Tulum’s beaches are renowned for their stunning beauty, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant atmosphere. From serene private coves to bustling public stretches, Tulum offers a variety of beach experiences for every type of traveler. In this guide, we’ll explore the best beaches in Tulum and the surrounding areas, including hidden gems, well-known hotspots, and essential tips for making the most of your visit.

Best Beaches in Tulum

Tulum is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat or a lively beach club, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few must-visit spots:

Playa Paraiso: Playa Paraiso in Tulum is widely recognized for its natural beauty, especially near the Tulum Ruins, where the views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea against the backdrop of ancient stone structures create a picturesque setting. The beach offers soft white sand and clear, shallow waters ideal for swimming. However, it’s worth noting that, at times, seaweed (sargasso) can wash ashore, impacting the beach’s pristine appearance. This area of Playa Paraiso is generally more affordable and less developed than the upscale hotel zone, home to the most luxurious beach clubs and hotels. Playa Paraiso isn’t accessible without a ticket for entry into the Jaguar Park. Visitors should also be aware that plastic bottles are prohibited, and security will check for them when entering the park area.
Location: Google Maps Link
Playa Pescadores: Playa Pescadores is a charming beach located next to Playa Paraiso; both share an entrance fee for access to the area, including the nearby Jaguar Park. This beach is known for its soft sand, crystal-clear waters, and the picturesque fishing boats along the shore. It’s a great spot for swimming, lounging, or going on a small boat tour. The laid-back vibe is complemented by a few local dining options nearby. The entrance fee helps maintain a relatively tranquil environment for visitors, although some venues along the beach can’t withstand the urge to play loud party music eventhough there is still not much of a party vibe in this area. If that is what you’re looking for, we recommend going to the hotel zone.
Location: Google Maps Link
Tulum Beach (Hotel Zone): The hotel zone in Tulum is home to a range of beautiful beaches and all the famous places to party, night and day. Access to the beach is restricted unless you’re a guest or client at one of the hotels, beach clubs, or restaurants.An exception to this is Delek, which allows you to pass through to the beach. We also like Cankeh, that has a minimum spend of only 200 pesos (about 10 USD), making it a good spot for a quick beach visit.
Location: Google Maps Link
Playa Punta Piedra: It is a small, local beach in the heart of Tulum’s hotel zone. It’s the only truly free and public access point to the beach in this area. While it’s modest in size, it offers a relaxed atmosphere and is mostly frequented by locals.
Location: Google Maps Link
Sian Ka’an Beaches: The beaches here are less crowded, with opportunities for wildlife viewing, eco-tours, and more. Sian Ka’an offers a more remote, natural experience, especially farther from Tulum, with unspoiled areas. However, the beach is not regularly cleaned, so some sections may have trash. There is only one main public access point that is somewhat near the reserve entrance. The alternative is going to a small town called Punta Allen, which takes quite a while, mostly because the road is in horrible condition.
Location Sian Ka’an: Google Maps Link
Location Punta Allen: Google Maps Link
Soliman Bay: Situated a bit outside of Tulum (about 20 minutes by car), Soliman Bay is an idyllic beach with calm, clear waters surrounded by lush mangroves and jungle. It’s perfect for those seeking a tranquil beach experience that is easier to reach than Sian Ka’an. You can rent a kayak or snorkel in its calm waters.
Location: Google Maps Link

Is Tulum Beach Public?

The beaches around Tulum, particularly those along the hotel zone, are technically public but can be hard to access without being a guest at a hotel or visiting a beach club. Public access is available through certain spots, such as Delek Tulum and other designated access points. However, note that most beaches in the hotel zone charge an entry fee or have limited access.

How to Get to Tulum Beach?

The beach areas are about 5 miles from the town center, accessible via Avenida Coba, Avenida Kukulkan or the new road through Aldea Zama. The most popular ways to get there are by: renting a car (beware of traffic jams though), bike , scooter or ATV. Or using taxis or private drivers.

For more general information on transportation options in Tulum, visit our article on how to get around in Tulum.

Beach in Tulum Without Seaweed

While seaweed can be an issue on Tulum’s beaches, some areas are cleaned more regularly to minimize its impact. Hotels such as Azulik, La Zebra, and Be Tulum maintain relatively clean beaches by frequently clearing away the seaweed. Playa Paraiso is also a spot that generally remains more seaweed-free due to regular maintenance. Peak seaweed season is typically around May to September so then it might be hard to find a beach without seaweed.

Conclusion

Tulum’s beaches are as diverse as they are beautiful, offering a wide range of experiences for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re seeking tranquility at secluded spots like Soliman Bay or enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the hotel zone, there’s something for everyone. For those willing to venture a bit farther, the beaches of Sian Ka’an offer pristine, untouched beauty that makes for a memorable day trip.