Paradise Found: The 3 Best Beaches Near Cancun You Won't Want to Leave

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Cancun is a tourist destination known globally for its incredible beaches, sporting soft white sand and turquoise blue waters, as well as for its vibrant party atmosphere.

However, Cancun isn’t the only ‘coastal paradise’ in the region. Right down the shore is the Riviera Maya, a coastline full of stunning beaches that stretches about 77 miles along the Mexican Caribbean.

Although many travelers are attracted to the bustling scene of Cancun, the short journey south to the Riviera Maya means many of the quieter beaches are hidden gems.

There are 3 beaches near Cancun that captivate both travelers and expats alike looking for a piece of paradise to settle down in, and for very good reasons: they’re absolutely beautiful, not too crowded, and offer a nice lifestyle with numerous activities and services.

We’re here to talk to you about Playa del Carmen, Akumal, and Tulum; each one has a unique charm that will make you never want to leave!

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Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is the first stop for most travelers or expats looking for a beautiful beach outside of Cancun.

Located about 40 minutes from Cancun International Airport, it’s one of the most famous destinations in the Riviera Maya. It’s also the only town that is built right straight on the beach, which gives it a very special charm.

The vibrant Fifth Avenue, which is the main street, is the beating heart of the city and is full of restaurants, bars, and shops with local products.

The atmosphere here is similar to Cancun, with lots of movement and partying and equally beautiful beaches.

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Akumal

30 minutes from Playa del Carmen is Akumal, a cozy beach town where people come to enjoy a relaxed day in front of its crystal clear sea.

Akumal is a Mayan word that means "place of turtles", which gives away one of the main attractions of this destination: the possibility to swim with turtles in the sea freely. It’s super easy to find them near the beach and watch them in their natural environment!

Of the 3 beaches we are talking you about, Akumal is easily the least crowded, with a small, close-knit community that celebrates nature and their Mayan heritage, making for a truly unique atmosphere.

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Tulum

Finally, we have Tulum, a destination that has become quite a tourist and real estate hotspot recently, and can be found 25 minutes from Akumal and just under 2 hours from Cancun.

Despite its great popularity, Tulum is still a much quieter and less crowded beach than Cancun, with a relaxed vibe drifting through the town. Soak in the calm, sunny rays and explore the town by bicycle, where you can take in the fascinating beaches, cenotes, and jungle landscape.

One of its beaches is located right next to the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum, resulting in stunning scenery! As in the rest of the Riviera Maya and Cancun, the sand is white and the water is a splendid turquoise blue.

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Living in paradise is a dream for some, and at Tao Mexico, we love to help people make that dream come true!

We’re experts in luxury properties in the Riviera Maya, with exclusive developments in Akumal and Tulum. We can help you find the property right for you, and be there through every step to help you reach it.