Pack your beach bag because we rounded up some of the top beaches in our favorite cities, plus where to stay so you don’t have to trek very far to get there. From quiet, secluded stretches of white sand to active surf spots, there’s a beach for everyone.
Acapulquito Beach
Los Cabos
Acapulquito Beach
This beach is perfect for surfers of all skill levels. With larger waves in the summer and smaller waves in the winter, the beach is ideal for those just learning how to master the surf and also for those with a little more experience. The California-style boutique hotel, Cabo Surf, sits directly on the beach and even has its own surf school where riders can rent boards, take lessons or pick up the latest gear.
Medano Beach
Considered the main beach in Cabo San Lucas, this stretch of sand is the most popular. Visitors can find all types of activities to enjoy here from parasailing and jet skiing to kayaking, water skiing and more. The beach is also located steps from town and is lined with resorts, shops, restaurants, vendors and more. Stay on the beach at the upscale all-inclusive Pueblo Bonito Rosé Resort & Spa or at its sister property nearby, Pueblo Bonito Los Cabos, that overlooks the beach and Land’s End. Other hotel options include Villa La Estancia and the hip ME Cabo.
Chileno Bay
Named as a Blue Flag Beach by the Blue Flag Program, Chileno Bay offers a more relaxed atmosphere than the touristy Medano Beach. Situated between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, Chileno Bay is considered one of the cleanest beaches in the area with excellent swimming conditions and a pristine cove. Kick your feet up at the new Chileno Bay Resort & Residences, the latest debut from Auburge Resorts whose upscale, contemporary design and prime location is making it the new place to see and be seen.
Palmilla Beach
Not too far from Chileno Bay is Palmilla Beach, another Blue Flag Beach with one-mile of sandy paradise. Great for families, the water here remains calm and a quieter vibe welcomes those looking to enjoy the beach. For a truly luxurious time stay at the famed One & Only Palmilla, the favored resort of a slew of celebs including Jennifer Aniston and more.
Maroma Beach (Photo: Maroma Adventures)
Riviera Nayarit
Los Muertos Beach
Despite it’s name (“Deadman’s Beach” in Spanish), Los Muertos is Puerto Vallarta’s most popular spot to spend a sunny day under the Mexican sun. Located in the Romantic Zone, or Old Vallarta, Los Muertos is where you can find plenty of food, drinks, people, water sports and more and is perfect for those looking for a more upbeat and exciting day at the beach. Stay nearby at Casa Kimberly, a glam boutique stay situated slightly inland.
Punta Mita
While Punta Mita’s beaches are exclusive to community residents and resorts guests of Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita and The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort, they’re well worth the dollars it takes to stay there (or live there!). The gated community is surrounded by turquoise waters with nine-and-a-half miles of coastline to boot.
El Anclote Beach
For those not staying in the Punta Mita community, El Anclote Beach is the next best thing and access to the beach can be found near the entry of the resort community. Since many people don’t bother to travel this far north, the beach is secluded and quiet and has a deep blue-green hue. The beach is also great for snorkeling, easy swimming and beginning surfers.
Be Tulum’s Beach
Riviera Maya
Tulum
While the beach in front of the famous Tulum Ruins serves to be the go-to for many, visitors can continue to head south to find the picture-perfect stretches of white sand and beautiful blue waters. For a truly off-the-grid type beach, keep heading south to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve to find untouched sand, pristine water and palm-tree-lined coasts—basically the stuff tropical dreams are made of. While Tulum offers up an array of boutique stays, from rugged and adventurous, to upscale and chic, we recommend trendy Be Tulum or Casa Malca the latter of which is a funky art-lover’s dream stay.
Maroma Beach
Located 30 miles south of the hustle and bustle of Cancun, Maroma Beach is a quiet hideaway that’s often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Riviera Maya. Along with being a great beach for relaxing and taking it easy, it’s also a great place for snorkeling, scuba diving and more. Stay at El Dorado Maroma Resort, an adults-only resort primely located on the beach and the home of Mexico’s first and only overwater bungalows that debuted in 2016. (Featured photo)
Cancun
Playa Forum
For Cancun’s most popular public access beach, Playa Forum is your best bet. Located in the Punta Cancun area, this beach is popular among those looking for a social atmosphere. Stay nearby at Hyatt Ziva Cancun for an all-inclusive experience right on the beach.