CANCUN BEACHES

Mexican law says that nobody can own a beach in this country. That means that when it comes to Cancún's its all for one and one for all. Shaped like a 7, the hotel strip is connected to the mainland by two bridges. Experienced swimmers and timid paddlers will find that they are looking for. The beaches at the top of the 7, along the stretch leading from downtown to Punta Cancun - Playa Caracol, boast the most tranquil surf. This part of 7 is Mujeres Bay - Bahia de Mujeres, as it lies between Cancún and the island of Isla Mujeres.
After Punta Cancún, however, it's open Caribbean Sea and things tend to heat up a bit. Look for bigger waves, stronger breezes and a wilder atmosphere along the stem of 7.
The flags posted on the beach, indicate the strength of the often deceptive surf conditions.

All the beaches have in common the white sand and clear turquoise waters. Restaurants, bars, changing rooms, marinas, water sports facilities vary from beach to beach.

PLAYA LAS PERLAS

This is the first beach you encounter when coming from downtown. Directly in front of Las Perlas hotel public access is indicated by a large sign at the entrance. There are no public services to speak of, but nearby hotels feature shops and restaurants. Calm water, gentle breezes. Kukulcan Blvd Km 2.

PLAYA LINDA

The first bridge join mainland with Island. Lagoon waters mix with the Caribbean sea at this point. The beach, departure point of cruise to Isla Mujeres is plenty of activities. Public access. Kukulcan Blvd Km 4.

PLAYA LANGOTA

Boasting one of the strip most popular wharves, Playa Langosta is a great spot for those catching a cruise. As well, there is a water sport center, shops, restaurants. Public Access, services. Kukulcan Blvd Km 5.

PLAYA TORTUGAS

You'll find nothing turtle like about this beach. Waterfront restaurants and bars make this beach perfect for people watching. calm water, service, water sports and sun worshippers. Kukulcan Blvd Km 6.

PLAYA CARACOL

The heart of Cancun, calm water side of Punta Cancún, make this beach a good bet for those looking for all the conveniences. Good place for snorkel near the beacon. The beach boasts gentle surf conditions and there's a restaurant, showers and hammocks on hand. It's a departure point for trips to Contoy Island. Public access and parking. Kukulcan Blvd. Km 8.

PLAYA GAVIOTA AZUL

Also in the heart of the commercial district, Playa Gaviota boast all the comforts. A entrance fee affords visitors access to the beach, change rooms, lounger, pool, showers. Public access and parking. Kukulcan Blvd. Km 9.

PLAYA CHAC MOOL

Look for spectacular swimming and lots of room for laying out this beach. A nearby thatched roof restaurant serves up snacks and cool drinks. Though there's not much in the way of water sports rentals, fine swimming conditions and gentle breeze provide more that enough fun. Public access, parking. Kukulcan Blvd. Km 10.

PLAYA MARLIN

Walk or jog along this stunning beach and you are bound to encounter everything from water sports to restaurants or bars. Strong surf means swimming can sometimes be a challenge, but the broad expanse means that it is almost never crowded. Public access. Kukulcan Blvd. Km 13.

PLAYA BALLENAS

When it comes to the typical, pristine Hotel strip beach, Playa Ballenas is it. Stretched out before some of Cancún's most beautiful hotels, this beach has crystal clear Caribbean water making for fun and refreshing swimming. Some hotel waiters make their way onto the beach, offering bar service. Public access.

PLAYA DELFINES

Look for spectacular view of the hotel zone is one of the main attractions at this beach, complete with sand dunes. Public access and parking. Some hotels in this zone offers all inclusive by the day.

PUNTA NIZUK

Located at the far end of the Hotel strip, this is the better snorkel place in Cancun shore. Short beach, no public access., you must walk 1 mile to arrive. No service available.

MORE TRAVEL INFORMATION