Beaches are probably one of the first things you think of when you think of Mexico and for good reason, there sure are a lot of them! Coastlines in Mexico include the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean, and the Pacific ocean. Thanks to all these different water sources, you can pick and choose beach locations based on the sort of experience and atmosphere you’re looking for. Some beaches are better for checking out wild life, while some beaches are better for relaxation and checking out people! Here are some of the absolute best beaches in Mexico.

Tulum

Tulum is known for its gorgeous white sand beaches, but it also has some historical significance because of the ruins nearby. For both of those reasons together it makes sense that Tulum is a very popular vacation spot! Tulum is about two hours south of Cancun in the Riviera Maya, and its a real treat.

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen gets pretty busy with tourists, but it is a fishing village at its heart so it doesn’t feel as bustling as some other areas can. It is a great area for relaxing at the beach and enjoying to the clear water.

Playa de Akumal

Playa de Akumal around the region around Playa Del Carmen hardly has any waves at all, so while it’s not the spot to hit for surfing it is perfect for laying out, wading into the ocean, and snorkeling. It’s  a safe spot for the whole family. The sands are also beautfiul white in this area.

Puerto Vallarta Beach

The beach at Puerto Vallarta is one of the most popular vacation spots thanks to a long coastline of resort accommodations. It has big nice hotels, as well as smaller more homey type feeling ones. The beach is great for hanging out and also for taking whale watching trips and doing that sort of thing.

Cancun Beach

Cancun is another incredibly popular tourist spot, and there is tons to do on the strip. The beach is white, the water is turquoise, and there is pretty much activity you could want in the area. The resorts around Cancun are very built up so it feels busting, as opposed to isolated.

Playa Norte

Just off the coast of Cancun is Playa Norte, which is just as beautiful as Cancun beach but a little more relaxing. It’s a great area when watching animals as opposed to people is in your plan. Sea turtles and sharks are popular sightings in the area. It’s not totally isolated however, as there are plenty of bars and restaurants along the sand.

Playa del Amor

Playa del Amor (aka Lover’s Beach) is super secluded since it is right between the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean. This isn’t the type of place you will walking out of your hotel and onto the beach, instead you will take a boat from the marina in Cabo San Lucas. There is lots of great snorkeling to do in the area, as well as rock formations to admire on land.