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Even though there are many reasons to visit Cancun, the biggest draw for travelers is undoubtedly the stunning beaches that line the coast.
There are numerous beaches to choose from when visiting, each a little bit different than the next.
Some beaches are more secluded, others are filled with energetic beach clubs and cantinas, and which one you choose depends on the experience you’re looking for.
No matter which beach you decide to spend your time at, though, the most important thing is that it’s clean, and 7 beaches, in particular, are among the cleanest in Cancun, according to a new report.
We’ll go over each of those beaches to help you decide where you’ll spend your time when visiting Cancun.
Playa Las Perlas
As far as Cancun beaches go, Playa Las Perlas is on the smaller side, but that doesn’t take away from its appeal but rather makes it more appealing for some.
The beach, which is located at the edge of the Hotel Zone, is often quite secluded, typically occupied by only a few locals and tourists.
Although the water isn’t quite as bright blue as other Cancun beaches, it is crystal clear and clean.
@dirgnifdez Playa Las Perlas- Cancún, Quintana Roo . . . #cancun #playas #mexico #paisajes #traveler #beach #rivieramayamexico ♬ Feel Good – Polo & Pan
Playa El Nino
Located between Puerto Juárez and Costa Mujeres, Playa El Nino Is a popular beach because it offers the best of both worlds.
It lacks the crowds typical of beaches in the Hotel Zone, yet still has plenty to offer as far as amenities.
You’ll have no trouble finding someone to rent a kayak or paddleboard from, and there are several bars and restaurants along the beach.
@becandclark Feeling very refreshed after a day relaxing on the beach 🏝️⛱️ 📍Playa del Niño, Cancun Our beach day included soft sand, warm ocean water, the shade of a palm tree, a good book, fruit to snack on and a margarita at the beach bar to top it all off. How would you spend your ideal beach day? #mexico #cancun #visitqroo #beach #iamatraveler #palmtrees #whitesand ♬ ocean eyes – Billie Eilish
Playa Chac Mool
Playa Chac Mool is conveniently located in a bustling area of the Cancun Hotel Zone, and as such is often filled with both tourists and locals.
You’ll find that many of the bars and restaurants along the beach rent out lounge chairs and cabanas, so it’s a great beach to spend the days at.
Chac Mool Beach is known for its vibrant turquoise water and soft white sand, another reason for its popularity.
@samuelgonzvlez Playa Chac Mool, Cancún 🇲🇽 – – – #playachacmool #cancunmexico #samiwalker ♬ sonido original – Sam González
Playa Ballenas
Playa Ballenas is a full-service beach located in the center of the Hotel Zone.
Because it’s lined with sprawling hotels and resorts, and because it’s in close proximity to bars and restaurants, Playa Ballenas is popular among tourists.
It’s also known for its crystal clear turquoise water and clean white sand beaches which are a perfect example of the breathtaking beauty of the Mexican Caribbean.
@nomadamayacancun Playa Ballenas《Miercoles 05 Octubre 2022》#cancun #cancunmexico #cancunmex #cancun2022 #cancunoficial #cancunvacation #cancunphotographer #quintanaroo #quintanaroomexico #quintanaroomexico🏝🇲🇽 #quintanaroomx #sargazo #sargazocancun #sargazocancun2022 #beach #beachlife #playa #caribemexicano #caribe #rivieramaya #rivieramayamexico #rivieramaya2022 #nomadamaya #nomadamayacancun #octubre #octubre2022 #octubre2022👶💞 #caribemexicano🌴🇲🇽 #cancunbeach #cancunlife #cancunlove #cancunlovers #cancunlover ♬ оригинальный звук – 🗾
Playa Marlin
Not far from Playa Ballenas, Playa Marlin may not be the greatest beach for swimming and isn’t lined with restaurants or beach clubs, but it is a beautiful beach nonetheless.
Its rougher waters are still suitable for water sports and activities, and there are lifeguards typically present.
You’ll also find a few places to rent chairs and umbrellas so you can kick back for the day if you want to.
@angelperaza_ Playa Marlín, Cancún, México🌅 #cancun #zonahoteleracancunmexico #rivieramaya #cancunmexico #xelhacancun #cancunvacation #beachvibes #beach #beachday #playa #cocobongo #xelha #xelhapark ♬ MIENTRAS ME CURO DEL CORA – KAROL G
Playa Delfines
It probably doesn’t come as a surprise that the largest, and one of the most beautiful beaches in Cancun, is also the most popular.
Playa Delfines, or Dolphin Beach, is named so because it isn’t uncommon to spot dolphins in the turquoise blue waters.
What really makes this beach popular, though, is its huge stretch of palapa-covered white sand beach with plenty of room to spread out.
@fave_vee THE beach to visit! #cancun #mexico🇲🇽 #mexicobeach #playadelfines #playa ♬ Moscow Mule – Bad Bunny
Playa Coral
Playa Coral is popular because it’s unique compared to other Cancun beaches.
The tree-lined beach is a shady tropical paradise with a park-like setting.
While there are no lifeguards, the water is known for being calm, and there are facilities onsite, so you can comfortably spend a day at this lesser-known Cancun beach too.
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