5 Best Beach Destinations in Mexico
Mexico offers a plethora of destinations, from massive cities like Mexico City to historic sites like Chichen Itza to paradise beach escapes. Whether you’re craving jungle-backed surf towns, luxury resorts, or quiet stretches of sand with nothing but the sound of waves, this country’s coastline delivers the goods.
Here are some of the best beach destinations in Mexico you’ll want to add to your travel radar—bikinis and tacos at the ready.
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Puerto Vallarta & Sayulita
Let’s start with a duo that’s hard to beat: Puerto Vallarta and Sayulita. These two spots are close enough to combine into one trip but offer totally different vibes—and that’s what makes them so special.
Puerto Vallarta is vibrant, full of life, and packed with energy city. From downtowns charming cobblestone streets and stunning sunsets over Banderas Bay to its buzzing nightlife and mouthwatering food scene. Puerto Vallarta offers a good mix of laid-back and lively.
Whether you’re zip-lining through the jungle, sipping margaritas by the beach, or exploring the colorful art scene, there are a lot of fun things to do in Puerto Vallarta. Seriously—you won’t be bored!
Just 45-min drive from Vallarta sits Sayulita, Vallarta’s boho little sister. It’s a surfer’s paradise with a free-spirited vibe, colorful streets, boutique shops, and smoothie bowls galore.
The pace slows down here, and you’ll find yourself barefoot more often than not. The beach is the heart of it all, and whether you’re riding the waves or just soaking in the sun with a cold cerveza, Sayulita hits different.
Tulum
Who hasn’t heard of Tulum?
No best-beaches-in-Mexico list is complete without Tulum. Yes, it’s hyped. Yes, it’s expensive. But it’s also jaw-droppingly beautiful. Think white-sand beaches, turquoise water, and jungle-lined beach clubs where the drinks cost too much, but the vibe is immaculate.
Whether you’re exploring cenotes, biking to ruins, or vibing out at a beach sound healing session, Tulum has that dreamy aesthetic people can’t get enough of.
Isla Holbox
Holbox is one of those places you whisper about because you don’t want too many people to find out. It’s an off-the-grid island north of the Yucatán Peninsula where golf carts replace cars, flamingos roam free, and sunsets make you question whether you’ve ever really seen color before.
The beaches are endless, and the vibe is rustic but cozy. It’s the kind of place you come to for peace, then end up staying for the tacos.
Playa del Carmen
Playa is where beach days meet buzzing nightlife. It’s got a little bit of everything: beautiful beaches, great shopping, cenotes nearby, and quick access to Cozumel if you’re feeling like a quick island hop.
Fifth Avenue (Quinta Avenida) is the place to be for all things food, cocktails, and people-watching. Playa is a solid choice if you want variety without sacrificing convenience.
Zihuatanejo
If you’ve ever watched The Shawshank Redemption, this is where they escape to at the end—and yes, it’s a real place. Zihuatanejo is low-key, authentic, and absolutely stunning. The beaches are quiet, the seafood is fresh, and the pace of life is slow and sweet.
Perfect for anyone looking to unplug and recharge away from the crowds.
Final Thoughts
Mexico is loaded with incredible beaches—it really depends on the kind of vibe you’re going for. But there is a beautiful destinations awaiting you here…
