Tulum is one of my favorite places in Mexico, and I love everything about it; its vibe, the cute cafés and restaurants, the cenotes (oh, the cenotes!) and, of course, I love the picture-perfect beaches in Tulum. Because seriously, they are living postcard pictures.
While it’s true that Tulum has occasional seaweed issues, especially during the summer months, the beaches are worth the visit every time. Here is a guide to the best Tulum beaches in Mexico.
Table of Contents
BEST BEACHES IN TULUM
Playa Ruinas
Playa Ruinas, also known as Mayan Beach, is one of Tulum best beaches. It’s popular for its proximity to the Tulum Ruins, but also for the pristine white sand and turquoise blue waters it boasts.
If you’ve seen photos of the Tulum Ruins on a cliff overlooking the beach below, chances are you have seen photos of this beach as well.
The aquamarine water and the lush jungle with the rugged cliff that line the shore add a sense of drama and mystery to Playa Ruinas. It’s a great spot to go swimming and, spoiler alert! You won’t believe the spectacular views you’ll get from the water.
There really aren’t many beaches (even in Mexico) where you get the chance to swim in the picture-perfect scenery of an ancient fortification, and that scenery makes it fight for the most stunning beach in town position.
READ MORE: A Complete Guide to the Mayan Ruins of Tulum, Mexico
To access Playa Ruinas, you must make your way down a set of narrow and steep stairs from Tulum’s Ruins which are the only access available, so this isn’t a great destination for people with mobility issues.
For everyone else, the beach in the Tulum Ruins is a must-visit, and it’s also very convenient when planning your trip to the ruins because you can simply head down to the beach to cool off after wandering around the site.
Tulum South Beach
Tulum’s South Beach is flanked by a number of luxury beach-front hotels and resorts and it’s a coveted destination for tourists who want to enjoy the gorgeous beaches of the southern portion of Tulum while also enjoying the amenities of luxurious accommodation.
The easiest way to access this Tulum public beach is if you stay in any of these hotels, which adds to the exclusive feeling of the beach.
If you’re not staying in one of the beach resorts, you can opt to rent a daybed at one of the beach clubs in the area to get access to the beach.
Aside from having fewer crowds, the gorgeous white sand has a powdery feel to it. You can also do various water sport activities such as kitesurfing and surfing!
READ MORE ABOUT TULUM:
13 Best Cenotes in Tulum
30 Unmissable Things to Do in Tulum
19 Restaurants in Tulum You Must Try in 2024
Playa Paraiso
Playa Paraiso, which means Paradise Beach, is a fitting name for one of the most beautiful beaches you’ll find in Northern Tulum. This is an exclusive beach club fringed with palm trees where you can go during the day and rent beach chairs and parasols to enjoy an idle time by the beach.
Paradise Beach is also popular if you’re looking for a leisurely swim or if you’re into snorkeling; the coral reef and marine life in Riviera Maya are fantastic, and if you’re lucky you’ll be swimming among sea turtles and rays! Definitely, this is an amazing slice of paradise right within Tulum.
There are several restaurants close by and spa services in case you’re looking for even more relaxation.
Las Palmas Beach
Las Palmas Public Beach is within the Hotel Zone district, among some of the best beachfront hotels in Tulum, and it’s one of three beaches that are lined together at the southern end.
The vibe on this one is different from many of the South Tulum beaches because it’s preserved and it doesn’t have a lot of modern developments that you usually find in Riviera Maya.
This means that the beachfront is wider, so there’s a lot of space for laying out a towel and chilling without the crowds being too near. There are not many facilities, though.
On the positive side, the bars and restaurants in the area are cheaper, and there are boat rides and snorkeling activities you can enjoy on one of the best public beaches. It’s ideal for those traveling on a budget, as there’s no entry ticket or consumption minimum fees.
It’s also a great option if you enjoy topless sunbathing! While there are no official nude beaches in Tulum, in most areas it’s accepted to sunbathe topless; of course, it should be done at your discretion.
Secret Beach in Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
The Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site but did you know that there’s a secret beach near the site where you can swim? It’s a protected area so you’ll need to book a tour in order to get access.
If you enjoy a beaches that are quiet and secluded, this is the best beach for you. In fact, the beaches in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve area are raw and unspoiled. You can expect it to be exposed and rugged – but that is how you know that this beach is in its most natural state!
You’ll enjoy miles of tranquil white sand beach along with sparkling turquoise waters. It’s a heavenly sight for beach enthusiasts!
As you can imagine, there are no modern facilities on this beach, so it’s perfect for those who prefer raw nature over amenities.
Soliman Bay
Soliman Bay is an off-the-beaten-path beach destination, which could almost be considered hidden, as it’s one of the Yucatan Peninsula’s best-kept secrets.
The bay is secluded and semi-private, being located in a residential area. However, you can still access the Chamicos beach, which is public and gorgeous. If you come across security at the entrance, you can tell them you’re going to one of the beach restaurants and you should be good to go!
The beach offers the usual pristine waters and white sand surrounded by palm trees, but also a privacy you won’t find on the most popular beaches due to its semi-private nature.
It’s a great option for kayaking and snorkeling, and especially for families with children, as there are no underwater currents to worry about because of the reef.
You’ll find beach bars for refreshments and food, and the tranquility of being away from the crowds. Definitely, it’s one of the best beaches in Tulum, Mexico for those longing for some peace and quiet.
Playa Pescadores
Playa Pescadores, meaning Fishermen’s beach, is a beautiful beach just north of Playa Paraiso from where, true to its name, the fishermen depart for their early morning catches.
This beach isn’t as secluded as Soliman Bay in the slightest, and besides the fishermen’s boats, you’ll see several speedboats around Playa Pescadores, taking tourists to snorkel near the reef in Riviera Maya.
From Playa Pescadores you get really pretty views of the Tulum Ruins, so the visual landscape is complete. If you don’t mind the crowd and constant movement around you, then this is a great public beach to visit.
OTHER NICE BEACHES NEAR TULUM
Chemuyil Beach
Playa Chemuyil is not exactly in Tulum, located north of the city in the Riviera Maya, but it’s perfect for a day trip from Tulum.
The beach features powdery white sand, shimmering turquoise waters, and it’s fringed by palm trees which make it look straight out of a paradise postcard.
It offers fantastic snorkeling possibilities, as the water is transparent and rich in marine life, and there are plenty of shaded areas to lay a towel and relax.
Xunaan-Ha Cenote is within walking distance from the beach, so you could combine your beach day with a swim in the freshwater of a natural sinkhole!
Chemuyil Beach has restrooms and showers available, and you’ll also find beach chairs for rent. There aren’t life guards, however, so if you’re visiting with small children please take extra care.
If you’re driving there, you’ll find a free parking area outside the beach. It’s not terribly big, so aim to visit early in the high season.
Xpu-Ha Beach
There is still another gorgeous beach featuring impossible turquoise waters that will make you doubt the landscape is real. Let me tell you, this beach is definitely real, hard to believe as it is.
Xpu-Ha is located midway between Tulum and Playa del Carmen in the Riviera Maya and it has many facilities, including a restaurant and nearby toilets, sun loungers to rent, and water activities.
There is an entrance fee, though, of 50 MXN (2,50 dollars) at the time of writing, but if you leave the beach before 6 PM having consumed something at the restaurant you get the entrance fee back.
Entrance fee: 100 Pesos (5 USD) Opening Hours: 10 AM to 6.30 PM
BEST BEACH CLUBS IN TULUM
Tulum Beach Clubs in North Beach
Villa Pescadores – Villa Pescadores is one of the most popular beach clubs in Tulum’s North Beach. This is a private beach area that you can access for a fee during the day, which also allows you to use the beach club’s tourist facilities such as beach beds and showers.
This beach club is conveniently located, it’s very accessible from the Tulum main square and the Tulum Archaeological Site.
El Paraiso Hotel & Beach Club – El Paraiso is one of the ultimate beach clubs in Tulum North Beaches. You can rent sun loungers for 100 MXN (5 USD) and other beach furniture like tables, chairs, and umbrellas with prices up to 500 MXN (25 USD at the time of writing).
They charge a minimum consumption at the restaurant in some seasons, which varies according to the furniture guests choose, and normally go from 1000 MXN to 3000 MXN per bed.
Since the beach club is well-maintained, it’s very clean and there are no seaweeds by the shore. It’s another great beach for swimming and snorkeling, while also being family-friendly.
El Paraiso is also home to one of the best beach bars in Tulum, so you won’t be lacking cocktails to sip through the afternoon. Overall, this is likely the most all-inclusive Tulum beach you’ll find.
Entrance Fee: No entrance fee.
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 6 PM
Caleta Tankah – Caleta Tankah in Tulum is a perpetual favorite among tourists because it’s one of the most pristine beach clubs in the area. This beach club offers an extensive beach area where you can lounge in the daybeds, and you can also participate in many water sports such as snorkeling, kayaking, and surfing.
Whether you’re seeking an idle time or you want to take advantage of the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, this beach club won’t disappoint. The Caleta Tankah is also one of the best-positioned Tulum hotels on the beach.
Entrance Fee: 300 MXN (15 USD)
Opening Hours: 9 AM to 5.30 PM
Tulum Beach Clubs in South Beach
Papaya Playa Project – Papaya Playa Project is one of the most popular beach clubs in South Tulum Beach. This multi-purpose facility is quite well equipped, it comes with a double-decker bar along with a multi-level semi-amphitheater with private seating.
There are also oceanfront palapas where you can relax to enjoy your meal or tropical drinks, or just socialize. And you can also rent practical sunbeds that are shaded for your convenience. It’s a great way to escape to the beach as you listen to the sound of crashing waves.
Cost: Minimum consumption of 1500 MXN (about 70 USD) per person
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 6 PM, although service ends at 5.30 PM
Be Tulum – If you want to experience the authentic charm of Tulum, check out the Be Tulum beach club. There’s a hotel that is part of this beach club, which is on a sea cliff where you can enjoy a private and pristine beach.
It’s a great place to experience the raw beauty of the Mexican Caribbean Sea, and you’ll find plenty of sun beds and lounge chairs that you can use for a day to unwind and relax while soaking up the sun or hitting the waves.
Cost: There’s a minimum consumption of 100 USD per person (cash is not allowed).
Mia Beach Club – This bohemian beach club is located on the first line of the beach, surrounded by coconut palm trees and featuring soft white sand, natural shade, and top-notch amenities. There are comfortable single and double day beds, and a private lounge for celebrations.
The beach club has a restaurant serving Mexican and European cuisine, a pizza place, and a bar to keep the drinks flowing while you relax by the sea. Mia also hosts music events, weddings, and private receptions, featuring renowned DJs and great service.
There is a minimum consumption of 1300 MXN per person, plus 15% service fee.
Opening Hours: Daily from 10 AM to 7 PM
Taboo Beach Club – Taboo is a fantastic beach club to take a break from tacos and indulge in Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant has a strong commitment to creating healthy dishes using the freshest ingredients and seafood, that you can enjoy by the sea.
The beach club features sun beds, private lounges, dining tables and seating areas by the beach, and a resident DJ that adds to the atmosphere. There’s also a swimming pool, and the beautiful decor makes it a very instagrammable location.
Opening Hours: Daily from 11 AM to 6.30 PM
HOW TO GET TO THE BEACH IN TULUM
Tulum is a relatively small area, so it’s very easy to get around between the town and the Tulum ruins or the gorgeous Tulum public beaches in the Yucatan Peninsula.
▶ One of the best options to get to the beach from Tulum Town is by bike; economical, eco-friendly, and fun! You can rent a bike pretty much everywhere in Tulum (most hotels offer the service as well) and ride it to your desired beach destination. The bike path covers most of the way to the beach, and, depending on which beach you’re planning to visit, it should take you around 15 minutes to get there.
▶ If you’re more into comfort than adventure, you can take a taxi. The ride is really short, but insanely expensive, costing around 20 USD at the time of writing. For this reason, I strongly recommend either staying at the beach or renting bikes to get there.
If you’re ok with the taxi prices, bear in mind that right after sunset is the rush hour back to the town, so you might want to arrange a pickup with a taxi driver beforehand.
▶ You can also drive to the beach of your choice, but parking can be quite a pain. There’s a public parking lot on the north beaches, and in the south ones, you can park in some paid parking lots.
A good idea is to get a map of the beaches if you want to visit more than one and pick an itinerary that makes sense. If two beaches are close to each other, it might not be worth it to move your car once you’ve secured parking!
BEST BEACH HOTELS IN TULUM
Did you fall so in love with the beaches in Tulum that you’re planning on spending a few days in the area? That’s a really great idea. Book the accommodation that best suits your needs.
READ ALSO:
12 Best Eco Hotels and Eco Resorts in Tulum
The 16 Best Tulum Boutique Hotels
ALL-INCLUSIVE RESORT: Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa – This all-inclusive, award-winning beach resort boasts a beautiful pool with private access from some of the suites, adult-only sections and a splash park for children, as well as fully equipped rooms. The resort is also home to a spa, tennis court, golf course, and fitness center.
LUXURY: La Valise Tulum – This luxurious hotel offers the best of both worlds: Caribbean beach on one side, lush jungle on the other. The heated infinity pool overlooks the magnificent jungle, while the beds are directly on the beachfront for lounging during the day and stargazing at night. The jungle bungalows have open-air showers to complete the experience.
BOUTIQUE: Zamas Hotel – This simple but comfortable beach hotel boasts colorful thatched cabins with balconies overlooking the sea and hammocks all around. Among its facilities are a swimming pool, access to the beach and pre-booked massages.
ON A BUDGET: Che Tulum Hostel & Bar – There are no budget options in Tulum beach, but you just have to move to Tulum Town, no big deal. The hostel is the perfect place for solo travelers hoping to make friends, as it has a great pool for guests, offers group excursions, and hosts parties. It’s right in the center of Tulum and has a fully equipped kitchen as well as a 24-hour front desk.
This post contains affiliate links, which means if you book something through one of my links I might get a commission, at absolutely no extra cost to you.
