5 Top Beaches In And Around Playa del Carmen

With hundreds of miles of pristine coastline to choose from, several powdery-soft white shores could have very well made the top 5 list.  However, we have selected 5 unique beach settings in and around Playa del Carmen which each in their own way, offer an original experience, while all possess an extraordinary beauty which will blow your mind!

1) Mamitas Beach Club

Located in the heart of Playa del Carmen, Mamitas Beach Club is considered one of the most liveliest and popular beaches for the twenty-something crowd. This is where the headquarters of the world-famous BPM music festival is situated and the glistening turquoise waters attract hundreds of thousands of awe-struck visitors each year.  For a fee, beach-goers may revel in the sun and have access to sun beds, lounge chairs and food and drink service.  A variety of water sports such as kite surf, paddle board, wave runner, and catamaran rentals are available.  Every week, DJ’s from around the world travel to spin their pulsating beats at this chic bikini heaven.

2) Xpu-ha

A vast shoreline borders translucent waters in which you can wade out hundreds of feet while the water level remains at your hips.  A couple of eateries sporadically occupy the shore, but packing your beach chairs and picnic lunch is one of the best ways to enjoy the secluded beach of Xpu-ha.  Located about a 25 minute drive south of Playa del Carmen, this rustic paradise presents both the perfect setting for romance or a memorable family day at the beach.

3) Akumal

The bay of Akumal is enclosed by the world’s second largest barrier reef and offers sublime snorkeling, diving and fishing opportunities.  In fact, the Mayan name Akumal  translates to ‘Place Of The Turtles.’  It is the only area in the Mayan Riviera where you can swim with sea turtles year round.  Snorkel gear can be rented or diving excursions may be booked at the on-site dive shop. The calm, crystalline waters along the alabaster shore give you the illusion that you are swimming in a pool.  Bringing a cooler is allowed or there are several options to dine and enjoy a cool Caribbean cocktail while absorbing the captivating ocean views.

4) Maroma Beach

Approximately 25 minutes north of Playa del Carmen, Maroma Beach Club is enticing with its ample stretch of  beach and variety of activities.  For a fee of $100 pesos, visitors have access to the beach loungers with umbrellas, the volleyball court, soccer balls and of course, the alluring blue-green sea. A delicious menu of casual food and drinks is available, as is camelback riding for a rare experience!

5) Tulum

The 45 minute drive south of Playa del Carmen is certainly worth the trip for a day of fun in the sand in surf of Tulum!  Few locales in the world extend visitors the invitation to encounter such a magical scene as they splash in crystal clear waters with a backdrop of ancient archeological ruins in the distance. There is a stretch of public beach where you can set up your own cooler and chairs or there are boundless options for beach clubs and restaurants offering loungers with umbrellas, usually for a minimum purchase of food and drink. With so much variety and exquisite beauty to experience in and around Playa del Carmen, one week is never enough!  After three and a half years, I still look forward to a day trip of exploring the region’s many majestic works created by Mother Nature’s generous hand.

For more information, be sure to inquire with our knowledgeable team at BRIC who are happy to assist in coordinating a memorable day trip to one of these divine beaches.