Playa Tortugas

Playa Tortugas sits at kilometre 6 of Cancun's famous Hotel Zone, which places it on the northern stretch of the barrier island where the sea faces directly west towards the open Caribbean and benefits from the sheltering effect of Isla Mujeres. The result is characteristically calm, flat water perfect for families with young children who just want to get into the sea without fighting waves or currents.

The beach hosts the Puerto Juárez marina, which is the main departure point for ferries to Isla Mujeres. A day trip from Playa Tortugas is effortless — you can be on the island within 20 minutes, explore its beaches and coral reefs, and be back in time for sunset. The beach itself is well-served with beachside restaurants, sunbed rentals, and water sports operators offering parasailing, jet skis, banana boats, and snorkel tours.

Playa Tortugas is busier than some alternatives but delivers a complete beach holiday package in a single location. It is particularly popular with Mexican domestic tourists who appreciate the full-service beach atmosphere, and the food options here — especially the seafood tacos and ceviche from local vendors — are genuinely excellent.