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Six Beaches In Cancun Awarded With Platinum Certification
Cancun has the most officially recognized highest quality beaches according to a new grading system ranking beaches on their most important attributes. The popular tourist town has six beaches receiving the highest platinum certification.
Cancun has long been renowned for its stunning beaches. Pristine sand, crystal clear water, and the perfect weather have drawn millions to its shores for decades, with its popularity only growing with each year.
Many visitors and locals alike will claim that Cancun has always been the best area for a beach vacation in Mexico, beating out the likes of Cabo San Lucas and other coastal spots on the west coast, but according to the Mexican Institute of Standardization and Certification (IMNC) and a coalition of municipal governments around the country, the town is undeniably supreme when relating to beaches.
The grading system took multiple factors into account. Their overall beauty was judged, but the assessment also monitored their environmental stability, safety, and even universal accessibility. With these concepts in mind, Cancun found itself with six beaches receiving the highest certification – the platinum. No other coastal town received more high-scoring beaches.
Of those awards, the first was Playa Ballenas or Whale Beach. This stunning stretch of sand, located at kilometer 14.5, was recognized for its efforts to allow people with disabilities to enjoy the beach with as much ease as possible. The beach features ramp access as well as disabled access toilets, making the beach an easy trip for anyone.
It was also noted for its environmental protection. Playa Ballenas is known for its turtle nesting, with the sea-bound creatures laying between May and September. When nests are laid the areas are protected to allow the turtles safe passage back to the ocean whenever they hatch. The beach is, of course, astoundingly beautiful too, and known for its raw undeveloped beauty. From a safety aspect, the water on this beach is notably calm, although swimmers should still take care.
Chac Mool was another platinum-listed beach in Cancun. As one of the most popular beaches in the Cancun area, it was always likely to score high on the certification. Once again, its perfect combination of sea and sand ranked it high, but its safety played a huge role too. Chac Mool is one of the beaches currently patrolled by national guard members as well as lifeguards, making it one of the more secure spots in the area Its close proximity to restaurants and bars also helped it score high.
The beach’s only limiting factor was the tidal conditions regularly experienced. Although there are lifeguards, the waves can be strong and riptides are frequent. Care should be taken.
Perlas Beach also received the platinum certification. This quieter beach is also extremely accessible for those with disabilities, including the likes or ramps, disabled toilets, and other amenities. Environmentally, it is home to the blue crab, and its wonderful water makes activities like kayaking and swimming extremely easy.
Coral Beach performed well in the certification process, with many noting that it is a pet-friendly beach. It enjoys many of the same benefits as those lifted with the added bonus of enjoying it with a furry friend. With that said, any dogs must be kept on a leash while on the beach The water should be calm enough for dogs to enjoy safely but once again, care should be taken.
Parnassus Beach manages to climb its way back to platinum status this year, although not everyone can enjoy this stretch of sand. It’s a private beach, only open to those staying at Hotel Golden Parnassus All-Inclusive Resort and Spa. Those staying at this adults-only resort are now able to enjoy one of the best beaches in the area with, presumably, fewer crowds than anywhere else.
The list is rounded off by Playa Marlin, another important spot for sea turtles. Multiple species nest in this area, including loggerheads, Carey turtles, and even leatherbacks. Its close proximity to restaurants and bars makes it extremely convenient, and it has some of the best water in the area.
With so many beaches of such high standards, it might be tough choosing a place to put your deck chair for the day. All offer a different experience and all can be enjoyed. Just remember to take care of the ocean, respect the rules given by lifeguards, and respect the local wildlife.
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