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A worrying revelation was recently made that the most popular beach in Cancun, Playa Delfines, is also its most dangerous.
In 2023 over 58% of all rescues in Cancun were carried out on Playa Delfines, with one factor in particular being cited for the extreme number of rescues that have earned this beautiful beach an unfortunate new type of fame.
Beach Flags Not Respected
Across Mexico, a simple and effective beach flag system is in place that allows swimmers entering the water to be aware of any possible dangers.
This includes Green for safe, Yellow for exercise caution, Red for dangerous conditions, and Black for swimming prohibited.
However, this system only works if those enjoying the beach respect the flag colors and avoid swimming when either Red or Black flags are being flown. And exercise heightened caution when Yellow flags are in place.
Naturally, swimmers ignoring this important warning system are causing frustration among lifeguards who patrol the beach to ensure the safety of its visitors.
No matter how strong or physically fit a swimmer is, it’s important to respect the expertise of Cancun’s lifeguards, and not ignore the clear warnings in place.
A Beautiful Danger
Playa Delfines is without doubt one of the most popular beaches in Cancun, and for good reason, its outstanding location and view have earned it the nickname El Mirador (The lookout), and it is a super-popular spot for travelers searching for the perfect Caribbean Instagram shot.
However, conditions can become life-threatening in the water that meets Playa Delfines. A highly varied underwater landscape, coupled with strong and often unpredictable currents from the Caribbean Sea make for a dangerous mix.
That isn’t to say Playa Delfines is always dangerous, there are many days when conditions are calm and the beach becomes a super-safe and welcoming place to take a dip.
With that knowledge, travelers can understand just how important the beach flag system is in Playa Delfines, taking away all of the guesswork for travelers around whether or not it’s a good day to break out the snorkel and swim goggles.
Spring Pressure
Across the Mexican Caribbean, there have been huge efforts to try and make this spring season as safe as possible for beachgoers.
Extra lifeguards have been added to the water rescue teams of Cancun, with the number now doubling from its previous level.
This is an important step, with a huge spring season expected with thousands of travelers predicted to take to the beaches throughout the destination. Travelers can help to keep themselves, and others, safe by always obeying the beach flag system, as well as the lifeguards’ verbal guidance.
Safe Beaches For Swimmers
For any travelers disappointed by the news that Playa Delfines isn’t a super choice for swimming, the good news is Cancun has no shortage of beautiful, less-crowded, and safe beaches for swimming.
The Following are 2 of the best beaches in Cancun to cool off from the Caribbean sun.
Playa Langosta
Located in the hotel zone, Playa Langosta is a beautiful beach that is fantastic for swimming. The tide can get low here, meaning swimmers may need to wade out to reach deeper water.
A big plus here is the water temperature, which can get comfortably warm thanks to the shallow water.
Playa Gaviota Azul
Located in front of the Crystal Altitude Hotel, travelers will feel like they’ve discovered a true hidden gem when visiting Playa Gaviota Azul.
This beach is well protected by a rock pier on one side that helps to keep swimming conditions safe, and it also has a famous reputation for having the kind of deep turquoise water that every travel agent’s brochure promises travelers.
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