The beaches of Cancun have some of the most famous beaches in Mexico. These beaches are known for their crystal clear water, fine white sand, and spectacular sunsets. Cancun is located on the east coast of Mexico and is surrounded by the Caribbean Sea. These beaches are also known for scuba diving, snorkeling, and swimming. It makes me wonder, what are some beach towns near Cancun, Mexico?
So, what are the best beach towns near Cancun? The best beach towns near Cancun heading North are Isla Mujeres, El Cujo, The Colorados, and Celestun. From Cancun heading South are the beach towns of Puerto Morales, El Hijo Prodigo, Punto Maroma, Punto Uno, and Tulum. Each beach town has multiple beaches to explore and plenty of beach activity options.
Cancun is situated on the east coast of Mexico, bordered north by the Caribbean Sea. On the south, Cancun borders the Yucatan Peninsula. However, it is fairly flat and has scarce vegetation. The beaches of Cancun have fine white sand and are surrounded by crystal clear waters.
The waters of the Caribbean are so clear that one can see its sandy bottom from the surface. In addition, its reefs are well known for their spectacular marine life.
-This place is ideal for those that want a relaxing vacation.
-There are plenty of activities to choose from.
-You have seven beaches to choose from.
-There are plenty of places to shop here.
With all these great beach features, let’s focus on some of the best beaches in Cancun and nearby towns. Some beaches are great for families, others are good for water sports, and some offer a great place for a romantic sunset. Keep reading to find out about these beaches. You don’t want to miss anything!
What Are Some of The Best Towns Near Cancun with A Beach?
The best beach town is the one that has –
–Water sports and activities that interest you
–Has a beach or several of them
–Lots of people or is empty of all the tourists, depending on how you relax and what you expect
–Beach amenities and some interesting attractions around the beach town
Everyone has their own interests, and each beach town has its special charm. So let’s list a few beach towns and describe them so you can choose.
List of Beach Towns Near Cancun with a Beach
Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is a Caribbean island located in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. The island is surrounded by shallow coral reefs and is the site of an annual festival of music and dancing called Carnaval del Sol. Isla Mujeres is also known for its beaches, including Playa Norte, Playa Hidalgo, and Playa Tortuga.
El Cujo
El Cujo is a beach town located on the Gulf of Mexico in Yucatan, Mexico. The town is famous for its white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. The waters are warm and calm and ideal for a swim or snorkel. This beach town features restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional Mexican dishes. El Cujo offers opportunities for swimming and water sports like snorkeling and fishing.
The Colorados
The Colorados beach town is a group of small Mayan villages that sit along 8 miles of beaches in Yucatan Mexico. The villages are home to about 20,000 residents. The beaches are scenic, and the islands are surrounded by many coral reefs, attracting tourists to The Colorados. Activities you can do at the beach include swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing.
Merida
Merida is a wondrous city located at the mouth of a cenote (large sinkhole) in the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. Merida is known for its ruins and monuments and for its beaches of fine golden sands. Merida boasts of a hot summer and a balmy winter. The beaches of Merida are filled with tourists who come to see this ancient city throughout the year. The most beautiful beaches of Merida are Xel-Ha, Xkeken, and Xcan-Ha. These beaches offer water sports like swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
Celestun
Celestun is a Mexican fishing town located on the Gulf of Mexico about 40 kilometers from Merida, the capital of the Yucatan state. Celestun’s main source of income is fishing, especially lobster. The town is famous for its traditional seafood offerings and deep-water port, which is served by two active docks: the fishing dock and the port dock.
Puerto Morales
Puerto Morales is a beach town in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. It has beautiful beaches that are great for relaxing, sunbathing, swimming, and sailing. Puerto Morales also has many restaurants and shopping areas for tourists to check out.
El Hijo Prodigo
El Hijo Prodigo is a fishing village located in the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. It is famous for its seafood restaurants that offer delicious food and views. El Hijo Prodigo is a great place to relax and enjoy the amazing natural resources of the Yucatan Peninsula, such as its beaches, jungle, and cenotes (sinkholes).
Punto Maroma
Punto Maroma is a beach town located on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. Punta Maroma has beautiful turquoise waters that are great for snorkeling and scuba diving. Besides sunbathing and swimming, you can play volleyball on the beach and visit the local fishing village, which has great restaurants.
Punto Uno
Punto Uno is a small town full of great restaurants, bars, and shops. The beach is clean and the water is clear. You can enjoy the beach by swimming, boogie boarding, surfing, jet skiing, or fishing.
Tulum
Punto Uno is a small town full of great restaurants, bars, and shops. The beach is clean and the water is clear. You can enjoy the beach by swimming, boogie boarding, surfing, jet skiing, or fishing.
The ride from Cancun to Tulum is about 2 hours long and will cost you around $60-$70. You can either rent a car or take public transport. If you’re renting a car, have an international driver’s license. Driving in Mexico is not difficult, but there are some things you should know before hitting the road.
Several bus companies offer transportation from Cancun to Tulum, which costs around $10-$15 per person. The buses run frequently, and they make stops in both towns. If you’re taking public transport, be prepared for a long journey – the trip usually takes 3-4 hours!
What Are the Best Beaches Near Cancun?
The best beaches near Cancun are Playa del Carmen’s Caleton, Playa del Carmen’s Los Muertos, and Tulum.
What Are the Best Beaches Near Cancun? Beach Towns in Mexico
Other users vote on the beaches on this list. This list includes the best beaches in Mexico, but it is up to you to decide which one deserves that title. There are close to 400 beaches in Mexico. The Mexican coastlines span the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, the Gulf of California, and the Pacific Ocean.
Playa del Carmen – Located south of Cancun on the Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen offers miles of white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling or diving.
Tulum – Tulum is located about 2 hours south of Cancun on the Yucatan Peninsula and is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Mexico.
Isla Mujeres – This island is located off the coast of Quintana Roo. It is known for its pristine beaches and turquoise waters.
What Is the Water Like on The Beaches Near Cancun?
The water near Cancun is typically warm and clear. The beaches are popular for their white sand and crystal-clear waters.
Most beaches have gentle waves, making them great for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. Some beaches offer unique activities like surfing, which can add to your vacation experience.
It has to be mentioned that at certain times of the year, some beaches suffer from brown seaweed (sargassum) that grows and changes the color and look of the water. Check local websites to ensure the beach you want to go to is free of this seaweed. At the time of this writing, here is the latest news according to JourneyMexico.com: Update on Sargassum Seaweed Affecting Mexico’s Beaches
Beach Town Water Sports in Cancun
Cancun is a beautiful beach destination in Mexico. It offers a variety of activities for tourists and there are plenty of water sports that you can jump in and play.
What Are the Best Water Sports to Play Near Cancun?
Here’s a list of some of the fun water sports to play on the beaches – on or near Cancun:
Surfing
Surfing in Cancun Mexico is a lot of fun as you get to see surfers riding the waves. You can join other surfers in the water. The waves are very consistent and strong. The waves are of different colors and sizes, making the place to fascinating. You may also see many surfers riding the same wave. Surfers from all over the world come to enjoy the waves in Cancun Mexico.
Cancun in the Yucatan is famous for it’s surf breaks, where the waves are superb all year round with consistent waist-high waves and up to 4 foot waves in the winter.
Windsurfing
The beach of Cancun Mexico is a great place for windsurfing as the ocean here is very calm. The winds blowing are from a good direction. You can rent a windsurf board, ride on the beach, and ride the wind along the ocean. You can also do your windsurfing underwater as many schools offer snorkeling courses.
Kayaking
Kayaking in Mexico near Cancun’s beaches is a relaxing and fascinating way to experience the Caribbean. Kayaking along the coastline lets you enjoy beautiful landscapes and marine life like dolphins, rays, and rare birds. Kayaking in Merida offers the chance to see the Yucatan’s magical underwater caves up close, and to explore Mayan ruins.
Scuba Diving
Scuba diving in Isla Mujeres is an experience of a lifetime. The island provides amazing coral reefs to swim through and large schools of fish to add color to the coral reef. The variety of fish is incredible. Not only are there schools of colorful fish, but there are also types of fish that are very rare to find anywhere else in the world.
There are several dive shops located near the Zona Hotelera area. Most offer scuba diving courses, equipment rental, and guided dives.
There are two main types of diving in Cancun : open-water diving and cave diving. Open-water diving involves going deeper than 10 meters (33 feet). Cave diving means going deeper than 20 meters (66 feet).
Open-water divers usually go to sites such as Xcalacoco Reef, Punta Sur, and Laguna Chankanaab. Cave divers head to the underwater caves off Playa Norte and Playa Bonita.
Swimming
Swimming in Cancun is an experience of a lifetime. The water is warm, clear, and calm. At certain times of the day, like sunrise and sunset, you can see the amazing colors of the sky reflected on the perfectly calm waters. The ocean waves are mild. You can have so much fun swimming in the clear ocean waters.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling in the beautiful waters of Cancun will give both adults and children a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Caribbean. Snorkeling is a great way for the whole family to spend a day in the warm waters of Cancun while getting an up-close view of the world beneath the waves. You can snorkel to your heart’s delight while exploring the coral reefs and tropical fish of the Caribbean.
Snorkeling on these beaches can be an amazing experience because of the huge variety of marine life and unbelievable corals in crystal clear waters. Snorkeling is a great activity to discover the underwater world of Cancun Mexico.
Diving
Nearby Cancun is the beach town of Merida Mexico where diving can be an exceptional experience. The sensation of diving under the sea is very exciting. It is an experience of a lifetime. You can see beautiful fish and colorful corals. The ocean is full of surprises and sensations. You can dive accompanied by a professional diver or learn to dive by yourself at a diving school.
Sailing
Sailing in Cancun is one of the best and most relaxing activities you can do in Mexico. It’s a great way to explore the coast and look at the small islands. Several companies offer sailing tours that will take you to the islands and even let you spend the night on a deserted island. It’s a fun and relaxing way to spend your vacation.
Boating
Boating in Celestun Mexico is like an adrenaline rush. People go to Celestun Mexico for diving, fishing, and snorkeling. The boat ride to Celestun is scenic and relaxing, as you see the reef sea life. The boat ride is just 40 minutes away from Cancun. Snorkeling in Celestun Mexico is something that you should definitely try at least once in your life. Fishing in Celestun Mexico is a lot of fun, especially when you catch big fish such as tuna, barracuda, and lobster.
Fishing
There are many places to fish in Cancun Mexico, but the most popular is Cancun Mexico Bay. Any seasoned fisherman can tell you that Cancun Mexico Bay offers anglers the opportunity to catch huge tarpon, sailfish, marlin, roosterfish, snapper, grouper, barracuda, kingfish, wahoo, and tuna. Every fisherman knows that Cancun Mexico Bay is the best sport fishing spot in Cancun.
Parasailing
Parasailing is a thrilling way to see the ocean from above. Parasailing is safe and fun, and you do not even need previous experience to enjoy the view from the parasail. Parasailing is offered at many locations throughout the world. However, parasailing in Cancun offers many benefits. The water is clean and clear in a tropical environment. There are beautiful reefs and marine life.
Jetskiing
Jetskiing in Cancun Mexico is an amazing experience. It is a smooth ride with lots of wind in your face. The water is calm and clear. You can see a lot of wildlife in the ocean such as sharks and dolphins. The road is wide and there are plenty of jetski rental shops. Jetskiing in Cancun Mexico is an amazing experience.
Jet skis are perfect for beginners. They allow you to travel fast over short distances. If you don’t feel comfortable driving a boat, you can hire a professional driver to drive you around.
Some places to rent jet skis include Las Brisas Resort, Club Med, and El Rey del Caribe.
What Are Some of The Best Activities to Do in These Beach Towns Near Cancun?
The best activities to experience in nearby Cancun beach towns are water activities and activities around the beach town. And don’t forget to check out some of Mexico’s famous Mayan Ruins, which are scattered around different locations while you’re there.
Activities To Do (or Play) on The Beaches in Cancun or On Nearby Beaches
Beach Volleyball
The sand of Cancun’s beaches is very fine and soft, making for a great volleyball environment. When you’re on vacation, we enjoy some time in the sun. While relaxing on the beach and sipping a drink can be fun, sometimes you want to spend your time on the beach doing something. Playing beach volleyball is a great way for you and your family to enjoy each other’s company and get some exercise while on vacation.
Cycling
Cycling near the beach in Cancun is the perfect sport for someone who loves the scenic outdoors. You get to cycle through beautiful countryside and along the beach with the wind in your hair and the sun on your face. You can cycle wherever your heart desires, following your own path and enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Hiking
Hiking near the beaches in Cancun is a wonderful experience because you get to feel the cool breezes and see beautiful views of the beach. You can also hike around palm trees and see the different kinds of birds. The ocean sparkles with color while water splashes on the shore. The hike is filled with wonderful sights. You can find many trails near beaches. You can also choose to take a guided tour along trails near beaches.
Beach Frisbee
If the beach is crowded and you are looking for a more relaxing way to enjoy the beach you could just grab a Frisbee and play catch on the beach with the waves crashing in the background. It could be a great way to spend an afternoon at the beach. Cancun Mexico has some of the best beaches, and especially off-season can be quiet and very calm, perfect if you’re looking to practice your Frisbee skills or have a relaxing day at the beach.
Beach Soccer
Cancun is a great city for Beach Soccer just as it is great for Scuba Diving and Sailing. The beaches of Cancun are incredible with soft white sand so you can play barefoot if you want. Beach soccer does not require special equipment to play. All you need is some sand, a ball and friends to play on the beach.
Jogging on the Beach
Jogging on the beaches of Cancun is an amazing experience because you get to see miles of beach ahead of you. You also see the ocean in front of you and feel the sand under your feet. If you’re lucky, you also see dolphins swimming in your direction.
Horseback riding
Horseback riding in Cancun Mexico provides an experience that is unlike any other. When you go horseback riding in Cancun Mexico, you get the chance to ride along the beach. You also get to see beautiful ocean scenery and spectacular landscapes. You can also ride along the water while getting to experience the beach breeze and the beautiful ocean scenery and the view of Cancun Mexico’s coastline.
Attractions in and Around the Beach Towns in Cancun
With its white sands, turquoise water, and vibrant nightlife, Cancun is an ideal destination for any traveler looking for a relaxing getaway.
What Are the Best Attractions to See Near Cancun?
The best attractions near Cancun are those that provide an experience for everyone. Whether you enjoy nature, culture, history, art, architecture, or adventure, there are plenty of options nearby.
Cancun is home to more than 30 museums, including the Museo Maya de Cancún, which showcases pre-Hispanic artifacts and artwork. There are also numerous galleries featuring contemporary artists.
You can also visit the city’s historic center, where colonial buildings line the streets. If you prefer to relax, head to the beachfront area, where you’ll find beautiful beaches and great restaurants.
List of Attractions: What are the Best Attractions to See Near Cancun?
Here are some attractions in and around the beach towns in Cancun that you shouldn’t miss.
#1. Xcaret Park
Xcaret Park is located near the Zona Hotelera area of Cancun. This park offers visitors a chance to explore the underwater world of the Caribbean Sea. Visitors can snorkel, scuba dive, swim, kayak, paddleboard, sailboat, parasail, and windsurf.
There are several diving sites within the park, including the Blue Hole, a sunken ship used as a military base during World War II. There are also two artificial reefs in the park, which offer excellent fishing opportunities.
#2. Chankanaab National Park
Chankanaab National Park is located in the northern part of Quintana Roo state. This national park features a variety of ecosystems, including mangroves, coral reefs, wetlands, coastal forests, and tropical dry forests.
Visitors can hike, bike, boat, raft, fish, birdwatch, and visit ruins and archaeological sites here. One of the main attractions in the park is the Maya Ruins of Tulum, which feature ancient Mayan temples and pyramids.
#3. Museo de la Cultura Maya
Museo de la Cultura Maya is located in the city of Playa del Carmen. This museum house exhibits related to the history of the Yucatán Peninsula and the Maya culture.
Some items displayed include pottery, textiles, masks, sculptures, musical instruments, and tools. There are also interactive displays that allow visitors to learn more about the Maya civilization.
#4. Parque Nacional Cobá
Parque nacional cobá is located in the town of Valladolid. This park contains several archaeological sites, including El Caracol, El Palacio, and La Gran Pirámide.
El Caracol is a pyramid built between AD 600 and 900. El Palacio is a palace built between AD 1200 and 1500. La Gran Pirámides is a series of three pyramids built between AD 1000 and 1300.
#5. Puerto Morelos
Puerto Morelos is located in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. This small town is known for its pristine beaches and crystal clear water.
This town is surrounded by lush jungle areas, which makes it a perfect destination for nature lovers. Some of the things to see and do in Puerto Morelos include hiking, swimming, surfing, snorkeling, sailing, boating, and fishing.
#6. Tulum Ruins
Tulum is another archaeological site in Quintana Roo. It is located right next door to Chichen Itza.
Visitors can see the remnants of a once thriving civilization. Many believe that Tulum was once part of Chichen Itza. Others think Tulum was founded much earlier than Chichen Itza. Either way, Tulum is definitely worth visiting.
#7. Chichen Itza Ruins
Chichen Itza is one of the largest Mayan ruins in the world. Located in Quintana Roo, this ancient site was built between AD 600 and 1000.
It is currently a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can tour the ruins and learn about the history of the area.
Is Cancun Mexico Worth Visiting? The Beach Town Experience in Cancun
Yes, Cancun Mexico is worth visiting, and there is much to do on the beaches and around the town. Cancun is a beach town with the beautiful Caribbean Sea, perfect for the Beach Town Experience. Cancun has tons to do and see, including a fun nightlife scene.
Cancun is just one of many beautiful Mexican cities. There are many other interesting places to visit in Mexico.
Cancun is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a party atmosphere. The beaches are beautiful and have plenty to do, but it can be expensive. If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, I recommend checking out some of the smaller towns near Merida, such as Celestun or Los Colorados. These towns offer a more authentic Mexican experience and are much cheaper than Cancun.
What Area of Cancun Has the Best Beaches
There are a lot of great beaches in Cancun, but Playa la Ropa is often cited as one of the best. It’s easy to get to – it’s just a 10-minute walk from town – and the water is crystal clear and perfect for swimming. You’ll also find restaurants nearby, so you can easily spend an entire day lounging on the beach.
If you’re looking for something a little more lively, head to the Zona Hotelera. This area is home to some of the biggest clubs and bars in Cancun, where you’ll find most tourists partying until dawn. Or if you’re after something more laid-back, check out Playa Norte or Punta Nizuc – both are equally beautiful but much quieter than La Ropa or the Zona Hotelera.
Are Cancun Beaches Swimmable
If you want to go to the beach in Mexico, the best time to go is between November and March. During these months, the ocean is calm and fewer tourists. You can also swim with whales all year round on the Pacific Coast. Cancun is a good destination if you want to travel to Mexico during these months.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it. A rundown of some key beach towns near Cancun and what activities you can do on the beaches and around the town. The choice is yours to take a completely relaxing vacation to the Yucatan beaches in and around Cancun.
Of course, you have many options if you prefer to stay active during your trip. For example, you can hike through the jungle, ride horses along the coast, or explore the local markets. Whatever you choose, you’ll never run out of options in Cancun!
Whether planning a trip to Cancun for the first time or being already familiar with the area, explore more during your vacation to nearby beach towns.
