Cancun is being hit by the worst Sargassum algae wave in the last 5 years.
Fortunately, not all beaches are affected by Sargassum to the same degree. We have compiled a list of the 5 beaches near Cancun that are now free of pesky algae.
Update November 29 –
Cancun continues to be mostly Sargassum seaweed free for the time being.
Update September 26: Playa del Carmen beaches are seaweed free
theCancunsun.com reported that Playa del Carmen beaches are seaweed free first time after 6 months.
As the seaweed season is coming to the end on the Mexican Caribbean coast, more and more beaches are free of the sargassum and visitors can finally enjoy them again.
Here is the latest update on the current situation on the Cancun coast (November 29):
Isla Mujeres Playa Centro
With its white sand and beautiful waters, Playa Centro is undoubtedly one of the most popular beaches in Quintana Roo. Therefore, it is a must for many tourists to go to Isla Mujeres during their stay in Cancun.
This sargassum-free beach offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including paddleboarding, snorkeling, and whale and dolphin watching.
The beach is close to a number of restaurants, pubs, and stores that offer top-notch jewelry to take home.
Chiquila Beach
This beach in the state of Quintana Roo is a quiet stretch of sand and surf away from the activity of Cancun’s hotel zone. Since Chiquila is a charming fishing town, there is no shortage of delicious seafood to sample while lounging on the beach.
The port of Chiquila also offers daily excursions to Holbox Island for travelers who want to live out their sense of adventure.
Isla Contoy
One of the most romantic day trips you can take when traveling to the Mexican Caribbean is to Isla Contoy. Four varieties of endangered sea turtles and more than 150 tropical bird species can be found on the island. The only permanent residents of this island are these animals and a small group of scientists.
Since the island is only 5 miles long, its sargasso-free white sand is undoubtedly the main attraction.
Isla Mujeres Punta Sur
Punta Sur is technically not a beach, but it’s an excellent place if you want to avoid sargassum. Enjoy some of the most spectacular sculptures in the region. The coastline is also breathtaking. This particular rocky coast features the works of more than 20 talented Mexican painters, as well as tidbits of Mexican archeology.
It is the ideal place to take pictures of the Caribbean Sea, as the coast is free of sargassum.
Playa Mujeres
We recommend a visit here for its gorgeous beaches and tranquil atmosphere. You can see more of Mexico and still enjoy the laid-back ambiance of Playa Mujeres.
Overlooking the Caribbean Sea and fringed by pristine white sand beaches, Playa Mujeres is a tranquil resort location ideal for family vacations and quiet adults-only getaways.
Playa Mujeres is located north of Cancun and is accessible by cab to Cancun’s entertainment areas. If you want to visit Mayan ruins (like Tulum), going from the Riviera Maya is a better and shorter option.