Best Beaches in Tulum

Playa Ruinas sits at the foot of Tulum's (and Mexico’s) most prized archaeological site - the Tulum Ruins. The main pyramid, El Castillo (The Castle), stands poised atop cliffs that glow green from the viridescent jungle, a mesmeric sight. Whilst you cool off in the Caribbean Sea, travel back in time and marvel at the ruins that were once a thriving city known as Zamá - `the place of the dawning sun’. Get here early for the best spot!

Please note that whilst this is a tourist hotspot, the only access to the beach is by very narrow and steep steps, and so may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

Playa Paraíso, meaning Paradise Beach, welcomes a sea so vibrantly turquoise it's almost incomprehensible. The calm, idyllic waters are perfect for swimming and snorkelling, and home to friendly sea turtles and rays that you can swim with.

This is a great landing spot if you want to settle here for the whole day, as it has great access to amenities – the restaurants, bars and spas.

Perfect for the penny-wise traveller looking for a peaceful escape, Playa Las Palmas is a secluded haven. BYO everything here, as vendors and restaurants (and shade) are just out of reach. The pure white shores are wider than the northern beaches, so there is a lot of space to spread out, relax and reenergise.

The best ceviche in Tulum and for good reason too... Arrive early and catch the fishermen on their red and white boats delivering fresh fish for lunch - a picture worthy shot. From Playa Pescadores, you can see the spellbinding views of the Tulum Ruins with the added bonus of not having to navigate the crowds.

Soliman Bay lies south of Akumal, a beach renowned for its powder-soft white sand. Here you can widen your parameters by renting a kayak or discovering the underwater world with snorkels.

This beach is surrounded by private villas and so it has a very community-based feel that is devoid of beachfront resorts and restaurants. Instantly relaxing, this beach is never crowded; come and get horizontal on Soliman Bay!

Alternating palapas and palm trees, Paamul Beach is a laid-back haven – the ideal day trip from Tulum or Akumal. Gorge on ceviche, tacos and cervezas as silky sand slips between your toes. If you’re itching for adventure, explore the sea by snorkelling, diving or kayaking. The coastal reef creates the ideal conditions for snorkelling, stilling the water and flattening the waves to almost nothing.

A short drive from Tulum, Akumal Beach is the perfect day trip – especially if you love turtles. A natural habitat for sea turtles, seize the chance to swim alongside these majestic sea creatures – a magical and one-of-a-kind experience best appreciated in the mornings. Powder white sand and hypnotic blue seas, Akumal Beach delivers with the Caribbeans greatest assets. This beach fully caters for a full-day trip with showers, lockers, restaurants and bars!

Please note that it is advised to not touch the turtles.

Pronounced “shpoo ha”, Xpu-Ha Beach is half an hour drive north from Tulum and is a playground for all sorts of watersports. Parasail, snorkel, jet ski or kitesurf – the Caribbean Sea is a stage for an assortment of adrenaline filled activities. There are some amazing sunrises on this beach, so we recommend being the early bird and catching the kaleidoscopic skies.

A tricky beach to get to (hence the well-kept secret), Secret Beach in Sian Ka’an lies just outside Tulum in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A long bike ride and a very bumpy car journey, this is well worth the time and effort.

This beach makes Playa las Palmas look busy; it is the ultimate secluded beach spot – just make sure you bring your own snacks and water!