5 Best Beaches In Playa Del Carmen: Our Top Picks For 2024

You’re yearning for a tropical escape, where immaculate beaches and azure waters beckon.

Playa del Carmen, a dynamic gem on Mexico’s Riviera Maya, presents an enticing variety of coastal treasures.

We’ve had an incredible time at Mamitas Beach, one of the most popular beach clubs in Playa del Carmen.

A small fee granted us access to dine with mesmerizing views, followed by lounging under umbrellas and splashing in the waves.

Another highlight was the quieter Playa Publica at Playacar, where we spent hours playing in the sand and capturing the breathtaking sunset.

With ample shade throughout the day and prime locations along the sparkling coastline, the beaches truly showcased the beauty and diversity this dynamic destination has to offer.

Vacationers enjoying the clear turquoise waters of Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya with a view of a sandy beach and white resort buildings in the background. — Leisurely beach day at Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico, with tourists swimming in the serene waters and relaxing on the pristine sands with picturesque resort views.

@togethertowhereve Top 3 Beaches to Visit in Playa Del Carmen: ✨️Playa Mamitas -Vibrant Atmosphere: Known for its lively beach clubs, music, and social scene. -Amenities: Offers a range of services including beach chairs, umbrellas, and food and drink options from nearby restaurants and bars. -Water Sports: Popular spot for activities like jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding. ✨️Playacar Beach -Exclusive Location: Located in the upscale residential area of Playacar, offering a more private and tranquil experience. -Pristine Beauty: Features soft white sand and clear turquoise waters, ideal for relaxation and swimming. -Proximity to Resorts: Close to several high-end resorts, making it convenient for guests staying in the area. ✨️Playa Punta Esmeralda -Natural Beauty: Known for its cenote that flows into the ocean, creating a unique and picturesque setting. -Family-Friendly: Offers shallow waters and a relaxed environment, perfect for families with children. -Local Vibe: Less crowded compared to other beaches, providing a more authentic local experience. #playadelcarmenmexico #bestbeaches #quintanaroomexico #mexicobeach #mexicovacation #mexicocheck #playadelcarmenquintanaroo #familybeachday ♬ i look in peoples windows reggaeton remix – pedro 🤍

List Of The Best Playa del Carmen Beaches

Immerse yourself as we reveal our Playa del Carmen beach guide for 2024, exposing the concealed treasures that await your exploration.

A serene beachfront in Playa del Carmen with rows of sun loungers under thatched umbrellas, crystal-clear water, and lush palm trees. — Experience the tranquil beauty of Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, with its pristine beaches and tropical paradise atmosphere, the perfect escape in Quintana Roo, Mexico.

1) Punta Esmeralda

A special treasure hidden away in Playa del Carmen’s Colosio neighborhood, Punta Esmeralda provides an oasis of peace where a mesmerizing cenote intertwines with the azure hug of the Caribbean Sea.

This secluded beach in Playa del Carmen boasts clear waters, sandy shores, and innate beauty that’ll leave you in awe.

You’ll find Punta Esmeralda tucked next to Nicte-ha and accessible through the Paradisus Hotel.

While there are no public restrooms or beach loungers for rent, you’ll find food vendors and a food truck with tables and restroom facilities.

The cenote flowing into the sea creates a special and stunning sight, while the calm and shallow swimming conditions make it perfect for families with kids.

Relax on the sandy shores, take a dip in the clear waters, or let the little ones enjoy the playground.

Punta Esmeralda is a true hidden gem among the best beaches in Playa del Carmen, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.

A family enjoying time at a beachside restaurant with a clear view of the sandy beach and turquoise waters at Mamitas Beach Club in Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, Mexico. — A relaxing family moment captured at Mamitas Beach Club, where the stunning beach views of Playa del Carmen create the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience.

2) Mamitas Beach Club

Tucked away along the bustling center of Playa del Carmen, Mamitas Beach calls with its powdery ivory sands and gleaming aquamarine waters, offering an enticing exotic oasis.

You’ll find this beautiful beach lined with loungers and umbrellas, inviting you to bask in the Caribbean sun.

But Mamitas is more than just a beach – it’s a dynamic beach club experience!

Rent snorkel gear and discover the azure waters teeming with marine life, or join a game of beach volleyball while upbeat electronic music sets the mood.

When you need a break, the beachside restaurant serves invigorating drinks and tasty bites.

And if you want to venture beyond the beach, you’re just steps away from Playa’s famous Fifth Avenue, brimming with shops, bars, and restaurants.

Bustling street with shops and pedestrians on 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo, Mexico. — 5th Avenue in Playa del Carmen: A vibrant stroll through the heart of Riviera Maya’s shopping and cultural district.

Whether you crave a lively beach party vibe or a peaceful slice of paradise, Playa Mamitas delivers an extraordinary day at one of the region’s most beautiful beaches.

It’s a must-visit for anyone looking for the quintessential Caribbean beach experience in Playa del Carmen.

Tropical beach with clear turquoise waters, white sand, and palm trees under a blue sky dotted with fluffy clouds in Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo, Mexico. — Pristine paradise found – the tranquil shores of Playa del Carmen, inviting relaxation and adventure in the heart of the Riviera Maya.

3) Playacar Beach

Escape the buzz of Playa del Carmen by venturing to Playacar Beach, a palm-fringed sanctuary that envelops you in peaceful Caribbean bliss.

This Playa del Carmen beach, located just 20 minutes from the heart of the action, offers a laid-back experience that’s perfect for families or those looking for a quieter escape.

You’ll find a peaceful oasis here, with pristine sands stretching along the clear blue waters.

Playacar boasts beach clubs and restaurants where you can savor delicious cuisine while soaking up the sun.

Lifeguards are on duty during the season, ensuring a safe and enjoyable time for all.

Plunge into the transparent waters for snorkeling adventures, or simply relax on the shore and let the gentle waves lull you into a state of pure relaxation.

Split-view image of a serene underwater scene and majestic rocky cliffs at Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo, Mexico, with tropical fish swimming around a coral formation under the crystal-clear water. — A tranquil underwater paradise meets the rugged beauty of Playa del Carmen’s coastline, capturing the dynamic landscape where sea and land converge in Riviera Maya, Mexico.

For beginner snorkelers, Playacar is a picturesque spot with abundant marine life and shallow reefs—perfect for getting your fins wet.

Venture a bit further south of Playacar, and you’ll encounter a more challenging coral reef brimming with various marine life.

Embrace the tranquility of this resort destination and treat yourself to the ultimate beach getaway.

Tropical beach scene with clear blue waters, pristine white sands, and lush palm trees with beach umbrellas and a building in Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo, Mexico. — Escape to paradise at Playa del Carmen, featuring the idyllic Riviera Maya’s white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, lined with tropical palms and sun-soaked tranquility in Quintana Roo, Mexico.

4) Xpu Ha Beach

Located within a charming cove, Xpu-Ha Beach provides you with a dreamy slice of paradise, where soft ivory sands meet azure waters that beckon for a memorable beach escape.

This secluded atmosphere is perfect for families looking for a relaxed experience, with beach clubs providing something for everyone.

You’ll find plenty of snorkeling opportunities to discover the lively marine life just offshore.

Underwater view of a sandy seabed with scattered aquatic plants and a solitary starfish in the clear blue waters of Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo, Mexico. — A serene underwater glimpse capturing the tranquil beauty of Playa del Carmen’s marine life, where a lone starfish rests amidst the calm azure waters of the Riviera Maya.

Don’t worry about the essentials – Xpu-Ha Beach has restrooms, parking, and lifeguard supervision during the season to ensure your safety.

With its peaceful ambiance and convenient location just 20 minutes from Playa del Carmen, it’s a must-visit gem.

A picturesque view of Playa del Carmen beach with clear turquoise water, white sand, and lush palm trees under a blue sky with fluffy clouds. — Experience the serene beauty of Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo, Mexico – a tropical paradise of white sandy shores and swaying palm trees along the stunning Caribbean coastline.

5) Calle 10 Beach

Playa Calle 10 is one of the top beaches in Playa del Carmen, boasting ivory sands and crystal clear waters that invite you to bask in serenity in the midst of the bustling town center.

Located next to Zenzi Beach restaurant, this famous beach offers a variety of amenities, including beach clubs, restrooms, and parking, ensuring a comfortable sunbathing experience.

A person standing in clear shallow water with small fish swimming around in Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo, Mexico. — Exploring the serene underwater world, a visitor enjoys the company of tropical fish in the crystal-clear waters of Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya.

The azure waters beckon snorkelers to discover the lively marine life, while lifeguards guarantee a safe environment during the season.

Beyond the beach, you’ll find nearby historical Playa del Carmen attractions and entertainment options, making Calle 10 an ideal destination for those looking for a balance of relaxation and adventure.

Best Beaches for Families with Kids

Several fantastic beaches in Playa del Carmen are ideal for family enjoyment with their gentle waves, soft sands, and diverse convenient amenities.

If you’re traveling to Playa del Carmen with kids, Calle 10 beach is a great family-friendly option.

It provides calm, shallow waters perfect for safe swimming, and there are plenty of beach activities like sandcastle building to keep the little ones entertained. Plus, you’ll find playgrounds and picnic areas nearby.

For a more relaxed atmosphere, head to Playacar beach. This kid-friendly spot has lifeguards on duty and calm waves that are great for wading.

You’ll also find family amenities like beach chairs and umbrellas for rent.

A sunny beach scene with straw umbrellas and blue lounge chairs on white sand, facing turquoise waters in Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo, Mexico, with people walking along the shore and swimming in the sea. — Relaxing on the serene shores of Playa del Carmen, where the crystal-clear waters of the Riviera Maya beckon beachgoers for a tranquil escape in Quintana Roo, Mexico.

Or, check out Calle 38 beach for a local experience – it’s a more tranquil beach with minimal seaweed, making it ideal for fun in the sun with your crew.

Whichever beach you choose, you can’t go wrong in Playa del Carmen when seeking a safe, enjoyable spot for quality family time by the azure waters.

A snorkeler floating on the clear waters of Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, with distant views of the coastline. — Embracing the tranquility of the sea, a snorkeler explores the crystal-clear waters off the coast of Playa del Carmen in the beautiful Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo, Mexico.

Best Playa del Carmen Beach for Swimming

You’ll find pure bliss at the pristine sand beaches and crystal-clear waters of Parque Fundadores.

It’s the perfect spot to spend the day with family, offering a dynamic ambiance and ample space for swimming.

Sculpture of two figures reaching towards each other against a clear blue sky in Founders Park, Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo, Mexico. — “The Dance of Love,” a captivating sculpture at Founders Park, Playa del Carmen, symbolizes unity and connection under the expansive Mexican sky.

If you’re in search of a less crowded experience, Playa el Recodo is a peaceful haven with calm waters ideal for a relaxing swim.

This quieter beach offers a retreat from the crowds, allowing you to bask in the sun and enjoy the peace of the natural beauty.

For the adventurous, Playa Coco near The Reef Coco Beach resort boasts a kite surf school, catering to older kids and adults looking to try their hand at this thrilling water sport.

After an adrenaline-pumping session, you can cool off with a invigorating dip in the calm turquoise waters.

Two empty lounge chairs facing the ocean on a pristine beach with white sand, under the shade of tropical palm trees in Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo, Mexico. People are enjoying the tranquil beach scenery with a clear blue sky overhead. — Relaxation awaits on the sun-kissed shores of Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, where the white sandy beach and gentle palm trees invite beachgoers to unwind in a serene Mexican paradise.

Best Beach in Playa del Carmen without Seaweed

If you’re looking for a clean beach with less seaweed, Playacar beach is an excellent choice.

Known for its pure white sand and crystal clear waters, this gem tucked within the Riviera Maya provides a peaceful getaway from the crowded coasts.

Playa Coco beach is another top contender for best beaches without sargassum.

Not only does it boast a kite surf school for adventurous souls, but its shoreline remains remarkably clean, making it an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing.

Tropical beach in Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, with palm trees, white sand, turquoise ocean, and beach loungers under umbrellas. — Soak up the sun on the pristine shores of Playa del Carmen, a serene paradise along the Riviera Maya, Quintana Roo, Mexico, where palm trees sway and the clear turquoise waters invite relaxation.

Best Playa del Carmen Public Beaches

For those interested in a genuine taste of the area’s dynamic coastal culture, the public beaches in Playa del Carmen offer an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the local scene.

Parque Los Fundadores is a bustling beach with vibrant atmosphere and easy access, making it a popular spot to experience the city’s energy.

For a more authentic local experience, Calle 38 is a beach primarily frequented by locals and provides a glimpse into the daily rhythms of Playa’s residents.

Alternatively, Playa el Recodo provides a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for those in search of a serene escape from both locals and tourists.

Sunset at Playa del Carmen in Riviera Maya, with boats on water and people swimming. — Soaking in the serene sunset hues at Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya, where the sky meets the Caribbean Sea in a picturesque display of nature’s beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has nicer beaches Cancun or Playa del Carmen?

When comparing Cancun to Playa del Carmen, both have beautiful beaches.

The former is known for its lively atmosphere and crowded beaches, while Playa del Carmen offers a more laid-back atmosphere and less crowded beaches.

The choice between the two depends on personal preferences.

Does Playa del Carmen or Tulum have better beaches?

In comparison of Playa del Carmen and Tulum, both offer unique beach experiences.

Playa del Carmen has a more lively atmosphere with beach clubs and activities, while Tulum is known for its stunning white sand beaches and ancient Mayan ruins.

The choice between the two depends on personal preferences.

Are the beaches better in Cozumel or Playa del Carmen?

Cozumel’s beaches are known for their clear waters and serene ambiance, making them ideal for snorkeling and relaxation.

Playa del Carmen’s beaches are lively with easy access to amenities but can sometimes face sargassum influxes.

The choice between Cozumel and Playa del Carmen depends on personal preferences for tranquility or vibrancy.

Is it safe to go to Playa del Carmen beach at night?

Yes, Playa del Carmen is safe generally. However, it’s always recommended to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.