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Cancún has once again proven itself as the ultimate destination in Quintana Roo, with seven of its breathtaking beaches earning the prestigious Blue Flag certification.
The city proudly boasts a total of 43 Blue Flag awards, with 41 renewals and 2 new additions for its beaches and boats.
To be considered for the Blue Flag certification, beaches must adhere to strict environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility standards.
So, let’s delve into the details of these award-winning beaches and discover what makes them deserving of the coveted Blue Flag certification.
Playa Ballenas
This beach offers a wide expanse of sand with ample space to unwind, complete with palapas and beach loungers, some provided by nearby hotels.
Located at kilometer 14 of the Hotel Zone, Playa Ballenas is easily accessible via Boulevard Kukulcán, approximately 18 kilometers from downtown.
Its location on the open sea and year-round waves make Playa Ballenas a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Plus, its distance from the lively part of Cancún’s Hotel Zone makes it a peaceful retreat.
Playa del Niño
Playa del Niño is a vibrant beach adored by locals for its tranquil, shallow waters and family-friendly ambiance.
Situated in the Puerto Juárez district, it’s a bit of a trek from the bustling Hotel Zone – but that’s precisely what makes it ideal for those seeking a fun-filled family day at the beach.
With amenities like showers and restrooms, Playa del Niño has everything you need. Arrive early, and you might even secure your own cozy palapa!
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Playa Las Perlas
Nestled near the western end of Cancún’s North Hotel Zone, just 7 km from the lively Caribbean-side stretch of the Hotel Zone, you’ll discover Playa Las Perlas.
Its serene waters make it the perfect spot for water sports enthusiasts to indulge in windsurfing, kitesurfing, paddleboarding, and even sailing.
Feel free to pack your own picnic or treat yourself to a delectable meal at one of the many nearby restaurants.
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Playa Delfines
Playa Delfines, one of Cancun’s most awe-inspiring and iconic beaches, was among the first in Mexico to receive the Blue Flag certification. In fact, this year it celebrates a decade as Cancun’s first Blue Flag beach.
The waves at Playa Delfines can be quite powerful, so exercise caution when taking a dip! Unsurprisingly, this beach is immensely popular among surfers, perhaps second only to Playa Chac Mool in terms of popularity.
Several convenience stores are just a stone’s throw away from the beach, making it easy to grab refreshing drinks and snacks.
But for a taste of traditional Yucatecan snacks, keep an eye out for street vendors selling mouth-watering treats like shrimp empanadas, kibis (a type of deep-fried meatball), and more.
Playa Marlín
With its crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand, Playa Marlín is renowned as one of Cancun’s most stunning beaches.
Despite its popularity, Playa Marlín’s expansive coastline ensures that you’ll find a peaceful spot away from the crowds.
The activities here are incredibly diverse. From beach soccer or volleyball to surfing, parasailing, or even a relaxing seaside massage – there’s something for everyone.
As the day winds down, explore the local shops or savor the breathtaking sunset at one of the charming bars, restaurants, or cafes along Laguna Nichupté.
Playa Coral
Nestled away at the southern tip of Cancún, Playa Coral offers a more secluded experience compared to its busier counterparts.
It’s the only pet-friendly beach in the area, making it the perfect spot for a day out with your four-legged friend.
Moreover, Playa Coral is an inclusive beach, equipped with ramps and accessible spaces for people with disabilities.
Playa Chac Mool
Named after the enigmatic Mayan sculpture, Playa Chac Mool is a spacious public beach with pristine white sand and plenty of room for sunbathers to find a cozy spot.
Like Playa Delfines, Playa Chac Mool is a paradise for surfers. However, it has stronger currents, so swimmers should exercise caution.
Fortunately, the beach has a permanent lifeguard post, ensuring visitors can relax knowing that their safety is a top priority.
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