The 16 Best Beaches in Mexico

A country known for hospitality, incredible food and a rich cultural heritage, Mexico is also famous for its world-renowned beach towns and beaches. Our travel experts run down some of the best beaches in Mexico to take in the sand and surf. Whether you are a surfer or a dedicated lounger, we have a beach for you.

Located on the Caribbean coast, Tulum Beach features plenty of shops and restaurants when you need a break from the sun. Tulum is the only archaeological site located along the Caribbean shores in the Mayan Riviera.

There is a small beach beside the Temple of the Descending God where you can swim and sunbathe beneath this ancient city — the same beach where Mayan trade ships would have docked at Tulum centuries ago.

Quite possibly the most exquisite secret in Mexico, Maroma Beach in Tulum is a resort hideaway intent on preserving the ecology of its 500-plus acres of beach and rain forest, all the while taking individual service and luxury to unprecedented heights. Maroma is nestled into the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula and lies a mere 30 miles south of Cancun, but thankfully, remains worlds away from this spring break hot spot's pace and lifestyle. Maroma's guests are immersed in a quiet world of warm azure waters, pure white sands and rich tropical foliage. This miniature Eden of stucco huts and thatched roofs, beachside serenades and sunset cruises, will rejuvenate both body and spirit.

Baja’s Isla Espiritu Santo, part of a UNESCO biosphere reserve, is a serene place to completely disconnect. Head to La Paz, the closest city, and book a trip with OARS to spend a week basecamping on the island in canvas wall tents close enough to the ocean to let the waves lull you to sleep at night. By day, go hiking and sea kayaking and watch pelicans dive for fish in the crystal-clear waters just offshore. Snorkel with sea lions, fish, and keep an eye out for whales and dolphins jumping alongside your boat. By night, take a stroll along the beach in the moonlight or lay out under the stars. There’s no better place to combine relaxation and adventure.