Category Archives: Top Beaches

5 Beautiful Secret Beaches You Must Visit in the Yucatan Peninsula

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It’s not a secret; Mexico has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Each year, thousands of tourists choose the Yucatan Peninsula as their destination for incredible vacations. This place has become a favorite destination for both, tourists and Mexicans.

Once you land in Mexico, any beach you visit will look extraordinary. It’s guaranteed that you will never find an ugly beach in Mexico, but when it comes to the Caribbean, you are standing in paradise. The white sand that almost feels like powder and the beautiful crystal-clear waters will hypnotize you. Walking along the beach, while you take a sunbath and freshen up with the sea breeze, is an unforgettable experience.

Since most tourists come to the Caribbean beaches to look for comfort, some beaches tend to be too crowded. This could actually be ideal for people who want to have fun and party. However, for those who want to relax and enjoy, a tranquil beach would be perfect. Luckily for those people, the Yucatan Peninsula has many virgin beaches; most of these beaches are kept secret and are much less crowded.

Here are the 5 most beautiful beaches in the Yucatan Peninsula:

Caleta Tankah, Tulum:

This beautiful beach is located on the Highway 307, on the way to Tulum. It is a 43-minute drive from Playa del Carmen and 1 hour 30 minutes from the Cancun airport. The entrance to this beach is not easy to see, so it’s really important to be alert and observe the way.

Once you’re in, you’re going to drive a small path towards the beach; it should be less than a minute. The entrance fee is $150 pesos, and it includes access to the beach club. Right here you can choose a spot, leave your things and relax. This location has a restaurant, so you can order delicious food and beverages for a reasonable price. It’s important to mention that Caleta Tankah has limited space, so it is highly recommended to arrive early.

A wonderful thing about this place is the beautiful inlet “caleta”, where fresh and salt water collide. However, the whole beach itself is stunning, from the beautiful white sand to the amazing crystal-clear waters. Also, Tankah is home to a cenote. You can dive into this freshwater sinkhole and freshen up a little.

El Cielo, Cozumel:

You may have heard of this fantastic paradise located just a short drive from downtown Cozumel. This place is perfect to do some snorkeling in its crystalline waters that allow you to appreciate the bottom of the sea. El Cielo has become one of the favorite destinations for people who visit this island.

To arrive to this paradise, you have to take the ferry from Playa del Carmen to Cozumel. Once you get to Cozumel, you can buy a tour that includes activities such as snorkeling. It is also possible to book a tour through a website. If you decide to acquire a snorkeling activity, don’t miss the opportunity to watch the starfishes; a highly interesting activity El Cielo has to offer. The white sandy beach and the turquoise water will make you never want to leave the Caribbean.

Xcacel, Tulum:

The turtle sanctuary, located 40 minutes away from Playa del Carmen, is also home to a cenote. This hidden jewel is another paradise the Yucatan Peninsula has at your disposal. Its name is Xcacel and it is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Quintana Roo. The entrance fee to this beach is $20 pesos.

Why is Xcacel so special? Let’s begin with the fact that it is a turtle sanctuary. Each year, between April and October, thousands of turtles arrive to nest along this beach. If you’re visiting Quintana Roo during these months, you can volunteer for one day and witness the birth of hundreds of turtles.

Another beauty in this place is the amazing freshwater sinkhole, known as cenotes. “Cenote Xcacelito” is perfect if you want to cool off in fresh water. It is located a few steps away from the beach, in the middle of the jungle. Run to the cenote and escape for a while from the Caribbean heat. Xcacel is definitely a beach you must visit at least once.

Boca Paila, Southern Tulum

Boca Paila is an incredible fishing village located in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. This is a dream for anyone who is a nature lover. In the same way, any adventurous lover would enjoy a night camping here.

Besides being a gorgeous beach, Boca Paila has a giant lagoon, which is actually ideal for fishers. Thanks to the fact that Boca Paila is located in a protected area, this beach is still virgin. As a result, it is not crowded and noisy. Thus this beach is ideal for a tranquil and relaxing getaway.

Also, if you decide to stay the night and camp here, this would happen under the starry sky. From here, you will be able to appreciate nature as you’ve never done it before. This heavenly site doesn’t have any kind of service, so we recommend bringing water, food and a tent. Please remember to keep the beach clean!

Punta Maroma, Northeast Playa del Carmen

Punta Maroma is definitely among the most beautiful beaches in the Yucatan Peninsula. This site has become a favorite destination for newlyweds. For those who enjoy a beach that is not very crowded, this is the perfect place.

Punta Maroma offers a tranquil and peaceful ambience. People who commonly visit this beach, consider it a giant crystal-clear pool. Here you can admire the beautiful landscapes with gorgeous colors next to the calm Caribbean Sea. Since this beach is not crowded, you will be able to enjoy this paradise for yourself. Punta Maroma has a large range of lodgings; here you will find camping spots, eco-friendly hotels and fancy villas.

If you’re intending to visit this place, Punta Maroma is located 35 kilometers from the Cancun International Airport. As a reference, it’s between Puerto Morelos and Playa del Carmen.

So take your things and visit these beautiful and amazing beaches in the Yucatan Peninsula. Don’t forget to take your camera with you and photograph the stunning landscapes.

Have an incredible getaway far from the city and close to nature. Enjoy the Caribbean to the fullest.

Neighborhoods of Playa del Carmen – Little Italy

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As many of you know the expats of Playa del Carmen are not only made up of Americans and Canadians, but a large number of Europeans have also relocated to Playa del Carmen. So it is no wonder that Playa del Carmen has its very own area called Little Italy.

Little Italy has truly an ideal location, located in the heart of Playa del Carmen and is walking distance to the beach and the 5th Avenue, the main tourist area. In this part of town you can find a few homes but it’s mainly condos and the real estate options start from as little as 90,000 USD and up to 700,000 USD.

As Little Italy is one of the oldest areas in Playa del Carmen you will find large mature trees scattered through the area as it is illegal to cut down trees in Mexico without permission from the government, which results in much appreciated shade and tree lined streets.

Going by the name of this area you can expect to find some amazing Italian restaurants, such as Piola on Avenue 38 North, with seating options either inside or out that offers a range of brick-oven pizzas, salads, pasta dishes and vegan options, but is mostly known here in Playa del Carmen for their basil margaritas, a definite must try. With so many different restaurants, cafes and bars in this area you will be really spoilt for choice.

The white sandy beach is only a few minutes away with many beach clubs and bars lining the beach, happy to serve you a refreshing cerveza or a cocktail of your choosing. Further along the beach, approx. a 10 minute stroll away, you will find the popular Canibal Royale Beach Club and in the other direction the famous Mamitas Beach Club and Zenzi, which the locals and visitors highly recommend. But don’t be shy! There is many more bars and beach clubs serving different dishes and with their daily promotions you will have many options to choose from.

There are large supermarkets not far from Little Italy such as Walmart, Mega and with Sam’s Club and City Club you will easily be able to cover your household needs.

Remember that there are small fruit and veg markets in the area too, with DAC being the largest and more popular due to its large range of fresh produce but also sells cheese, dried herbs and spices and a selection of tinned / jarred foods that is not very common to find in Playa del Carmen. DAC is open daily and located on Avenue 30, one block north from Constituyentes Ave.

For organic produce, handmade goods and gluten free baked goods, there are two markets that come to Playa del Carmen once a week. Both are organized by KaVaKasa, one takes place right in their HQ and the other one in Les Alizes Condos, on CTM Ave.

Whether you are looking for a calm stroll on the beach, a romantic evening out or just a simple trip to the market, if Little Italy does not have it you are guaranteed that it is close by!

If you’d like more information about Playa del Carmen or are interested in purchasing property here, we invite you to visit our main website where you can search further. Please get in touch with one of our agents who will gladly assist you in any questions you might have.

And remember, at Top Mexico Real Estate…

we make it happen!

Tulum Wins More Accolades for Its World Class Beach

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Playa Paraíso Tulum

Tulum Wins More Accolades for Its World Class Beach

The whole of the Riviera Maya has been receiving accolades all year round, and the city of Tulum is no exception, having picked up some of its own in 2016. We recently reported on how TripAdvisor, the world’s largest travel site, had named Tulum as one of its top destinations on the rise. Now one of its beaches is making itself known on the website, with Playa Paraiso getting some much deserved respect.

Paraiso (Spanish for Paradise) has great location, just north of the Tulum ruins.

It has its own boutique hotel and an excellent beach club that has sun beds, umbrellas, lounge chairs, tables and palm trees for grabbing some shade. T

here is a cost for the use their beds and chairs, but it is certainly possible to negotiate for a discount if you are up for the challenge.

The beach opens at 8am and closes at 11pm, with a restaurant on-site that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Read: Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya: A Day at Playa Paraiso

Tulum is located 80 miles south of Cancun, with Playa del Carmen to the north and the Sian-Ka’an Biosphere Reserve- a natural biosphere reserve that is home to over 300 types of birds and 100 mammal species- to the south.

It was once a walled city, one of the last to be built by the Mayans, and its’ archaeological sites are well preserved. The main archeological site of Tulum is built on a cliff that overlooks the Caribbean Ocean.

Tulum is a small eco-friendly town that epitomizes the term bohemian. It draws many travelers who seek out its hippie, low tech lifestyle, and it’s no wonder that TripAdvisor would be impressed by its stunning blue waters and cool white sand.

It is one of those places in this part of the world that must be experienced for oneself in order to appreciate it fully, so make sure to pay it a visit and see what makes Paraiso Beach and Tulum so special.

If you are looking to explore this area, why not join us for one of Top Mexico’s Live it Tours? It’s a great way to get to know the area and enjoy a nice vacation at the same time.

To book yourself in for the next tour and see the Top Mexico Real Estate properties we have listed in Tulum please contact one of our Top Mexico Buyers’ Representatives. We will be happy to assist you and help you find your very own piece of paradise.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate …

We Make It Happen!

Live it Tour

2016 Travelers’ Choice by Tripadvisor

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Top 25 Destinations — World

The 2016 Travelers’ Choice award by Tripadvisor is out. This list could have been taken straight from my bucket list of places in the world to see. Most are far away, distant lands but one destination close to your home made the list.  And not to be biased but it is my favorite place… Playa del Carmen, Mexico.

Here is the top 25 worldwide destinations;

    • 1. London, United Kingdom
    • 2. Istanbul, Turkey
    • 3. Marrakech, Morocco
    • 4. Paris, France
    • 5. Siem Reap, Cambodia
    • 6. Prague, Czech Republic
    • 7. Rome, Italy
    • 8. Hanoi, Vietnam
    • 9. New York City, New York
    • 10. Ubud, Indonesia
    • 11. Barcelona, Spain
    • 12. Lisbon, Portugal
    • 13. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    • 14. St. Petersburg, Russia
    • 15. Bangkok, Thailand
    • 16. Amsterdam, The Netherlands
    • 17. Buenos Aires, Argentina
    • 18. Hong Kong, China
    • 19. Playa del Carmen, Mexico
    • 20. Cape Town Central, South Africa
    • 21. Tokyo, Japan
    • 22. Cusco, Peru
    • 23. Kathmandu, Nepal
    • 24. Sydney, Australia
    • 25. Budapest, Hungary

photo PDC_zpslkkf000b.jpg“Playa del Carmen is one of the top dive destinations in the world, thanks to vibrant sea life and dazzling underwater caverns. On dry land, Playa is a hipper and more modern version of the fishing village it once was. Spend some quality time on the golf course or wave hello to the playful spider monkeys at The Jungle Place sanctuary. Explore the ancient ruins of the Coba Mayan Village, or get in some quality people-watching as you shop and stroll along 5th Avenue.” Commented Tripadvisor about the destination hotspot Playa del Carmen.

Top 25 Beaches — World

Some of the most exotic and beautiful beaches made the list. Coming in at number 21 is Playa Paraiso in Tulum, Mexico. It is known gorgeous turquoise blue water, white powdery sand and breathtaking views.

Here is the top 25 worldwide beach destinations;

      • 1. Grace Bay in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos
      • 2. Baia do Sancho in Fernando de Noronha, Brazil
      • 3. Playa Paraiso in Cayo Largo, Cuba
      • 4. Anse Lazio in Praslin Island, Seychelles
      • 5. Cayo de Agua in Los Roques National Park, Venezuela
      • 6. Flamenco Beach in Culebra, Puerto Rico
      • 7. Playa de Ses Illetes in Formentera, Balearic Islands
      • 8. Ngapali Beach in Ngapali, Myanmar
      • 9. West Bay Beach in West Bay, Honduras
      • 10. Nacpan Beach in El Nido, Philippines
      • 11. Maho Beach in Cruz Bay, St. John
      • 12. Whitehaven Beach in Whitsunday Island, Whitsunday Islands
      • 13. Sharm El Luli in Marsa Alam, Egypt
      • 14. Elafonissi Beach in Elafonissi, Greece
      • 15. Playa Manuel Antonio in Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica
      • 16. The Baths in Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands
      • 17. Camp’s Bay Beach in Camps Bay, South Africa
      • 18. Praia da Marinha in Carvoeiro, Portugal
      • 19. Kata Noi Beach in Karon, Thailand
      • 20. Clearwater Beach in Clearwater, Florida
      • 21. Playa Paraiso in Tulum, Mexico
      • 22. Agonda Beach in Agonda, India
      • 23. Horseshoe Bay Beach in Southampton Parish, Bermuda
      • 24. Tumon Beach in Tumon, Mariana Islands
      • 25. Praia de Santa Maria in Santa Maria, Cape Verde

“One of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen. Swim, take a nap, read a book. You’ll be happy to just be here.” Commented one Tripadvisor client about Playa Paraiso in Tulum.

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“Best time to go: Year-round”, states Tripadvisor… can you imagine a gorgeous beach that has weather so nice it can be enjoyed year-round.

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How many places have you been to on these lists? To experience beautiful places you don’t have to travel across the world, just go to the Riviera Maya, Mexico. Explore the culture and cuisine, wonderful sights such as ancient Mayan ruins, cenotes and pristine beaches. Enjoy the near perfect weather year round… leave those frigid winters behind. Many Americans and Canadians are not just exploring the area but are choosing to retire here. They have selected a place where their social security, pensions, and saving will go much further. See what so many are talking about, explore the Riviera Maya.

If you are interested in exploring properties in the Riviera Maya contact a Top Mexico Buyers’ Representative today.

We Make It Happen!

Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya: A Day at Xcacel Beach

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Beach #1 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: Xcacel Beach

This is one of our staff’s favorite beaches, and number #1 in our list of Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya. Xcacel is a popular beach among locals, but a hard to find gem for tourists and people that are unfamiliar with the area.

If you are looking for a party beach full of comforts, forget about Xcacel Beach! This place is far away from the crowds. Instead you will find sand, sun and coconut trees in one of the most secluded beaches in the Mayan Riviera.

Xcacel Beach is a nature reserve protected by the federal government because it is one of the most important turtle nesting sites in Mexico. The reserve was established in 1998, with the objective of preserving the nesting areas of the loggerhead and green turtle.

This reserve covers about 90 acres of pristine jungle, mangrove, cenotes and coral reefs, and it is one of the few beaches in the Riviera without major constructions. Immerse yourself in the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, sunbath on the soft white sands and enjoy the sound of the waves and the breeze swaying the coconut trees.

photo Xcalcel Beach_zpsfamo97g3.jpg Xcacel Beach: Getting There

Getting to Xcacel Beachcan be a little bit tricky as it is not signaled on the road. It is located between Pueblo Chemuyil and Xel-Ha. There is one small sign, so keep your eyes open for a dirt road going to the beach.

If you are coming from Cancun, take the 307 federal highway and start looking for the sign by the road on the left hand side, you need to make a u-turn and drive back a few feet to get to the entrance of Xcacel Beach.

Xcacel Beach: Recommendations

If you go to Xcacel Beach, it is important to take your own drink and food, as well as chairs, umbrella, icebox or whatever you need. This secluded beach is quite basic and it only has a few toilets and showers available. There are no shops nearby, so it is important to plan ahead of time.

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Xcalcel Beach: Things To Do

There are plenty of things to do such as sunbathing, look for turtles or snorkeling in the nearby reef. Go for a short walk in the jungle and find a cenote with pristine waters or just enjoy nature and the view. We are sure it is going to become one of your favorite places!!

It is important to get there early, since the closing time is strictly enforced at 4:00 p.m. to make sure the turtles feel safe to make their nests on the beach. There is also a voluntary donation of 10-20 pesos per person, this money is used to keep the place running.

What are you waiting for? Go ahead and have fun at Xcacel Beach!!

We hope you enjoy your visit to Xcacel Beach. If you missed any beaches along the way on the Top 25 beaches in the Riviera Maya countdown please feel free to go back through all the blogs! If you are in search for the perfect beach to spend the day at, make sure you check out all on the Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya list, which includes videos, photos and maps for each beach. We aim to provide you with the best information about living in the Riviera Maya!

Finding Xcacel Beach might be more difficult than finding the house of your dreams in the Riviera Maya! If you are looking for a home in Mexico, contact our professional Real Estate Agents or visit our website and browse thousands of beautiful properties in the best areas of Mexico.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen!

Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya: A Day at Tulum North Beach

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Beach #2 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: Tulum North Beach

Meet our second favorite beach in the Riviera Maya, Tulum North. If you are familiar with the Tulum area, you know there is a lot to love: wavy turquoise beaches with powder white sand, a peaceful vibe and so many other things that lead you to relaxation.

But if you want to explore another side of Tulum, this beach will take your breath away. Nested along a natural preserve, Tulum north keeps the raw beauty of the coast with large coconut trees, sand banks and local plants giving it a more secluded and natural feeling. Another perk of this area is the amazing view, from the coast of the water you can clearly see the shore and the Tulum archeological site.

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Tulum North Beach: Getting There

Getting to Tulum North is easy, there is a paved road that can take you to the entrance of this favorite beach.

If you are coming from Cancun, take the 307 federal highway in direction of Tulum. Once you get to the town, turn left at the first traffic light (the one across the San Francisco grocery store). Take that road towards the beach and when the road comes to the end turn left, there is going to be some hotels and restaurants but also some signs that say “Acceso Libre a la Playa”.

Tulum North Beach: Things To Do

Chilling and sunbathing seem to be the favorite activity for the visitors of Tulum North beach, however the wavy nature of the beaches makes them perfect for bodyboarding and board paddle as well as windsurfing or surfboarding.

There are also plenty of local fishermen offering fishing trips and tours around the coast if you want to do something different. Additionally, there are many reef areas that are great for snorkeling, make sure to bring your snorkel gear with you or ask around for a snorkel tour.

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Tulum North Beach: Mingle With the locals

One of our favorite spots at Tulum North Beach is “Santa Fe”, a free access beach that has a small restaurant with delicious fresh food and amazing burgers and fries. There is also a camping area, bathrooms and showers available as well as rental of lounge chairs in front of the beach.

Finding your favorite beach in the Riviera Maya might be more difficult than finding the home of your dreams!  If you are looking for a home in Mexico, contact our professional real estate agents or visit our website and browse thousands of beautiful properties in the best areas of Mexico.

We hope you enjoy your visit to Tulum North Beach. It is a nice beach to catch some sun and relax at. Keep up to date with the best beaches in paradise by following our Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya countdown every Friday! If you are in search for the perfect beach to spend the day at, make sure you check all of the other beaches on the list. We aim to provide you with the best information about living in the Riviera Maya!

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We make it happen!

Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya: A Day at Shangri-la Beach

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Beach #3 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: Shangri-la Beach

Playa del Carmen is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, and one of the fastest growing cities in the world according to the 2006 Guinness World Records. Once a sleepy fishing village, Playa del Carmen has become an exciting tourist destination for people from all over the world.

Playa, as it is known among its residents is characterized for its varied neighborhoods, each of them with unique characteristics and beaches where people go and chill after a long day at work.

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Shangri-la Beach: General Information

Shangri-la is one of our favorite areas in Playa del Carmen, once a private property is one of the few places where you can still find the original trees on the sides of the road. There is a huge ceiba, maybe one of the oldest in Playa del Carmen in a private property between 5th Avenue and the beach.

Little by little the area has developed with condos and hotels residing by the jungle but the natural beauty and quietness remain. There is also a natural cenote on the road where the Piola Restaurant is located.

Shangri-la Beach: Getting There

Getting to Shangri-la from 5th avenue is quite easy, look for 38th Street and turn to the east. It is easy to know you are on 38th street, because there is a colorful mosaic fountain/sculpture in the middle of the road.

From the highway look for the exit for 34th street and take the road eastbound, once you get to 10th avenue turn left until 38th street. There are no parking lots, so park on one of the side streets and walk to the beach.

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Shangri-la Beach: Things To Do

Shangri-la is the ideal beach to enjoy the scenery and relax, it is not as crowded as other areas in Playa del Carmen so it is also ideal to practice yoga, meditate or enjoy a massage on the beach.

The beach has white sand and turquoise blue water, and as with most of the beaches in Playa del Carmen the water is calm without big waves. Making it an ideal place for children or to practice snorkeling, paddle boarding or kayaking.

There are plenty of restaurants and bars on Calle 38th in case you get hungry or thirsty, but you can also bring your own food and beverages. As with most of the beaches in the area there are no public restrooms, parking lots or convenience shops so plan accordingly.

Shangri-la Beach: Recommendations

  • If you decide to bring your own food and beverages, be sure to bring some plastic bags to carry your trash with you when you leave.
  • Make sure to use biodegradable suntan lotion and insect repellent and reapply frequently, this way you can protect the reef from chemicals and yourself from sunburns and mosquito.
  • Look for a cenote, as there are many of these beauties all over downtown Playa.

We hope you enjoy your visit to the beautiful Shangri-la beach. Keep up to date with the best beaches in paradise by following our Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya countdown every Friday! If you are in search for the perfect beach to spend the day at, make sure you check out our options. We aim to provide you with the best information about living in the Riviera Maya!

If you loved the Shangri-la neighborhood and are interested in purchasing a vacation home or retirement home Shangri-la has several real estate options from beachfront luxury condos to beautiful homes, please feel free to contact any of our Top Mexico Buyers’ Representatives! Browse our beautiful properties; we are sure you will find your dream home.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We make it happen!

Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya: A Day at Xaman-Ha Beach

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Beach #4 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: Xaman-Ha Beach

Playa del Carmen has plenty of beautiful beaches, some of them offer a urban vibe, some others are a little bit more rustic; but for sure there is something for everyone’s taste. Xaman-Ha is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Riviera Maya.

Xaman-Ha beach located in the exclusive Playacar I community, just south from the famous 5th Avenue and the pier where the ferries leave to Cozumel. Even though Playacar is a private gated community, anyone can access this beautiful beach and enjoy a day at the beach in this quiet area.

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Xaman-Ha Beach: General Information

Xaman-Ha is the perfect beach for a beer ad! With clear turquoise waters, incredibly fine white sand and small waves. You can enjoy the view of the sea, the ferries going back and forth to Cozumel and even the Island itself.

Spending a day at this beach is a good option, as you can bring food and drinks with you or you can relax on the beach for a while and when you get hungry you can walk to any of the nearby bars or restaurants. The access is free! Do not be discouraged by the security guards at the entrance of Playacar I as they will permit you to enter the community and walk to the beach or you can take a taxi.

Xaman-Ha Beach: Getting There

The easiest way to get there is to take a taxi, as the driver will deal with the security guards and drop you off by the water, another option is to walk to the beach, and pass under the dock.

Driving: If you have a car it is easy to get there. From the Federal Highway look for the entrance to Playacar, follow the signs for the beach. Keep in mind that parking spaces are limited, if you are going to the public beach in your car you might have to pay for parking.

Xaman-Ha Beach: Things To Do

  • The lack of waves makes it ideal to practice water sports like kayaking, snorkeling or paddle board
  • Relax, meditate or take a siesta… this a place to unwind.
  • Hop to Señor Frogs for a Margarita or two…
  • Enjoy the beautiful view of the ferries and Cozumel Island in the distance.

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Xaman-Ha Beach: Recommendations

  • Bring everything you need: towel, umbrella, chairs, food and drink. There are no shops in Playacar I but 5th Avenue is just a couple of blocks away.
  • There are no public restrooms in the area, the closest place is Señor Frog’s just by the pier; but the use of the restrooms are for customers only.
  • Make sure to bring some plastic bags to put all your trash in.

Xaman-Ha is one of our favorite beaches in the Riviera Maya, close to downtown Playa del Carmen and 5th Avenue; but quiet and not so crowded.

Learn about the different beaches throughout the Riviera Maya, and count down with us to the Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya every Friday.

If you are looking for the perfect beach, you can follow our blog and learn about other local popular spots. We aim to provide you with the best information about living in the Riviera Maya!

There are many luxury real estate properties located in Playacar phase I and II. If you are interested in Playa del Carmen real estate please contact one of the Top Mexico Buyers’ Representatives. We have the credentials and expertise and we are here to help you find your dream home in Mexico.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen!

Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya: A Day at Xcalacoco Beach

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Beach #5 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: Xcalacoco Beach

Cancun and the Riviera Maya are the most popular destinations in Mexico, with more than 2 million tourists every year. There are so many things to do in the beautiful Mexican Caribbean, from adventure to relaxation, tasty Mexican food, colorful fiestas and gorgeous beaches.

Even with the growing popularity of Cancun and the Riviera Maya, there are many secluded beaches waiting for adventurous souls to find them. If you want to escape the crowds and the noise of the popular beaches, traveling a little bit further will reward you with a paradisiac beach.

Xcalacoco Beach: General Information

If you want to enjoy this beautiful paradise, the access is free! So, bring your towel, sunscreen and favorite beverage. If you’d rather have a comfortable chair and cold drinks being served to you, there are also some beach clubs in the area.

Related: Xcalacoco Beach – A Quiet Paradise Just North of Town

The beaches have powdery white sand and beautiful turquoise to azure colored water, there are also some rocks that make the coast so much more interesting. If you are into relaxation, please try one of the message stands on the beach, it is an incredible experience.

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Xcalacoco Beach: Getting There

Driving: From the Federal Highway look for the traffic light with the Coca Cola sign, and turn right (east) driving towards the beach or follow the signs for Petit Lafitte.

Keep in mind that there is not a parking lot, if you are going to the public beach in your car you might have to park on the road or pay one of the beach bars to park there. Some places will let you park for free if you eat there, always ask!

Xcalacoco Beach: Things To Do

  • Xcalacoco Beach has a rocky shore and is an ideal place to snorkel.
  • If you love water sports, you can go paddle boarding, kayaking or even sailboarding.
  • Having a massage on the beach is a heavenly experience
  • Just relax and enjoy the beautiful view.

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Xcalacoco Beach: Recommendations

  • There are areas on the beach that have rocks, so bringing a pair of water shoes is a good idea.
  • There are no public restrooms in the area, plan accordingly.
  • You won’t find trash cans at Xcalacoco beach; bring your own bags to put trash in.
  • Do not forget to bring your biodegradable suntan lotion and insect repellent, harsh chemicals harm the coral reef and the local fauna.

Xcalacoco is one of our favorite beaches in the Riviera Maya, enjoy this beautiful place and let us know about your experience at Xcalacoco Beach. If you are interested in purchasing a beachfront property on Xcalacoco Beach there are several breathtaking options like The Fives a gorgeous condo-hotel.

We hope you enjoy Xcalacoco Beach. Keep up to date with the best beaches in paradise by following our Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya countdown every Friday and watch all of the best beaches in the Riviera Maya Videos! If you are in search for the perfect beach to spend the day at, make sure you check out all the options. We aim to provide you with the best information about living in the Riviera Maya!

Top Mexico Real Estate…

We make it happen!

Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya: A Day at Lighthouse Beach

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Beach #6 on the Countdown to the Best Beach in the Riviera Maya: Lighthouse Beach

For those looking for a beautiful beach, Playa El Faro (Lighthouse Beach) is one of the best places to be. Not only does it have the white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, a winning combo of the Caribbean Sea, but also it is located in the heart of Playa del Carmen.

Lighthouse Beach is just off the famous 5th Avenue, and close to many bars, restaurants and beach clubs. Why bother visiting deserted beaches and having to carry so much stuff? Lighthouse Beach has everything you need for a fantastic day at the beach.

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Lighthouse Beach: General Information

Lighthouse beach is a popular spot for those looking to spend a day at the beach without the hassle of driving, carrying supplies and struggling to find a bathroom. Find a comfortable place where you would like to spend the day either on at bar, a beach club or just grab a spot on the sand and enjoy.

If your budget is tight, do not worry as the access to the beach is free and you can bring your own food and beverages, as Lighthouse Beach is also a good option. Another advantage is that several convenience stores are not very far away, so if you need an extra drink or a tasty snack, they are easily accessible.

Lighthouse Beach: Getting There
Lighthouse / El Faro Beach
10 street between 5th avenue and the beach
Playa del Carmen, Q. Roo CP 77710

Walking: If you are on 5th avenue, walk to 10th street and towards the beach. When you reach the lighthouse you know you have arrived.
Driving: From the Federal Highway 307 take the Constituyentes Avenue Exit and turn towards the beach (east). It is really difficult to find a parking place on constituyentes, there is a parking lot under Plaza Alegria on 5th avenue but it also has limited spaces, so if you see a parking space take it and walk to the beach.

Lighthouse Beach: Things To do

  • There is diving centers and sailing Catamaran tours leaving from this area, you might inquire about costs for these activities.
  • Enjoying a nice cold drink and your favorite Mexican snacks: Guacamole, Chips and Salsa, Nachos, etc.
  • Lighthouse Beach is a perfect place to get in some people watching, suntan and relax.
  • If you are into relaxation, there are masseuses offering massages on the beach.
  • The beach in this area is very calm, it is an ideal to snorkel, and go paddle boarding or kayaking.

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Lighthouse Beach: Recommendations

  • Arriving early will let you get the best lounge chair or maybe a nice shaded area under a palm tree or palapa. Some bars and beach clubs have specials early in the day as there are fewer customers.
  • If you decide to hire a tour or partake in a relaxing beach massage, shop around and do not take the first rate offered to you. This will insure that you receive a fair price for the service provided.
  • Bring a bag to carry your trash with you, as there are no trash cans on the beach. Make sure to leave the area cleaner than when you got there.

Learn about the different beaches throughout the Riviera Maya, and count down with us to the Top 25 Beaches in the Riviera Maya every Friday.

If you are looking for the perfect beach, you can follow our blog and learn about other local popular spots. We aim to provide you with the best information about living in the Riviera Maya!

There are many luxury real estate properties located on or near Lighthouse Beach. If you are interested in Playa del Carmen real estate please contact one of the Top Mexico Buyers’ Representatives. We have the credentials and expertise and we are here to help you find your dream home in Mexico.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We make it happen!