Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres, Mexico

Playa Norte

Tulum, Mexico

One of Mexico's most beautiful beaches — stunning sunsets, shallow waters, and island paradise vibes.

Quick Facts

Location

Tulum, Mexico

Sand Type

White Powder

Water Clarity

Crystal Clear

Facilities

Beach Bars, Restaurants, Hammocks, Lounge Chairs

Best Season

November – April

Nearest Airport

Cancún International (CUN)

About Playa Norte

Playa Norte on Isla Mujeres is consistently rated one of Mexico's best beaches. The impossibly white sand slopes gently into warm, shallow turquoise waters perfect for wading and swimming. Famous for its spectacular sunsets, beach bars, and laid-back island atmosphere.

Isla Mujeres offers a refreshing contrast to the bustling hotel zones of the mainland. This small, charming island just a short ferry ride from Cancún has maintained its relaxed fishing village character. Golf carts replace cars as the primary mode of transport, colorful buildings line the narrow streets, and the pace of life moves delightfully slow. Playa Norte sits at the northern tip, where the Caribbean Sea meets the Gulf of Mexico.

The sunsets at Playa Norte are legendary. As the afternoon light softens, beachgoers gather at the waterfront bars with cold drinks in hand to watch the sky transform into a canvas of fiery oranges, pinks, and purples. The shallow, warm waters mean you can wade out waist-deep and still be standing comfortably, making it one of the safest and most enjoyable beaches for children and families.

Visitor Information

Facilities

  • 🍹Beach Bars
  • 🍽️Restaurants
  • 🪢Hammocks
  • 🪑Lounge Chairs
  • 🛶Water Sports Rental

Accessibility

Flat, easy beach access from the town. The beach is a short walk from the ferry pier. The gentle slope into the water makes it accessible for most visitors including young children.

Parking

Golf cart rentals are the primary transport on the island. No car parking at the beach. Leave your car at the Cancún ferry terminal and take the ferry across to Isla Mujeres.

Things to Do

🏊 Swimming 🏄 Paddleboarding 🌅 Sunset Watching 🛶 Kayaking

Nearby Attractions

🏘️ Isla Mujeres Downtown

Colorful streets with shops, restaurants, and galleries

🗿 Punta Sur Sculpture Garden

Cliffside sculpture park at the island's southern tip

🤿 MUSA Underwater Museum

Submerged art installations for snorkelers and divers

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get to Playa Norte?
Take the ferry from Cancún to Isla Mujeres. Ferries depart frequently from Puerto Juárez and the hotel zone. The ride takes about 15–20 minutes. From the Isla Mujeres ferry pier, Playa Norte is a short walk north.
Is Playa Norte good for kids?
Yes, Playa Norte is one of the best family beaches in Mexico. The water is extremely shallow and calm — you can walk out far from shore and still be waist-deep. There are no strong currents or waves, making it very safe for small children.
Are there beach bars at Playa Norte?
Yes, several beach bars and restaurants line the shore at Playa Norte. You can rent lounge chairs and hammocks, order fresh seafood and cocktails, and enjoy the laid-back island atmosphere right on the sand.

Nearby Beaches