The 16 places the travel guides we read name most, what they say about each, and fares from your city.
The places, most named first
From the 7 guides that rank for "best beaches in yucatan"
Named by 6 of 71. CelestúnYucatán state, Gulf coast, MexicoThe beach is called among the most beautiful on the Gulf of Mexico, but gets busy in summer, Easter and long weekends.It sits inside a biosphere reserve known for flamingos and about 400 migratory bird species between December and March.
Named by 6 of 72. ProgresoYucatán state, Gulf coast, MexicoNot the most pristine beach but the liveliest, with the most restaurants and services, and handy for kids; cruise-ship days change the scene.It is the closest beach to Mérida, which is not near any beach itself; the Gulf water can look murky at times.
Named by 3 of 73. El CuyoYucatán state, northeast tip, MexicoWindy conditions make it a kitesurfing spot; it is about 3.5 hours by car from Mérida and 2.5 from Cancún.
It sits where the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea meet.
Named by 3 of 74. SisalYucatán state, Gulf coast, MexicoCalled one of the peninsula's best beaches and close to Mérida, though it faces social and environmental strain from tourism.A fishing port with a historic fort and lighthouse, and kayak tours in nearby reserves.
Named by 3 of 75. TulumQuintana Roo, Caribbean coast, MexicoSoft white sand and shallow warm water, with eco-resorts and beachfront restaurants.Tulum Ruins Beach sits right at ancient Mayan ruins.Best time to visit TulumBest beaches in Tulum
Named by 2 of 76. Río LagartosYucatán state, north coast, MexicoA small fishing port at the entrance to a reserve with crocodiles, sea turtles, flamingos and pelicans.The nearby Cancunito beach is described as a virgin beach where sea turtles come to spawn.
Named by 2 of 77. Playa del CarmenQuintana Roo, Caribbean coast, MexicoThe beach runs for miles and is most crowded along 5th Avenue; it gets quieter heading north.Suited to nightlife, beach clubs and watersports.
Named by 2 of 78. CancúnQuintana Roo, Caribbean coast, MexicoMiles of beaches along the Hotel Zone; the east side beaches are the most popular but stay uncrowded.Described as well-maintained, with calm clear water suited to swimming.Best time to visit CancúnBest beaches in CancúnBest places to visit in Cancún
Named by 2 of 79. Isla HolboxQuintana Roo, MexicoA seven-mile island with a gulf side that is nearly one long beach, with deserted sections.Whale sharks visit between June and September.
Named by 2 of 710. Las ColoradasYucatán state, north coast, MexicoKnown for pink water, but one local calls it a photo stop rather than a real beach; you cannot swim there.The pink color varies a lot by time of year.
14. Playa UaymitúnYucatán state, Gulf coast, MexicoA secluded beach just over an hour from Mérida, between Chicxulub and San Benito, with few visitors.
15. San FelipeYucatán state, north coast, MexicoA small fishing and tourist port with colorful wooden houses and a white sand town beach, popular with nature lovers.
16. AkumalQuintana Roo, Mayan Riviera, MexicoA lush tropical setting with a beautiful beach and excellent snorkeling.
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When to go
Travel guides most often name November to March as the best time to visit Yucatán.
One source calls the east side beaches of the Hotel Zone the most popular, and says they stay uncrowded because of the sheer amount of beach.
What towns are in the Yucatan peninsula?
Beach towns named include Progreso, Celestún, Sisal, El Cuyo and Río Lagartos in Yucatán state, and Tulum, Playa del Carmen and Cancún in Quintana Roo.
Named by 6 of 71. CelestúnThe beach is called among the most beautiful on the Gulf of Mexico, but gets busy in summer, Easter and long weekends.It sits inside a biosphere reserve known for flamingos and about 400 migratory bird species between December and March.
Named by 6 of 72. ProgresoNot the most pristine beach but the liveliest, with the most restaurants and services, and handy for kids; cruise-ship days change the scene.It is the closest beach to Mérida, which is not near any beach itself; the Gulf water can look murky at times.
Named by 3 of 73. El CuyoWindy conditions make it a kitesurfing spot; it is about 3.5 hours by car from Mérida and 2.5 from Cancún.
