Who else comes to Cancun just for the beach? Raise your hand! 🙋♀️
A few friends have asked Summer for beach recommendations in and around Cancun—say no more, here we go!
Let’s start with the easiest one to reach: the Hotel Zone beaches.
Wondering where the famous Cancun Hotel Zone is? Picture this: between downtown Cancun and the Caribbean Sea lies a vast stretch of mangrove nature reserve. And right between the mangroves and the ocean, there’s a long, narrow strip packed with resorts—that’s the Hotel Zone everyone talks about.
What’s special about it? These beachfront hotels don’t just offer stunning ocean views—step out of your room, and your toes are already in the sand.
Sure, it’s a bit commercialized—but when the sun’s out, these beaches are honestly amazing. Summer’s already dreaming of going back!
How to get there? Super easy:
- Stay at a beachfront hotel – Just take the elevator down, and boom—you’re at the beach.
- Grab a taxi – Quick and convenient from anywhere in the city.
- Rent a car and drive – Great if you want flexibility and plan to explore other spots too.
For the Most Beautiful Sea Views: Isla Mujeres
Technically speaking, Isla Mujeres is a separate island—but it’s just a short boat ride from Cancun.
And let me tell you—on the way there, the color of the ocean is so unbelievably blue, it literally made Summer’s jaw drop. No filter needed!
So if you’re in Cancun, Isla Mujeres is an absolute must. From its gorgeous beaches and photo-worthy spots to the boat ride itself, the whole experience is magical from start to finish.
How to get there? You’ve got options:
- Take a ferry – Easy and scenic, departing from several piers in Cancun.
- Hop on a catamaran – Perfect for sunset lovers looking for that golden hour glow.
- Join a day tour – Hassle-free and often includes snorkeling, lunch, and island time.
Where to Swim with Sea Turtles: Akumal Beach
Located between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, Akumal Beach is a popular stop—and for good reason.
Why do so many travelers flock here? Because sea turtles love it too! If you’re lucky, you can snorkel just a short distance from the shore and come face-to-face with these gentle creatures.
When Summer visited, the beach was definitely busy with tourists. But once in the water… well, let’s just say luck wasn’t exactly on her side.
Strong winds and big waves had scared the turtles off! After battling the current for what felt like forever, she finally spotted one shy little turtle—just barely.
How to get there? Here are your options:
- From Cancun Airport or downtown: Take a bus to Playa del Carmen, then grab a taxi or a local minivan (collectivo) to Akumal Beach.
- From Tulum: Same plan—taxi or collectivo.
- Join a day tour: Many tours leave from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum and include gear, guides, and transport.
- Drive yourself: Rent a car for flexibility, especially if you want to explore other nearby spots.
For the Wild at Heart: Sian Ka’an Beach
Among all the beaches near Cancun, Sian Ka’an stands out as the rebel—it’s not your typical stretch of sand. Instead, it’s a stunning blend of coastal beach and lush wetland, where mangroves meet the sea.
If you’re a fan of the Amazon rainforest but want that vibe with a splash of ocean magic, this is your spot.
The journey starts through narrow waterways lined with dense mangroves. Then—just as you’re wondering where it’s all headed—you turn a corner and the world opens up. Wide blue skies, open sea… and if you’re lucky, a dolphin or two might swim by to say hello!
How to get there?
Since getting there involves both driving and a boat ride, Summer recommends joining a guided day tour—it’s the easiest and most enjoyable way to explore this wild gem.
For Beach + Cenote Vibes: Kaan Luum Lagoon
If you love that beach-meets-cenote feeling, Summer has a hidden gem to share—Kaan Luum Lagoon.
Is it a lagoon? Is it a cenote? Technically… it’s both. But this cenote is massive. So massive, in fact, that you’d need to fly a drone up 500 meters just to capture the full view!
Wading through waist-deep, crystal-clear water with powdery white sand beneath your feet and endless blues on the horizon—it’s easy to forget you’re in Mexico. You might just think you’ve landed in the Maldives.
How to get there:
- Taxi from Tulum – Quick and convenient.
- Drive yourself – Great if you’re road-tripping the area.
- Join a day tour – Stress-free and often includes other hidden spots nearby.
Mexico’s Hidden Tahiti: Bacalar Lake
Before heading to Mexico, Summer had no idea a place like Bacalar Lake even existed.
While exploring Chiapas, she met a local Mexican couple out on a road trip. With wide eyes and total conviction, they told her:
“Summer! You can skip Cancun. You can skip Tulum. But Bacalar? You have to go!”
Curious, she took a look at their photos—and was instantly stunned.
It looked exactly like Tahiti… but freshwater! Calm, crystal-clear, multi-shade blue water that seemed almost unreal. Paradise, with a twist.
And just like that, Summer was sold—she packed up and went!
With blue skies, fluffy clouds, and water so clear and shallow it barely reached her waist, it was one of those places where you arrive… and never want to leave.
How to get there:
- Drive yourself – The scenic route gives you total freedom.
- Bus + guided day tour – A great option if you want to sit back and let someone else handle the logistics.
Need help planning your Cancun and beyond itinerary?
Feel free to DM Summer for custom tips and local route combos!
Hi, I’m Summer—a backpacker with a love for the outdoors.
I only recommend the most epic destinations worth your time.
Follow me for stories and tips about travel, culture, and the journey between China and the Americas. Let’s explore the world together! 🌍✨
