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The beaches that line Cancun’s miles and miles of coastline are some of the most beautiful in the country, so it’s no surprise that tourists always frequent them.
The beaches have been even busier in recent days, filled with both tourists and locals, so if you’re seeking solitude, you might not find it on Cancun’s most popular beaches.
We’ll look at three reasons for Cancun beaches being packed right now, and a couple of ways you can avoid the crowds too.
Ongoing Heat Wave Means More Beachgoers
The biggest reason for the beaches being especially packed right now is the ongoing heat wave that the destination has been experiencing.
Temperatures have consistently been in the 90s, with heat indexes of over 100 degrees.
The high temperatures mean more locals and tourists are hitting up the beaches to cool off.
Perfect Weather
Aside from it being extremely hot in Cancun, the weather is otherwise good.
There has also only been minimal rain and plenty of sunshine.
The lack of significant rain, combined with the warm weather and warm Caribbean breezes, makes for the perfect beach day.
Minimal Sargassum
Another reason so many people are enjoying Cancun’s beaches right now is because they can enjoy them with minimal sargassum.
Sargassum season is well underway and some areas of the Mexican Caribbean have had quite a bit wash up on the beaches already.
Typically, the season starts in April and lasts until October, but it’s being predicted that this year it may be over by September.
Cancun’s Most Popular Beaches
Cancun’s famous Hotel Zone stretches over 13 miles, with numerous beaches all along the coast.
Within this tourist area, there are more than 10 different public beaches that you can visit.
Of those, the most popular beaches are:
- Playa Delfines (Dolphin Beach)
- Playa Chac Mool (Chac Mool Beach)
- Playa Langosta (Lobster Beach)
- Playa Tortuga (Turtle Beach)
- Playa Marlin (Marlin Beach)
Tips For Enjoying Cancun’s Busy Beaches
With the excessive heat and the large crowds on the beaches in Cancun, it’s even more important to take safety precautions.
Drinking lots of water, using sunscreen, wearing a hat and protective clothing, and sitting in the shade when possible will help protect you from the sun and heat.
In regards to the crowds, lifeguards have a lot more people to look after, so it’s even more crucial to practice beach safety, by not going out too far, not consuming too much alcohol, and keeping a close eye on children.
Less Crowded Beaches In And Around Cancun
If you want to avoid the crowded beaches then you’ll be happy to know that there are some that don’t get the crowds like most of the beaches.
The beaches in the nearby Costa Mujeres area, located north of the Hotel Zone, are known for being quieter beaches.
Specifically, Isla Blanca is a great secluded beach.
For a quieter beach in the Hotel Zone, you can head to Playa Caracol, one of Cancun’s hidden gems.
Other Ways To Cool Off While Avoiding The Beach Crowds
The beaches aren’t the only place to cool off when visiting Cancun.
The area is filled with cenotes, which are naturally formed swimming holes, where the water stays a comfortable 77-78 degrees pretty much year-round.
Your resort is also a great place to cool off because it will likely have multiple pools located throughout the property.
Resorts also have their own beaches, so you can get some beach time in, and then head straight for the pool or umbrella-covered lounge chairs to cool off after spending time in the sun.
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