The 9 Most Gorgeous Beaches in Mexico

Stretching nearly 6,000 miles along the Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, Pacific Ocean, and Sea of Cortez, Mexico offers travelers endless opportunities for beach fun, yet even a lifetime may not suffice to explore every sandy paradise. While we celebrate the charm of all beaches, some undeniably capture more attention than others.

From the soft, white sands of the Caribbean coast to the rugged, untamed shores of the jungly Pacific, here are nine of Mexico's most stunning beaches.

1. Playa Carrizalillo

• Location: Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca
• Why visit: Ideal for first-time surfers in vibrant turquoise waters, with a lively blend of locals and visitors.

Puerto Escondido, located in the state of Oaxaca, ranks among the top surf spots in the world. However, you don’t need to be an expert surfer to appreciate its charm: The tranquil, cove-protected waters of Playa Carrizalillo make it one of Mexico’s most appealing beaches.

Nestled around a serene, turquoise bay, this golden-sand crescent is accessible via over 150 stone steps. At the foot of the steps, you’ll find a quintessential Mexican beach atmosphere, where locals and seasoned travelers gather for gentle waves (perfect for learning to surf with the local adventure company the Puerto Experience), palapa-roofed beachfront eateries, and delicious coconut ice cream.

For those seeking a thrill, the Mexico Pipeline—home to some of the world’s most formidable and exhilarating waves—crashes just offshore from the city’s main beach, Playa Zicatela, in Puerto Escondido.

Getting to Playa Carrizalillo

Arrive in Puerto Escondido by plane and take a short drive of less than 20 minutes to the town. The beach is situated in the Rinconada neighborhood.

Accommodations

Nestled on a hillside cloaked in lush jungle, this series of airy villas features a private staircase that descends straight to the beach below.

2. Playa Balandra

• Location: La Paz, Baja California Sur
• Must experience: pristine white sands and exceptional diving opportunities

Playa Balandra might just be the most picturesque beach you'll encounter: Its extensive list of characteristics includes terms like "sugary," "crystalline," and "palm-fringed." Stretching across a lagoon-like bay, the shallow waters are crystal clear and bordered by red rock mountains, crafting a dreamlike landscape that feels utterly secluded from the hustle and bustle of civilization. It’s hard to believe that the state capital is only a half-hour drive away.

Nestled along the Baja peninsula, Playa Balandra is also one of the richest in biodiversity. The Sea of Cortez is famous for its diving spots—home to 39 percent of the world's marine life—making it a fantastic location to observe starfish, stingrays, and other marine species just below the surface.

Getting to Playa Balandra

Fly into La Paz and then take a 30-minute drive north.

Accommodation Options

Boasting a prime position along La Paz’s Malecon, this historic mansion converted into a boutique hotel exudes a lively Havana-inspired atmosphere, featuring stylish, minimalist rooms and a vibrant central bar and restaurant.

3. Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

• Location: Punta Allen, Quintana Roo
• What to Expect: Untouched, jungle-enshrouded beaches with a remote, Robinson Crusoe atmosphere

While Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum boast some of the most iconic (and popular) beaches globally, for a glimpse of Quintana Roo's coast before the emergence of all-inclusives and the vibrancy of Coco Bongo, visit the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve.

Situated just an hour's drive south of Tulum, this safeguarded natural region spans 1.3 million acres of unspoiled jungle, flourishing trees, and wildlife-filled rivers, as well as ancient Mayan ruins and breathtaking white-sand beaches. While some beaches are easily accessible with parking facilities, others are hidden at the end of jungle trails requiring a guide. Regardless, adventurers are rewarded with a distinct view of Quintana Roo from its bygone era.

Getting to Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

Drive one hour south of Tulum.

Where to Stay

Nestled within the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, Casa Chable offers a luxurious escape with its palapa-roofed bungalows focused on wellness, gourmet dining, and a connection to nature.

4. Playa Blanca

• Location: Zihuatanejo, Guerrero
• Come for: Stunning sunsets and impressive waves

There’s a reason why the main character Andy Dufresne from Shawshank Redemption dreamed of spending his last days in Zihuatanejo. This quaint fishing village on the Pacific coast in Guerrero embodies the essence of a new life in Mexico. Picture sandy beach restaurants, the hum of boat engines, and streets dusted with sand. While visitors can easily enjoy the numerous bays and beaches nearby, the true gem of Zihuatanejo lies at Playa Blanca.

Located south of the airport, Playa Blanca boasts a seemingly infinite expanse of sand kissed by the roaring Pacific Ocean. Here, the waves are a surfer's paradise, and the sunsets are simply breathtaking. Scattered along the beach are boutique hotels and villas, each offering stunning views. Much like Andy, we all occasionally seek a fresh beginning, and this stretch of shoreline might just provide that opportunity.

Directions to Playa Blanca

Fly into Zihuatanejo; Playa Blanca is just a 10-minute drive to the south.

Where to stay

This exclusive collection of boutique villas along the beachfront offers breathtaking views of Playa Blanca, along with a stunning pool and a delightful restaurant.

5. Costalegre, Jalisco

• Location: Nestled between Puerto Vallarta and Manzanillo
• Come for: Secluded beaches where unparalleled luxury meets a relaxed lifestyle

Costalegre, Jalisco, boasts more than just one beach; it features a breathtaking coastline that extends from Puerto Vallarta down to Manzanillo. Over 50,000 acres along this coast are privately held by five hotelier families, all committed to preserving its natural beauty, ensuring the beaches remain untouched, rugged, and stunningly picturesque.

Costalegre offers an abundance of beachfront options. Guests often choose to stay at one of the lavish luxury resorts like Careyes, Cuixmala, Las Rosadas, or Las Alamandas, each nestled among Mediterranean-style coves and palm-studded beaches, where sea turtles outnumber tourists. The recently opened Four Seasons Resort Tamarindo and a new luxury development called Xala promise to enhance the region with better roads and an airport, yet the area's hidden charm remains a top draw for those seeking pristine sands in Mexico.

How to reach Costalegre

Fly into Puerto Vallarta and take a scenic drive south along Highway 200, or arrive in Manzanillo and head north by car.

Where to stay

Experience the ultimate in privacy at this villa, which boasts breathtaking views of a beachfront palm grove on its exclusive stretch of sand. The entire stay can be tailored to your preferences, complemented by a warm staff that treats you like one of their own.

6. Punta Mosquito

• Location: Isla Holbox, Quintana Roo
• Come for: A candy-colored sandbar and vibrant Caribbean island atmosphere

Once a favorite stop for backpackers exploring the Mexican Caribbean, Isla Holbox has transformed into one of the trendiest spots around. This petite, sun-kissed island rests off Quintana Roo's northern coast, where sandy streets are lined with colorful shops. Visitors navigate the island in golf carts—cars are not allowed—and the sound of reggae flows from beachside bars and hammock lounges over the water.

Reaching Punta Mosquito is a bit of an adventure: guests must wade through the shallow waters to arrive. However, it's the perfect spot to bask in the sun and enjoy a refreshing swim in the pleasantly warm sea.

How to reach Punta Mosquito

Fly into Cancun, then catch an ADO bus to the town of Chiquila. A quick 15-minute ferry ride transports travelers from the mainland to Holbox.

Where to stay

Nomade Holbox is a tranquil retreat exclusively for adults, featuring just 30 rooms that include treehouse suites, oceanfront accommodations, and glamping tents—each seamlessly integrated into the natural surroundings.

7. Playa Norte Celestun

• Location: Celestun, Yucatan
• Come for: Dining on the beach with your toes in the sand and a nearby biosphere reserve teeming with pink flamingos

While the state of Yucatan is known for cities like Merida, Valladolid, and the ancient Mayan site of Chichén Itzá, its beaches, particularly in the coastal village of Celestun, are among Mexico's most stunning.

Playa Norte in Celestun is renowned for its soft, powdery sand that gently meets the Gulf of Mexico. The beach is lined with palapa-roofed eateries, offering a delightful toes-in-the-sand experience with fresh ceviche, coconut shrimp, and fish tacos. Visitors can also take a water taxi from Celestun into the Ria Celestun Biosphere Reserve, where vibrant flocks of flamingos splash the landscape with bright pink hues.

How to reach Celestun

Fly into Merida and then take a bus or taxi for about 30 minutes to reach Celestun.

Where to stay

Celestun remains a hidden gem for many U.S. travelers. You can expect charming family-run posadas and boutique hotels. Hotel Gutierrez, a family-owned establishment, features a beachfront restaurant and bar.

8. Playa Mayto

• Location: Mayto, Jalisco
• Come for: Untouched nature and a truly off-the-grid experience

At the end of a long, sandy dirt path lies one of the best-kept secrets of the Mexican Pacific: Mayto. This expansive beach stretches an impressive seven miles, wrapping around a stunning cobalt bay, where the only structures are a few quaint hotels at one end—and that's about it. Waves crash onto the golden sands while lush, jungle-covered mountains rise in the background.

Playa Mayto sits at the tip of a small peninsula, embraced by tropical forests at the foot of the Sierra Madres. The closest 'town' is El Tuito, a farming community with the only gas station and ATM until you reach Puerto Vallarta—so plan ahead.

How to reach Playa Mayto

Fly into Puerto Vallarta and drive south along Highway 200. Once you reach El Tuito, you’ll start seeing signs directing you to Mayto.

Where to stay:

Hotel Mayto provides a little something for everyone, offering cozy hotel rooms or campsites for rent. Guests can enjoy a beachfront restaurant and bar, a swimming pool, and a small spa.

9. Playa Zipolite

• Location: Zipolite, Oaxaca
• Come for: A laid-back surfer atmosphere infused with artistic and creative energy

Nestled along the winding Oaxacan coastline—approximately two hours from Puerto Escondido—is the lively surfer town of Zipolite. The essence of its vibe is subjective; this place has historically attracted traveling hippies, many of whom journeyed down in VW buses during the 1970s and chose to stay. While the town is gradually modernizing, it does so at its own pace and rhythm.

Zipolite beach is framed by two rocky cliffs, featuring a mile-long stretch dotted with hotels, beach bars with sandy floors, and a few palapas. Expect to encounter nudists, as Zipolite is renowned as one of Mexico's most famous nudist beaches. The village is also thought to be a powerful energy vortex, attracting beachgoers who feel drawn to its mystique.

How to reach Zipolite

Arrive by flying into Puerto Escondido and drive south (or from Huatulco driving north) along Highway 200. Exit onto Highway 175, which takes you directly through Zipolite.

Where to stay

At the far end of Playa Zipolite lies the eclectic and artistic El Alquimista, celebrated for its bungalow-style accommodations, a beachfront bar, and yoga sessions by the sea.