At first glance, it may seem that Cancun and the Riviera Maya is just a sea of mega resorts and private beach clubs.
But if you've booked a condo or other vacation rental for your family's beach getaway, I can't think of a better way to spend the day than to pack up a cooler, some beach blankets and an umbrella and start exploring some of the best Riviera Maya public beaches.
There are lots of great, public beaches in the Riviera Maya. Some have services like restaurants and bars, and some don't. Finding them is also easy, you just need to know where to look!
My family likes spending the day at public beaches, as opposed to staying at a resort or purchasing a day-pass at a beach club. This gives the family flexibility to come and go as we please and is by far the cheapest way to spend the day at the beach in Mexico.
And if you're there on a weekend or holiday, don't be surprised if you're joined by local families doing the same!
Here are my family's favorite public beaches in the Riviera Maya of Mexico.
Akumal
This small fishing village lies 60 miles south of Cancun. Akumal, named the "Land of the Turtles" in local Mayan language, not only boasts a wide, white sandy beach and a very safe cove for swimming, but is home to giant sea turtles!
Offshore reefs protect the silky white sand and push warm ocean currents through coastal caves and subterranean rivers. Beneath the crystal clear water lies a reef, which explains why Akumal is a popular beach for diving and snorkeling.
Head here for the day to Swim leisurely with giant sea turtles, other fish and even rays.Bring snacks, but don't miss the fish tacos at the cove's main restaurant. They are amazing and well priced!
Maroma Beach
Renowned as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Maroma Beach is 10 minutes north of Playa del Carmen. This is a very quiet part of the Riviera Maya, and is home to some of the area's most luxe resorts.
While you can't camp out on resort property for the day, there is public access to this beach.
Head to the south end of the Maroma beach area, near where the Catalonia Playa Maroma and Secrets Maroma are located. Here you'll find a marina with plenty of parking. Park here and walk to a quiet section of beach, where you can set up for the day!
Xpu-Ha
Xpu-Ha is a several miles long stretch of beautiful, natural beach located a few miles south of Playa del Carmen. This beach has calm waves and extensive stretches of sand with water just two feet deep, making it the perfect destination for youger children.
The roads to access the beach from Hwy 307 are marked with small signs. Look for road 4, which offers access to the beach and local restaurants. Follow the signs to Xpu-Ha where you'll find paid parking available.
Park here and walk north towards the Xpu-Ha Palace for the best stretch of public beach.
Puerto Morelos
Puerto Morelos is considered the gateway to the Mayan Riviera; its warm welcoming beaches match the temperaments of its people. The main beach is in the center of town, with smooth natural sand and cerulean waters. To the north and south of this centralized main beach are smaller, private stretches of sand belonging to resorts.
The reef surrounding these idyllic beaches is a protected national park, home to tropical fish, dolphins, turtles and corals. Puerto Morelos is the perfect place for families to spend a few hours snorkeling, with a certified guide, followed by some beach relaxation. Bring your own food, or wander in to one of the many great restaurants in town.
Do you have a favorite public beach in Mexico's Riviera Maya? I'd love to hear about it!
