The Best Beaches in Puerto Aventuras and Nearby

Puerto Aventuras is a laid-back corner of the Riviera Maya, perfect if you’re looking to trade crowded party beaches for a slower, more relaxed pace. The shoreline here is clean, quiet, and ideal for spending an unhurried day with your partner or family. Below are six local beaches worth adding to your list.

Fatima Bay

Located right in the heart of Puerto Aventuras, Fatima Bay has calm, reef-protected water that’s great for swimming and snorkeling. The sand is soft with a sprinkle of coral, and you’re within walking distance of restaurants and beach clubs. Water shoes are a good idea if you can't walk on hard terrain.

What You Need to Know About Fatima Bay in Puerto Aventuras

Fatima Bay has two very different sides. Up at the northern end, the shoreline is rocky and not the best place to step into the water. As you head south, the sand stretches out and you’ll find coral patches just offshore. These make little homes for fish and are great spots for snorkeling.

The water here is calm, shallow, and pleasantly warm most of the year. That makes it perfect for a relaxed swim or trying out activities like kayaking, and even paddleboardingg. Fatima Bay is a great option for families who want safe swimming conditions without the crowds.

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Chan Yu Yum Beach

Chan Yu Yum Beach is a small, quiet stretch of sand located next to the Catalonia Hotel in Puerto Aventuras. It’s a peaceful spot that feels tucked away from the main activity of Fatima Bay. Access is through the bridge leading to the lagoon on the road beside the Catalonia Hotel, making it a little hidden gem for those who know where to look.

Despite what some maps might suggest, you cannot walk directly from Fatima Bay to Chan Yu Yum Beach because they’re separated by private properties and resort areas. Because of its smaller size and limited access, Chan Yu Yum stays calm and uncrowded, perfect if you want to enjoy the view, listen to the waves, or watch boats coming in and out of the marina.

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Playa Xpu Ha

Playa Xpu-Ha sits just 5 minutes south of Puerto Aventuras, about halfway between Playa del Carmen and Tulum. With its long stretch of soft white sand and clear turquoise water, it’s the kind of place you go when you want a relaxed day at the beach without the noise and crowds you’ll find at busier Riviera Maya spots.

The vibe here is calm and welcoming, and it still feels like a bit of a local secret. Many people who come to Xpu-Ha are looking for a more natural setting where they can slow down and enjoy the view. The water is calm and shallow, thanks in part to the protection of the nearby Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, making it another great spot for swimming, snorkeling, wading, or trying out a paddleboard.

How crowded does Playa Xpu-Ha get, and when is the best time to visit?

If you’re looking for a quieter experience, the northern end of the beach is your best bet. It’s farther from the beach clubs and usually has long stretches of open sand where you can spread out without many people around.

The southern end, where most of the beach clubs, restaurants, and rental facilities are found, does get livelier as the day goes on. This is especially true on weekends and holidays when local families come to enjoy the beach.

The gates usually open around 10 am and close at 6 pm. Arriving shortly after opening is the easiest way to grab a good parking spot and enjoy the calmest part of the day. Weekdays are generally quieter, while Sundays tend to be busier with local visitors. If you want even more space, the last hour or two before closing can be the most peaceful times to swim, snorkel, or simply relax.

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Playa Akumal

Akumal, which means “Place of the Turtles” in the Mayan language, is a charming beach community about 15 minutes south of Playa del Carmen and just a short drive from Puerto Aventuras. It’s part of the Riviera Maya and is well-known for its calm bay, soft white sand, and clear blue-green water. The bay is home to baby sea turtles that feed on the sea grass, so it’s a protected natural area with strict rules to help preserve marine life, that means no touching turtles or corals while you’re in the water.

What is the entrance fee to Akumal Beach and does it include facilities?

The entrance fee is usually between 100 and 130 pesos, about $5 to $7 US dollars. This goes toward beach upkeep and conservation and typically includes access to lockers, bathrooms, and showers. Some people enter through hotels or restaurants to skip the fee, but in most cases you will need to pay to enjoy the beach.

How to Access Akumal Beach Without a Tour

First-time visitors often find the entrance a bit confusing. As you arrive, you may be approached by tour guides offering snorkeling packages. Some might say that you can’t reach the beach unless you buy a tour, but that’s not the case. There is public access at the south end of Akumal Beach, where you simply pay a small entrance fee that helps with conservation and maintenance.

Another easy option is to visit a local beachfront restaurant, such as Lol-Ha, where you can enjoy a meal or drinks and use the beach through their access area. This gives you a more relaxed experience without the pressure of joining a tour, so you can explore the shoreline at your own pace.

Can you snorkel with sea turtles at Akumal Beach without a guide?

Not in the protected turtle zones. These areas require you to join a certified local guide for a tour, which helps protect the turtles and the sea grass they feed on. You might see turtles in other parts of the bay where you can snorkel on your own, though sightings there are not as common.

How busy does Akumal Beach get and when is the best time to go?

It can get crowded during high season and on weekends. To enjoy it with fewer people, visit early in the morning and on weekdays. Walking farther from the main entrance usually leads to quieter spots away from tour groups.

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Playa Xcacel

Playa Xcacel is a quiet, unspoiled beach found between Chemuyil and Xel-Ha along Highway 307, just 20 minutes south of Puerto Aventuras in the Riviera Maya. With no hotels, bars, or shops on the sand, it keeps a natural and peaceful atmosphere, making it feel far removed from the busier tourist beaches nearby.

It’s also a protected sea turtle sanctuary, so it’s an important nesting ground. If you visit during turtle season, watch where you walk and keep your distance from marked nesting areas. Facilities here are simple. There’s a small entrance booth where you’ll pay around 20 pesos per person, along with basic changing rooms, bathrooms, and an outdoor shower. Since there are no food stands, bringing your own snacks or a picnic is the way to go.

Is Playa Xcacel a good destination for families and nature lovers?

From our experience, Playa Xcacel is one of the best beaches for families and nature lovers who like a quieter, less commercialized beach. It's a natural turtle sanctuary with pristine surroundings, allowing visitors to enjoy observing wildlife and a peaceful beach experience away from crowded tourist areas. Keep in mind there is no natural shade here, so bringing an umbrella or hat is a smart idea if you plan to stay for a while.

Can you swim and snorkel safely at Playa Xcacel?

The waves can sometimes be strong, especially in open sections of the beach. The northern end tends to be calmer and is better for swimming. Snorkeling is possible in some areas, but it’s not as varied as in larger snorkeling destinations nearby.

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Puerto Morelos Beach

Puerto Morelos is a relaxed seaside town about 45 minutes north of Puerto Aventuras. The beach sits beside a leaning lighthouse and a small pier, with calm, clear water protected by the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef offshore. It has an easygoing vibe that suits families, snorkelers, and anyone who wants a slower beach day with simple comforts like palapas, seafood spots, and gear rentals.

Does Puerto Morelos Have Protection From Sargassum

You'll be pleased to know that a floating barrier offshore helps keep most sargassum from reaching the sand, and local crews maintain the shoreline so swimming stays pleasant.

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Paamul Beach

Just a short drive north, Paamul Beach feels more like a quiet seaside village. Its sheltered bay has gentle water and a nearby reef where you can spot colorful fish. There’s a casual seafood spot right on the sand, plus shaded areas to relax. Bring your own snorkel gear for the best experience.

Where Is Paamul Beach?

Paamul Beach is a cove-shaped stretch of sand just north of Puerto Aventuras, about 15 minutes from Playa del Carmen. Life in Paamul moves at a slower pace. It has a small community feel, with just a handful of hotels, restaurants, and local shops. There’s also a dive center, and Scuba Mex, where you can book lessons, certifications, or guided snorkeling trips during your visit to Paamul Beach.

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Choosing the Right Beach for You

If you want easy access, Fatima Bay is your go-to. For quiet snorkeling, head to Paamul Beach. Playa Xpu Ha offers a long stretch of sand with beach club comforts, while Playa Akumal is the place for turtle encounters. For privacy, Punta Brava is ideal. And if you’d like to combine a cenote swim with a beach day, Playa Xcacel is hard to beat.

Understanding Sargassum in the Riviera Maya

What is Sargassum Seaweed?

If you’ve heard about sargassum seaweed showing up on beaches in the Caribbean and Riviera Maya, here’s what you should know before your trip. Sargassum is a type of floating brown seaweed that naturally grows in the Atlantic Ocean. Ocean currents sometimes carry it toward the coast of Mexico, where it can wash ashore in varying amounts. It’s a natural occurrence that changes from year to year, depending on wind and temperature patterns.

Sargassum Seaweed in Puerto Aventuras

In Puerto Aventuras, sargassum usually appears between April and August, then starts to taper off in September and October. The good news is that during the high season from November through April, the beaches are mostly clear, and visitors rarely see it at all. If you’re planning your vacation during those months, you can expect clean water and the calm, turquoise views the area is famous for.

How Local Beaches Manage Sargassum Seaweed in Puerto Aventuras

When sargassum does arrive, local teams work hard to keep beaches clean. Puerto Aventuras has natural rock barriers that protect parts of the shoreline, and crews regularly rake and remove seaweed from the sand. Puerto Morelos, about 45 minutes north, even has a floating barrier offshore that prevents most of the sargassum from reaching the beach. These efforts make a big difference, and you’ll still find plenty of beautiful spots to swim and relax.

What to Expect During Sargassum Season in Puerto Aventuras

If you visit during the warmer months, expect to see some sargassum depending on the day and wind direction. It doesn’t pose any health risks, and the water beyond the seaweed line remains clear. For the most part, it’s just something nature brings and takes away with the seasons. Knowing when it appears helps you plan your beach days around the clearest, most inviting times to enjoy the Riviera Maya.

Tips for Visiting Beaches in Puerto Aventuras

Arrive early to enjoy cooler weather and calm water. Carry cash, as some beaches charge an entry fee or have vendors who don’t accept cards. Use eco-friendly sunscreen to help protect the reef and marine life, and follow posted rules, especially during turtle nesting season.

From central spots like Fatima Bay to hidden gems like Punta Brava, Puerto Aventuras has a beach to match every mood. Whichever you choose, you’ll find the easy pace and natural beauty that make this stretch of the Riviera Maya so inviting.

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