It’s not just the Riviera Maya and the Mexican Caribbean: the entire peninsula boasts incredible beaches worth exploring. With all this beauty, tranquility, and good vibes, it would be a shame to limit ourselves to just a couple of destinations, however beautiful they may be—and yes, perhaps we are talking about Tulum, Cancún, and Playa del Carmen. Here are some other charming towns with beautiful beaches along the Yucatán Peninsula, from Campeche to Quintana Roo. Plus, most are conveniently located near an airport, so you won’t feel like you’re wasting your entire vacation traveling.
El Cuyo Beach
Just over an hour from downtown Mérida, Sisal is another beach worth visiting. The history of the Yucatán Peninsula’s rise to power invariably leads us to henequen. But outside of Mexico, this “green gold” has another name: sisal. This was precisely the port from which this valuable fiber was exported, which explains why the town’s splendor hasn’t faded so many years later. Today, it’s a picturesque Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town) known for its pier, lighthouse, Fort Santiago, the former Maritime Customs House, and the house of Empress Carlota—who landed at this port in the mid-19th century. It’s also very close to El Palmar State Reserve, where you can spot crocodiles and pink flamingos. Of course, its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear water are the biggest draw.
Sisal
Located on the Yucatán coast of the Gulf of Mexico, El Cuyo is a lesser-known beach, but just as idyllic as the more famous destinations on the Riviera Maya. It’s a small fishing village, perfect for enjoying white sand, turquoise waters, and local cuisine. For accommodations, we recommend the boutique hotel Mero Mero, which has a rooftop pool with ocean views. On the other hand, ecotourism enthusiasts will also find plenty to do, as El Cuyo is located near the Ría Lagartas and Las Coloradas reserves, and it’s even possible to see turtles and flamingos on the beach.
El Cuyo Hotel
Located between Tulum and Playa del Carmen, Akumal surprises visitors with its more tranquil atmosphere and offers a simpler, more authentic experience. Of course, tourism is still strong, but not as much as in other destinations in the area. Situated on the Mexican Caribbean coast, on the eastern side of the Yucatán Peninsula, you can expect the gentle waves and fine sand that characterize the region. What makes Akumal most famous are the sea turtles that nest in the bay’s serene waters. It’s also a great place for snorkeling.
Akumal Bay
Although Progreso is the closest beach to Mérida, Telchac is an old port an hour from the Yucatecan capital where many local families have chosen to have their homes for summer vacations. Both the beach and the waves are calm, with a small boardwalk and a picturesque lighthouse. Today, the main activity is fishing, so don’t miss the fresh seafood. If you’re planning to spend a few days on this beach on the Yucatán Peninsula, you can also make time to visit the Pink Lagoon and X’Cambó—a Mayan archaeological site with a saltworks.
Telchac
This fishing village between Cancún and Playa del Carmen has remained a more discreet and peaceful destination nestled between two major resorts on the Riviera Maya. Of course, the main attraction is spending the day between the sea and a beach chair, but at night, it’s well worth strolling along the boardwalk, visiting the main square, and exploring the culinary offerings. From delicious artisanal ice cream to more refined restaurants that reinterpret the flavors of the peninsula with a modern twist. Some of our favorites are Huerto del Puerto, Punta Corcho, Muelle Once, and Marbella.
Ciudad del Carmen – Campeche
Finally, the beaches of Ciudad del Carmen in Campeche are also among the most beautiful on the Yucatán Peninsula, and yet they’re often overlooked. This Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town) is nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and the Laguna de Términos, leading many to refer to it as an island—though it is accessible by car, and the airport is quite close. It’s a charming destination with colonial-style houses boasting colorful facades, cobblestone streets, and seafood dishes like pickled pompano, ceviche, and pan de cazón (shark meatball) and crab claws.
Source: foodandpleasure
