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The popularity of the Mexican Caribbean is both its greatest strength and, at times, its greatest weakness.
Without that popularity, so many of us would never know about it and, therefore, never get to experience its magic.
With that being said, while many of the big-name beaches have been snapped up by resorts claiming private areas and the crazy crowds that can appear like swarms in the high season, there is no shortage of lesser-known but just as magical beaches to enjoy.
These Mexican Caribbean beaches are this summer’s escape from the crowds.
Playa Maroma
This is one of those beaches that transports you into a different world; situated right between Playa del Carmen and Puerto Morelos, it is perfectly set for a day trip away from the crowds.
With beautiful natural coral and some of the cleanest sands in Mexico, this beach has been mentioned on more than one occasion as a potential “World’s Best Beach” entrant.
That’s a tagline that can feel a bit arbitrary these days, the list of the world’s best beaches can sometimes feel endless, but this is an exception to that and a genuinely exceptional beach. At least according to both the Travel Channel and Discovery Channel.
Playa Maroma is also home to beautiful overwater bungalows that could trick travelers into thinking they’ve landed in the Seychelles or Bali!
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Punta Allen – Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
An adventurous nature, plenty of water, snacks, and a 4-wheel drive vehicle.
These are the things you need to reach Punta Allen, which is situated right in the heart of Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. Although it’s just a 35-mile trip from Tulum, the road is bumpy and at times more like a dirt track.
But, those willing to take this adventurous journey will be rewarded with one of the most untouched beaches in all of North America.
This is a super opportunity for snorkelers; the area is teeming with dolphins, turtles, stingrays, tropical fish, and at times manatees.
The wildlife here lives a relatively undisturbed life, and while tourists are welcome to experience this area and its beauty, people are asked to respect this beach and its underwater world like they would their own backyard.
Mahahual
A beautiful beach that is well-developed with plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from, this superb beach is far from a “hidden gem”. In fact, it becomes extremely crowded due to its popularity as a cruise liner stop.
That’s where the Costa Maya cruise ship calendar comes in handy.
Armed with this calendar, travelers can time when to visit this awesome beach, avoiding the huge cruise liner crowds and getting to enjoy Mahahual and all its beauty with just a few other savvy travelers!
Playa Xpu-Ha
The majority of travelers to this corner of Mexico stay in either Playa del Carmen or Cancun, so for some on tighter schedules, some of the quieter beaches may seem just out of reach.
For those travelers, there is Playa Xpu-Ha, perhaps one of the prettiest examples of a Mexican Caribbean beach. Kindly just a 15-minute drive from Playa del Carmen and 45 minutes from Cancun.
Although it’s situated on one of the busiest stretches of coastline in the world, it has so far managed to keep the crowds well under control, making it the perfect place for travelers to escape the big destination resorts for some Caribbean peace.
Playa del Carmen Secret Beach
Located roughly an hour’s walk south of Playa del Carmen, this is the most secluded beach on the list, thanks to its road-free access.
Also known as Playa Nudista, aka the nudist beach, it has a reputation for being much more liberal in its application of what’s acceptable to wear to the beach.
While the beach is friendly to those who only bring their birthday suit with them, the vast majority of bathers are clothed and simply there to enjoy the seclusion.
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