Top Beaches in Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen spans a glorious 32km (20-mile) stretch of the Riviera Maya coastline, showcasing a delightful array of beaches that alternate between wild rocky coves and powdery white sands. Despite its compact size, it offers a surprisingly diverse selection of beachfront destinations.

The finest beaches are found on both the northern and southern ends of Playa del Carmen, away from the bustling music and party atmosphere of Centro. In the North, you’ll discover rocky stretches and coral reefs rich in vibrant marine life, while the southern area features wide stretches of crushed-coral sand and the shallow, crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea.

If you’re searching for kid-friendly beaches or seeking out the best surf spots, this guide highlights the best options in Playa del Carmen.

Playacar Beach

Best Beach for Open Space

According to locals, Playacar Beach is a favorite for its serene beauty. This expansive stretch of white sand lies just south of the ferry terminal and provides a calm escape from downtown’s lively atmosphere.

The vast bay area tends to feel less crowded, even with beachfront condos and all-inclusive resorts nearby. Being part of an upscale gated community means the public beach is well-maintained; it’s regularly cleaned of sargassum seaweed each morning.

To reach Playacar Beach, walk past the ferry pier on Av Benito Juarez. The gentle slope near the dock offers shallow waters that are ideal for children. Further along, take a side street to discover the Xaman-Ha ruins, where remnants of a pre-Columbian Mayan settlement can still be explored, free of charge.

Tip: In Mexico, all beaches are public by law, including those in private communities. Accessing Playacar along the shore is usually easy, and checkpoints are rarely enforced for beachgoers.

Playa del Pecado

Best Secluded Beach

Playa del Pecado, located at the isolated southern tip of Playacar, remains a best-kept secret amongst locals. Surrounded by wild jungles and towering palm trees, this beach is one of the last stretches of natural beauty in the Riviera Maya.

Reaching this hidden gem requires a 30-minute walk south from Playacar Beach, where you’ll navigate rocky formations before arriving at the pristine sand. There are no vendors, so remember to bring a hat, snacks, and drinks for your adventure.

Punta Esmeralda

Best Beach for Families

Punta Esmeralda graces the northern edge of Playa del Carmen with its crescent-shaped bay, making it a popular gathering spot for local families while still providing a refreshing break from typical tourist crowds.

This beach features a unique lagoon-like cenote, which resembles a tidal pool with soft sand and shallow waters designed for splashing. With amenities like changing rooms and shaded areas, Punta Esmeralda is perfect for a family day out.

Tip: As a sheltered bay, Punta Esmeralda is less affected by sargassum seaweed than other beaches, especially during the typical sargassum season from April to August.

Xcalacolo Beach

Best Beach for Snorkeling

Xcalacolo Beach may not sport traditional white sands, but it offers exceptional underwater experiences. Its coral reefs and rocky formations provide a habitat for vibrant marine life, ideal for snorkeling enthusiasts.

The waters near the dock are home to schools of manta rays, angelfish, and colorful parrotfish, shallow enough for less experienced swimmers. Children will enjoy exploring natural pools near the rocks, where they can spot hermit crabs and sea slugs. For families, marine biology classes that include soft snorkeling sessions are available.

Tip: When renting snorkeling gear, opt for shops in town rather than those on the beach, as they tend to be more cost-effective. Be sure to pack reef-friendly sunscreen, which is widely available at local stores.

Inti Beach

Best Beach for Sunrise

Inti Beach, positioned in the bustling part of Playa del Carmen, serves as a hub for social activity, filled with millennials enjoying cocktails by day and lively performances by night. However, at sunrise, the scene transforms into pure tranquility.