Best Beaches in Chiapas With Map

Key Takeaways

• Chiapas beaches offer diverse activities from scuba diving to cultural experiences like museums and aquariums.
• Not just for relaxation, specific towns like Puerto Arista provide additional attractions and diverse eateries.
• Ideal visitation period is between December and April, but be prepared for potential crowds during these months.
• Chiapas combines natural beauty with cultural richness; for instance, Palenque is noted for its architecture and murals.
• Barra de Zacapulco features a turtle sanctuary, highlighting Chiapas’ commitment to wildlife conservation.
• Beyond beaches, Chiapas boasts waterfalls, tropical forests, and unique wildlife, adding depth to the travel experience.

Mexico’s Pacific coast is famous for its beautiful sandy beaches and amazing blue water, attracting tourists worldwide. In the Mexican state of Chiapas, these beaches are among the cleanest and most beautiful in the world. Although there are many beautiful stretches of beach along the Pacific Coast, there are small beach towns that attract visitors and have beach amenities to make life more comfortable. It makes me wonder, what are the Chiapas beach towns that can be visited?

11 Best Chiapas Beach Towns

The 11 Best Chiapas beach towns that you can visit, starting from the top-Northern point of Chiapas down the coast to the border of Guatemala, are: Puerto Arista, Playa Del Sol, Boca Del Cielo, Pijijiapan, Barra Zacapulco, La Victoria, Puerto de San Benito, Playa Linda, Barra de Cahuacan, Brisas Del Mar and Tierra y Libertad.

Chiapas is a state in southern Mexico that borders Guatemala and Belize. It’s home to several beautiful beach towns ranging from moderately developed to seemingly vast and free from civilization. 

These beaches offer visitors a variety of fun activities, such as snorkeling, kayaking, scuba diving, fishing, and even visiting museums and aquariums.

Some of the beaches in Chiapas are protected areas where turtles lay eggs and hatchlings. These beaches are called turtle sanctuaries. Visitors can watch the baby turtles crawl onto the beach and swim freely.

Visitors can also experience local culture through the food and surrounding scenery. In particular, the town of Palenque is famous for its unique architecture and colorful murals.

I’ll cover these topics and explore the Chiapas beach towns and their beaches. So keep reading, you don’t want to miss it!

What Are the 11 Surprising Towns with Beautiful Beaches in Chiapas?

Let’s get started and take a deep dive into 11 selected beach towns in Chiapas.

Beach Town – Puerto Arista

Puerto Arista is a gorgeous little fishing village on the Mexican coast of Chiapas. The village is located south of the city of San Cristobal de las Casas and north of the city of Palenque. A white sand beach with turquoise water is very pretty. Hotels, restaurants, and beach bars line the beaches. Surfing and water sports are popular on the beaches.

Apart from relaxing on the beach, Puerto Arista has much to offer. The city has several museums, including one dedicated to Maya culture. There are also plenty of restaurants serving delicious seafood. Last but not least, ancient Mayan ruins can be found nearby.

Youtube Video Walking Around Puerto Arista

Beach Town -Playa Del Sol

Playa del Sol is a popular destination for tourists who come with their families and friends to spend their vacation. You can do many activities in Playa del Sol, such as surfing, snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing. The town is known for its beautiful sunsets, traditional Mexican cuisine, and coffee.

Here is an interactive map overview of the Chiapas Beach Towns. Press the yellow indicator (11). You can navigate to different beach towns and beaches by pressing the town icon. To see interactive photos of the place, press on the orange man (right hand side) and look for a small blue dot or navigate to the street. Unpress and you will be taken to that spot on the map.

Beach Town -Boca Del Cielo

Boca Del Cielo, or “Mouth of Heaven,” is a small town on the coast of Chiapas, Mexico. The town is home to a beautiful beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The town is also great for enjoying fresh seafood, as several restaurants are located on the beach, with hotels nearby. 

Beach Town -Pijijiapan

Pijijiapan is a beautiful town located on the coast of Chiapas, Mexico. It is known for its beaches, which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The town is also home to many restaurants, cafes, and shops.

Beach Town -Barra Zacapulco

If you’re looking for a beach town with a little bit of everything, Barra Zacapulco is the place for you. Located on the coast of Chiapas, this town is home to a beautiful beach and various shops and restaurants. In addition, Barra Zacapulco is also home to several historical sites, making it the perfect place to spend a day or two exploring.

In addition to its undeveloped and litter-free beach, the Barra Zacapulco community has built visitors’ cabins for tourists who want to stay in the area. The La Encrucijada Biosphere Reserve is a coastal wetland that supports various plant and animal species. A turtle sanctuary is located in this town.

Beach Town -La Victoria

La Victoria is one of the most surprising towns with beaches in Chiapas. It’s not well known, but it’s definitely worth a visit. La Victoria is a small fishing village with beautiful beaches.

In addition, La Victoria is a great place to visit if you’re looking for an authentic Mexican village experience. The people are friendly, and the beach is beautiful and perfect for swimming and relaxing.

Beach Town -Puerto de San Benito

It’s located in the municipality of Tapachula, a great place to enjoy the sun and the sea. The town has a beautiful beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing and relaxing. There are also several restaurants, bars, and cafes so that you can enjoy a delicious meal or a refreshing drink after a day in the sun.

People visit this town for its long and fine-sand beaches bordered by palm trees swaying in the wind. Moreover, Puerto de San Benito is home to one of the state’s four marine turtle sanctuaries. So if you are looking for a natural beach experience, add this town to your list.

Beach Town -Playa Linda

Playa Linda is a wonderful place to spend your vacation. It has beautiful beaches for swimming and walking, and it’s close to many hotels where you can stay. There are also plenty of restaurants in Playa Linda so that you can enjoy delicious food at affordable prices. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. Playa Linda is also a great place to go fishing, as there are many good spots for fishing nearby. The waters in Playa Linda are crystal clear and great for swimming.

Beach Town -Barra de Cahuacan

There are also many hidden gems in Chiapas, and the town of Barra de Cahuacan is one of them. It may look deserted; however, Barra de Cahuacan has a beautiful beach perfect for a day of relaxation. If you are looking for a beach town off the beaten path, Barra de Cahuacan is the perfect place.

Beach Town -Brisas Del Mar

Brisas Del Mar is a peaceful beach town that is largely undeveloped. The beaches here are good for swimming and surfing, and the ocean views are beautiful. There are also palapas or thatched beachfront restaurants in Brisas Del Mar. These restaurants sell local seafood dishes.

Beach Town -Tierra y Libertad

Tierra y Libertad is a town in Chiapas known for its beautiful beaches. It has a population of around 10,000 people and is home to several restaurants and bars that offer excellent food and drinks at reasonable prices. This beach town is one of the last in Chiapas, just before the Guatemalan border.

Beaches in Chiapas Mexico – Enjoy Puerto Arista and Boca Del Cielo Activities

Now, let’s look at specific Chiapas Mexico beaches within each beach town. I’ve prepared two tables below, and together with an interactive map, you can get an idea of the beaches that are possible to visit.

Table 1. List of Beaches in Chiapas Mexico from Puerto Arista to Barra Zacapulco

Beach Town	Beach Activities	Size of Town	Beach Town
Playa de Puerto Aristo	swimming, boating, surfing	medium	Puerto Arista
Boca Del Cielo	swimming, boating, surfing	medium	Puerto Arista
Playa Del Sol Beach	swimming, volleyball, ATV	medium	Playa Del Sol
Neuvo Playa Del Sol Beach	swimming, volleyball, ATV	medium	Playa Del Sol
Boca Del Cielo Isla	swimming, volleyball, ATV	small	Boca Del Cielo
Costa Azul	fishing, boating	small	Pijijiapan
Zacapulco Sea Turtle Beach	turtle sanctuary	small	Barra Zacapulco
Name of Beach	Beach Activities	Size of Town	Beach Town

Interactive map of Chiapas beach towns and beaches. Press the yellow indicator (26). You can navigate to different beach towns and beaches by pressing the town icon or the palm tree icon. To see interactive photos of the place, press on the orange man (right hand side) and look for a small blue dot or navigate to the street. Unpress and you will be taken to that spot on the map.

Table 2. List of Beaches in Chiapas Mexico from Barra Zacapulco to Tierra y Libertad

Name of Beach	Beach Activities	Size of Town	Beach Town
Playa Parachico	surfing, boating	small	Barra Zacapulco
Barra de San Simon	swimming, boating	small	La Victoria
Playa San Benito Puerto	swimming	small	Puerto de San Benito
Playa Linda Beach	beach volleyball, fishing	medium	Playa Linda
Barra de Cahuacan Beach	swimming, boating	small	Barra de Cahuacan
Brisas Del Mar Beach	windsurfing, kite surfing	small	Brisas Del Mar
Playas Del Gancho Suchiate	swimming, sunbathing	small	Tierra y Libertad
Playa Tres Tesoros	swimming, sunbathing	small	Tierra y Libertad
Name of Beach	Beach Activities	Size of Town	Beach Town

What Are the Beaches Like in Chiapas?

Let’s look at what kinds of beaches you can expect to find in Chiapas. Overall, the shoreline is white (sometimes gray) sandy beaches. On some of the beaches, after wading out, there is a bit of a rough rocky sand bottom, but there is no need for special shoes.  

The beaches in Chiapas are some of the best in Mexico. Generally, they are wide and sandy, with plenty of room to relax and enjoy the sun and surf. The water is clean and clear, with moderate surf, and good for swimming, boating, and fishing. Some of the beaches may look a bit deserted and can be hard to access; however, the beauty of the sea and surf is still relaxing.

What Is the Sand Like at The Beaches in Chiapas?

The sand at the beaches in Chiapas is white and powdery. Sometimes it may look gray or golden. It’s very soft to the touch and feels great on your feet. The water is crystal clear, and the waves are gentle.

What Is the Best Time to Visit the Beaches in Chiapas?

The best time to visit the beaches in Chiapas is from December to April when the weather is warm and sunny. The water is also relatively calm, making it ideal for swimming and other activities. However, it is important to note that the beaches can be quite crowded this year.

What Are the Transportation Options in Chiapas?

In Chiapas, the primary mode of transportation is by bus. It may be the best way to get around if you can afford to rent a car, especially on some beaches off the beaten path. 

What to Do and See in Puerto Arista? A Closer Look at Puerto Arista

How to Get to Puerto Arista

Puerto Arista is located in the state of Chiapas in southern Mexico. The best way to get there is by flying to the Tuxtla Gutierrez airport, which is about an hour away by car. You can take a bus or a taxi to Puerto Arista. Once you’re in Puerto Arista, there are plenty of things to do and see. You can go to the beach, visit the Mayan ruins, or go hiking in the nearby mountains.

What to See in Puerto Arista

If you find yourself in Puerto Arista, there are a few things you shouldn’t miss!

-The first is the beautiful beaches. Puerto arista is known for its stunning beaches, so take some time to relax on the sand and enjoy the incredible views. As mentioned above, the beaches of Playa de Puerto Arista and Boca del Cielo are often visited by visitors. 

-The second is the amazing food. Puerto Arista is home to some of the best seafood in the world, so try as many different dishes as possible.

-Finally, be sure to check out the local nightlife. Puerto arista is known for its vibrant nightlife, so go out and experience it yourself!

Where to Stay in Puerto Arista

There are many places to stay in Puerto Arista, from luxury resorts to more affordable hotels. Where you stay will depend on your budget and what kind of vacation you’re looking for. There are plenty of resorts if you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation. If you’re interested in exploring the area and getting to know the local culture, several hotels in town offer a more authentic experience. Whichever type of vacation you’re looking for, there’s sure to be a place to stay in Puerto Arista that’s perfect for you.

Puerto Arista Chiapas – The Port Beaches

Playa de Puerto Arista

Playa de Puerto Arista Beach is a beautiful beach located in Puerto Arista. The beach is known for its crystal clear water teeming with marine life. It is surrounded by palm trees, which makes it even more picturesque. Visitors to the beach can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Fishing is also popular in the area. Kiteboarding is also an option. In the ocean, you can see turtles, eagle rays, and manta rays.

Boca del Cielo Beach

Boca del Cielo beach is a beach located a few kilometers from Playa de Puerto Arista. It is smaller than some other beaches but very popular with local surfers. The waves are large and long and are good for surfing. The beach is lined with hotels and restaurants, and many small shops sell clothes, souvenirs, and other goods as it is still connected to the Puerto Arista beach town.

What Is Special About Chiapas?

The History of Chiapas

Chiapas is a state located in southern Mexico. It is bordered by the states of Tabasco to the north, Veracruz to the northwest, Yucatán to the northeast, and Guatemala to the south and southeast. Chiapas is the 31st largest state in Mexico, with an area of 73,971 square kilometers (28,656 square miles). The state has a population of over 5 million people.

Chiapas has a long history. The first inhabitants of the area were the Maya. The Maya inhabited Chiapas for over 2,000 years. The Spanish arrived in the early 16th century and began colonizing the area. Chiapas was made a state of Mexico in 1824. Chiapas seceded from Mexico in 1841 and became an independent republic. It rejoined Mexico in 1846.

According to DataMexico, the current population of Chiapas, Mexico is 5.5 million people and an economically active population of 2.2 million people (Source)

What Does Chiapas Mean in Spanish

Chiapas is a state located in southern Mexico. The name Chiapas is derived from the ancient Maya civilization that inhabited the area. “Chiapas” in Spanish means “wooden cross,” which refers to the wooden cross erected by the Spanish conquistadors in the capital city of San Cristobal de las Casas.

The Culture of Chiapas

Chiapas is a state located in southern Mexico. It is bordered by the states of Tabasco to the north, Veracruz to the northwest, and Oaxaca to the west. To the east, Chiapas shares an international border with Guatemala. The state capital is Tuxtla Gutiérrez. With such a long history connected to the Mayans and then later with the Spanish, it is unique because it has an old-world feel. 

Is Chiapas Worth Visiting?

If you are interested in Mexico’s history, culture, and natural beauty, Chiapas is worth a visit!

Chiapas is a state located in southern Mexico. It is bordered by the states of Tabasco to the north, Veracruz to the northwest, and Oaxaca to the west. To the east, Chiapas has a short coastline on the Gulf of Mexico. The state capital is Tuxtla Gutierrez.

One of The Most Special Places to Visit – Agua Azul Waterfalls

When traveling to Mexico City, add Agua Azul to your list of places to see. This waterfall is located about 30 minutes outside Palenque in Chiapas, Mexico.

Agua Azul is one of the most visited attractions in Chiapas. It is located deep inside the rainforest and is home to many tropical birds and animals.

The area around the waterfall is very lush and green. Several small rivers run through the forest. Some people say you can jump into the water from some trail parts.

Waterfalls of Chiapas – Agua Azul

Chiapas is a land of many waterfalls and one of the most beautiful in Agua Azul. The water is an amazing blue color, and it tumbles down a series of steps in cascades. It’s a popular spot for swimming and picnicking, and there are plenty of places to relax in the sun or the shade.

The nearest beach from Agua Azul is 6 hr 58 min (386 km) is Puerto Arista beach. It would be the first beach you reach by driving, even though Costa Azul is closer (direct kilometers).

Are There Good Beaches in Chiapas?

What Are the Most Popular Beaches in Chiapas?

There are many beautiful beaches in Chiapas, Mexico. Some of the most popular ones from the list of 11 beach towns mentioned above include:

– Playa de Puerto Aristo

– Neuvo Playa Del Sol Beach

– Boca del Cielo Isla

– Playa Linda Beach

What Are the Most Secluded Beaches in Chiapas?

Many secluded beaches in Chiapas, Mexico, are perfect for a relaxing getaway. Some of the most popular secluded beaches in Chiapas include:

– Costa Azul

– Brisas Del Mar Beach

– Playas Del Gancho Suchiate

Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and recharge, or you’re looking for a place to party and let loose, there’s a secluded beach in Chiapas that’s perfect for you.

What Kind of Vegetation – Fauna and Flora – are in this Region? 

Puerto Arista has beautiful beaches, allowing tourists to relax and view stunning birds and wildlife. Visitors can also get to know local people who live by fishing.

The abundance of water here creates an amazing landscape of forests, where the trees reach up to 25 meters. There are many trees and bushes and lush vegetation covering the forest floor. 

Many animals live in the swamps and channels, including snakes, lizards, turtles, alligators, and crocodiles.

Forests near Chiapas marshes are home to raccoons, wild cats, armadillos, and ocelots, among other large mammals.

Best Beaches in Chiapas

The best beaches in Chiapas all have a few things in common. They have beautiful sand, clear water, and beach amenities suitable for solo travelers and families. And they have a charming beach vibe which can be felt by the people, the food, or the breeze from the beach. 

Many of the beaches in Chiapas fit this description, and here are a few to consider:

– Playa de Puerto Aristo

– Playa Del Sol Beach

– Costa Azul

– Playa Linda Beach

Best Beaches in Chiapas for Swimming

If you’re looking for the best beaches in Chiapas for swimming, you’ll want to check out Boca Del Cielo, Barra de San Simon, and Playas Del Gancho Suchiate. These three beaches offer stunning views, clear water, and swimming space.

Chiapas Road Trip – Cruise along from beach to beach

Introduction to the Chiapas Road Trip

Are you looking for an amazing road trip? Consider taking a Chiapas Road Trip. You can create a beautiful journey that takes you along the coast of Chiapas, Mexico, from the beach to the beach, following some of the beach towns shown above on the Maps and the tables. You’ll see some of the most stunning scenery in the world, and you’ll get to experience some of the best beaches Mexico has to offer.

Is It Safe to Drive Around Chiapas

Yes, it is safe to drive around Chiapas. The state has a relatively low crime rate, and the roads are in good condition. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

– Avoid driving at night.

– Stick to the main roads.

– Keep your car doors locked and your windows rolled up.

– Don’t leave valuables in your car.

If you follow these simple guidelines, you should have no problem enjoying a safe and enjoyable road trip around Chiapas.

A Few Safety Tips

Chiapas is one of Mexico’s safest states. However, that doesn’t mean travelers shouldn’t exercise caution while driving around the state. There are still plenty of dangers along the way.

–Always keep your cell phone charged and in good working order.

–Don’t assume that everyone knows where they’re going. Even though there are signs everywhere, some people don’t know how to read Spanish.

–Be aware of your surroundings. If someone approaches you, do what you can to ensure they aren’t trying to rob you.

–Keep your car doors locked and windows closed.

–If possible, take a taxi rather than get into a vehicle with strangers.

–Never accept rides from anyone unless you know exactly where you’re going.

What to Pack for The Chiapas Road Trip

Assuming you’re going on a road trip through Chiapas, there are a few things you’ll want to make sure to pack:

• sunscreen
• a hat or visor
• sunglasses
• insect repellent
• a bathing suit
• a cover-up
• flat, comfortable shoes
• a first-aid kit
• snacks and drinks

With these items, you’ll be able to enjoy your trip without worrying about being uncomfortable in the sun or getting bitten by bugs.

How Far Is It to Acapulco from Puerto Arista in Chiapas?

How to Get from Acapulco to Puerto Arista

The best way to get from Acapulco to Puerto Arista is to fly. The flight takes 3 hours and costs $350. You can also take a bus, which takes 22 hours and costs $180.

How Far Is It from Acapulco to Puerto Arista

The distance from Acapulco to Puerto Arista is about 200 kilometers. Puerto Arista is a small town in Chiapas, Mexico. It’s a popular tourist destination because of its beautiful beaches.

Experience Chiapas Culture, Water Sports, and Boat Tours at Chiapas Beaches

Chiapas Beaches – a Great Place to Experience Chiapas Culture

Towns with a beach in Chiapas are a great place to experience the culture of Chiapas. Many water sports and boat tours are available, and the beaches are also a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Chiapas Beaches – A Great Place for Boat Tours

Chiapas beaches are a great place to enjoy water sports and boat tours. The beaches here are clean and well-maintained, making them perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the beautiful scenery. There are also several restaurants and cafes nearby, so you can grab a bite to eat or drink while enjoying the view.

Beautiful Sunrises and Sunsets on Chiapas Beaches

Chiapas beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world. The sunrises and sunsets are simply stunning. The water is crystal clear, and the sand is white and powdery.

Try taking sunrise and sunset photographs at these beach towns:

– Playa de Puerto Aristo

– Playa Del Sol Beach

– Costa Azul

– Playa Linda Beach

I wrote an article about beach photography for sunsets with many tips here: How To Take Sunset Beach Photos- [Surprising] Tips and Tricks and about taking pictures of yourself here: How to Take Good Beach Pictures of Yourself (Plus Quick Tips To Look Cool!). If you want to take landscape beach photos, and Chiapas has great background settings with mountains, fauna, waves, and beach, then consider taking a look at this article: 7 Surprising Ways To Make [Stunning] Beach Landscape Photography

Zacapulco Turtles Sanctuary on the Beach at Chiapas

About the Zacapulco Turtles

Chiapas is home to many turtles sanctuaries. The beaches here are beautiful, and there are many different species of sea turtles. Some of these include the Green Sea Turtle and Leatherback Sea Turtle. 

Many beaches along Mexico’s Pacific coast are where turtles come ashore to lay eggs. It happens every spring when temperatures rise. The hatchlings emerge from the sand and head out to sea. But not everyone makes it back to the ocean. Some die because there isn’t enough food available. Others drown because they become disoriented and wander off course. The turtle sanctuaries in Puerto Arista and Barra de Zacapulco help release hatchlings to the sea and aid in making sure more of them live. 

The need for turtle sanctuaries are real. In a recent news article by Mexico News Daily, they explain that as soon as turtles start to nest, the black market sale for turtle eggs increases. The turtle sanctuaries in Chiapas helps keep the population of turtles growing instead of decreasing, and may help prevent some of the black market activities. (Source)

The Barra de Zacapulco turtle sanctuary is where you can see these amazing creatures up close. The sanctuary is open to the public and offers a variety of activities, such as:

– A tour of the facility to learn about the work of protecting these turtles.

– A chance to release baby turtles into the wild.

– An opportunity to learn about the different types of turtles that call the sanctuary home.

If you’re looking for a unique and memorable experience, check out the Zacapulco Turtles Sanctuary in Barra de Zacapulco. 

Conclusion

So there you have it, some tips about charming beaches along the Mexican coast in Chiapas. I’ve covered 11 beach towns with descriptions and activities, presented two tables about the beaches within those beach towns, described more about what to do in Puerto Arista, and covered a bit about the history and background of Chiapas, Mexico. Lastly, I discussed turtle sanctuaries.

After reading this article, you should better understand your options when planning a Mexico vacation. Take these tips and apply them to your situation. Pack wisely, explore your beach options and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions‍

Which Are the Best Beach Towns in Chiapas?

Some of the best beach towns in Chiapas include Boca del Cielo, Tonalá, Playa Linda, San José, Barra de San José, and Cabeza de Toro.

What Are the Main Attractions in Chiapas?

Chiapas offers a variety of attractions, including beautiful beaches, Mayan archaeological sites, colonial towns, and ecotourism opportunities.

When Is the Best Time to Visit the Beaches of Chiapas?

The best time to visit the beaches of Chiapas is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April.

Are There Accommodations Available in The Beach Towns of Chiapas?

Yes, there are various accommodation options available in the beach towns of Chiapas, ranging from beach resorts to guesthouses.

How Far Are the Beaches of Chiapas from San Cristóbal De Las Casas?

The beaches of Chiapas are located approximately 32 kilometers from San Cristóbal de Las Casas.

What Activities Can Be Enjoyed in The Beach Towns of Chiapas?

In the beach towns of Chiapas, visitors can engage in activities such as swimming, snorkeling, horseback riding, kayaking, and sport fishing.

Are the Beaches of Chiapas Crowded?

The beaches of Chiapas are known for their tranquility, offering visitors a chance to enjoy quiet and serene beach experiences.

What Is the Coastline of Chiapas Like?

The coastline of Chiapas stretches along the Pacific Ocean and offers kilometers of open ocean beach with gray sand and beautiful flora and fauna.

Are There Any Protected Areas Near the Beaches of Chiapas?

Yes, there are protected areas near the beaches of Chiapas, including lagoons, mangroves, and estuaries that are home to various species of birds and wildlife.

Is It Recommended to Have Travel Insurance when Visiting the Beaches of Chiapas?

It is always recommended to have travel insurance when visiting any destination, including the beaches of Chiapas, to ensure that you are covered in case of any unforeseen circumstances or emergencies.