7. Playa Akumal
North of Tulum, you’ll find a smaller pueblo that, in the last few years, has skyrocketed to popularity. Akumal is home to five beautiful blue bays that for centuries have been known to harbor sea turtles, especially when it comes time to lay their eggs. In fact, the beaches of Akumal are among the best spots in Mexico to swim with the sea turtles that return every year.
Akumal is about half an hour from Tulum’s downtown and is a great option for families, especially since it has so much activity. Dive shops line the shore, and the small town is bustling with restaurants, shops, and tour stands. The beaches are practically strewn with palapa-covered restaurants, and you’ll always find people of all ages strapping on the snorkel gear to get out into the crystal-clear water.
8. Playa Kantenah
The best part about Playa Kantenah is that it is right in front of one of the best all-inclusive resorts in the Riviera Maya — UNICO 20°87° Hotel Riviera Maya. So if you book a stay at this fabulous all-inclusive resort, you’ll have direct access to one of the best beaches in Tulum.
The beach is not the widest in Mexico, but it is very long and gently curves around the bay. The golden-colored sand stretches as far as the eye can see, while gently lapping turquoise waves roll onto shore. The resort is free and open to all, but because of how it is protected, you’ll find mostly hotel guests using it, which means it is quiet and completely laid-back. If you are a guest of the resort, you’ll have wait service to bring you snacks and beverages out to the private lounge chairs, as well.
The beach sits just north of Akumal, which is maybe about a 25-minute drive from downtown Tulum.
