16 Best Beaches In Cancun You Can Visit For Free

I’ve been to Mexico more times than I can count, and I’ve gotta say, the best beaches in Cancun are something else. With soft white sand that feels like powder between your toes and water so blue it looks like it’s been Photoshopped, it’s no wonder Cancun is such a popular vacation spot.

But with so many beaches to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s why I’ve put together this list of the 16 popular Cancun beaches that you absolutely have to check out. Most of them are free, and you won’t be disappointed.

Beach Name	Best For	Star Rating
Playa Delfines	Scenic Views and Photography	4.5/5
Playa Tortugas	Families and Active Visitors	4.5/5
Playa Norte (Isla Mujeres)	Swimming and Sunbathing	4.8/5
Playa Paraiso (Tulum)	Stunning Landscapes and Relaxation	4.8/5
Playa Akumal	Snorkeling with Turtles	4.5/5
Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve	Eco-Tourism and Adventure	4.7/5
Playa Chac Mool	Convenience and Moderate Activity	4.0/5
Playa Caracol	Easy Access and Gentle Waters	4.5/5
Playa Langosta	Families with Young Children	4.5/5
Playa Marlin	Peaceful Sunbathing	4.0/5
Playa Mujeres (Costa Mujeres)	All-Inclusive Luxury and Privacy	4.5/5
Playa Xpu-Ha	Water Sports and Tranquility	4.3/5
Playa Playacar	Accessing Resort Amenities	4.5/5
Xcacel Beach	Turtle Watching and Conservation	4.6/5
Playa San Miguelito	Quiet Relaxation and History Enthusiasts	3.5/5
Isla Blanca	Kiteboarding and Solitude	4.0/5

This table provides an overview, making it easier to compare what each beach offers and their respective appeal based on visitor ratings.

1. Playa Delfines – Best for Scenic Views and Photography

First on our list is Playa Delfines in Cancun, a true knockout of a beach that’s sure to take your breath away. This place is all about the views.

Playa Delfines has endless stretches of powdery white sand, electric turquoise water as far as the eye can see, and even a brightly colored “Cancun” sign that’s just begging for a photo op.

And the best part? Playa Delfines is the largest public beach in Cancun’s Hotel Zone, so there’s plenty of room to spread out and soak up that sweet, sweet sunshine.

• Location: Punta Nizuc – Cancún 335, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
• Cost/Fee: Free access
• Rating: 4.5/5
• Hours: Open 24 hours
• Amenities: Umbrellas and palapas for rent, bathrooms, showers, playground, lifeguards on duty

But Playa Delfines isn’t just a pretty face – it’s got substance too. With its gentle waves and relatively quiet atmosphere compared to some of the more crowded beaches in Cancun, it’s the perfect spot to chill out with a good book’

You can also take a leisurely swim or even catch a few waves if you’re feeling adventurous. And if you’ve got kids in tow, there’s a small playground area to keep them entertained while you work on your tan.

2. Playa Tortugas – Best for Families and Active Visitors

Next up, we’ve got Playa Tortugas – a Cancun beach perfect for families and anyone who likes to stay on the move. Located right next to the ferry dock to Isla Mujeres, this beach is a hub of activity with something for everyone.

• Location: Km 6.5, Blvd. Kukulcan, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
• Cost/Fee: Free access
• Rating: 4.5/5
• Hours: Open 24 hours
• Amenities: Restaurants, shops, restrooms, showers, changing rooms, water sports rentals, bungee jumping

For the kiddos (and the young at heart), the calm, shallow waters of Playa Tortugas are perfect for splashing around and practicing your doggy paddle. If you’re feeling a bit more daring, you can rent some snorkel gear or even try your hand at parasailing or bungee jumping.

Yep, you read that right – Tortugas Beach has a bungee jumping platform right on the sand!

When you’ve worked up an appetite from all that adventuring, you’re in luck – Playa Tortugas is lined with open-air restaurants and bars serving up everything from fresh seafood to ice-cold margaritas. And if you’re in the mood to shop, there are plenty of souvenir stalls and boutiques to browse.

3. Playa Norte (Isla Mujeres) – Best for Swimming and Sunbathing

I know we’re supposed to be talking about the best beaches in Cancun, but I just can’t resist giving a shoutout to Playa Norte over on Isla Mujeres. I mean, this travel destination is consistently ranked as one of the best in all of Mexico, and for good reason – it’s an absolute slice of paradise.

• Location: Rueda Medina 130, SM 001, Centro, 77506 Isla Mujeres, Q.R., Mexico
• Cost/Fee: Ferry ticket required (around $20 USD round trip)
• Rating: 4.8/5
• Hours: Open 24 hours
• Amenities: Beach clubs with lounge chairs and umbrellas for rent, restaurants, bars

Playa Norte has soft, sugar-white sand that stretches on for miles and warm, crystal-clear water that’s so shallow you can walk out for what feels like forever.

It has a laid-back, friendly vibe that instantly puts you in vacation mode. Seriously, the only problem with Playa Norte is that you might never want to leave.

One of my favorite things about this beach is the abundance of beach clubs where you can rent a lounge chair and umbrella and spend the day sipping cocktails and working on your tan.

And when hunger strikes, you’ve got your pick of beachfront restaurants serving up everything from fresh ceviche to wood-fired pizza.

Oh, and did I mention the sunsets? Trust me, you haven’t lived until you’ve watched the sun dip below the horizon from the shores of Playa Norte, painting the sky in a breathtaking array of pinks and oranges.

4. Playa Paraiso (Tulum) – Best for Stunning Landscapes and Relaxation

Alright, back to the mainland we go! Next on our list is Playa Paraiso, a true hidden gem located about an hour and a half south of Cancun in the bohemian beach town of Tulum.

• Location: Carretera Tulum-Boca Paila Km. 1.5, Tulum Beach, Tulum 77780, Mexico
• Cost/Fee: Free access
• Rating: 4.8/5
• Hours: Open 24 hours
• Amenities: Beach clubs with lounge chairs and umbrellas for rent, restaurants, bars

I’m not exaggerating when I say that this beach looks like something straight out of a postcard. We’re talking soft, powdery sand as white as snow, water so turquoise it almost doesn’t look real, and a backdrop of lush jungle and swaying palm trees.

Playa Paraiso also has a super laid-back, bohemian vibe that’s perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and unwind in nature. You won’t find any high-rise resorts or chain restaurants here – just a handful of eco-chic beach clubs where you can rent a lounge chair.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, Playa Paraiso is just a stone’s throw away from the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum, which are perched atop a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea.

5. Playa Akumal – Best for Snorkeling with Turtles

Located about an hour south of Cancun, Playa Akumal is a true gem of a Cancun beach that’s known for its crystal-clear water and abundance of marine life – especially sea turtles.

• Location: Akumal, Quintana Roo, Mexico
• Cost/Fee: Snorkeling gear rental (around $15-20 USD)
• Rating: 4.5/5
• Hours: Open 24 hours
• Amenities: Snorkeling, dive shops, restaurants, restrooms

In fact, the name “Akumal” actually means “place of the turtles” in Mayan, and let me tell you, it lives up to its name. The calm, shallow waters of the bay are home to a thriving population of green sea turtles, and snorkeling alongside these gentle giants is an experience you won’t soon forget.

But even if you’re not into snorkeling, Playa Akumal is still worth a visit for its stunning natural beauty. The beach itself is a long stretch of soft, white sand backed by swaying palm trees and a lush jungle with clear waters.

There are plenty of dive shops and tour operators in the area where you can rent snorkel gear or book a guided tour. When you’re ready to refuel, there are a handful of laid-back beachfront restaurants serving up fresh seafood and ice-cold beverages.

6. Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve – Best for Eco-Tourism and Adventure

Our next beach is actually part of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a sprawling protected area that covers over 1.3 million acres of pristine wilderness along the Caribbean coast.

• Location: Felipe Carrillo Puerto, Quintana Roo, Mexico
• Cost/Fee: Guided tours range from $50-150 USD per person
• Rating: 4.7/5
• Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Amenities: Guided tours, wildlife viewing, birdwatching, fishing, kayaking

Now, I know what you’re thinking – a biosphere reserve doesn’t exactly sound like a relaxing day at the beach. But trust me, this place is special.

The beaches here are some of the most untouched and beautiful in all of Mexico, with miles of soft, white sand and crystal-clear water that’s home to an incredible array of marine life.

But the real draw of Sian Ka’an is the opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and experience the incredible biodiversity of the region. The reserve is home to over 300 species of birds, as well as manatees, dolphins, and even jaguars.

There are plenty of eco-friendly tour operators in the area who can take you on guided hikes through the jungle, birdwatching expeditions, or even kayaking trips through the mangrove forests. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some of the reserve’s famous saltwater crocodiles basking in the sun.

7. Playa Chac Mool – Best for Convenience and Moderate Activity

Looking for a beach that’s got a little bit of everything? Look no further than Playa Chac Mool, a bustling stretch of sand located right in the heart of Cancun’s Hotel Zone.

• Location: Blvd. Kukulcan Km 10, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
• Cost/Fee: Free access
• Rating: 4.0/5
• Hours: Open 24 hours
• Amenities: Water sports rentals, beach volleyball, restaurants, bars, restrooms, showers

What I love about Playa Chac Mool is how easy it is to get to – it’s just a short walk or cab ride from most of the major hotels in the area. And once you’re there, you’ve got plenty of options for how to spend your day.

If you’re feeling active, you can rent some water sports equipment and try your hand at paddleboarding, kayaking, or even parasailing. Or if you’re more of a landlubber, there’s usually a game of beach volleyball going on that you can join in on.

Sure, Playa Chac Mool might not be the most secluded or picturesque beach on this list – but what it lacks in tranquility, it more than makes up for in convenience and fun.

8. Playa Caracol – Best for Easy Access and Gentle Waters

If you’re looking for a beach getaway that’s easy to get to and perfect for swimming, Playa Caracol is the spot for you. Located right next to the Cancun Convention Center in the Hotel Zone, this pretty little stretch of sand is just a short walk or cab ride from most of the major hotels in the area.

• Location: Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 9, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
• Cost/Fee: Free access
• Rating: 4.5/5
• Hours: Open 24 hours
• Amenities: Beach chairs and umbrellas for rent, lifeguards on duty (during high season), restrooms and showers (for hotel guests only)

What sets Playa Caracol apart from some of the best beaches in Cancun Mexico is its calm, shallow water that’s perfect for swimming and wading. The gentle waves and soft, sandy bottom make it a great spot for families with young children or anyone who’s not super confident in the water.

And while the beach itself is relatively small, it’s rarely too crowded thanks to its location tucked away behind the Convention Center. You can easily rent a beach chair and umbrella from one of the nearby vendors and spend the day lounging in the sun and watching the boats go by.

Just keep in mind that since Playa Caracol is located in the heart of the Hotel Zone, it can get a bit noisy at times with traffic and nearby construction. But if you’re looking for a convenient, easy-to-access beach with calm, swimmable water, it’s definitely worth checking out.

9. Playa Langosta – Best for Families with Young Children

If you’re traveling with kids, Playa Langosta is the perfect beach getaway for a fun and stress-free day in the sun. Located just a short drive from downtown Cancun, this wide, sandy beach in Cancun is a favorite among local families and is known for its shallow, calm water and laid-back vibe.

• Location: Blvd. Kukulcan Km 5, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
• Cost/Fee: Free access
• Rating: 4.5/5
• Hours: Open 24 hours
• Amenities: Beach chairs and umbrellas for rent, lifeguards on duty, restrooms, showers, playground, restaurants, bars

One of the things I love about Playa Langosta is how spacious it is – there’s plenty of room for kids to run around and play without feeling crowded or overwhelmed. And with lifeguards on duty and gentle, shallow water, you can relax and let your little ones splash and swim to their heart’s content.

There’s also a small playground area right on the beach, as well as plenty of vendors renting out beach chairs, umbrellas, and even inflatable toys and floaties. And when it’s time for a snack or a cold drink, there are several beachfront restaurants and bars to choose from.

Another plus of Playa Langosta is that it’s located right next to a public park with plenty of shady trees and picnic tables – perfect for taking a break from the sun or enjoying a packed lunch.

Just keep in mind that since Playa Langosta is such a popular spot for families, it can get a bit crowded on weekends and holidays. But if you’re looking for a safe, fun, and easy beach day with the kids, it’s definitely worth braving the crowds.

10. Playa Marlin – Best for Peaceful Sunbathing

Ready to escape the crowds and indulge in some serious relaxation? Playa Marlin is calling your name. This hidden gem at the southern end of Cancun’s Hotel Zone boasts wide stretches of soft, white sand that seem to go on for miles.

• Location: Blvd. Kukulcan Km 13.5, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
• Cost/Fee: Free access
• Rating: 4.0/5
• Hours: Open 24 hours
• Amenities: Beach chairs and umbrellas for rent, lifeguards on duty, restrooms, showers

If you’re lucky enough to snag a spot here, you’ll be treated to some of the most stunning views in all of Cancun. The turquoise water is so clear you can see straight to the bottom, and the powdery sand is perfect for digging your toes into.

There are vendors roaming the beach selling everything from ice-cold beers to fresh coconuts. And if you want to up your lounging game, you can rent a beach chair and umbrella from one of the many vendors set up along the shore.

Take note that the waves at Playa Marlin can be a bit choppier than at some of the other beaches in Cancun. But don’t let that stop you from taking a dip – the lifeguards are always on duty to make sure everyone stays safe.

Oh, and if you’re planning on making a day of it, be sure to pack some snacks and drinks. While there are a few restaurants and bars scattered around, they’re not always within easy walking distance.

11. Playa Mujeres – Best for Luxury and Privacy

If your idea of the perfect beach day involves sipping champagne on a pristine stretch of sand, Playa Mujeres is the beach for you. This exclusive enclave is located about 30 minutes north of Cancun’s Hotel Zone and is home to some of the most luxurious resorts and beach clubs in Cancun.

• Location: Playa Mujeres, Cancún, Quintana Roo, Mexico
• Cost/Fee: Day passes to beach clubs can cost around $50-100 USD per person
• Rating: 4.5/5
• Hours: Open 24 hours, but beach club hours vary
• Amenities: Luxurious beach clubs with pools, restaurants, bars, and water sports rentals

Playa Mujeres’s sand is so white it almost looks like sugar, and the water is a shade of blue that seems almost too perfect to be real. But the real draw here is the service.

The beach clubs at Playa Mujeres take luxury to a whole new level, with attentive staff ready to cater to your every whim. Whether you want to lounge by the pool with a cocktail in hand or indulge in a gourmet meal right on the sand, you’ll find it all here.

Of course, all that luxury comes at a price. Day passes to the beach clubs can cost anywhere from $50 to $100 USD per person, depending on the season and the amenities included. But if you’re looking to truly treat yourself, it’s worth every penny.

Just be aware that Playa Mujeres is a bit of a trek from the main tourist areas of Cancun. You’ll need to either rent a car or take a taxi to get there.

12. Playa Xpu-Ha – Best for Water Sports and Tranquility

If you’re the type of beach-goer who likes to balance relaxation with a little bit of adventure, Playa Xpu-Ha is worth checking out. Located about an hour south of Cancun in the Riviera Maya, this wide stretch of sand is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

• Location: Carretera Cancún – Tulum Km 265, 77790 Xpu Ha, Q.R., Mexico
• Cost/Fee: $5-10 USD for parking
• Rating: 4.3/5
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Amenities: Beach clubs, restaurants, water sports rentals

One of the first things you’ll notice about Playa Xpu-Ha is just how stunningly beautiful it is. The sand is soft and white, and the water is a mesmerizing shade of turquoise that seems to go on forever. But don’t let the tranquil scene fool you – there’s plenty of action to be had here.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the coastline. Or, if you’re more of a thrill-seeker, you can try your hand at kiteboarding or windsurfing. The conditions here are perfect for water sports, with steady winds and relatively calm waters.

But if you’re more in the mood to relax, Playa Xpu-Ha has plenty of options for that, too. You can rent a beach chair and umbrella from one of the many beach clubs that line the shore or simply spread out a towel and soak up some sun.

One thing to keep in mind is that Playa Xpu-Ha can get a bit crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. But the good news is that there’s plenty of space to spread out, so you can always find a quiet spot to call your own.

Oh, and if you’re driving, be prepared to pay a small fee for parking. But trust me, it’s worth it for the chance to spend a day in paradise.

13. Playa Playacar – Best for Accessing Resort Amenities

Nestled just south of Playa del Carmen, Playa Playacar is a hidden gem that offers the best of both worlds – a stunning stretch of white sand beach and easy access to all the amenities of the nearby Cancun resorts.

• Location: Playacar, Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico
• Cost/Fee: Free access, but some resorts may charge for use of amenities
• Rating: 4.5/5
• Hours: Open 24 hours
• Amenities: Beach clubs, restaurants, bars, water sports rentals (depending on resort)

Playa Playacar is technically a public beach. It’s situated right in front of a bunch of high-end resorts, which means you can take advantage of all their amenities without actually staying there.

Want to lounge by the pool with a fruity cocktail in hand? No problem. Feel like indulging in a gourmet meal or getting a massage? You can do that, too.

But even if you’re not interested in the resort scene, Playa Playacar in Cancun is still worth a visit. The beach itself is absolutely stunning, with soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water that’s perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

You can also rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the coastline. Just be sure to keep an eye out for the occasional yacht or sailboat – this is a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts. If you do decide to take advantage of the resort amenities, just be aware that some of them may come with a fee.

14. Xcacel Beach – Best for Turtle Watching and Conservation

If you’re looking for a beach that’s a little off the beaten path and has a focus on conservation, Xcacel Beach is the place for you. Located about an hour south of Playa del Carmen, this pristine stretch of sand is home to a turtle sanctuary and is a popular spot for eco-tourists.

• Location: Carretera Cancún – Tulum Km 237, 77780 Xcacel, Q.R., Mexico
• Cost/Fee: $1-2 USD for entrance fee, which goes towards conservation efforts
• Rating: 4.6/5
• Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Amenities: Restrooms, showers, snack bar

One of the first things you’ll notice about Xcacel Beach is just how untouched it feels. Unlike some of the more developed beaches in Cancun, there are no high-rise resorts or fancy beach clubs here. Instead, you’ll find a wide stretch of soft white sand backed by lush jungle and swaying palm trees.

But the real draw of Xcacel Beach is the chance to see sea turtles in their natural habitat. The beach is home to a turtle sanctuary where you can learn about the different species of turtles that nest here and even see some hatchlings making their way to the sea.

Of course, there’s plenty to do here besides turtle-watching. The water is crystal clear and perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and there are a few small cenotes (natural swimming holes) nearby that are worth checking out.

But if you do decide to take a dip, just be sure to bring your own snorkel gear – there are no rentals available on the beach. And while there are restrooms and showers available, there aren’t any beach chairs or umbrellas for rent, so you’ll want to bring your own if you plan on spending the day.

Also, Xcacel Beach is a bit more remote than some of the popular beaches in Cancun. There aren’t any big resorts or restaurants nearby, so you’ll want to bring your own snacks and drinks (though there is a small snack bar on site).

15. Playa San Miguelito – Best for Quiet Relaxation and History Enthusiasts

Looking for a Cancun beach that’s a little more low-key than the bustling strips of Cancun’s Hotel Zone? Playa San Miguelito might just be your perfect match. Located near the Museo Maya de Cancun, this quiet stretch of sand is a favorite among locals and history buffs alike.

• Location: Km 16.5, Blvd. Kukulcan, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
• Cost/Fee: Free access
• Rating: 3.5/5
• Hours: Open 24 hours
• Amenities: Limited – bring your own food, water, and shade

Playa San Miguelito is in a secluded location with a quiet atmosphere. It’s not uncommon to have the beach almost entirely to yourself, especially if you visit during the week.

But just because it’s quiet doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do here. In fact, Playa San Miguelito is also located right next to some fascinating Mayan ruins, which are definitely worth exploring if you’re interested in history.

As for the beach itself, it’s a wide stretch of soft white sand backed by lush vegetation and swaying palm trees. The water is a stunning shade of turquoise and is generally calm enough for swimming and snorkeling.

There aren’t any amenities on the beach, though. So, you’ll want to bring your own food, water, and shade if you plan on spending the day. And while there are a few small restaurants and shops nearby, they’re not always open, so it’s best to come prepared.

16. Isla Blanca – Best for Kiteboarding and Solitude

If you’re a fan of water sports and don’t mind venturing a bit off the beaten path, Isla Blanca is definitely worth a visit. Located about a 30-minute drive north of Cancun, this long stretch of white sand beach is a favorite among kiteboarders and those seeking a little solitude.

• Location: Isla Blanca, Quintana Roo, Mexico
• Cost/Fee: Free access
• Rating: 4.0/5
• Hours: Open 24 hours
• Amenities: Limited – bring your own food, water, and shade

What distinguishes Isla Blanca from other best beaches in the Cancun area is its remoteness and lack of development. There are no big resorts or fancy beach clubs here – just miles and miles of pristine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water.

But what Isla Blanca lacks in amenities, it more than makes up for in natural beauty and prime kiteboarding conditions. The steady winds and shallow water make it a great spot for beginners and experienced kiteboarders alike, and there are a few kiteboarding schools in the area if you want to take a lesson or rent some gear.

Since Isla Blanca is also a bit off the beaten path, there aren’t any amenities on the beach itself. You’ll want to bring your own food, water, and shade if you plan on spending the day, and be prepared for a bit of a bumpy ride on the dirt road that leads to the beach.