Beaches in Playa del Carmen: A Complete Guide

Playa del Carmen is famous for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re planning a vacation here or simply dreaming of soft sands and ocean breezes, this guide to the best beaches in Playa del Carmen will help you discover the perfect spot to unwind.

From family-friendly public beaches to hidden gems with fewer crowds, we’ve covered all the must-visit spots. Let’s dive in!

The Best Beaches in Playa del Carmen

Spending a day on the beach is one of the best things to do in Playa del Carmen and when it comes to public beaches, this town spoils you with many options. Each one offers something unique whether you are looking for a beach club, a peacful spot, or fun activities.

Here are some of our favorite beaches in Playa del Carmen, highlighting what makes each one special.

1. Playacar

If you’re looking for an exclusive and relaxed experience, Playacar Beach is your go-to. Nestled in the gated community of Playacar, this beach offers pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters.

While it’s technically public, access is easier for those staying in nearby resorts. You can also walk down from the Cozumel Ferry dock to get to the beach. The calm waves make it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or taking a peaceful stroll.

• Activities: Swimming, walking, beach volleyball.
• Accessibility: Open to the public, though access through resorts may be restricted.
• Nearby Amenities: Restaurants and shops on 5th avenue, and luxurious resorts.

2. Parque Fundadores

Located near the famous Portal Maya statue, Parque Fundadores is a popular public beach that offers a lively atmosphere. It’s perfect for those who want to experience the local culture, as it often hosts traditional performances and has a playground for kids. The beach is spacious, making it great for families looking for a relaxing day by the ocean.

• Activities: Swimming and local performances.
• Accessibility: Easily accessible from downtown Playa del Carmen.
• Nearby Amenities: Local food vendors, restaurants, and shops.

3. Punta Esmeralda

Punta Esmeralda is a hidden treasure located on the outskirts of Playa del Carmen. Known for its natural freshwater cenote that meets the ocean, this beach is perfect for both swimming and connect with nature. It’s a favorite among locals and tends to be less crowded than the main beaches, offering a more laid-back experience.

• Activities: Swimming, and picnicking.
• Accessibility: Public access with parking nearby.
• Nearby Amenities: Limited, so it’s a good idea to bring your own snacks and drinks.

4. 88th Street Beach

For a more relaxed and less touristy beach, head to Playa 88. This public beach is known for its wide sandy shores and peaceful vibe. It’s ideal for sunbathing or enjoying a quiet day by the ocean. While there aren’t many amenities nearby, its simplicity is what makes it attractive to those looking to escape the busier spots.

• Activities: Sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking.
• Accessibility: Public beach with no entrance fees.
• Nearby Amenities: Minimal, so plan ahead for food and drinks.

5. Playa Mamitas

For a trendy, upscale beach experience, famous Playa Mamitas is the place to be. This beach is known for its vibrant energy, beach clubs, and music festivals. It’s perfect for those looking to relax on beach chairs, sip cocktails, and enjoy a lively atmosphere. It’s a bit more crowded than other beaches, but the vibe is unmatched if you’re looking for fun.

• Activities: Beach parties, swimming, and sunbathing.
• Accessibility: Public beach with access to beach clubs.
• Nearby Amenities: Beach bars, restaurants, and clubs.

6. Xcalacoco

Located just a short 15 minutes drive north of Playa del Carmen, Playa Xcalacoco offers a quiet, relaxing beach day away from the crowds. The soft sand and calm waters make it a great spot for families and couples looking for a more intimate setting. It’s also popular for snorkeling due to its clear waters and nearby reef.

• Activities: Snorkeling, swimming, sunbathing.
• Accessibility: Public access, but a bit more secluded.
• Nearby Amenities: Limited, with a few hotels and restaurants nearby.

7. 38th Street Beach

Another well known beach is Playa 38, that offers a tranquil escape near one of the most beautiful streets of Playa del Carmen. It’s a peaceful spot that’s less developed than Playa Mamitas, but still offers stunning views and plenty of space to relax. The beach is perfect for those who want to enjoy the vibe without the bustle of crowds.

• Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, and strolling.
• Accessibility: Easily accessible from downtown.
• Nearby Amenities: Restaurants and cafes along the 38th street.

8. Playa Pelicanos

Another hidden local favorite, Playa Pelicanos offers clear waters and a quiet atmosphere. With fewer tourists, it’s ideal for a relaxing day in the sun. It’s also a great spot to catch the sunrise, as it offers stunning views of the horizon.

• Activities: Swimming, sunrise watching, and walking.
• Accessibility: Public, but a bit off the beaten path.
• Nearby Amenities: Some stores and restaurants on CTM avenue.

9. 72nd Street Beach

Playa 72 is one of the most vibrant beaches in Playa del Carmen known for being pet friendly and the different groups of people who gather to play soccer and volleyball. It’s a lesser-known spot, so you can often find yourself surrounded by locals rather than tourists, providing a more authentic beach experience.

• Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, and play volleyball.
• Accessibility: Public beach with easy access from the main road.
• Nearby Amenities: Few nearby restaurants and shops, so it’s best to bring your own snacks and supplies.

The Best Beaches near Playa del Carmen

If you’re willing to venture a little further, Xpu-Ha and Akumal are two of the best beaches near Playa del Carmen.

Xpu-Ha

Just a 30 minutes drive south of Playa del Carmen, Xpu-Ha is a true hidden gem, known for its expansive white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. What makes Xpu-Ha special is its laid-back atmosphere, perfect for those who want to escape the busier beaches closer to town.

Xpu-Ha also boasts a selection of beach clubs that offer food and drinks, creating the ideal setting for a relaxing beach day. Whether you’re up for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying some local seafood with a view, Xpu-Ha has it all.

Akumal

A bit further along the coast is Akumal, a charming beach town famous for its sea turtles and incredible snorkeling spots. The word “Akumal” means “place of the turtles” in Mayan, and true to its name, this beach offers the unique experience of swimming alongside these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Akumal’s clear, shallow waters and rich marine life make it a paradise for snorkelers and divers. The beach itself is lined with palm trees, small beachside restaurants, and a few boutique hotels, making it an inviting place for a day trip or even a longer stay. The town of Akumal has a relaxed, bohemian vibe that attracts both locals and tourists looking for a peaceful escape.

Seaweed Season in Playa del Carmen beaches

The beaches in Playa del Carmen are beautiful year-round, but from time to time, the shores experience seaweed season that usually goes from May to October. While this can sometimes affect the appearance of the beaches, local efforts ensure that most public beaches are cleaned regularly.

If you’re visiting Playa del Carmen during seaweed season, beaches like Playacar, Playa 88 or Punta Esmeralda often remain the cleanest.

As you can see, the beaches in Playa del Carmen offer something for everyone, from lively, trendy spots to peaceful hidden escapes. Whether you’re lounging at Playa Mamitas or swimming in Playa 38, you’re bound to find your perfect beach day here.

Ready to make Playa del Carmen your next vacation spot? Check out our vacation rentals and start planning your dream beach getaway today!