab a front row seat and make a toast to another day in heaven.
Need another reason to book a trip? Marriott recently opened an adults-only all-inclusive resort Almare, a Luxury Collection Resort On the other end of Isla Mujeres.
Playa Balandra, La Paz, Baja California Sur
Area: Baja Peninsula
Balandra is not just a beach; This is a scenario. Located on the Sea of Cortez, about a 40-minute drive north of La Paz, this beach resembles a surreal painting, with sand dunes peeking out of shallow aquamarine waters surrounded by dramatic desert hills.
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The water here is so calm and shallow that you can stay out forever. Kayaking? Stellar. Sunbathe? Sublime. Taking pictures? Mandatory Keep your eyes peeled for the famous mushroom-shaped rock of Calandra, which like the rest of this beach is a natural masterpiece.
Plus, thanks to it, it’s easier than ever to get to La Paz Alaska Airlines’ new direct route Between Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and La Paz International Airport (LAP), launched in November.
Connected: Tijuana to Los Cabos: Exploring Mexico’s Baja California from Top to Bottom
Playa Carrizalillo, Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca
Area: Pacific Coast
Hidden in a quiet bay in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, Playa Carrizalillo is a little piece of golden-sand heaven. Hunt? You have to earn it. Entry requires climbing down steep stairs, but trust us, the reward is worth every step.
Once you arrive, you’ll find calm waves that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling or trying your hand at beginner-friendly surfing. Small huts located along the beach offer lounger rentals and serve cold beer, fresh seafood and coconut water. Don’t forget the ice cream man who drives his cart of homemade coconut ice cream along the shoreline.
Connected: 10 Best Boutique Hotels in Mexico
Playacar, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo
Area:Caribbean Coast
Playa del Carmen may be busy and bustling, but on its southern shore lies Playacar – a quieter, more sophisticated extension of the Riviera Maya coastline. The sand here is pillow-soft, and the water is the iconic Caribbean blue.
Playacar is mainly surrounded by expensive homes and all-inclusive resorts – such as Viva Azteca by Windham – Giving it a special feel. If you’re staying nearby, this is a perfect place to escape the crowds, enjoy the sunshine and people watch.
It’s a quick walk to the bars and restaurants of Quinta Avenida, but given that the beach is mostly backed by private property, you’ll need to bring everything with you for the day if you’re not staying at a local resort.
Playa Chacala, Riviera Nayarit, Nayarit
Area: Pacific Coast
If you like your beaches cool and crowd-free, head to Playa Chacala. Nestled in the Riviera Nayarit, this golden-sand beach has a dreamy small-town atmosphere. The waves here are gentle, ideal for swimming, paddleboarding or lazily lazing around with a cold cerveza in hand.
Charming thatched-roof seaside restaurants serve some of the best fresh seafood – don’t miss the fish zarandado, a local specialty where local fish is butterflyed, marinated with spices and grilled.
Playa Blanca, Zihuatanejo, Guerrero
Area: Pacific Coast
Playa Blanca in Zihuatanejo is pure magic for those who appreciate a more rustic, untouched expanse of coastline. This beach is long, pristine and delightfully quiet, with fewer crowds and fewer buildings – just miles of soft, golden sand and Pacific waves.
It is prime for long walks, kite flying or just enjoying the peace. Beachside palaces serve up fresh ceviche and ice-cold coconut water. Zihuatanejo has long been a quieter alternative to Ixtapa, and Playa Blanca is a dramatic example.
Isla Holbox, Quintana Roo
Area:Caribbean Coast
shoes are optional Isla HolboxWhere swings swing leisurely over the shallow turquoise waters and golf carts are the main mode of transportation. Isla Holbox’s relaxed boho vibe has made it a draw for travelers looking to escape the noise of Cancún. You can’t go wrong with any of the beaches here – they’re all pristine and filled with colorful fishing boats, gentle waves and shore birds.
Don’t miss the chance to paddleboard or kayak. The water is so calm and clear that you can see the marine life swimming beneath you. If you visit between May and September, you can see majestic whale sharks off the coast of the island.
Connected: Boutique Beachfront Escape in Mexico: Review of Mystic Holbox by Royalton
Playa Mayto, Cabo Corrientes, Jalisco
Area: Pacific Coast
If you want a remote, off-the-grid beach experience, Playa Mayto delivers. Located in Cabo Corrientes, about two hours south of Puerto Vallarta, this secluded stretch of beach feels a world away from everything else.
The beach is huge, golden and almost untouched, making it an ideal place for those seeking solitude. The waves can be a little lively, so it’s not always ideal for swimming, but it’s a great place to watch the sun as it sets in fiery colors over the Pacific Ocean. Bring snacks, a good book, and a sense of adventure.
Nearby, you can explore the small villages of Mayto and Tehuamixtl, known for some of the largest and most delicious oysters in Mexico.
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