Best of the Best Beaches in Mexico
Travellers’ Choice Awards
Best of the Best Beaches
Mexico
Whether you’re looking to laze on soft sands or dive into new adventures, this year’s winning beaches promise a dreamy escape.
The Travellers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best title celebrates the highest level of excellence in travel. It’s awarded to those who receive a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from the Tripadvisor community over a 12-month period. Out of our 8 million listings, fewer than 1% achieve this milestone.
Playa Delfines is a peaceful beach with clear-blue waters, soft white sands, and stunning ocean views. It's a great spot for surfing and water sports, or soaking up some sun on the long, wide shore. There are showers, bathrooms, and other free services available, making it the perfect place to spend the day.
Great Things to Do
- This beach is just amazing! The blues in the crystal clear water are incomparable and the area is clean, well kept, with lots of room and shade!! There’s a beautiful Look-out and playground. They charge to use the washrooms. The waves can be pretty serious here. Super fun for good swimmers but I wouldn’t bring my littles here for water fun.
@DejaInCanadaReviewed March 2025 - Defines Beach in Cancun is a must see! It is a beautiful beach with lots of amenities for guests to this beautiful location. Additionally, it was great to see the protected conservation areas for a wide range of species, including sea birds, iguanas, and many native plants, flowers and shrubs. Delfines beach is a vibrant and peaceful place to spend time on a trip to Cancun.
@Climber57494042677Reviewed March 2025 - The view, the sand, the wind, the water, all lovely. Went on a weekday morning and had our choice of free small palapas to enjoy the beach from some shade. Red flags were out, indicating dangerous water conditions, which may be more common at this beach than some others in the area, but it was still good for wading and walking along the shore. Hawking is prohibited so you won't be pestered to buy things all the time.
@39lindsayaReviewed March 2025 - We stayed in Playa Morelos, but managed to visit Cancún beach early one more before handing back in our rental car. We drove the whole strip and ended up stopping at Playa Delfines. At 7am there was LOTS of free parking and barely anyone on the beach. It was absolutely gorgeous. With the soft sand, blue water and the beautiful sunrise. It was a little windy when we went so the waves were quite large and we didn’t end up swimming as planned, since we had kids with us. We walked a bit of the beach looking at the shells that had washed ashore. And fully plan to return with life jackets for our kids so we can swim and enjoy the waves/beach. It was absolutely stunning.
@Mare524Reviewed November 2024 - The beach was beautiful and views are amazing! I felt safe as there were multiple armed national guards there. Definitely would recommend to anyone in Cancun!
@itzcalebReviewed October 2024
02.
8,296 reviews
Soft, white sand and shallow, clear water makes Playa Norte a perfect spot for a relaxing beach day. It's easy to get to and free to enter, plus there are tons of places to grab a bite nearby. Spend the day snorkelling and catch the sunset at dusk, then go for an evening stroll along the shore.
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03.
3,050 reviews
Balandra is a secluded beach home to volcanic cliffs, mangroves, and a naturally-formed Mushroom Rock that's worth a visit in itself. Go snorkelling or kayaking in the vibrant blue waters, or stick to the shallows for clam-catching and bird-watching by the shore. Pro tip: Be sure to wear water shoes and reef-safe sunscreen.
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04.
667 reviews
Playa El Cielo is the stuff of dreams with its sparkling shoreline and turquoise-blue waters. The calm, shallow ocean is teeming with starfish and coral, making it a great spot for snorkelling and underwater photography. Once you've had your fill, grab a bite at the full-service bar and soak up the lovely views.
Great Things to Do
05.
2,744 reviews
When you want a relaxing beach day, Playa el Chileno delivers. Sunbathe on the sand or snorkel to spot colourful fish and tiny crabs. The beach's laid-back vibe makes it great for families, and there's plenty of space for everyone. Pro tip: Pack lots of snacks and drinks if you plan to stay the whole day.
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06.
121 reviews
Don't let the name put you off. Punta Mosquito is a top spot for scenic strolls and wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for flamingos as you explore sandbars, and admire the stunning views that stretch for miles. There's rarely a crowd here so you can enjoy the tranquility.
Great Things to Do
07.
1,484 reviews
Surrounded by mountains and small resorts, Playa La Ropa is a beautiful beach with a nearby reef, making it an ideal spot for surfing, snorkelling, and scuba diving. That's not all—the soft, inviting sands are great for sunbathing or building sandcastles. Psst...grab a snack at one of the beachside restaurants, and stay for the sunset.
Great Things to Do
08.
443 reviews
Playa Palmilla (Palmilla Beach) is a peaceful spot with calm waters, silky sand, and shady palm trees. Peaceful and quiet, the beach is perfect for families with children. Bonus: there's plenty to do, too—think snorkelling, paddleboarding, and more. Best part? It's easy to access, and there are excellent facilities.
Great Things to Do
09.
1,322 reviews
Looking for clear, warm waters, perfect for swimming and snorkelling? Santa Maria Beach checks the boxes. You'll find it's easy to get there, with convenient parking, clean facilities and rental options for chairs and umbrellas. Once there, enjoy the spacious beach, with lots of spots to relax under the shade.
Great Things to Do
10.
593 reviews
Playa Carrizalillo charms with its crystal-clear waters and raw beauty. Families will find a peaceful spot to enjoy a relaxed swim, while foodies can savour delicious local bites. Take a break from touristy and expensive to unwind at this memorable tropical escape with fewer vendors.
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