Mexico boasts diverse and beautiful beaches, which can be grouped into three main areas: the Caribbean coast to the southeast, the Gulf of Mexico to the east, and the Pacific coast to the west. The Riviera Maya is a Caribbean gem with its white sands, turquoise waters, coral reefs, and tropical fish. This paradise, however, attracts numerous tourists. In contrast, the Pacific coast offers long, often deserted beaches with strong waves and currents, making them ideal for surfing and snorkeling, though there are some exceptions. The Gulf of Mexico remains largely untapped by tourism.
Baja California, located in northwestern Mexico, is a long peninsula bordered by the Pacific Ocean. It features a wide variety of beaches, with the eastern and southern bays being safer and more suitable for swimming. Notably, Santa Maria Beach, situated near Cabo San Lucas at the peninsula’s southern tip, is family-friendly, perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and protected as a marine sanctuary, preserving its natural beauty from mass tourism.
The Riviera Maya, stretching from Cancun to Tulum, presents a stunning array of Caribbean beaches lined with palm trees, vibrant vegetation, turquoise waters, coral, tropical fish, and white sand. Visitors have many options among these globally recognized beaches. However, the rapid growth of tourism poses risks of overcrowding and environmental damage. Among the best-preserved locations is Playa de Xcacel, the primary nesting beach for turtles in Mexico, located 120 km south of Cancun.
On the Pacific coast near Puerto Angel, Zipolite offers a unique retreat with a bohemian vibe. This long beach is perfect for relaxing, enjoying sunsets, and escaping the hustle of everyday life. Affordable accommodations like hammocks are common. Despite its charm, the dangerous currents make swimming risky, resulting in annual fatalities among surfers and swimmers. Visitors are advised to admire the ocean from the shore.
On the western side of Baja California, Punta Lobos features magnificent beaches with few tourists, some local surfers, and fishermen navigating the Pacific waves. Swimming here requires caution due to strong currents. The main activities involve enjoying the sun, the landscape, and the arrival of fishermen in the late afternoon. Punta Lobos is near Todos Santos, a Mexican village that has preserved its authenticity unlike many other Baja resorts.
The Gulf of Mexico, usually overlooked when discussing Mexican beaches, offers hidden treasures like Playa Escondida. Located 100 km south of Veracruz in the northern region of Los Tuxtlas, this secluded spot blends beach and forest, sea and sky. Accessible by foot, horseback, or boat, it is a constantly changing, wild place due to tides, showcasing raw, primeval beauty.
This glimpse into Mexico’s beaches highlights not only the diversity found along its coasts but also the unique experiences and natural wonders awaiting visitors.